Dixon Public Schools District 170

The board discussed several items, including the approval of a bid for blacktop replacement at Washington School, Health Life Safety amendments for roof replacement at the High School, and repairs for stage curtains at Madison and the High School. Additionally, the board authorized funds for the Dixon Park District regarding tennis court repairs. The meeting also included business and facilities reports, student and teacher recognition, information on FOIA requests, and a review of personnel items, including various resignations, retirements, and coaching appointments. A phase 1 facilities plan for the High School was also presented.

The board convened for a special meeting, during which it held an executive session to deliberate on personnel matters, including the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of specific employees, and to review student disciplinary cases. Upon returning to open session, the board voted to approve a discipline recommendation for a specific student.

The meeting commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance led by ILMEA students. The consent agenda, which included approvals for the Treasurer's Report, Monthly Bills, Balance Sheet, Enrollment and Discipline Report, Staff Development Report, and IRS Mileage Reimbursement Rate, was unanimously approved. Special presentations recognized ILMEA participants and announced the Students of the Month for January from Reagan Middle School and the Dixon Public Schools Foundation Student of the Month from Dixon High School, alongside the January teachers of the month. Action items involved the unanimous approval of Solar One Power Purchase agreements, the disposal of obsolete equipment, a resolution and intergovernmental agreement with the Park District for Chuck Vail Drive, the second reading of Board policies, approval of the 2026-2027 school calendar, and the approval of the Preschool for All Parent Coordinator job description. Information items included a presentation on a deficit reduction plan recommendation featuring a hiring freeze and cost-saving opportunities, updates on various maintenance projects, a technology update on network infrastructure, information regarding a senior incentive program, and School Improvement Plan updates. The Superintendent shared updates on upcoming meetings and compliance with two recent FOIA requests. A personnel report detailing new hires, changes in status, and coaching appointments was approved. The session concluded with an executive session to discuss personnel matters and student disciplinary cases, followed by a return to open session and adjournment.

The special board meeting commenced with roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance. The initial portion of the meeting was dedicated to public comment, during which speakers outlined rules of engagement, time limits for speaking, and procedures for submitting written comments. Multiple speakers voiced strong support for Matt Magnafishi as the candidate for Superintendent. Testimonies highlighted his effective leadership at Reagan Middle School, noting improvements in student thriving, staff morale, and positive atmosphere. Supporters emphasized his understanding of the district, his strong relationships with staff, students, and the community, and his track record of earning trust and delivering results. Petitions signed by a significant number of school employees and community members in support of Mr. Magnafishi were noted.

The meeting commenced with a Truth in Taxation Hearing where information regarding the levy was presented and subsequently closed. Key actions taken during the regular session included the approval of several consent agenda items covering financial reports, disciplinary reports, staff development, website activity, building reports, and the fuel bid. Special presentations included a performance by the DHS Madrigals, the presentation of the WIPFLI audit report for fiscal year 2025, information on the Sauk Valley Community College IMPACT program, and the announcement of monthly Students of the Month. Action items involved the approval of the employment contract for the next Superintendent beginning July 1, 2026, the approval of resolutions abating taxes for series 2018A and 2019A for tax year 2025, the approval of the tax year 2025 tax levy, acceptance of the FY 25 District audit, first reading approval of Board policies issue 120, approval of the DHS roof bid, and approval of mid-year graduates. Information items covered the Business Report highlighting bond payment invoices, recognition for snow removal efforts, updates from various board committees (Wellness, Curriculum, Insurance, Community Engagement, Special Education), a deficit reduction plan update with a future recommendation scheduled, presentation of two school calendar options for 2026-2027, and acknowledgement of staff efforts. Personnel actions approved new hires, a change of status for a school nurse, and several coaches/activity advisors for the 2025-2026 school year. The meeting concluded after an executive session.