Michael Connolly

The agenda for the regular meeting included the establishment of a quorum, the Pledge of Allegiance, and directions for public comment participation, noting that comments are limited to three minutes and may not receive a response during the session. Key agenda items included Awards and Recognitions, a Superintendent's Report featuring a presentation on Summer 2026 Facility Work, and a comprehensive Consent Agenda. The Consent Agenda encompassed approvals for previous meeting minutes, personnel transactions, extra duty and payroll resolutions, disbursement resolutions for January 2026, the December 2025 Financial Report, a Freedom of Information Act Report, conference and travel approvals, second readings of Board Policies (including PRESS Issue 119 and 120 revisions), approval of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Education Association, approval for a replacement district vehicle purchase, and approval of the 2026-2027 School Calendar. The meeting also included Board Communications updates and concluded with a planned Closed Session to discuss personnel matters, real property acquisition, litigation, and the review of closed session minutes.

This strategic plan for School District 21 outlines a roadmap to maximize student achievement and honor the uniqueness of every student daily, ensuring engaging, innovative, equitable, and safe learning experiences. The plan focuses on achieving superior performance through academic excellence and high satisfaction, making a distinctive impact via community engagement and diversity, and ensuring lasting endurance through fiscal responsibility and student success beyond school. It is guided by core values such as equity, whole child development, engagement, stewardship, continuous improvement, trust, partnership, accountability, and a growth mindset. The vision is to empower students with engaged educators, a supportive environment, a diverse culture, community partners, a rigorous curriculum, and inspiring instructional experiences, preparing them for college, career, and life success.

The meeting included announcements and celebrations, recognition of awardees and retirees, and reports from student representatives to the board. Updates were provided on the School Based Health Center, school parking lot and traffic safety, and literacy initiatives. The board discussed the 2025-2028 District Strategic Plan and heard public comments. The consent agenda was approved with several items pulled for separate discussion. An employment agreement for the Director of Safety and Security was approved. The board also convened in a closed session.

The meeting included an introduction by OrganicLife, providing food services to the district. The Superintendent's report included updates on student enrollment, class sectioning, and staffing. The board discussed the appointment of members to champion the five areas of the Strategic Plan Goals. Public comments were shared on topics such as the middle school schedule, support for staff, and class sizes. The board approved the consent agenda, which included financial reports, contracts, and employment agreements. Updates were provided for NSSEO, ED-RED, IASB, and North Cook Intermediate Service Center.

The meeting included a presentation on the Robotics Club at Tarkington Elementary School and recognition of student achievements in various activities. Humanex Ventures presented on talent development and positive cultures, and the Language Services Department provided an update on English language learners. There was a discussion on student enrollment, with a focus on overcrowding at Kilmer School. The board also held a public hearing and approved the amended budget for Fiscal Year 2025. Additionally, there were updates from NSSEO, ED-RED, IASB, and North Cook Intermediate Service Center. The board approved the acquisitions by condemnation of the real properties.