001Mhm. >> Mhm. >> Secretary of Education, Secretary, please call the roll on the nomination of Nicole Moline Molinearo to serve as Secretary of the Board of Education for one year term. >> Ms. Molinearo? >> Aye. >> Mrs. Hicks? >> Aye. >> Mr. Ocampo? >> Aye. >> Ms. Morris? >> Aye. >> Dr. Fisher? >> Aye. >> Mr. Smith? >> Aye. >> Ms. Cherry? >> Aye. >> Congratulations. >> [applause] [laughter] [clears throat] [laughter] [snorts] >> At this time, the Board of Education opens the floor for public comment. The Board will receive public comment from any individuals present this evening and have submitted a request to address the Board per the established procedures. Comments will be limited to 3 minutes and in accordance with Board Policy 220. We believe that all participants in the meeting desire the best
002outcome for our students, families, and communities. As a reminder, this meeting is being live streamed and will also be archived and available on the district website. Any public comment? >> Yes, one. Bill Henderson. >> Good evening, Board. >> Good evening. >> I'm here tonight to just briefly talk about a concern that I have. Some years ago, in case you don't know about it, they did a freshman and ninth. There was nine students specifically African-American male that was going up for expulsion. Fighting, I don't condone violence. However, kids are going to fight, we know that. But we cannot suspend and expel our way our way out of that. We have Senate Bill 100. It does not state that you cannot suspend, but it does state that you should exhaust any and all avenues before you're looking
003to remove students from school. They had the opportunity to watch the brawl. I don't know who those young ladies are. I hope they're okay. Again, school is not the place, the learning institution, and fights happen. But when students or a student go to an adult as we we as adults tell students to do, we got to acknowledge that because that is something that probably could not did not have to happen. And when you feel like your back is up against the wall, you're going to do what you need to do. That was a pretty bad fight. Girls. I ask that we really consider that is not transformational leadership by putting everybody out. What made the kids do what they did? What could we do as adults to help them not do those things? Behavior can
004start at home. I'm well aware of that. However, fights have been happening forever in schools. Should not have happened. Safety is the utmost important for all involved. And so again, we cannot suspend our way out of it. When they got ready to put those nine students out, I spoke then. I'm speaking now. We cannot just push them out the door and think tomorrow you're not going to have another fight because it's possible that you will. Thank you so much. >> Thank you. >> That concludes public comment for tonight. >> Next is our action presentation. >> Yeah, first we have Danielle English. >> [clears throat] >> Um hello everyone. >> Hello. >> My name is Danielle English-Jones and I recently traveled to Anaheim, California to accept the 2026 Shell NST Teaching Award. >> [applause] >> HOW
005MANY PEOPLE GOT THAT AWARD IN THE NATION? >> SEVEN. >> [applause] >> SO, TODAY'S PRESENTATION I I CAN title it Anaheim to Action focusing on turning what I learned at the conference into learning I learned at the conference and to see innovation here at Proviso. I want to first give thank you a big thanks to our superintendent Chris Mozell, our Board of Education, as well as our principal at Proviso West, Dr. Jerry Christian. I want to say thank you for your vision, your support and commitment to student success, scientific science education, and innovation. So, I attended the National Science Teaching Association Association conference this past April April as an award recipient. NSTA is the nation's largest organization dedicated to supporting science education and educators giving professional development and support throughout the country. Today, I would
006like to share those key takeaways, impactful experiences, and future ideas that we can hopefully do here to expand our students' learning of our school district. So, I as stated, I was one of seven recipients across the country to receive this honorable recognition. Um it was this 2026 Shell Urban NSTA Science Educator Development Award, where I was recognized as an esteemed educator in my student engagement. I was able to represent our school, our students, and district on a national platform, and I was given an opportunity to engage in high-level professional development collaboration, and have a year-long networking and hopefully lifelong networking opportunities as we kind of move forward. So, just because I'm up here and I would like to kind of share with the district in case there are any more watching who would like to
007also apply for this award. Um I'm just kind of giving a spiel out there, kind of giving a plug that we have amazing teachers here throughout the district. There are three awards that are awarded every year. Unfortunately, we didn't only apply for two in Illinois because the third one is based on where you live. I received the first award on the screen. We have amazing teachers here that if you are watching this and you are interested, please apply. Deadline is December 18th, 2026. Uh we also There's also a national another conference that's a smaller conference that I have in November in Indianapolis that I would love to see teachers across the district be able to go to. I I so much there. So, the main focus at the conference was the following. So, the theme
008was growing together collectively inside for lifelong learners. And I want you guys to kind of just keep that in mind, lifelong learner. Um cuz that's what I come back at the end. There was six themes um that were kind of displayed throughout the conference. AI and technology, equity and access, multilingual support, um career connection, inquiry-based learning, and teaching collaboration. And I want you guys to also just keep those six in mind cuz I have an idea that I want to share with you all that will incorporate that and help me support our students across the district. So, really quickly, just kind of give you a feel, I was able to see national educators across the country, district leaders, able to just see some of the new STEM innovation happening across our country. I was also
009able to see where we are compared to other districts and where we need to be. Um my goal is to see more of my own students, staff, and community represented at next year's NSTA award conference. So, we can continue to build our STEM leadership here. There was two keynote speakers, and what I walked away from that experience, from the first speaker, Mark Rober, is that science education has to be engaging. It has to be um real-world phenomenon that we explain to our students through hands-on experiences. Have to be creative and entertaining. And we also have to build energized teams. We got to see a bunch of vendors and some of the cutting-edge research that's available across the country as well. So, I went to a bunch of sessions, um phenomenal speakers, amazing presentations, so many
