Prospect Heights School District 23

The discussion centered on upcoming winter events and district operational matters. Key topics included a brief mention of avoiding a snow day, reminding attendees about winter weather guidelines requiring snow gear for outdoor play, and promoting the upcoming winter concert series featuring the Solomon Orchestra, MacArthur Orchestra, and MacArthur Band throughout December.

The meeting commenced with a pledge led by Sullivan ambassadors, who shared insights about their roles. Communications included updates on trimester goals, state summative designations, and the distribution of AR score reports. The board discussed the state's accountability model and its impact on school designations, including Sullivan School's targeted designation due to the performance of students with disabilities. Factors contributing to this designation, such as clerical errors in Five Essentials survey exemptions and chronic absenteeism, were analyzed, and a plan for improvement was discussed.

A public hearing is scheduled to discuss a proposed property tax levy increase for 2025. The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $23,811,563, representing a 4.98% increase over the previous year. The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2025 are $25,284,076, which is a 4.11% increase over the previous year.

The board meeting included recognition of faculty who have earned tenure status and introduction of new faculty. There was a discussion about the North Cook Division meeting and the D23 drive-in movie night. Committee reports included updates on building and site improvements, such as phone replacements and a water sensor program, as well as finance matters, including the budget, annual audit, intercoms, and a job order contract for windows and siding project.

The meeting included discussions about back-to-school communications, facility walkthroughs, and the upcoming D23 family event, featuring new activities and local vendors. A public hearing was conducted regarding the intent to issue funding bonds, with a presentation by Liz Hennessy from Raymond James, detailing the financial plan and current market conditions. The board reviewed the purpose of the bond issuance, focusing on capital projects and refinancing existing debt, while also considering the impact of interest rate fluctuations on the debt structure and available proceeds.