Tom Aguirre

The Board of Education discussed and took action on several key items, including the approval of financial reports and the payment of bills. Personnel actions covering hiring, resignations, retirements, and FMLA were addressed. Additionally, the Board approved the 2026-2027 Prairie Farms Dairy contract, hardware upgrades for technology, and a transportation contract with the Yellow Bus Group. Administrative reports highlighted ongoing efforts in staff retention and recruitment, student assessments, and successful health and safety inspections. The Board was also recognized with an IASB Board Governance Award, and an Exceptional Service Award was presented to an educator.

Key discussions during the meeting included the presentation of an Exceptional Service Award to Corrine Jung. Reports covered the Superintendent's update on receiving a grant exceeding $200,000 for the Leader in Me program, final coordination with Aunt Martha's, architectural planning meetings incorporating staff and student input, completion of maintenance projects during winter break, and a favorable transition to new electric supplier pricing. Financial reports, including a September salary summary, were reviewed and bills were approved for payment. A presentation was given on the 2026-2027 School Calendar. The Consent Agenda covered personnel actions including new hires, internal transfers, resignations, FMLA requests, and a retirement. Informational items included correspondence and upcoming dates. The meeting concluded with executive sessions to discuss personnel matters and potential student disciplinary cases.

The meeting included recognition segments, honoring a staff member with the Exceptional Service Award, welcoming a newly appointed doctoral degree recipient, and noting the passing of two community members. Key reports covered the upcoming parent-teacher conferences, the introduction of a new Late Start Protocol due to early winter weather, and the district's stable financial position despite delayed tax bills. Operational discussions included extending thanks to a partnering village, updates on the Skyward financial system, and professional development activities such as MTSS workshops and a tour of Westmont schools. Student services updates detailed continued partnership with Infinitec and the completion of CPI Crisis Programming training for 67 staff members. Human Resources reported on mandated staff training completion goals and recruitment efforts. Principal reports highlighted student activities including sports, a Veterans Day program, Red Ribbon Week, a Spelling Bee, a Prek Friendship Feast, and a large Family Night event. The Policy Committee reviewed policies Press #119 and #120. The Board approved the FY2024 Audit, the Aunt Martha's/SD194 Student Health Partnership, a resolution for necessary tax levies for 2025, and a School Maintenance Grant Application. The Consent Agenda covered personnel actions including new hires, internal transfers, dismissals, and FMLA requests. The regular session concluded with the Board entering and exiting a closed session to discuss employment and student matters.

The Board of Education meeting covered several action items, including the approval of financial reports and payment of bills, as well as personnel actions covering hiring, resignations, retirements, and FMLA requests. Key discussions involved the 2026-2027 Calendar and the implementation of Red Rover Absence Management, Time Tracking, and Hiring software. A resolution was passed to designate the Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations to prepare the budget, and Tuition Reimbursement matters were addressed. Administrative reports detailed progress, including plans for the Summer Feeding Program and the completion of all repairs related to the Spring 2025 tornado. The Board recognized Toni St. Pierre, District MTSS Coordinator, with the Exceptional Service Award for her long service and contributions. A Winter Assessment Update highlighted continued academic growth in reading and mathematics, with next steps focusing on strengthening core instruction and refining WIN Time interventions.

The meeting included recognition ceremonies for the District Spelling Bee winner and the recipient of the Exceptional Service Award. Public participation involved an expression of appreciation from the Steger Education Association for hosting a holiday party. Reports covered the commencement of planning for the 2026-2027 school year, updates on community partnerships, completion of roof repairs at Steger Intermediate Center due to storm damage, and appreciation for winter weather preparedness efforts. Facility planning updates included stakeholder engagement meetings with DLA Architects regarding building needs. Discussions also addressed the 2026-2027 Calendar Committee, successful community events like the Winter Senior Dinner and EL Winter Celebration (which included a Grito Celebration), updates on IEP process reviews, FMLA requests, new personnel hires, resignations, and staff dismissal. Board members shared insights from the Joint Annual Conference regarding leadership and community engagement. Financial accounts were reviewed, including the approval of the monthly financial summary and payment of bills. The consent agenda included a second reading of numerous Board Policy changes, personnel actions, and approval of a Memorandum of Understanding with the PTO and the Tax Levy.