010things that I can bring back and take back and hopefully implement here. But, there was three sessions that were really kind of stood out to me. First one being teaching teaching and leveraging AI to support instruction. So, AI is a thing. It's happening whether we like it or not. And they really focused on teaching teachers how to get ahead of it and how to teach students how to use AI data and AI education to power their thinking. Um another one that I went to that really stood out was project-based learning and STEM education, how to make science fun. Starting with the end in mind and working backwards. The last one that kind of stood out to me was culturally relevant science and STEM education um for all students, no matter what language they speak. That
011is a big thing this year. Uh I know we also have that here, making sure our students all feel included. Um but just making sure that science education reaches all different students, regardless of their background. Here are some pictures of some of my experiences there. I was able to uh represent our school at the Flint table at NSTA NSTA table as well, just getting out information, just sharing some of the aspects of this um this wonderful opportunity. All right, so my experience at this conference reinforced the value my value in student-centered inclusion STEM learning. And I would like to propose, if I'm allowed to, to the district a teacher-created summer STEM program for the next summer, 2027. I got to really see where we are and where we need to be. And I think having
012a program like this will allow us to include all these things and really push our students to the next level. So, what I'm noticing is that students take they learn these subjects in silos. They go to science for 50 minutes, then they go to math, then they go to English, and they they never have opportunity to combine what they're learning into something that can be used to help them themselves and their community. So, what I would like to do, what we actually have done in the past, is put everything have students use cross-curricular learning to power their understanding that their interest is in STEM education. So, I kind of want to bring back to remembrance a program that we had here in 2019. Some of you guys might be aware of this, some of you
013guys might not be aware of it, but I want to share and hopefully be able to bring this back in order to further our students. So, this program provides our students with within 2019, it was summer program, 5 weeks, and students, um, it was under Dr. Maravilla and Dr. Howard. Alongside, so I worked alongside a team of teachers to develop a student-centered interdisciplinary STEM experience that removed the classroom barriers, and actually allowed students to apply their knowledge to a real-world problem. There was 30 students across all three schools, so this program wasn't just a Providencia or West or Providencia or East or Providencia or Premontre program, it was truly a one Providencia program. We had about 35 students in the program. They would take certain classes in English, math, chemistry, and business, um, and they
014took what they learned in those classes and applied it to a real-world project, which they actually, uh, shared at the end of the year expo. Students had to look at customer data, analyze, um, research, [clears throat] also use chemistry to create a product that they actually displayed at this expo. And parents were allowed to come to this expo. We had about 200 parents show up to this, uh, event, and they got to actually purchase the students' items that they made in chemistry. Students had a business plan. They had They actually had to market We had three bankers from a local business come in and actually sit on a panel in which they had to do like a Shark Tank type situation and actually go pitch their business to these bankers. And the bankers which were
015local gave the students critique. We had professionals from the community come in and share their expertise. It was an amazing amazing opportunity and we were going to scale up this summer 2020. The plan was to have Steam 1, Steam 2, Steam 3, Steam 4. With every year, the grade each grade level had a particular project where they had to use all of these skills they learned and apply it to something. But then the pandemic hit and there were many changes and we just never got back to it. So I'm asking if we can, hopefully bring that back because this experience that I had really showed me where we need to go moving forward. I still have teachers who are who were part of that in 2020. They're ready to go. They're ready to start the
016planning to bring this back. That's all I have. There is a video I wanted to show you all but it's not showing up for some reason. Is there a way to show it? >> Mike will take a look. If it's not on your computer, I don't know. >> I've seen you posted a video and it's really You won a lot of awards for it. It was I don't know if you guys felt up to make it. You need to provide a link. >> Yeah, if you got your laptop. >> All right. I'm sorry. One second. This is us paging Dr. Hill. >> [laughter] >> Is this Steam still okay? We're making >> [laughter] >> I was just trying to give her an award. She's trying to take all of it. >> [laughter] >> I would
017take this opportunity, too. All right. It'll take two more minutes, but I'll I'll sit down. >> All right. 264-800. >> We think the charter has a question for you. Um you you said you had bankers involved. >> Yes. >> Um do you have them lined up for this year? >> Well, I'll talk to them after this. >> The timing right now is only before we start summer, so trying to bring it back this summer will be kind of challenging. This is why I'm asking if you can have a core core teachers to get us ready for summer 2027. >> It it took a lot to get those community partners in here and it's a great >> I have a banker in mind. >> Okay. >> Thank you. >> [music] >> Provider of STEAM is a
018program that integrates science, technology, engineering, art, and math. It's also a program where students can be creative and were allowed to make connections between the subjects that normally they might not have had the opportunity to do. Oftentimes with our younger students and some freshmen, there's a little bit of fear related to science and math because they think that they're hard. But this program shows students that there's a real-life application to these and that they're going to be applicable to pretty much anything that they choose to do. The STEAM program worked on a variety of levels that allowed the students to not only >> [music] >> see in theory how the different disciplines interact with each other, but also actually implement those things. The students had to create by a business plan around an actual product
