RTSD26 Board of Education Meeting (December 9 , 2025)

001Call the regular board of education meeting this December 9th, 2025 to order at 700 p.m. Please silence or turn off any electronic devices. >> You want to come up? We'll do the pledge of allegiance. >> Love to have you up here. I aliance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. >> Great job. here. >> Thanks for coming. Thank you for coming here. >> And here. >> All right. First up is our 2025 tax levy. I hereby entertain a motion and a second to open the public hearing for the fiscal year 25 tax lev. >> So move second move >> by Johnson second by >> yes >> here. Yes. >> Here. >> Yes. >> This

002is for opening the leop. >> Yes. >> Brownstead. >> Opening the public hearing. >> Johnson >> here. >> Yes. >> Grippy. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you. >> Mr. Barry, you have the floor. Thank you everybody, members of the board, everybody in the audience for joining us tonight for the levy hearing. Um so first I just want to start off with um at the levy hearing the state law requires that we hold the levy hearing if we propose um levying over 5%. We are not proposing that tonight. However, it's been duration of the board um to still hold a levy hearing to allow people to come speak on behalf of um their opinion. Um uh the high that we are the property tax increase is limited to CPI which last year was 2.9%.

003Um and it's just we're here for the levy hearing to increase transparency for the levy. Um again uh we're limited to CPI or 5%. Last year's CPI was sorry it's touchy. Um last year CPI was 2.9%. Um and then we can also add on uh requesting for tax money on any new property. So, new property consists of um is added on additional to the equalized assess valuation which usually comes out in July. Um for those homeowners living in Cook County right now, know the taxes just came out in November and are due in 6 days. Um so most of that information isn't quite out yet for 2024. um what it we're just um we're still guessing on what it's going to be for next year. So there's still a lot of unknowns when looking at

004the equalized assess valuation in Cook County homeowners residential properties assessed at 10% most businesses are at 25 and then we do have some class B businesses in the industrial part um that are taxed at 10% for 12 years. Um then again county. Just to complicate things, they usually add an equalizer, which is about um three or about 30.33 um to get everybody up to an equal valuation. The taxes extended equal the EAV times the tax rate. Our math gurus who just left could also tell you probably that the tax rate also equals the taxes extended divided by the EAV. That basically means that when the EAV goes up, the tax rate goes down. Vice versa. It's kind of like a little seesaw. Looking quickly at the history of the EAV. Last year was 3.4%. Again,

005in 2025, U CPI was 2.9%. So CPI has been decreasing, which means we can't increase our levy as much as the past few years. Um, but hopefully we can or rely on some of that new property to kind of increase a little more than regular CPI. However, unfortunately, new property has also been declined. We hard landlocked. However, there's not as much new building going into the district um as there have been in the past. So, a few years ago, we were uh right at $2 million. the previous year 1 million. Last year, again, last year is 2024. Um, we were at 300,000. And again, we won't know 2025 until hopefully July if everybody is actually on time. So, um, the the importance of that is for about every million dollars, we're looking at about 30,000

006new dollars that we get to level for. So when that new property goes down, it also affects how much more tax money and tax revenue we can actually collect without affecting any of the other current residential people other than the new property. It's important to note that because property taxes are 81% of our revenue for the district for all the operations, everything that we do. 81% of every dollar that we collect in revenue comes from local property taxes. So over the years, the districts have implemented a variety of different efficiencies to try and reduce the amount of expenses and limit the amount of property taxes that we need to assess for. Um, we've implemented operational and staffing efficiencies, new health insurance options, um, district types of staff for special ed, um, updated transportation contracts in

007the past, all things to try and help reduce or maintain some of those costs. The district makes every effort to continue to try and responsibly use the taxpayer dollars. People are living here. They rely on the school district. We are the largest taxing body that the property owners are paying their taxes to. We need to hold on and use that money as responsibly as possible. Um right now one of the main burdens that people are seeing are I mean the district's seeing state and federal money for education for special education shrinking. most other education is basically staying consistent if not reducing. Property tax bills are on the rise. Um and that we're very aware of what other individuals and residents are facing um when it comes to affordability and inflation um throughout the district, the

