Washington Community High School District 308

The meeting included two public hearings: a truth and taxation hearing regarding tax levy extensions and a hearing concerning the sale of fire prevention and safety bonds to address building code compliance. The board also received a report from student council representatives, approved a resolution commending the high school boys soccer team for their record-breaking season, and held recognition ceremonies for individual student-athletes excelling in swimming, diving, and cross country competitions.

The board recognized students for their achievements in the All State Jazz Choir and as National Merit Scholars. The athletic director provided reports on successful athletic seasons, including state championships in wrestling and girls' basketball. The board discussed the principles report regarding curriculum integration and assessment changes. Additionally, there was a discussion on the financial impact of a bill requiring school districts to pay unemployment for certified staff not working during certain periods. Board committee reports included updates on joint facilities and finance, fundraising data, and preliminary planning for 2027 projects.

The board received updates on various school programs and reports, including student council initiatives like a planned pickleball tournament and the upcoming regional meeting. Key discussions focused on the performance of student intervention programs, such as English and math labs, tutoring services, and the homebound coordinator role. The board reviewed data regarding AP course recognition and student exam success, received reports from the counseling department regarding student academic and social support contacts, and reviewed the current financial status including state and federal funding outlooks. Additionally, members were briefed on facility committee progress and a recent student leadership training workshop.

The board meeting included a student council update regarding winter activities and planned spring events. Auditors provided an unmodified opinion on the district's financial statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, while identifying a significant deficiency related to the segregation of duties. The board reviewed enrollment and instructional data. The technology department reported on a recently completed fiber optic network upgrade and discussed upcoming student surveys. Financial reports indicated that the district is tracking as budgeted, with a review of health insurance account status. Finally, the board discussed new IHSA bylaw changes that necessitate adjustments to the lacrosse cooperative agreement and the scheduling of the athletic summer dead week.

The Policy Committee Meeting addressed the first reading of the Press Plus Policy Packet - Issue 120. Discussions included several policies under review and monitoring, noting that four policies were unchanged. For minor changes and housekeeping, the committee recommended removing references to the personnel committee in policy 2:150, removing Dean Snider's name from policy 5:10, and postponing the approval of policy 6:300. Policy 7:300 was noted as rewritten by the school attorney, and policy 7:150 was renamed and rewritten. The committee voted to recommend Issue 120 for Board approval, with the exception of policy 6:300.