019that they created [music] within their science class. >> My role as a advisor of the STEAM program was to help students populate surveys in order to survey real customers to give real feedback. We went over percentages, how to calculate loans, and they were able to speak with bankers. We did a argumentative literacy Shark Tank. >> And then they had to engage the community, you know, for the final culminating activity. So, they had to become spokespersons. They had to learn how to talk to adults, how to market themselves. They had to understand what was important to others so that they could show them the benefits of their product. So, the students learned so many different realms and areas that it was an amazing thing to see, to watch them grow, to watch them stretch themselves, and
020to watch them sort of engage the community to show them that students are capable of so much more. >> STEAM looks at creativity, it looks at the disciplines, it looks at the sciences, it looks at the humanities, and that makes a holistic big picture of working together with the community, including the teachers, including the principals, including the lunch ladies, including the students. We put all our minds together. We eliminated the historical sage on the stage or silo. >> That's That's not fair. So, we gave you guys kind of bring this back to kind of show you what we did at United Way and how so we gave this and made it a better for our students. Thank you for your time. >> Well, hang on. I have a question. >> [laughter] >> Is there a
021reason why we stopped having this program? >> The pandemic. >> And then they made a lot of changes and I think now we're at a place where we can help you bring this back costume. It was planned for scale up for 2020. We had 30 40 kids per grade level. >> It was amazing. I wanted to support this in the theater school that was about and our vision to put students into the program and it was definitely needed. It still is. >> So this could be from the theater schools as well. It's not just the honors. >> It was for incoming freshmen and then we had also some 10th and 11th graders with the goal that the incoming freshmen being one, 10th graders being two, being graded eventually at any kind of volume summer as
022on each grade level. >> Okay, that's very cool. >> [applause] >> So I had the opportunity to really get to know Danielle last year. She's getting another award on the stage. We were at the teacher of the teacher of excellence Those Those who excel. So many of these you go to. And so I really got to know her. So I was not surprised when I talked to her about doing a presentation to honor her where she really downplayed that and said, "Can I just really take this opportunity to talk about this idea?" And I had your same thought, "Do we Do we accelerate it for the summer?" Like why wait on a great thing? But yes, I know I over overextended her cuz she's helping me with a bunch of things that we're also going
023to present on next the next column. Um but I do want to underscore the amazing work that you've been doing. I am so thankful that the NSTA has recognized the talent that you possess and what you bring to our students, but also understand that we also recognize that every single day. And so we just want to say thank you for your work, present you with an award, and get a picture with our group here. >> Okay. Thank you. Thank you. >> [applause] [applause] [clears throat] [laughter] >> So moving on, we have recognitions from East West MSA and then I have a few as well. So I'll turn it over to Principal Hall. >> All right, so I thought Okay, I thought you all was ready to go. Okay, I'm just kidding. I thought I had
024to read the reading report to you all. I got to go on both sides. Okay. All right, so today I I to recognize Ms. Sofia Diaz uh as everyone would like to you know remember but not you know really that you know we don't recognize the board because a year and a half ago we had a situation that arose weeks where uh through the quick actions of uh Ms. Through the quick actions of Ms. Diaz uh we were able to stop a weapon from coming into the building. Ms. Diaz acted professionally uh in her 27 years as a veteran of Argo Township High School District. She served uh relentlessly keeping our everyday safe, keeping the kids and the students and staff safe everyday. So, Ms. Diaz acted, you know, saw something potentially harmful coming to
025the building and she acted immediately. She uh stopped the student, grabbed the bag, uh called for me and the SRO and security to respond. We all ran down there and we were able to stop the weapon from coming into the building. So, this evening we want to recognize Ms. Diaz. >> And thank YOU FOR THAT. >> [applause] [cheering] [applause] >> WE RECOGNIZE MS. DIAZ AND SIMILARLY ALL the school staff and and everyone just so you know humble by her uh sacrifices that she made. She put herself in harm's way. So, thank you Ms. Diaz. >> You're welcome. >> [applause] >> Ronnie's still talking. >> I know. >> All right, then two, okay? All right. Give me a two, okay, Ronnie. All right, three, two, one. Three. >> [applause] >> Next we have Principal Christian from
026the Hazel West. >> [applause] >> All right, good afternoon, good evening everyone. Sorry. The first thing is we have three three sections we want to recognize. It's Friday. Woke up feeling good and got to the school and realized that we had over 35 teachers that were absent. And I wanted to salute right now. I couldn't bring all the Hazel West teachers, but I had to salute them publicly because not only did they step in, they stepped in with so much grace. They filled in. Some of them came down. I had to go to a meeting and they said, "Jeremy, what do you need?" I sent them an email today just to tell them how much I appreciate them, how much I honor them, how much I just really thank them for stepping in. Some of
027them didn't take lunch. Some of them doubled up classes. So, if you do me a favor, just applaud my teachers. >> [applause] >> And then Danielle is still here. She was going to be featured tonight celebrating. I don't know where she went. Where'd she go? >> She's right here. >> Come on up here, Danielle. So, before we knew that she would be presenting, I asked Danielle if she would come and be recognized for this award. Danielle English is not only a department chair, she is someone that will come to the office and say, "Jeremy, I like that decision, but I think we need to make it another way." Or she holds me accountable in different ways. She is what we call We have something we start off with our staff meeting, student centered, student driven,
