001start with recognition. >> Okay. Is Mr. Jones in the audience? >> He's at basketball supervision tonight. >> Okay. So, do we have someone speaking on behalf of Mr. Jones? >> Mr. Edwards, would you come on up? And then also bring on up coach Pete Berdett and Weston Sadler as well. >> So in the in the grand scheme of everything that's been happening this winter, we have had a a ton of success at Morton High School. Um so um like it is easy to overlook uh the accomplishments of what happened with uh bowling this year. Um, but Weston uh had an amazing season and I'm going to let coach talk about this momentarily. But the piece that I want to highlight that I make sure is not lost on anybody is that bowling unlike a lot
002of the other sports is not uh divided into classes. So when you go to the bowling alley down in Collinsville >> uh Fairview Heights >> Fairview Heights St. Louis >> you put if you put it in I feel like it shows Collinsville Fairview Heights way way deep south down by St. Louis. um you go to this bowling alley, it is filled to the brim um with with individuals and you have whoever has made it. So you have schools of 4,000 uh students, you have schools of 400 students. Um and so there is no no 1A, 2A, 3A. Uh when Weston got second in state, he literally was the second best bowler in the state um over the course of those two days. So, um, absolutely huge accomplishment. Um, I got I was had the opportunity
003of going down and seeing him bowl on Saturday. Um, and just phenomenal. So, um, this is Weston and coach and I'll let them do the talking, but congratulations. You >> want to talk first? Why not figure that? Um, so, uh, just start off by saying, uh, what an amazing year we had. Uh, our goal for the season was to get to state. We didn't care how we got there. I mean, we obviously wanted to win regionals, wanted to win the sectionals. Um, but the goal was to get to state. Um, so we could get to the national tournament later in the season. Um, we accomplished that goal. Um, lot of highs this year. Uh we had five 300 so five perfect games on a season. One by Chase Hopper, one by Owen Taylor, one by
004Max Carter, and Won had two. Um so couple highlights real quick. uh regionals. We had Aiden Lamar set the school record for a sixgame total, which I wrote down so I knew I forget it. Aiden shot 791 for the first three games, 655 for the second set for a total of u shoot. Didn't put my glasses on. Sorry. So, I can't read the total, but I know he averaged 249 a night. So, amazing score. So, set the school record. Um, the following week, you know, we come out and then Won broke that record. Won came out, shot 300. He shot um 236, 300, 279 for 815 for the first three. shot 245 269 203 for 719 with a pen total of 1532 to average 255. So another amazing ACCOMPLISH then uh I don't think anybody
005thought you know going down to state that we're going to set another record and we did. Weston not only uh won as an individual but the team ended up fifth in the state. um had a chance probably to win state, but we had the flu hit us, lost one uh lost one of our top bowlers, had four of her bowlers sick all weekend. Uh Weston was still able to average 231 on the weekend to bring home second place finish in individuals. So, amazing guy. I do have one quick question and I queued it up. Walk us through because you had 300 games at sectional and at state, right? Okay. So, you've got the state environment. You've got a a packed house. You're going into the 10th frame and you know you've been perfect. Walk me
006through that. >> Well, like I said, it was just another another shot. I just do the routine. And >> can you hear the people in the audience? You block it out. >> Yeah. I mean, it's just it's just routine at that point. So, >> okay. So, then when you throw the third ball in the 10th frame and you release it, when do you know that it's it's 300 game. >> I mean, really, it's just kind of how I guess I reflect on how I did the approach and everything after that. And I'm just like hopefully it strikes. And then >> and then is there this big like release like oh my I just rolled a 300. >> That feels really good. >> Congratulations. >> Does anybody else have any questions? >> I just had to
007ask that cuz I have been nowhere near a 300 game and I can't imagine what that's like. So >> well congratulations. That's awesome. Truly amazing. >> Nice job. Congratulations. >> Thank you. >> Congratulations. >> Thank you. Congratulations. >> Thank you. >> Only a sophomore. All right, that's it for that, right? >> That's it for that. >> All right. Every board meeting provides two opportunities for public comment. First session of public comments at the beginning of the meeting is for items on this meeting's agenda for discussion or action. And the second session of public comments at the end of the meeting is for other communication that's not necessarily on board agenda. In order to speak at the meeting, members of the public must complete a card with their name and topic and turn it in prior
008to the beginning of the first segment of public comments. If you wish to speak and have yet submitted a card, now is your final opportunity. The board of education will take all comments under consideration and respond if necessary in a timely manner. We ask your comments address the board of education and not the audience will limit comments to 5 minutes. Participants are expected to conduct themselves with civility and respect and follow guidelines outlined in board policy 8:30, visitors to and conduct on school property. Further information on public participation in board meetings is available board policy 22 230. Troy, >> we have four for uh that are non-aggender related. Okay. >> Right. Administrative reports. >> Okay. As with all board meetings, I like to start off with a little bit of gratitude. And so, if you
009were fortunate to attend the MHS Hall of Fame dedication and induction um last Friday night, it was a special moment. And so my gratitude for this board meeting goes out to our very own Bob Becker. Uh the picture on the left is uh displayed right next to a plaque indicating that u coach Bob Becker is our first inductee into the Morton High School Hall of Fame. And so my gratitude not only goes out to Bob for just a wonderful career and being a gamecher, but also to the Morton High School staff, Mr. Jones and his team that put together the induction ceremony and the committee to work through that. And with that, because I don't know when when the next time you'll be at the high school, but I am going to read the plate
010inscription because it's worthwhile. Okay? And so this is next to the um hall of fame and there's an interactive video board. So I encourage you to go out there and play around with the interactive video board. But here's what it says. The Morton High School Hall of Fame, established in 2026, is dedicated to the enduring legacy of Coach Bob Becker, transformational leader of the Lady Potter's basketball program. Through exemplary character, unwavering commitment, relentless pursuit of excellence, and sustained success, Coach Becker shaped generations of student athletes in elevated Morton High School athletics. May all who enter the Hall of Fame reflect the pillars of character, excellence, commitment, and success and carry forward the spirit of the Potters with pride. And so, take an opportunity to get out there and visit that. It's pretty special. And shout
011out to Coach Becker for being number one. So, um, moving on. Um, uh, last year as close to this time, uh, Dr. Smack did a presentation on um the five essentials survey as it related to uh school safety at Morton High School. Um so this year I wanted to give just a brief update to the principles in the room. This isn't a competition because we know that some of our schools the students have it set up to do that. But when you see all the green on there that means that we're tracking. If it's highlighted, that means that we've met the minimum thresholds uh to be reported out on the uh school report card. So, we're off to a good start. We have until March 13th. So, any parents, caregivers, guardians out there, we're really
012close in all of our schools, get out there and complete the five essential survey. Okay. So, last year, uh this was the format that Dr. Smog uh did the survey. um and he did a compar comparative analysis um on the MHS student responses in the five essential survey. It was targeting um safety, school safety. Um here's some just fun facts. Last year in 2024, we had about 66% that had completed. 66% were students and this year for the 2025 uh survey data it was 86.1% had completed the surveys. Surveys are completely anonymous. Um here's some additional information about the surveys and um the responses that are included in this um this presentation. Um we looked at a total of 12 responses in the survey that tied to students and their reflections on student safety and
013their interactions with their peer groups. Um there's a breakout analysis. Uh we also uh I have pulled 24 schools in Mason, Tazwell, Woodford and uh the Poria County. Um Poria 150 is not included in that. Uh they're a larger much larger school district. Um, Dr. Smack didn't have that data last year, so I kept them out of the mix. So, all of the comparisons match between last year and this year. And then the seven middle line schools. Okay. So, here we go. How much do you disagree or agree with the following statements? And I'll just read through these uh briefly. I do want to make a point. I've contacted Isby because when I got the data file set, >> if any category had less than 10% of a response, so 9% response down to 1%,
014they did not they redacted that information. So that's why it's just an asterisk there. Okay? So when you see some of the averages, you'll see a percent that is less than 10%, but that's factoring in the average. So if you were to add the two, you know, percent agree and strongly agree, it doesn't add up to 100. So it's just the best guess at where the numbers fell. But I've added some additional slides that will show where Morton High School's numbers fell. So um and then we did a a ranking to be consistent with what was shared last year. So in this category just focusing on the percent strongly agree which I would say is the number one response that we're shooting for. We were second in the middle line out of all the schools.
