Oak Park Elementary School District 97

The board discussed community concerns regarding digital learning and excessive screen time for elementary students, including requests for usage audits and device restrictions. The administration provided an update on long-term facilities planning and financial projections. Other topics included the annual audit findings, a recommendation for roof replacement at Julian Middle School, and a proposal for staff professional development in responsive classrooms. The board also received reports from various committees, including IGOV, OPEF, and PTAC, and approved the 2026-2027 district insurance rates.

The board discussed middle school scheduling and staffing changes, receiving concerns from teachers and parents regarding the impact on class sizes and educational quality. Significant public comment was directed toward screen time and the use of district-issued devices in schools, with parents advocating for policies to limit personal device access. Presentations included the recommendation for a new K-5 Math curriculum adoption and a proposal for an on-site solar contract. Action items included approval of the 10-year Master Facilities Plan, roofing bids, professional development training, and the engagement of an auditing firm. Additionally, the board reviewed upcoming agenda items regarding teacher leader roles, food service contract renewals, and registration fees.

The meeting included public comments regarding the eighth-grade class trip to Washington D.C., focusing on concerns about participation rates and equity among students. Additionally, speakers discussed the importance of improving pedestrian and bicycle safety for students commuting to schools, specifically advocating for a district-wide policy to support walking and biking to school.

This document details facility expansion and improvement plans for Oak Park Elementary School District 97, focusing on Lincoln and Longfellow Elementary Schools. It presents various concept design options for additions and renovations, including specifics on space counts, square footages, and estimated costs for each option. The plan identifies projects intended from 2019 through 2021, providing three-year expenditure projections and analysis of classroom quantity requirements based on student enrollment forecasts.

This document provides an annual technology update for Oak Park School District 97, reviewing the progress of its 2010 five-year technology plan, which originated from a 2009 Tech Vision Statement. The plan focuses on integrating new technologies into the curriculum, enhancing student achievement through differentiated and interactive learning, and providing robust professional development for teachers. Key goals include achieving a 1:1 student-device ratio by 2015 and equipping every classroom with an LCD projector by 2013. The update also addresses ongoing efforts to improve wireless coverage, expand bandwidth, manage mobile devices, and stay current with educational technology trends through a Technology Advisory Committee.