028and student focused. And we wanted to celebrate Danielle English tonight because she is second to none. And we honor you for being a great teacher who provides a website for YOU TO >> [applause] >> ALL RIGHT. AND THEN OUR LAST ONE BEFORE I BRING up Julius is I have to salute our board member Julissa. Julissa, we did have an altercation at West. And the first thing that we did, first thing that I did is I called Julissa. And I asked Julissa, "What do you think?" And I asked Julissa on the tape, "What do you feel?" And as a board member, I don't believe that it's just a responsibility for me to make an isolated decision, but I stopped spoke to Julissa, and Julissa then took the mic and spoke to the entire staff, students and
029staff that day, right, Julissa? And she expressed how disappointed she was. And she said the principal Christian was disappointed as well, but I wanted to honor you for being a great leader and A GREAT STUDENT. >> [applause] >> ALL RIGHT. SO, THE LAST THING IS AT WEST POINT, JULIUS, what we've done is I've purposefully stayed away from sporting awards. We had a night of excellence which where we featured, you can go online and check it out. We featured over, well over a hundred or so students in their academics and what they've been able to do. It was a great success, but this person I could not let go with a athletic announcement. So, I wanted to bring Julius here because he has stepped in and been a phenomenal asset to West. Came in as our
030athletic director right in about January, and what I tell Julius is, "Hey, when you work when we're working with me, I hand you the ball, and then I say, 'Do what you do.'" And then I'll give him pointers. So, I wanted Julius to come, and he's going to introduce the next person to talk about who we're featuring tonight. >> Good evening, everybody. Thank you, Mr. Christian. So, um it's really not just myself just along with the team and just everybody that has um assisted me and helping me along this journey um taking over the athletics at Russell West. It's been an incredible opportunity um that I don't take lightly and hopefully that we can continue this journey and move West athletics um to another level. But, speaking of another level, we have a great great
031student athlete here um that has set standards um over with Johnny Ford years records uh that he has uh broke um even his own personal records and um even just his journey. I remember meeting Dakota maybe his sophomore year and um he he was presented to me through another teacher just to be a mentor and just to talk with him about some different things. We were able to connect maybe a couple times, um but I have seen his journey. He have matured, he has grown, and he has worked extremely hard. So, I want to present and to acknowledge along with his family. His beautiful mother is here. His family, teammates, his coaches. I have to give a shout out to coach Hensel. She has done a tremendous job. Uh and even through her Yeah, let's
032give it up for her. >> [applause] >> Even in her absence, um uh being on leave, she was still coaching, doing her thing, uh helping out Dakota. And then last but not least, I got to give it up for him. He has a headache, but I got to give it up for coach Johnny Jenkins. He can never get a headache because he goes He goes over the top for his athletes and uh he supports them um and does a tremendous job. But, we want to give a special shout out uh to Dakota Edwards um who has been uh again breaking records, been invited to indoor outdoor nationals. We will [applause] have to >> [cheering] >> uh send her to the state uh so, we [applause] got to uh You want to tell them what you've
033done and the records you broke. Johnny, you want to come up with this coach so that you take a picture with me as well? >> Yes, and also last but not least, he is headed to Eastern Illinois as we speak, correct? Eastern Illinois as well to what college? >> [applause] >> Eastern, Eastern. Um basically, I'm a track and field athlete, and I throw shotput and discus. And my main event is shotput, and um over this season, I broke an indoor and outdoor shotput record. The indoor was, I think, 40 44 years old, and then the outdoor record was 48 years old. And I I hold both of them down, and I'm aiming for the discus record as well. >> [applause] [applause] >> Um like Mr. Shelby had mentioned, I was out for a little bit.
034I did have my first child, so that was exciting. >> [applause] >> He quite literally has done the sport um not only for himself, but he became a leader. I told him he might have to grow up down there, and he did so. Um every time he walks in, whether it's a big smile on his face or whatever favor he pretends to have, um the kids follow suit. He is dedicated, works annoyingly hard to the point where I'd rather him not um but I'm very proud of him. 62 ft is a state-winning mark. That's not a casual thing. I know the world of track and field kind of goes over people's heads, but it's an an amazing accomplishment, and I'm so proud of him. >> [applause] >> Well, first I want to thank God for
035giving me this opportunity to coach Dakota, higher than Kayla. Thank you, Jamy. Julius. Um this young man is amazing. Like McKayla said, um the first kid I ever coached in 24 years he's to work out 7 days a week. You know, school's supposed to be only good practice six. But Dakota called and said, uh, "Coach, can I come on a Sunday?" I'm like, um, "I'm supposed to, but" >> Right. Right. Right. Right. >> But I want to thank his mom, too. Ms. Edwards, thank you. Thank you. Um, [applause] Come up for a second, please. Cuz he won't be here if it wasn't for you. >> [applause] >> His parents, um, I'm going to say this for real. Your son, both of the basketball players, I've only been doing this for 2 years, and like McKayla
036said, he's amazing. And, um, he got two, three more track meets up in Illinois. Mr. Uh, Christian, we want to we want to get a banner if it's okay with you and Julius and Moriah, and put it in the field house because his former teammates here now, um, Jashawn, just became, um, national champ. All-American right here, Julius. Uh, George. But I want to say this. Thank you. Thank you. Oh, my fault. Can a mother say something? >> Hi everybody. Thanks for having us. Um, I want to say, um, the most important thing that I'll say tonight was student athlete. Um, Dakota is not only excelled in his sport, but he's an awesome student as well. He's part of the track and field team and the >> [applause] >> choir. Bank Charter School of Excellence Academy.