015>> Do we always have to go to the news with the results? That's why I refuse to take the surveys anymore because it's used. >> This isn't time for discussion. It's a presentation. >> Okay. I'll ask later. Thanks. >> Thank you. And I'd be happy to get with you after the meeting. Okay. And >> take all your questions. >> So, um, I feel comfortable with my teachers at school. 47% strongly agree. That was three-way tie for first. It was crazy that three schools had the exact same percentage. My teachers treat me with respect. First in the middle, I with 40% strongly agree. In the hallways of the school, this is so the next set of questions is how safe do you feel? Um 44% uh of our students at the high school responded very safe.
016That was a second um in the middlei. In the bathrooms of the school uh 32% felt very safe. uh second in the middle align outside around the school 53% that's first traveling between home and school 63% first in the middle line II in your classes 63% first in the middlei um now these are opposites uh so most students in my school like to put others down and so uh you got look at the strongly disagree and we were at 16% which was um second in the middle I think for that. But when we compare uh you know where we're at with the rest of the area schools we're at a a pretty good percentage there. Um most students in my school help each other learn. This one's interesting. I I I'm kind of struggle with
017this one. You know we're fourth in the middle line at 16%. I we I know we had uh 64% uh agree, but I just thought that one was unique. And so maybe we've got a whole bunch of independent students at the high school. So um this one don't get along together very well. Uh we are second for uh the middle line and percent strongly disagree at 13%. And then treat others with respect. uh we're second three-way tie. So that's over half the middle high schools right there if we have a three-way tie. But at 16% but if you look at our percent agree at 63, that's that's pretty outstanding. Okay, so uh when you take all of those slides, here's how we finished overall. We had five first place finishes, two, excuse me, six second
018place finishes, and one fourth place finish. Um we're better than average uh not only in the middle ni but with um you know the area schools uh the next handful of slides or two handful of slides we'll do a comparative analysis over the previous year's data uh that was something that I think was new in the five essentials this year um which is really uh interesting and then I I do need to make a point that all of our principles were tasked with coming up with building level goals And so Mr. Edwards and his team, I'm sure you've seen this around. If you have kids at the high school, I know that they've got some branding of of shirts. The hash one Morton that it was a goal that Mr. Edwards and his team uh
019put out this year and it falls underneath the social emotional and mental wellness pillar and that's both for students and staff. And so if we if we just think about this concept, you know, one Morton, we are all in this thing together. And I like where our results have uh have gone over the last year, not this year, 2025 under Mr. Edwards leadership. And so here is uh the next handful of sites are going to uh show the same questions that we displayed, but this is just for Morton High School. So the first number is the 2024 response percentages and then the second number is the 2025 uh and this does a a little bit deeper breakdown of that. So under underneath student and teacher trust we saw an improvement um from 67 to 72%.
020And then here are the questions that we went through just a moment ago. And you can see that um in almost every one of these categories, the strongly agree or strongly disagree increased this last year. And so I I think that's trending the right way. On the far end of the spectrum, the strongly disagree and disagree, you'll see that the results are pretty flat. Like we didn't see any significant changes in that. So, uh, the U Chicago is the overall average of the the schools that that participate in the surveys for this. And so, I'll go through the slides. I'm not going to spend a lot of time speaking on behalf of it because I summarized most all the slides, but you can see that once again, we had growth there from 25 over 24.
021I'm comfortable with my teachers at this school. A 5% increase and strongly agree. Underneath safety, we went from 62 to 68% a six point increase. And here's how th those measured yeartoyear um with a large number of kids that are answering that. yourself outside the school, in your class, in the hallways of the school, in the bathrooms of the school. And then the next set of slides, the final set are on student peer relationships. And so we had a um once again a 6% increase. Like to put each other down. Once again, look at the strongly disagree portion of that. Um, help each other learn. You can see where the results are. Don't get along together very well. Once again, look at the strongly disagree um portion of that. And treat each other with respect.
022And so I'll hit pause right there. What questions does the board have on the 2025 five essentials data and compare it with the 2024? >> I mean the trend line's nice. I think you just followed it. Do you have any idea why they asked that? >> I don't. I did talk to two people with ISBY and they didn't have an answer for it. Um, I think what I would assume is that in some smaller school districts, depending on the students response, you may be able to like determine like who did the response in the overall data sheet. And so I don't know if they just set a threshold at 10% or below, but it was only on the student data, the teacher uh data responses and the um parent data responses. Nothing was redacted. It
023was just on the students. So, okay. Well, I'll continue on with the um administrative report. with every slide or every board meeting. I'm trying to fold in a little bit on uh finance. Uh about just over a week ago, the governor gave uh his budget address. Here are the highlights. The first one I should have put a plus sign. Increases in title one and IDA funding. That's uh funds that that come from federal sources. Um, EBF, the plan is the governor had put in $35 million over the FY26 budget for evidence-based funding. That's where we receive most of our state funds uh through is that EVF. um for a couple of years I know that we had put in for the property tax relief grant and Lisa not to put you on the spot but
024this last year I don't think that they ran with it and they're not run they the governor didn't put a line item in there to fund it we were getting really close to acquiring or being approved for the property tax relief grant and then as all things go yeah it's not funded so uh but we'll watch that could change if I could spend spent any amount of time talking to people about the biggest concern facing public schools in Illinois, it's MCATs. It's the mandated categorical funding and and the uh use of proration. And so I've got one bullet on here that talks about special ed transportation. A few weeks ago, about a month ago, I gave an update to the board uh and it was trending at about 64%. Well, there's only so much money
025set aside for special ed transportation and it's total claims dependent. So, as the claims go up, which in W 709 we are experiencing an increase in special ed transportation costs. So, as district over district over district their claims are going up, the proration is going to go down and so we're going to receive less funds through proration for things like the MCATs. Okay? And that would be our um stump speech when we're uh talking with legislators or uh our representatives or members of ISBY if there's anything that we can do to uh improve that funding that would be uh well received not only by more 709 but all of the schools in the state. Want to finish up on a more of a positive note. Uh CTE stands for careers and technical education. they're looking
026at keeping that uh funding level and so that's good. We receive um quite a bit of money uh through two different grants. One that uh provides supplies and uh materials for our CTE classes at the high school and also one that's the transit grant that helps offset teacher sellers. Okay. Ballpark could be 607 $80,000 in that in that range. And so that's substantial. So, um, in May, we'll know more because the, uh, general assembly will be taking action on that. I believe it's May 31st. Probably happen at the 11th hour on May 31st. So, we'll keep the board informed on how that goes. Um, moving on to facilities. I'm just going to gloss over this because we have a lot of facilities uh, conversation that we'll have underneath um, committee updates. Uh but we did
027have the uh uh 2026 bid project um bid opening and so we'll talk a little bit more about that. Uh I think we're in a good spot with all of those that fall underneath that. And then I just wanted to include a couple pictures here. These are from this morning. Um you can see the um grade beams like this. This is all concrete. it look like this before they poured the put the forms and poured the concrete, but that's sitting on those peers that had been drilled into the ground. And so they're making progress with that. Um, this is, you know, looking at where the uh east gym would be to the right of those doors. And then that's the Bertha uh Frank lobby that is in the Tyveck. But, uh, they're making progress. We
