Mary Beth Deady

The meeting included reports from student council representatives of Lincolnway Central, Lincolnway West, and Lincolnway East. Key discussions covered academic performance following final exams, upcoming open houses for the incoming class of 2030, various club activities (e.g., Science Club, FBLA blood drive, theatre productions, service projects like sponsoring families), and athletic achievements, including girls wrestling team state championships and boys basketball progress. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a curriculum instruction update regarding Board Policy 6310 on high school credit for non-district experiences, specifically online coursework. The administration presented a plan for administrative transparency and equity concerning online course enrollment, outlining parameters such as limiting students to one online credit per year and the planned transition to a new online platform for alternative education programs, which offers more stringent control over course offerings and alignment with academic standards.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and a roll call, which included appointing a temporary secretary. Key discussions focused on the Curriculum and Instruction update, detailing highlights from the Illinois report card, noting that Lincolnway Central and East maintained an 'Exemplary' designation, and Lincolnway West advanced toward it. Significant attention was given to the adjustment of ACT benchmarks aligning with college readiness standards, including new reporting on sophomore and freshman proficiency. The Treasurer's report covered November 2025 financials, noting cash balances and investment maturities, but highlighted concerns regarding delayed mandated categorical distributions from the state and potential further proration, especially impacting special education transportation reimbursements, which resulted in a projected shortfall of nearly $400,000. Furthermore, financial review confirmed that life safety spending for HVAC work, utilizing bond proceeds, remained on budget.

The meeting included public comments regarding the ongoing contract negotiations for sports staff, bus drivers, maintenance staff, custodians, security, pair professionals, cafeteria staff, media center, and library assistant staff. Concerns were raised about bus driver pay and retention. Student council presidents from Lincoln Way West, Central, and East highlighted achievements in athletics, academics, and community service, including food drives, leadership conferences, and artistic performances.

The meeting included recognition of students with perfect ACT scores and the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra's Music Educator of the Year. Public comments addressed ongoing negotiations. The 5-Year Financial Forecast was updated, and the board reviewed and approved invoices, the Treasurer's Report, and the Student Activities Report. New members were appointed to the District 210 Advisory Committee. Reports were given on the Lincoln-Way Special Education District 843 Governing Board Meeting, FOIA requests, Building and Grounds, Community Relations, and the District 210 Advisory. The FY2027 Budget Calendar was provided. The board adjourned to a closed session to discuss personnel matters and collective bargaining, then returned to open session.

The meeting included recognition of students with perfect ACT scores and Stacy Williams Jackson as the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra 2026 Music Educator of the Year. Public comments addressed concerns regarding a rejected successor agreement, competitive compensation for bus drivers, and support staff treatment. Issues raised included inequities in pay, the length of the proposed contract, and the impact on bus service quality and safety due to staffing shortages.