037So, he did all of this excelling in track while still holding a 3.3 GPA. His hard work has definitely paid off for him. I'm more than proud of him. >> [applause] >> That's all family right here. >> Hey, you want to bring up >> Hey, bring it. With all this picture We'll take one first and then when they come we'll take another. All right? 3 2 1 >> [applause] >> No, we got more. Hang on. >> With great appreciation, Proviso East community honors Fernando Sandoval. Having earned his IB diploma, Fernando graduated with distinction from PMSA in 2022. He then successfully pursued degrees in economics and history at the University of Chicago, from which he graduates next month, leading an investment banking career. Grateful for his educational opportunity provided by Proviso, Fernando received recently initiated a
038scholarship to pay forward his success. Now in its second year, the Fernando Sandoval Foundation will award $1,200 scholarships to 10 class of 2026 graduates from the schools across District 209. Awarded for his intellectual curiosity, academic excellence, and community engagement, this scholarship echoes the best character of Proviso students. Likewise, his story exemplifies the value and potential of our Proviso education. Welcome back, and thank you, Fernando. >> [applause] >> At this point, I'd also like to bring up Mr. Colwell with some words. >> [applause] >> Nothing but gratitude for Fernando. I think it's important we recognize what good comes out of our schools, and Proviso is just producing excellent students who keep giving back and making us perpetually a good place. So, thank you, Fernando. >> [applause] >> I'll have you come down. I'll see you then.
039>> [applause] >> And we had so many recognitions to do today. I got jumbled up and left out our PSA principal TO GIVE DIGITS. >> [applause] >> GOOD EVENING, EVERYBODY. LAST WEEK, we had our first National Technical Honor Society induction ceremony. And this was a huge deal because that was the first one of many and it could have been done without the leadership of Mr. Sayed, who's here with us today. Mr. Sayed, please come up. >> [applause] >> When we talk about teachers and dedicated teachers, Mr. Sayed comes to mind. Every time I step into his classroom, when he's not teaching his lunch, there's always students there and he's always working with them. During the ceremony, he gave a speech and he talked about how he loves his students more than his family. So, first
040and foremost, I want to honor Mr. Sayed and then we have three other students that Mr. Sayed is going to honor as well. Thank you, Mr. Sayed. >> [applause] >> Um Um thank you, board. Dr. Sanchez, thank you very much. Um I would like to thank uh um Yeah, I love there are some students that I have to recognize for the National Technical Honor Society. Uh there is uh vice president Brandon Perez that's here. >> [applause] >> And then there's uh treasurer Uziel Ramirez. >> [applause] >> And then of course president Allan Miranda. >> [applause] >> Uh I'm just going to say a couple of words. Uh these students have spent countless countless hours during lunch, after school, before school. Mr. Sayed, where are you at 7:00 a.m.? Uh and that's for months. So they've
041spent countless uh months and then this uh ceremony would not have been possible without Ms. Domper, uh Dr. Ordesani. Uh obviously there's a lot of money that gets spent to buy all the do all these ceremonies as well. Mr. Caldwell, uh since I joined PMSA just to say a few words. >> I think he left. >> Um but uh I've been at PMSA for 5 years and I feel at home because of the staff that we have, the department chairs that we have, the students that we have. Thank you for trusting me and sticking around. You guys believe >> [applause] >> And then my family's here too, so all the sacrifices uh you know, that they've made go uh unnoticed uh but thank you. I This would not have been possible without you mama. Thank
042you. >> [applause] >> All right, 3 2 1. Phoebe, got it. >> [applause] >> Good boy. >> [laughter] >> Oh, wow. >> [laughter] >> Just trying to get you some of my height. Um, good evening everyone. Um, this evening I'm here to present two awards from Eliminate. Um, for those of you that know the Grosset team, Dr. Rob Grosset and his son, Robert Grosset, supports our district, has been supporting our district for at least the last three years. And because of their dedication to the field of education, um, they are awarding two of our students with scholarships, $500 check and a certificate. So, I'm going to read at this time who those students are. Students deservedly get recognized for their accomplishments academically and athletically. Perhaps the greatest and most overlooked recognition is that of a
043role model. The role model shines a light by living authentically and positively, serving as a beacon that guides, inspires, and elevates those around them. The Lighter Light Shine Award celebrates those role models who embody the spirit of hope, kindness, and positive influence in their school and communities. Their light inspires others to follow their example. And this year we are pleased to have two recipients here for the Let Your Shine Award, Amari Peoples and Stephanie Cortez Avalos. If you can [applause] come forward. Are they here? >> Must be here to get the prize. >> Yes, so I will accept these certificates. [laughter] That's how they do it, right? On their behalf, we'll make sure that they receive their certificate along with their $500 scholarship. So, have a good evening. >> [applause] >> That is it. >>
044[laughter] [snorts] >> Okay, next on the agenda is reports and communication from the board president. Well, that's me today. So, with that being said, um I just want to thank our board members. This transition to being a board member and now being president, I could not have done it with all without all of you. So, thank you for your partnership. I look forward to working with you, Mr. What the administration and this board because we're still one board together. So, I'm looking forward to that and I wanted to see if Jenny had anything she wanted to share. >> I did not prepare anything because I knew I >> [laughter] >> wasn't going to be board president. So, I did not do my homework, but um I'm just going to say about how proud I am