028hope and pray that the weather holds out and we continue to make uh, good progress on that. the temperatures stay up. So, um, moving on, achievement, we're going to keep the, uh, just the the good mojo happening here. So, our boys basketball team is getting ready to tip off here at 7:00. They're up at Ottawa. But, uh, on Friday night, we secured our first regional championship in a number of years, and it was a it was an exciting night. Not only did we have the uh the uh MHS Hall of Fame induction, um we had a pack crowd, sold out, the atmosphere was outstanding, and the team rose to um the task and secured their first regional champion championship in a while. Um also, we had two outstanding performances. We had a lot of outstanding
029performances, but Harrison Day will most likely be at our next board meeting for recognition um because of his second place finish in state in wrestling. And Ben Chaffer also and I'm trying to make eye contact with Bethany. That's uh that's Bethy's nephew. Um place six. And you know, if whether or not you like wrestling, everyone should go to the state tournament at some time because it is absolutely exciting and uh to see the pure energy that um you know, our wrestlers uh go through. Ben lost his first round and then had to wrestle back. So, he had a whole boatload of matches that he had to compete at. Very proud of their performance. Um and then the MHS competition cheer at the last meeting we said that they had qualified for state can place 10th.
030So kudos to our our cheer group. Other items um just want to uh technology AI cell phones. Um Kate Wyman has been incredibly busy um on that task as our uh technology um administrator in the district. She has put together a draft of our artificial intelligence um plan. Uh if our our uh committee members on the policy committee in the 120 update that was a task that all the districts needed to have an AI plan. She's done a great job. We have a draft of that that will follow a sequence as far as you know getting that in front of our admin and as well as our TLC members. um also include that is uh responsible use guidelines in there that go with that and it all ties to policy the access to our electronic
031networks. Um she's also been busy. She's been uh facilitating leading out the technology task force. I nailed it. I couldn't say that earlier today. 13 people are on that group give or take. uh admin, teachers, coaches, tech staff, parent is on that. Um they're looking at a whole bunch of survey data. We've surveyed our caregivers from last spring. Um after they did the book study on the anxious generation, so we got feedback from our parents and caregivers. They've surveyed the students and staff back in November. So they've got that data. Um they have a their their next meeting is in March. Um, and they're going to take everything that they've looked at that the task force has been charged with doing and um, putting it all together and they're going to the plan is to
032bring it to TLC in April. There are two TLC board members that attend. You're looking for a report on that and then she'll follow up with a report to the board in May. So, um I do want to recognize uh Miss Spickle Meer that um came and talked uh last board meeting. She did a fantastic job. You know, there's a book that's going around um the digital delusion. Um several of us have read it. Uh we've got our notes. Some of them type the notes. I prefer to write my notes on a 3x5 index card trying to get connected to the digital delusion. Um, but that's going to help drive our conversations. If I could give you my just quick thoughts on it, anything to whatever extreme is not healthy. Where we operate in the
033middle with moderation, whether it's work life balance, whether it's uh you know the kids that sit there and study hours and hours and hours and hours and hours for a spelling bee, there needs to be some sort of moderation with that. And that was one of the big takeaways that I I gained from that. I think our leadership team will have rich conversations about it. Um I don't think there's a magic wand that can be waved, but you know the state that's one of the things that the governor is looking at you possible legislation on that. So uh we hope to blend all those things together. So um hitting uh the MHS parking uh since our last meeting uh Ronnie Shuck and I did meet with Craig Laudermilk with the village. We're still looking at
034opportunities to increase parking. What I can speak on behalf of is um we may have some opportunities going from the tennis parking lot going east. It' be a little bit more of a walk. It's not close to the front doors of Morton High School, but we had hoped that we could gain some additional parking spots going to the east. We looked at going to the west, which is going towards the bandfield. that presents itself some challenges with uh traffic flow, especially in the morning. Um if you're familiar with that area, if you're not, I can show you on a map and explain where that is. But uh we're blessed to have um Craig Laudermilk who can do a lot of work for us and help get us headed in the right direction. And then the
035LA one of the last things on this slide is last Friday we were contacted by Scott Witsig. I love Scott Witsig. He is such an advocate for everything Morton. Um he informed us that Compier Financial uh we we had completed an application for a grant and so $60,000 over the next two years. And to give you an idea of some of the things that could be included in that, Amatrol hydraulic trainer price tag about $25,000 and a ShopBot CNC router price tag about $24,000. And so then there's some other things, some additional certifications that are built into this grant. And so, uh, I want to thank our friends at Compier for investing in not only in the Morton community, but the Morton High School, um, CTE program with that. So, that that's that's a blessing
036to have those funds. Um, my last slide on the other items and I'll wrap up. Uh, forecast breakfast. I'm going to have you get in touch with Valerie. She will get you registered and um, for that. It's a wonderful event if you have never gone to it. Uh it's at Grace Church this year. So shout out to Grace. They are they are such wonderful supporters of Morton 709. But this is this is the village gives a presentation. The park district gives a presentation. I'll give a presentation. We all give presentations and we're on the clock so we only have so many minutes to do that. U but it is it is really a nice event. Um so mark that. underneath FOYA. We had three since our last board meeting. We had two from Michael Henry
037uh regarding school board members background checks. Um and and then he followed up with another one and so Kate fulfilled those. Those are out on our website. And then uh O'Shea Smith was on vendor contracts and agreements and so she fulfilled those. Board and community engagements. Mark your calendar. Someone in the room thought it was a great idea to have a board and community engagement on March 17th. I don't know what else would be going on on that day. Uh but we've got that scheduled. And so uh with the time change, it should be a lighter later. And so um we'll also see about doing a walk through some of the the construction project that is out there. And then the last thing is the board policy review 5180 to 2550. What questions do you
038have? Okay, that's it for that. Can jump on to commute committee updates. I think uh we have facilities committee update. >> We do. And then we have an additional one. Um but this is just my quick talking slide. So um Mr. Rudd and Miss Layman are on the facilities committee. We had a lengthy agenda. Um, so I'm just going to quickly hit the highlights. Uh, the we the day be two days before the committee, we had the uh bids opening. Um, here's a quick summary of that. Excuse me. Uh, we had bids that came in at 1,347,000. This was about $140,000 more than what had been estimated. Um, I I full disclosure, I think the windows came in at $200,000, which was probably $100,000 more than what we had anticipated, but the the bid amount
039for the um windows was pretty uniform across all bids and it was the same product provided by the same vendor. So, there's I don't know if we if we were to reject the alternate bid on that, I don't think the district would have any cost you can. So, I think it's negligible and that would be our recommendation to move forward. We also um Bethany Scrogs and Lindseay Franklin were attending a conference down in Springfield and they called in and they gave us an update uh about a potential um when I'm talking about Morton Academy about a potential partnership that's worthwhile exploring. Um and this partnership uh would be a third party group um that could benefit Morton Academy. uh the delivery of services at Morton Academy, Life Academy, and if the district had an interest
040in uh pursuing an autism academy. Mrs. Franklin has covered that um before in her uh student support services presentations. So, that was um that was a wonderful uh conversation that we had. uh the Grundy project, that one is being designed and so uh Bethany has got some skin in the game and and Miss Hayagus has uh that's a two-part project uh looking at redoing the main entry at Grundy as well as a an addition for preschool classrooms. And so hopefully we can get that one off the ground and out for bid. Um and then high school phase three, phase four, that's going to get lumped into one project. Um, and then, uh, I know earlier in the year we had some folks come in and talk about the tennis courts. Um, this is good news.
