Margaret Dolan

The committee discussed several financial and operational matters. Key topics included the review of bids for the resurfacing of parking lots at Normal Community High School and the annual custodial supply bids. A technology purchase for computer labs was cancelled due to price increases, with the district exploring a cloud-based software model as an alternative. There was a high-level review of long-term facility renovation and construction costs, including potential architectural firm partnerships. Finally, the committee evaluated the projected financial impact of new unemployment legislation affecting support personnel.

The committee reviewed the draft 10-year forecast for educational, operations, maintenance, and transportation funds, recommending specific adjustments before the final presentation. Additionally, members received an update on technology infrastructure purchases for the upcoming fiscal year, noting the use of E-rate funding, and discussed the status of a Chromebook lease agreement with a strategy to defer the formal contract to ensure fiscal flexibility.

The committee reviewed the fiscal 2026 year-end projections for four major funds, including the Educational, Operations and Maintenance, Transportation, and Tort funds, noting variances from the original budget. A five-year forecast was presented utilizing a conservative approach, along with proposals for a new pool scoreboard at NCHS and an activity bus lease replacement. Additionally, the committee reviewed and approved a proposal for a Chromebook refresh through Xerox to cover junior high devices and IMC labs.

The committee discussed the proposed FY 2026 amended budget, including specific adjustments across the Educational, Operations & Maintenance, Transportation, and Tort funds. Other agenda items included updates on the Chromebook lease, including the selection of a financial institution for the acquisition, and a review of the proposed fee structure for the 2026-2027 academic year, which features a recommended increase in lunch prices. Additionally, the committee reviewed the lease renewal for portable units at Normal Community High School and finalized the Request for Qualifications for architectural services, which will be advertised for the selection of firms to handle future district projects.

This document outlines Unit 5's strategic implementation of evidence-based instructional programs, curriculum, and academic interventions to foster a rigorous and equitable learning environment. The comprehensive approach is structured through a multi-tiered system of support (MTSS), which includes Tier 1 for core instruction, Tier 2 for targeted supplementary interventions, and Tier 3 for intensive, individualized support. Key programs integrated into this system include CIM Reading & Writing, Lexia, Reading Plus, Read Naturally/ReadLive, Do the Math, DreamBox, Systematic Reteaching, Wilson, SPELL-Links, Reading Recovery, and Descubriendo la Lectura. The overall objective is to maximize academic and behavioral success by providing appropriate support for all students.