045of this board and our student board members. And we have a guest student board member who will be introduced shortly, but um I think no matter who is in which seat up here, we all work as a team together. We all share opinions and ideas and um I look forward to just another year of respectful communications and board interactions with us, the community, the admin, teachers, and staff. So, we're at the almost at the end of the school year. Woo! We are already at the point where we're getting it done. So, thank you. >> So, I just wanted to thank Jenny for her work as president for this last year. You've done a great job. Um I am committed to continuing um moving this district forward in this role. Um Does any of the Would
046um Does Ms. Smith or Ms. Valderrama have anything of the same thing? >> That's okay. >> Okay. >> right. Next, we have reports and updates from our student board members. >> [clears throat] >> Good morning, Proviso. Sorry about that. Good morning. Good evening, Proviso. I'm a student board member from the West. And I have some updates for the school of what's going on. And also I get to introduce my current shadow. Michelle couldn't be here for the East representative. But I have my current shadow that I sent to Proviso to ensure that Legacy goes on after even after you know our class graduates in next year. And this is my guest. She's a coming freshman. And I look forward to being asked to be a senior. And current acts are going on in PMSA. ACT
047that's finished. We have our scores out currently. Juniors at least. And the scores are pretty good from what I've seen. And also AP classes are AP classes are going well. I don't have one tomorrow morning for AP Lang. Um excited about that. And also other things going on Junior Field Day has been officially marked for May 22nd for juniors in 11th grade. And the National Technical Honor Society got awarded. They're doing amazing things. Their ceremony was I think it was it last night or last week? Last week. >> [clears throat] >> So good job and congratulations to all the Junior National Technical Honor Society members. And graduation practice is starting soon. The seniors are getting ready to graduate. I don't know. So it's like currently a senior. And PMSA and West and East are getting
048ready for their graduation ceremony. So look forward to that. And NHS is currently working on mentoring future leaders of Proviso. So for example, I'm mentoring Micah and pretty much a whole bunch of NHS members are mentoring freshmen who have potential to grow into a future leaders of our school. >> That's awesome. >> something we look forward to. And also one more thing is that NHS has officially, um, we have reached out to other schools for potential collaboration connections. For example, I have currently connected Pinole Valley NHS to Hercules NHS. So, we look forward to hopefully more collaborations in the future. And that's currently for Pinole Valley. Thank you. >> Thank you. >> Mhm. Um, good evening. Um, I would just like to highlight and um, give appreciation to the principal of Pinole Valley since he's
049a great thing. Um, I feel like he came to Pinole Valley and his motto was always making things better. And I truly feel like he has, um, been working hard towards this. Um, especially considering like events that recently happened regarding fights. Um, but I feel like his approaches, um, like he approaches well and um, I like how, um, we had the we had the night of excellence recently and he used to um, we did the the pack awards and I just like how he's actually recognizing students. Um, and nobody I feel like nobody at Pinole Valley goes unnoticed for their hard work. And then you know, everybody looks forward to seniors or looking forward to their graduation and I know everybody's working hard, um, to stay on track for that. And yeah. >> [applause] >>
050Thank you. Thank you so very much. >> Board members, this will actually be your final board members as students and provided that today graduation is in 2 weeks. You're a junior? Oh, okay. He's a senior. We thought you were senior. Yes. Well, on the end? Just smile, Alyssa. Thank you so very much for your work with the board. You guys kind of came in and you just got it right in and we appreciate you and we're excited to see you cross the stage on what May 23rd? So, graduation for our seniors is May 23rd all three schools. So, no one is wondering, but next we have reports and communications from Mr. Holmes. >> Thank you. First I want to start as we recognize Asian American and Pacific Islanders here at Proviso East High School. We
051take time to celebrate and honor the rich cultures, histories, traditions, and contribution contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities throughout our country and within our own District 209 community. This month provides an important opportunity to reflect on the lasting impact AAPI individuals have made across education, science, business, government, the arts, technology, health care, and countless other fields that continue to shape and strengthen our society. AAPI Heritage Month is also an opportunity for learning, reflection, and appreciation. It reminds us of the importance of ensuring that all students see themselves represented, valued, and respected within our schools and curriculum. At District 209, we remain committed to fostering inclusive learning environments where diversity is celebrated and every voice matters and all students and families feel a strong sense of belonging. Personally, I would just like to note
052that being one of the few, very few, Asian descent and in the state and in the country. It's an honor to be able to be serving in this role for others to see what is possible and also to have a board member also of Asian Asian heritage to be also helping lead shows the rich diversity that provides a special thank you to a principal Sanchez who held a a wonderful a wonderful celebration even a day early. I think it was on April 30th we did it. But it was well attended and the participants that were there they did a great job here at PMSA and looking forward to seeing how the other schools celebrate the one piece well. I don't want to take up too much time because we had a lot of time with