041Uh, we're looking at a tennis court project, folding that into the summer of 2027. Um, that one could be, um, that could be extensive because we do have some, uh, cracks and some drainage issues, some water issues that are coming up. So those three bullet points there, tennis courts, track and turf are all kind of variable depending on how that project scope goes. The good news is is that the track and the turf are in are in decent shape and you know we can still operate on the track and on the turf. So we have options where we may be able to push that one back if the tennis courts. So I'll turn it on over to our committee members uh to fill in any gaps. So >> I thought you covered it well. Will
042you just remind people what phase three and four of MHS are? >> Oh, yeah. Yeah. Thank you. So, uh, at the high school, I I heard a student as I was taking pictures a couple months ago saying, "Yeah, we're just building weight rooms." Well, the wait room was by design, pardon the pun. Um, the wait room was with an end goal to increase classrooms at the high school. And so phase three once once the wait room is done and the current weight room facility is vacated then we can start on well the design would be in place we can start on the remodel of the existing wait room into a principal's office suite. So as you come in that nice main entry the atrium entry all of your administrative respon uh services are right there
043when you walk in. Okay. So, what's going to happen at Kirk Edwards office and Scott Jones's office and all the front that is that is going to be redesigned and we hope to gain classrooms. Good news is is that we have water and restrooms in those facilities. So, those could be ideal classrooms for special services, okay? Because we have bathroom facilities in there, okay? And so, that is the end result. whether we get three or four classrooms out of it. Um naturally if we do then when the special services moves from their location we can better allocate careers in technical education, business and some of the other um you know things that Mr. Edwards has been tracking on. So that's what phase three and phase four. >> Thank you. Yeah, I think that you covered
044it very well, but u I'd be remissed to say if we didn't give some gratitude to Rodney Shook, we would be we'd be missing it. So, he's organized what could have taken four or five hours to go over, we were out of there in what, a little over two hours, which is still pretty long, but he had he knows the plumbing in any and every school. He knows the HVAC in any and every school, all the projects. He's got a good handle with the the construction workers, the general contractors, um, and then potential projects. He's already got a good handle on what's going on going forward and all the stuff that you had just talked about. So, kudos to Rodney and thanks for your Google Maps um, with that really helped at least get a
045visual where things are going to go. >> Um, I'd be I got to echo uh, Rodney is our most valuable asset in the district. BS. Period. >> Wow. >> BS. >> Sorry, Valerie. >> Valerie, you're the boss. But I I couldn't even begin to put a number. I over his tenure, it's got to be in the tens of millions of dollars he has saved taxpayers >> just with how he manages our facilities. So Eric, >> yes, >> a question. Um, when were the tennis courts, track and turf originally um, constructed? >> 2015, I think. >> I mean, just approximately. And then >> since 2015, >> how long is the typical life of those things or is it over, under? I do know a thing or two about turf and I will say uh the benchmark
046is anywhere between eight and 15 years. >> Okay. Ideally, if you can get 10 or 12 years out of it, you're you're solid. There are some there are some, you know, that have been able to stretch it out to 15. >> Um but the joints start failing. If you looked at the the blades on the turf, they're all kind of like bent over. >> Um, and so, you know, if you can get anywhere between 8 and 15 and with the ongoing maintenance, our track is in pretty good shape. Uh, we just had it restriped, I think this last year, within a year, we had it restriped, so we can we can nurse that one along. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Okay. When you talk about Morton Academy, um, what kind of plan are you thinking?
047What what would we be looking for help with from? >> So, we >> sort of third party. >> We haven't deviated from our original plan. Um, and I didn't I didn't include the slide, but uh several months ago I had a one-page summary of the different projects that Morton District 709's going to be engaged in over the next two years. And so we still have about $1.5 million allocated to going towards a project at Morton Academy. Um the partnership is one of those that could expand the the resources that we could contribute towards Morton Academy in addition to like the life academy. So you know that's been an initiative of our student support services as far as transitioning to um uh our students that are graduates that uh that we continue to work with until
048they're 22. So it could be some uh career like outcome type transitioning as well as the uh autism academy. Right now uh with autism um we don't have a facility in house that uh that we can um educate our kids. And so what what we end up doing is sending them off off campus out of district tuition. And that can be anywhere between on the low end 60 that might be a stretch to $90,000 per student uh for that education. And so um this is just at the the beginning level. It's something that um we can share more information uh with the board once we have that information. U but it is definitely something that could benefit all three of those programs. So, I know it's a real generic answer, but I just hesitate to
049get too far out in front of that. So, >> it's good to know that Martin Academy and and these programs are district priorities and that we have to start laying the groundwork for years to come here. >> Any other questions on that? Okay. So then the next one is uh it's just it's not necessarily committee update, but we have the board self-evaluation on April 21st. And so I think Valerie in the board packet is a copy of the agenda. And so um we'd like to be able to get back Oh, help me out. Katie, is it Katie? >> Katie Boliv. >> Uh who's going to facilitate that? Um this is a time to talk about the agenda. Do you have any other things that you would like to see included on the board self-evaluation? >>
050Hoping they might know a little bit and I skied over it before or about the super eval. Do they know much about that? >> Um, >> yes. >> For that, uh, I I don't know the answer. I think I think Katie has some working knowledge of it, but I don't Do you want to add that on the >> um It could be just a Hey, do what's the best practice to use this new software? And I'm not saying that we're too far off from being decent, but this is our first year. If she's got something to guide us, that would be helpful. >> Okay. >> Is she going to be in person or >> Yeah. >> Okay. >> Yeah. I didn't know if it was that other like that other gal who was zoomed or
051you know whatever. So, >> and no, she when she came in person last time, she was very helpful with a lot of lot of stuff. >> It's been a couple years now. >> She's very good. >> Well, I met her at one of the the district meetings. So, yeah. >> So, everybody's read through that. Good with it. Nothing else specifically going on to discuss for self-improvement. Okay, it's pretty self-explanatory. It is actually usually I would agree with you. I think this was super useful. Just good to get a re things. Um and then in discussion we'll talk about the I guess it's kind of like ASB thing with the whole >> that that'll be I mean so it's kind of board but we're going to do that in discussion. >> Sure. >> Um and then
052agenda building. I think that's it for updates and committees. That's it. >> Um agenda building. Anybody going tomorrow night to the division meeting? >> You're going to go? >> Yeah, I usually go to that every year. >> Good. Let us know what you find out. >> Thanks for presenting us. >> Yes, I like that idea. >> Okay. Um I think we move on to discussion items then. >> So the first one is uh park district agreement. Um so I got to give a shout out to Lisa. She started on this project a few years ago. Um we have a great partnership with the park district but we didn't have anything formalized. And so if we look at the uh different facilities, Westwood Park, Birwood, Mlullen Park, uh the tennis complex is utilized by both entities.
053Bertha of Frank Performing Arts Center and all the gyms at the six schools um are all utilized by park district activities. And so um so what you have in your packet is the first reading of an agreement with the park district. The plan is to bring that back at the April board meeting and approve it. And then um we'll sign it and send it on over to the park district for their approval and their signature. So, it's pretty self-explanatory. >> Is everything okay? >> So, >> can I just address I don't know what's going on, but something is happening. I think okay. >> I mean, I'm not okay. She's recording us. I don't know why she's asking us to stop talking. We're not talking. I'm just asking are you guys staff? Um, can you identify
054who? Because I don't know who people are. >> Miss Hulan, I'd be happy to. We're in the middle of a board meeting. I'd be happy to address that with you after the board meeting. >> Okay. But I can't hear because staff is being louder and that's all. Okay. Um well, if if you need to move up, we can move up. Um I will speak louder and >> I'm good. I just wanted it more quiet. >> Okay. >> All right. Well, thank you. Um so this anything else on the park district? >> Okay. >> No, I mean it's self-explanatory. It needs it needs to happen. It needs a great relationship. fight, you know, fail bus. That's great. So, let's get it writing and we'll move on. >> Yeah. >> Right. >> The next thing here is
055just a couple bullets on um the advocacy day down in Springfield. Cristiana is going to be attending that. And so, here are the here are the goals of the three goals underneath that. And so then there's feedback. This is a discussion that, you know, give Christina Cristiana some talking points to share with our state representatives. >> Yeah. I didn't well and I that's why I sent um the questions to you guys because I didn't feel I mean I was supposed to fill it out individually but I don't didn't feel like that I mean some of the questions sure but um I definitely wanted input from everybody here because it's I'm not 709 so I just we all represent 709 and so it was important um to me to have um any questions concerns comments, anything
056that anybody can think of and even if it's not today. Um, but the the date that I'm going is March 24th. So, anything before that time would be welcome. >> Yes. So, that's why we had to include like so question if you looked at all the questions a lot of them weren't necessarily like bigger broader district goals where it's like well what's what's her pressing issue? So that's why um Valerie put in this question nine sheet because it was like well what's your biggest issue? Cell phones, curricular mandate reform, state funding commitments, um student achievement, tiffs, unfunded unfunded mandates or other. So I saw that like if we had input or you guys had opinions on what you think that we want to discuss with legislature that is most pressing to us like be time
057to just chat about it and so she can represent us and talk to them about it down there. >> Might want to make cell phone policies and do electronic policies. >> Okay. >> You know can I have the pen? Good. Thank you. >> Yeah, because it's broader than that, right? It's not, you know, as we've talked the past couple meetings like, yeah, cell phone policy part of it, but just technology in general and um how it's used. I think that that kind of lends itself together. Well, and I'm assuming the cell phone thing was first and foremost just because Governor Pritsker um that's he's he switched on, you know, just the um the in uh not in person um >> instructional time. Thank you to now Belltobell. He's he's trying to get that passed um
058with legislation. So, I'm assuming that's why that was on there. I'm just >> you can maybe make it personal cell phones versus um electronics in general. >> Yeah, sure. >> Because like AI, I mean AI is not going away and if you don't learn it, you're going to be way behind and if you use it too much, you're not going to be learning. >> Sure. >> So again, it goes right back to the balance that Dr. Sander talked about earlier and hopefully that's what they're going to be talking about. So maybe some like guidelines for AI or just >> just I don't think they're going to get too detailed, but >> Okay. >> A lot of a lot of talk and generality. >> Yeah. I don't there's no way they're going to get too too
059far with this right now. >> Sure. >> Well, and I know Dr. Sander, you mentioned the MCATs. Obviously, that's a big >> I have my list. >> Do you? >> Yeah. So, MCATs is is a big one. And I I've got a talking point. I can give you a graphic before you go down there on that. >> Another one that um there there's two others that have hit um the world language mandate that is set to go into effect. I think it's 28 29 school year. That's a in theory it's good. It's a a world language requirement for all high school students to graduate to have two years of the world language. Okay. The reality is there aren't any teachers to fill these positions. So that is going to come at a cost to the
060district because we're going to have to add additional staff. And when you're doing high school scheduling, if you're teaching your core classes, those are um like I taught math. Kids had to take math. Um if you're adding two more years of world language, that's got to come from somewhere else in a kid's schedule. >> Sure. and that that most likely the indicators are going to come at a cost to our CTE all of our electives and I don't know if that's a healthy healthy decision. So that's one. The other one is legislation just passed on in January for January one that any of the states around Illinois that have teacher ed programs we've had reciprocity but effective January one students have to take all of the Illinois lensure tests in addition to the reciprocity that
061is a barrier that that is one more obstacle in the mix I understand it, it's probably got a good intent. But when we can't te when schools cannot get qualified teachers into positions, we got someone in Iowa or someone in Missouri or someone in Wisconsin that's right across the border. They have a teaching license that works in that state. Now they got to sit for all the Illinois exams. >> I wish that one would go back away. So those are two additional ones. All right. Any pressing issues you want her to discuss? >> Anybody? No. Okay. Well, give it to me by March 24th or before that if uh if you do think of anything. And mostly too, I'm just going to learn and listen and report back to you guys. So, >> awesome. All
062right. Um, on to action items. Do I have a motion for the board of education to approve the 20278 district school calendar as presented? >> So, moved. >> Support. >> Uh, discussion. And we talked about this last time. It's very very similar to um next year's and so we're just getting out ahead so people can plan things and so there's no other discussion. Dolly, please call the role. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Layman, >> yes. >> Dr. Crawl, >> yes. >> Mrs. Pery, >> yes. >> Dr. Cross, >> yes. >> Mr. Roth, >> yes. >> Mr. Rudd, >> yes. >> And Mr. Ronis Orchard, >> yes. >> All right. Uh the board of education, the board of education would consider the adoption of a resolution directing the regional superintendent of schools for the county of Taz,
063Illinois to certify to the the county clerk uh the question of imposing a retailer's occupation tax and a service occupation tax at a rate of 1% to provide revenue to be used exclusively for school facility purposes, SRO's, and mental health professionals for submission to the electors of said county at the general election to be held on the 3rd day of November 2026. And Secretary Layman, could you please read the resolution? >> Yeah. resolution directing the regional superintendent of schools for the county of Tazwell, Illinois to certify to the county clerk of said county the question of imposing a retailers's occupation tax and a service occupation tax to be used exclusively for school facility purposes, school resource officers and mental health professionals for submission to the electors of said county at the general election to be