053celebrations and we still have a lot to get through the agenda but I do just want to take a moment to thank former president Farberhan for the work that she has done over the year. Well, actually not just this year but in the year is the presidency and also to Rolando serving as the vice president and me serving as the I'm sorry. President Morris and board member Smith who will now be serving as our vice president. I also hope that you will also serve as our secretary. So thank you for the work that you're doing but I think member of Farberhan said it best is that we are a team of eight. We are working together and I'm excited for the direction that we continue to move in. It's uncommon to have a superintendent in
054their 18th month. I believe I am and now my third fourth president but it's just a reminder that change is constant but the one thing that we cannot move away from is desire to improve our district and I know that this team is committed to Thank you all. >> [applause] [laughter] >> Just the microphone. >> Yes, it is. >> [laughter] >> Good evening again, everyone. This evening I'm here to present the Treasurer's report. Uh this is a Treasurer's report that I am pleased to report on. >> Woohoo! >> Call me the queen of revenue. >> [laughter] >> Um but for the month of April, ending April 30th, 2026, we have received more revenue this month than we have expenditures going out. So this month we received $113 million in total revenue, which represents about 89%
055of our FY26 proposed budget. So dollars are still coming in, slowly but surely. The goal is to get to 100% by the end of the year, but to see 89 right now, I have to say it brings a great smile to the business office. We are extremely pleased. Okay. Also, total expenditures went out at 93.46 million dollars, which consists of about 77% of our proposed expenditures. So you always want to see more revenue coming in than expenses going out. So it's my hope that we will continue this trend for the remaining months of this fiscal year. That's all I have for the Treasurer's report. Are there any questions? Thank you. >> Thank you, Treasurer. >> Thank you. Next up we have I'm sorry, went too fast. >> That's my bad. >> Next up we have
056the bill list. Um it's pretty hefty. It will be pretty hefty for the next couple of months because we are closing out the school year. So, we do have a lot of open purchase orders. They're working with all the departments to make sure that all these bills are paid prior to June 30th. So, we're working with departments, we're working with plant coordinators to make sure we get in as much revenue as possible, but pay the bills within this fiscal year. So, I've had conversations with principals. I don't want your budget to be cut short cuz the real cost [clears throat] up in July. So, we're going to make sure that we do our best to close out everything by June 30th. And that's all I have. Any questions pertaining to the building? Okay. Have a
057blessed evening. >> Thank you. >> So, moving on in our information items, there are just a few that I want to point out and then take questions if there are any. As a just a reminder, we we went over these at length at the last meeting a couple of couple of weeks ago at our committee of the whole. A few that I do want to point out is just an update on the Cosmo and the Barber. At this point, they have all the applications that come in. They have reviewed them. They're gone out and visited, which is something new that we did this year. But the team went out and visited the locations. And so, now we're in the final stages where we're finalizing and we should make our recommendations. Um one that we added
058since the COW it is again just an information item. So, we'll have more information at the next COW and before it comes for approval. And this is a the renewal of our total body wellness contract. This is an organization that we've partnered with for several years. They provide physical physical training to our athletes. They they cover us during games when you know, students get injured, maybe they need some type of support. They have worked well with us in over the years and we are just looking to continue to have the service provided to us. The contract would be in the amount of $230,000, which is you know around where we were last year. Just you know, obviously possible with the chair. We're just looking to continue this. Are there any questions about this or any
059other items on the information agenda? >> So, this partner with the athlete and contract renewal? >> Yeah, I actually just put those on accident. Okay. Yeah. And Mr. Love is here if there's questions. He's a familiar face, I know. Okay. >> Oh, yeah. Um may I have a motion to approve the consent agenda as presented excluding the following approval of E-rate switch to Ethernet renewal for 1 year with AT&T in the amount of $45,396, approval of E-rate wireless replacement with Tusker mindset in the amount of $498,589.39, approval of East Auditorium AV replacement by Camera Corner in the amount of $34,625.50, approval of PowerSchool Information Systems renewal contract in the amount of $130,531.13, and 2026 annual conference attendance for Board of Education members and administrators recommended by the superintendent, and approval of press policy update 121
060modifying or reviewing the following policies 2140, 2200, 2220, 2250, 2260, 4165, 530, 550, 5250, 5330, 665, 6100, 6170, 720, [clears throat] 750, 7100, 7185, 7220, 7260, 7280, 6145, 7280, 7300 and 890. >> So moved. >> Second. >> That was like a trick on your first like >> that again? >> Right, you >> [laughter] >> got to repeat that one row. Miss Molinaro, can you please call the roll? >> Yes, ma'am. >> I have a quick question about the power school. Is that an annual renewal or is it just >> It's an annual, yes. >> Okay. The reason I asked is because the Township Treasurer's office >> [clears throat] >> consolidated the pool uh potential pool resources for our licenses and perhaps because a lot of our institutions use power school. >> Yeah. >> And so