064held on the third day of November 2026. Do I have a motion for the board of education to adopt resolution at this meeting to include the following question to be placed on the November 2026 Tazwell County ballot? Shall a retailers a retailer's occupation tax and service occupation tax commonly referred to as a sales tax be imposed in the county of Tazwell, Illinois at a rate of 1% to be used exclusively for school facility purposes, school resource officers, and mental health professionals. >> So moved. support >> discussion. We briefly touched on this last time, right? This is not like this doesn't make the 1% tax happen. This is just to put on the ballot if other schools, right? It has to be the majority of districts in Tazel County uh school boards do the same thing,
065right? So, this isn't implying the tax. This is just to put on the ballot so voters can vote on it if they would like to do this to support our schools. That's it. Okay. >> Concerns about that? Worries about it? >> We've done this in the past. I We did this four or five years ago. >> 2019 was the last. >> It was that long ago. >> Seven years ago. Okay. >> Time flies. >> It does. >> Um, >> it does. >> It failed obviously or else we wouldn't be having this discussion again. that. >> Yes. Thanks. >> Oh my gosh. No. >> Okay. Um All right. There being no uh questions, Valerie, can you please uh call the role with an uh A or nay? >> Yes. >> Mr. Red? >> Yay. >> I
066Yay. >> Yes. I don't care. >> Yes. >> Mr. Onosaurich. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Perie. >> Yes. >> Mr. Dr. Ross, >> yes. >> Dr. Cross, >> yes. >> Dr. Crawl, >> yes. >> And Mrs. Layman, >> yes. >> All right. Uh, do I have a motion for the board of education to permanently transfer the acred interest income of $110,000 from the working cash fund to the ED fund? >> So, support >> discussion. It's pretty straightforward. Uh Lisa budgets this and it's good when the interest rates are up and we can make this transfer. >> Okay. >> Great. Please call the vote. >> Yes, sir. Mrs. Pery, >> yes. >> Mr. Rudd, >> yes. >> Mrs. Layman, >> yes. >> Mr. Onus, >> yes. >> Dr. Cross, >> yes. >> And Dr. Crawl, >> yes.
067>> All right. Do I have a motion for the board of education to accept a base bid plus alternate bid one from Poria Poria Metro Construction in the amount of 1,347,000 >> support >> discussion the junior high excited >> it's time for sunlight that's been I think kind of there on the periphery for a bit kind of like, "Oh, we got to do this, but it's it's time." That that'll be >> It got pushed back at least three years ago. >> Yeah. >> Was it 3 years ago? >> Okay. >> I didn't want to say the last time I was at 12 years or so. >> Yes. >> Uh, anything else? Yes. >> I just want to say I think it's good so many different schools are getting improvements. you know, as you look through
068the list earlier and then add this to it, it's it's not just one school or one group of students we're focused on. It's districtwide, which is that >> goes back to Rodney. >> Yeah. Right. He's got a it's a good balance, I feel like. So, it's good. >> Yeah. I agree. I mean, there's been a plan. I mean, that 15-year plan that you've seen, we used to actually bring that out and like look through it. It's been >> You can It's It's in the updates. You just have to look through. So, it's it's good. >> Yeah. >> All right. Uh, please call the RO. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Layman. >> Yes. >> Mr. Rudd. >> Yes. >> Dr. Crawl? >> Yes. >> Mrs. Purie? >> Yes. >> Mr. Roth? >> Yes. >> Mr. Onus? >>
069Yes. >> And Dr. Cross? >> Yes. >> Uh, do I have a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented? >> So moved. >> Support. Please call. No, I have a I would like to discuss something on there. Um I see I was anticipated but I didn't see the reply. How many students are we busing to spend the night in Poria um for the Skills USA trip? I see we're taking two white buses. So it must be quite amount of students to need two buses and but the paperwork wasn't completed. So, I wasn't sure >> there was an update on that. Did you not get that? >> I was looking for it today. You know, because this is an area of interest, how much money we need to be spending >> that they are not
070like there's not a big group spending the night that it's >> officers. >> No, this is for something else. >> Oh, okay. >> This is for Skills USA. >> Okay. >> Dr. crawl. I I don't know the answer as to how many people are going to It can't be more than 28 because the buses only account for 14. >> Sure. >> so you'll just make sure all of all of the guidelines that are in policy are followed for this trip. >> That would be good. And I just would like to make sure that the paperwork's in order so that the questions are answered. And of course, we trust your judgment if this is a necessary expense for the program, but just >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> I'll get back to you on the on
071the number. I'll get put that in the the update for the board. >> Yeah. >> Thanks. >> Please call. >> Yes. Mr. Roth. >> Yes. >> Mr. Onus. >> Yes. >> Dr. Cross. >> Yes. >> Dr. Crawl. >> Yes. >> Mrs. Layman. Yes, >> Mrs. Perie. >> Yes. >> And Mr. Red. >> Yes. >> Um, I do want to make a comment about uh in that there was a donation report. Uh, so David and Carolyn Lindley donated $2,500 to our uh high school baseball program. So, uh, very appreciative of their, um, gracious donation, uh, to support our our our students, which baseball just started this week, so they're in the middle of triyouts. So, thank you to David and Carol. >> Right. And on agenda, audience presentation. >> Yeah, we have four uh, people that
072wish to speak. Uh, the first person is Mr. Edward. Um, if you'd come to the podium. I'm reading for these two. >> I can't read for them. >> It's them to present us, not >> they have they are old, can barely stand and have medical issues and I have their papers. Are you saying that two disabled people have to stand and they have to speak at the podium? Is that what you're saying? So, I mean, audience presentation is for them to give us information. And so, if they can't if they can't tell us the information, they can send us the information. >> Can they stand there? Like when Saunders had a bunch of group go up together that was supposed to be one and there was a big group of teachers and staff. >> So,
073you've allowed people to read in the past, right? And groups to stand up together. >> Sorry. >> You've you've allowed people to read in the past. Is that correct? Is it because it's me? Is that what we're doing? >> What is a little different? >> I have I I don't Have we done that in the past? >> We did. And then it got changed. >> Everybody stood up for >> It got changed, but there's no proxy. Probably what, a year and a half ago, it got changed. And >> two people, >> one was Jaden that spoke and the other was Amy. >> So yeah, you've done it before. I'm followed. Are you saying that that I cannot it is our preference like you know >> no speak they have every right to speak and they
074are disabled and so by law they should be able to speak and have me read for them and you have allowed it in the past >> is that and did we change proxy I felt like we did >> well we did change >> come on >> with your proxy >> you banned me for 20 months I'm back today to to read for myself and for my elderly parents and you are changing the rules. >> We're not changing it cuz you're here. I thought >> that group for Saunders with all the same teachers was one speaker but it was a group who went >> She spoke on behalf of a group. >> I don't She can't speak on behalf of a group or >> she can she spoke for five minutes. She spoke for five minutes
075on behalf of a group. So she can speak for five minutes. >> Have a group stand behind us because it's hard to stand up there. >> She takes her five minutes for them. >> I wouldn't be so scared. You know, I feel good with a bunch of people standing beside me. >> Yeah, that's cool. I don't care if she stands with you and if she wants to spend her five minutes speaking for someone else, I don't care. >> No, that's not the way that it works. You allowed someone else. So George read for Jaden. >> I don't know. >> I know. And we and this and we have changed that because >> so we can we can someone has >> I'm telling you this is going to come back to bite you listen >> we
076just can't keep changing the rules >> we run the meetings we try to run them efficiently if someone has something that they want us to know and they can't read to us if they you have it on paper it can be sent to us and we can read it >> but when we communicate you guys like everybody else >> no I don't need help right now hold on a second and I respect you 100% I've been in a lot of meetings and I watched the rules the whole time quietly and respected people. >> You have absolutely >> so >> I support. >> I am telling you that you have two disabled people. They are disabled. >> Okay. >> They need me to speak for them. And it isn't just for you. It is also for
077the community to hear and the audience. Are you telling me? So public so public comments are to be directed to >> disable people and you're treating them differently than able-bodied people. You are not exactly no I don't need they are disable >> the presentation is not the policy says it's to address the board not the community not the audience the point >> they're addressing you and they want >> several people who have turned it around one year to share with everyone >> what I'm saying >> I try to copy and learn from people >> so what I'm saying is they they are being treated differently than able-bodied people you are doing that. Yes, you are. I can stand and speak. They cannot stand. They need to sit and I need to read. >> They can't
078speak. >> Can we take >> Do I need to explain what their disability is? >> That is also a violation as you know doctor. >> I am telling you they are both disabled. >> So if you want to speak for them then you can speak them for them but you every person has five minutes to speak to us their five minutes. >> You okay? So if you want to give your five minutes to speak for them, I'm fine with that. >> I'm not. I want my five minutes. They want their five minutes. >> And do you want five minutes? >> Do you want your five minutes? >> They want their five minutes. They are not able to speak and stand. I am reading for them. They worked hard on this and they are disabled. >>
079Then please read me their comments. >> Thank you. >> Come on. You have you first. Dad or sit. >> You can sit there. You don't have to stand there. >> I was going to have him sit. >> Yes. >> Okay, Daddy. Here. Give me. >> Carol, would you get my water to me? >> Well, that was exhausting. Please don't start my five minutes. My dad's five minutes yet. Speak more than one time. Wow. Okay, >> this isn't a great surprise. Um, so first let me say that I that Hold on. I feel honored to be able to be here to advocate for marginalized kids after an illegal 20-month ban. Here I am. This is from my dad. He has concerns regarding Morton District 709 and Morton Academy. says, "I'm writing out of concern for students
080served by Morton Academy and the broader responsibility of Morton District 709 to ensure that all children receive an appropriate and equitable education. There have been significant staffing changes at Morton Academy over the past several years. At the end of the 2025 school year, multiple teachers and aids departed, and additional staff have left since that time. High turnover at any school would typically prompt thoughtful inquiry and reflection. If an entire faculty transitioned out of another building in the district, it would likely raise serious questions. Because of the size of Morton Academy and the population it serves, however, these departures do not seem do not I'm sorry, do not appear to have received the same level of public attention. Marginal marginalized kids don't get the same level of attention for years. Some staff members provided continuity and
081stability to students despite transitions in leadership and programming. When long-standing employees choose to leave, it is reasonable to ask why. Understanding the factors contributing to turnover is not about assigning blame. Is it is about ensuring stability and quality for students. When experienced educators leave, students are the ones most directly impacted. There are also concerns circulating regarding whether students at Morton Academy currently have consistent access to licensed teachers and appropriately trained staff. If accurate, this warrants immediate attention. Students, particularly those receiving specialized services, deserve instruction from qualified credentialed educators who are equipped to meet their academic and emotional needs. It has also been reported that students are spending substantial portions of their school day on iPads. While technology can be effective and an an effective instructional tool when used intentionally, it should not replace direct instruction.
082Meaningful engagement and individualized teaching. Families have the right to request and review their child's instructional programming and technology usage data in order to better understand how their child's time is being spent. Students in Morton Academy often face significant academic, behavioral, and emotional changes. They require traumainformed, highly skilled educators who model professionalism and respect at all times. Language that stigmatizes or labels students or others inappropriately undermines trust and reflects a need for additional training and oversight. All students deserve to be treated with dignity. Leadership decisions regarding staffing, placement, and programming should be transparent and guided by what is educationally appropriate for each individual child. When students are referred to alternative placements, those decisions should be based on documented need and aligned with state and federal requirements, not convenience or perception. The district has a legal and
083ethical obligation to provide students, including those with disabilities, a free, appropriate public education in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. That obligation includes qualified personnel, appropriate services, and meaningful educational progress. If there are ongoing reviews or investigations by state agencies, transparency and cooperation are essential. The school board plays a critical oversight role and should ensure that any concerns raised by families, staff or community members or exam are examined thoroughly and objectively. The ultimate question is simple. Who is affected when systems fall short? The children. Many of these students are among the most vulnerable in the district. Some have strong advocates at home. Others do not. In either case, it is the district's responsibility to ensure they receive the education and support to which they are legally and morally entitled. This is not about
084criticism for who? For who? It's I'm sorry. This is not about criticism for its own sake. Sorry. It is about accountability, leadership, and fundamental belief that every child, regardless of placement, deserves qualified teachers, meaningful, meaningful instruction, and respectful treatment. >> Is that the end? >> That is the end. >> Or is there 30 seconds left? >> No. No. That's it. You >> good? Yep. >> Okay. Next up is Gretchen Hohulan. You need help? >> No. Okay, I made notes and I never use them. I think I'll be embarrassed trying to read the notes, but um I just want to say like I came to meetings for a year and I was scared because people were banned and I tried to sit so quietly and I'm a solo by myself parent and I sit here for
085meetings and I wait till the end and I take time out of my day with no husbands at home to watch my children and I wait for the whole meeting and then I speak. I'd rather speak in the beginning and be able to go home and spend time with my children. I'd rather not sit here the whole time. Also, the only female who acknowledges anyone coming is Kate Wyman. She says hello to people every single meeting and she makes it okay to come and speak and be supported as parents to speak. I stay here alone by myself and nobody made friendships with me. I went to the apostolic church with some of you. I bought A HOME FROM SOME OF YOU. AND NOBODY can acknowledge another mom. Okay? And then people are rude to the
086LGBTQ speakers and those people are parents and our neighbors and our loved ones. And I don't feel support from other moms. I sit here by myself. I like found my own friends. None of you have ever like called to have me over. I went to Sunday school my whole life with Bart Rankenburgger. I'm a little confused with this Lifewise stuff. I feel like um a lot of times Bart and these guys are trying to talk about their jobs and who they are and warriors and men are important and women really are not crap, you know, and someone who's important to me is Kate and she supports us and all I care about is if I'm going to offend her sharing something with you guys, okay? I don't care what you think of me. You have