061if we could accelerate, we then have some leverage. >> Right. >> So but that's currently under investigation but it's good to know that it's just a year and it buys us time. >> Right. >> Pardon the pun, but it buys us time to really think. >> Dr. Miss Molinaro, I vote Miss Dixon. >> I. >> Mr. Ocampo. >> I. >> Miss Morris. >> I. >> Dr. Fishers. >> I. >> Miss Barabino. >> I. >> Miss Smith. >> I. >> Motion carried. May I have a motion to approve Title One District Plan for submission to the Illinois State Board of Education? >> So moved. >> Second. Miss Molinaro, please call the roll. Miss Molinaro, I vote Miss Dixon. >> I. >> Mr. Ocampo. >> I. >> Miss Morris. >> I. >> Dr. Fishers. >> I. >>
062Miss Barabino. >> I. >> Miss Smith. >> I. >> Motion carried. May I have a motion to approve the contract with the policy components for a district-wide equity audit in the amount of 138,000? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Ms. Molinaro, please Ms. Molinaro, aye. Ms. Hickson? Mr. Ocampo? >> Aye. >> Ms. Morris? >> Aye. >> Dr. Bishop? >> Aye. >> Ms. Birmingham? >> Aye. >> Ms. Smith? >> Aye. >> Motion carried. >> May I have a motion to approve the termination of employment of building and grounds lead employee Leon House effectively immediately? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Ms. Molinaro, please call the roll. Ms. Molinaro, aye. Ms. Hickson? Mr. Ocampo? >> Aye. >> Ms. Morris? >> Aye. >> Dr. Bishop? >> Aye. >> Ms. Birmingham? >> Aye. >> Ms. Smith? >> Aye. >>
063Motion carried. >> May I have the motion to approve the 2026-2027 principal employment agreement for Jorge J. Sanchez as presented? >> So moved. >> [clears throat] >> Second. >> Ms. Molinaro, aye. Ms. Hickson? Mr. Ocampo? >> Aye. >> Ms. Morris? >> Aye. >> Dr. Bishop? >> Aye. >> Ms. Birmingham? >> Aye. >> Ms. Smith? >> Aye. >> Motion carried. >> May I have a motion to approve the 2026-2027 assistant principal employment agreement for Ricardo Garcia, Kim E. McElroy, Engine Janoo K. Joseph as presented? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Ms. Molinaro, aye. Ms. Hickson? Mr. Ocampo? >> Aye. >> Ms. Morris? >> Aye. >> Dr. Bishop? >> Aye. >> Ms. Birmingham? >> Aye. >> Ms. Smith? >> Aye. >> Motion carried. >> May I have a motion to approve the 2026-2027 dean employment agreements for
064Sherri L. Burks, Daniel Lawrence, Angela M. Martin, Andre Moffett, Peter Zach, John Johnson, and Kevin P. Morrow is present. [clears throat] Second. >> Ms. Monero Arnett, Mrs. Dixon >> Aye. >> Mr. Ocampo >> Aye. >> Ms. Morris >> Aye. >> Dr. Fischer >> Aye. >> Ms. Parham >> Aye. >> Ms. Smith >> Aye. >> Motion carries. >> May I have a motion to adopt the minutes of the April 14th, 2026 Board of Education meeting? >> So moved. >> Second. Ms. Monero, please call the roll. >> Ms. Monero Arnett, Mrs. Dixon >> Aye. >> Mr. Ocampo >> Aye. >> Ms. Morris >> Aye. >> Dr. Fischer >> Aye. >> Ms. Parham >> Aye. >> Ms. Smith >> Aye. >> Motion carries. >> May I [clears throat] have a motion to approve the still listed aid to
065the Board of Education to the board and dated May 12th, 2026 in the amount of $1,888,827.22? cents? >> So moved. >> Second. Ms. Monero, please call the roll. >> Ms. Monero Arnett Mr. Ocampo >> Aye. >> Dr. Fischer >> Oh, I'm sorry. >> Ms. Monero Arnett, Mrs. Dixon >> Aye. >> Mr. Ocampo >> Aye. >> Ms. Morris >> Aye. >> Dr. Fischer >> Aye. >> Ms. Parham >> Aye. >> Ms. Smith >> Aye. >> Motion carries. >> May I have a motion to approve the May 12th, 2026 personnel report including the hiring assignments, resignations, separations, stipend positions, and leaves of absence? >> So moved. >> I I I just I I have a comment. I would like to table parent advocate and engagement specialist at KMSI 381. >> 381? >> Okay. >> We want to
066table. >> Okay. >> So, we call the motion and say same minus 3A1. >> May I have a motion to approve the May 12th, 2026 personnel report including the hiring assignments, resignations, separations, stipend positions, and leaves of absences minus 3A1. >> Second. >> Ms. Molinaro, please call the votes. >> Ms. Molinaro, all right. Ms. Hicks-Sullivan? Mr. Ocampo? >> Aye. >> Ms. Moore? >> Aye. >> Dr. Fischer? >> Aye. >> Ms. Barbieri? >> Aye. >> Ms. Smith? >> Aye. >> Motion carries. >> FOIA reports? >> Oh, that's me. >> Well, I think you have to vote on the one that we tabled out. >> We tabled, not hold. >> Okay, you're tabling it to >> We're tabling it for another meeting. >> Okay, got it. Okay. I didn't hear that part. >> All right. FOIA reports
067this month between April 10th, 2026 and May 7th, 2026, there have been seven FOIA requests received by the district. These FOIA requests were submitted by P. J. Berna, Lana Swift, Molly Budington, Steven Gorski, Keisha Lang, and David Gilliam. Four have been responded to and three are in the process due to its time of submittal. >> Do you have any old business? New business? >> Yes, there's one. Um No, maybe after we do the FOIA reports, we can talk about the FOIA meeting. >> No, she said we could do it now. >> Okay, good. >> Um I would like to thank the administration for the students uh that received scholarships off from our three schools from our school Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Massachusetts Learning Corporation. >> [applause] >> That's the report. >> Anyone else?
068>> Yes. So, several weeks ago I participated in this program, Ms. Soto and Ms. Colunga were there, and it is the greater Maywood paddling program. So, it's a it's a good opportunity for students to actually go out on the Des Plaines River and kayak. And so, I know their intentions are to bring this program to Proviso, and I fully support it. Wholeheartedly support it. So, first of all, we'll be in touch, and hopefully we can, you know, get something Get our students out on that river. And I have just started a company in that match. >> [laughter] >> I'm just happy to be alive. >> [laughter] >> So, John >> All right. Can I have a a motion to adjourn? >> So moved. >> Second. >> Call the roll. >> No. >> Up. I'll make
069it up. All in favor? >> Aye. >> Sorry. >> All in favor.