087not reached out. You don't smile at any of us when we speak. You sit behind a table. You don't acknowledge how hard it is sitting away from our own children. I didn't sign up for this job. You guys wanted to. And none of you even tried after the election to be friends. Like the stuff you said during the election will come back to haunt you because now our kids are arguing about shared restrooms AND TRANSGENDER. I DON'T EVEN KNOW WHAT TRANSGENDER IS AND YOU GUYS WANT TO SIT AND TALK ABOUT IT. AND BILL HARTER AND SEX AND WHO'S PEOPLE HAVING SEX WITH? APOSTOLICS DON'T DISCUSS BIRTH CONTROL or sex and YOU WANT TO DO WARRIOR training and you want to know about Deer Fry International and you think you're uh conservative and I grew up
088Amish basically with no television. Um there's people in the room that have arranged marriages. So no, you guys did not grow up conservative. if you're not the conservative people in the room. Like, I don't know what to say, but I don't feel supported. I came in here by myself and I don't know any of you. And I bought my house from you guys. And I just think it's rude. And like moms sit by themselves. They go home and sit by themselves with nobody TO VISIT WITH. AND WE come here AND WE SIT BY OURSELVES AND WE'RE EXPECTED TO BE QUIET AND NONE of you can smile or make friends with or acknowledge other mothers and you know LISTEN TO KATE. WATCH KATE CUZ she's here TO SHOW YOU GUYS how to act and how TO
089LEAD AND HOW TO BE AN EXAMPLE OF GOOD PEOPLE AND SUPPORTIVE PEOPLE. like we we had her as our principal and we didn't fall apart because she had us even when you guys fell apart over masks and arguments. She had us and I'M LIKE I'M GLAD she's here and I can't wait till she runs everything because you guys have a lot to learn from her and she's my hero and that's all. Thanks. Have a good day. >> Okay. Thank you. Uh, next up is Tammy Woodmany. >> What? >> Yeah, I did. >> I'm so hard of hearing. >> I get it from my mother. >> All right. So, board policy, we I pulled it up. So, I'm If a proxy speaker speaks, they're allowed to speak once during session. Okay. >> Say I I can't
090hear. >> If a proxy speaker speaks, they speak once per session, right? Because we can't a proxy speaker could then you could have 20. You just talk for a really long really really long time. >> I agree with that. I just don't want a different set of rules. >> It's not it's in it's in board policy. All you just have to do is lead it. It's in board policy. >> But I'm agreeing with you. >> And so I I'm going to allow an exemption this one time because you spoke proxy for you to speak, but I'm not going to let you read also a letter for your mom. >> I don't need to read for my mom. I like I'm and I hope my five minutes hasn't started yet. I'm in agreement with you. If
091you are treating me like everyone else, >> it's board policy. >> Dr. Cross, I am in agreement with you. >> I know >> that. But what I'm saying is you allowed me to speak for my dad and you allowed George to speak for Jaden and you allowed me to speak for Amy. So that's just the same as the past. If you haven't had to, I can live with that. I don't want special treatment. I want equal treatment. And that's the issue in this district. >> It is equal, right? The the rule is if you speak as >> you let me read for my dad. >> No, the the actual board policy is if you speak as proxy, that is your five minutes. Your five minutes is >> never been that way until I got up
092here >> October 2. I shouldn't have different rules. He shouldn't have different rules. If you did that for someone, it is because >> this was October. This was since October of 25. This has been the rule. >> Okay. Thank you for explaining that. >> We didn't change this like today. This was in October. >> When this group went up, we didn't have anybody. We didn't know who they were at all. They didn't have to sign up at all. >> Okay. I just have to claw and fight for every little bit. All you had to say is it was October 25 it changed. But I don't think that that's fair either. I think that that's an issue with the American Disabilities Act. But that's a whole another >> Sorry. Five minutes. >> All right. So, as
093I said, I'm I've been banned for 20 months illegally from this board. Um, when you say we're all in this together and you tell with grins on your faces that the survey results, this district is 92% white. This district has an average in household income of $93,000. I can promise you because I've heard from these people, if you were to survey black people, LGBTQIA+ people, people of color, poor people, uh, children with disabilities. When I say people, I mean that your students. You're not going to come up with anything close to those results because you've failed those people. Just tonight, I had to claw my way to speak for my dad who's disabled. I'd like to say Wharton district 709 is still failing marginalized children. They will tell you that they are in compliance. I'm
094assuming the board is aware of what administration already knows. I know that administration doesn't already share things with the board. This district is currently currently under active investigation, multiple investigations by the Illinois Department of Human Rights. If you don't believe me, simply ask them. Discrimination has consequences. Morton Academy students are not receiving an education. The last I heard, which was approximately a month ago, there were no licensed teachers at the school. That's because those kids don't matter as much because of this failing district. All of the licensed teachers and aids that were employed by 709 in 2025, they've walked out. I believe Dr. Teter will tell you it's because of retirement or they've moved on. Don't let this district attempt to convince you that these were simply retirements or teachers moving on. They weren't. This
095district pushed all of the qualified teachers out the door. Who suffers? The children. These are children who have already faced significant challenges and now they're not even allowed to progress in their learning. Instead of being taught, they're spending their days on iPads. You both know that, don't you? Superintendent and assistant superintendent won't even look up. This district has provided them with individuals who keep them on their iPads almost all day. Students shouldn't have to and likely don't have the ability to teach themselves on an iPad. Those tasked with teaching Wharton Academy students are not licensed teachers. Maybe you've hired one since then, a month ago. Let alone are they traumainformed educators. You speak of that earlier as if they are doing such great things and they are an absolute failure. If you are a parent
096or guardian of a child at Morton Academy, ask for your child's iPad usage for December and January, even before. You're going to be shocked if you're a parent or guardian of a child at Morton Academy. You need leadership for your children. When does 709 take on a leadership role for all students? You brag that you have taken a leadership role. What about the marginalized kids? Separate that survey. Let's see how that turns out. When does when does Morton or since when did Morton your staff at Morton Academy use the term crazy? Crazy. That is not acceptable to describe other human beings. It reveals a deeply troubling lack of professionalism and competence. Tonight, the way that we looked at Gretchen as if she was an alien. People have mental health struggles. My god, recognize whether this
097stems from insensitivity, a lack of training, or a fun fundamental misunderstanding of the populations they serve, it reflects poorly on this district. Students, especially those already facing challenges, deserve staff who are traumainformed, not these kids that barely graduated high school, respectful and educated. This kind of language demonstrates the opposite. When they are using the term crazy, it is sickening. Doesn't it raise serious questions about leadership when a principal hires unqualified educators? What happened to supporting our teachers? It seems easier to point fingers at the teachers that left than acknowledge that this district is in desperate need of help. These vulnerable student students deserve advocacy. Many of these children don't have anyone advocating for them. What happens to those children? They just won't receive an education. It's that simple. >> Thank you. >> And the fourth
098person, is that your mother, Carol? >> Yes. >> And we are done. >> That's it. >> All right. A motion to go into close session for the purpose of personnel and purchase or lease of property. I move that we move into close session for personnel and property >> support. Hello, >> sir. >> Dr. Crawl, >> yes. >> Mr. Red, >> yes. >> Dr. Cross, >> yes. >> Mrs. Layman, >> yes. >> Mr. Onus, >> yes. >> Mrs. Perie, >> yes. >> And Mr. Roth, >> yes.