008county, the state, really everywhere. So just a little look at inflation from 2011 [clears throat] to 2024. inflation has basically risen 40%. That's a lot um in 14 years. I mean, you know, 40%. So, basically, something that costs a dollar in 2011 now costs $1.40. Um something that, you know, I paid you a dollar in in 2011. Basically, you can only buy 72 cents worth of goods, the same thing that you could buy for a dollar not that long ago. And this hits the school district also. We buy supplies. Um you know we pay for goods, we pay for services. All those things have have inflated as well. things for the school district basically directly representing CPI or that inflation are the supplies, utilities, transportation costs in the future. The contract is uh related or

009increased to CPI and food costs as well. Everybody knows major capital projects planned. If we planned in 2011 the same things that we had done in the last two schools, it would have cost a lot less than what it did in the previous. and and that's just kind of how the world is is working right now. But looking at our fund balances and some of the expenses over the last few years, we've seen increases and I think we've kind of maintained a lot of those. We've maintained a healthy fund balance. We've maintained um steady revenues. We're kind of keeping those expenses the increase to expenses in there. Getting down to the nitty-gritty, looking at the 2025 levy in particular, um we're allowed to increase 2.9% on all funds, 3% on all capped funds. So that's

010basically everything but debt service. The levy, we don't ask for specific money for debt service. The county tells us this is what you owe. This is what we're going to collect. Um, overall we're looking at capturing new property. The estimate is about a million dollars for next year. I think that's fine. I don't expect a lot of new property to be seen for 2025. So, what I'm expecting to actually collect is 29.3 million in taxes for in 2025, in 2026, or 2025. And overall with new property and everything else, it's about a 3.02% increase is what we're looking um just a different chart. So what we see in the second column is the 2024 levy estimated extension. What we actually got and then some of our best guesses um coming into what we should receive

011next year. The 2024 um county area data isn't out yet, but I'd still like to show this graph because it shows kind of the burden that's been shifted towards the residential property owners away from the commercial. So in 2007 59% or under 60% um of the district was uh tax burden was on the residential owners which means 40% was on the commercial. Um as you can see that's kind of shifted over the years and more and more of that burden is going on the residential property owners. Obviously, I would love for the homeowners to see that shift sway back to the commercial and industrial. That really comes down to how property values are assessed, um tax appeals and how those are taken part. And this is just, you know, data that's kind of out there.

012Another data point that's new this year that I just kind of wanted to show was 2024 EAV for other surrounding districts, mostly districts that flow at the NSSO. Um, their EAV per pupil. It's just kind of a general breakdown. How many pupils do they have based on their EAV? Um, and then the total tax rate. So again, the total tax rate really depends on the amount of taxes you're assessing and your EAV. So that can easily fluctuate one way or the other. Um but just kind of show you, you know, basically where other districts stand. 214's at the bottom. They obviously have the largest area. um and therefore the largest EAV which typically means the tax rates going which is typical for districts. Um then looking in uh changes in EAV within the district. So

013again, the top part kind of shows the difference between the tax rate and our EAV. And then the bottom, the green shows the extension, the amount of taxes that we've requested in the past. So again, you can kind of see here as the tax rate goes up, the EA or as the EAV goes up, the tax rate goes down. As the EAV goes down, the tax rate goes up. Vice versa. Um, lastly, I just wanted to talk about kind of how some individual tax bills [clears throat] increase or decrease more or less than CPI every year. So, there's a lot of factors that go into it. Within the district, I think we have roughly 12 to 15,000 index numbers, which means 12 to 15,000 individual tax bills go out solely just that include River Trails

014Elementary School. So, things that could affect it, a new building constructed, an addition is added to your home or another home of the light property. Um, your property was underassed or poorly reassessed in 2022. And then everybody knows, I'm sure when they got their reassessment in 2025 and saw the new number were kind of a little shocked. Um, but I think everybody's reassessment went up in 2025. Um, your property value can decline or your property value can increase more than other properties. So just an example um this is a property within the school district and this is their actual tax bills from 2023 and 2024. So again received 2023 received in and paid in 2024 2024's taxes received and paid in calendar year 2025. As you can see the top portion is River Trail School

015District 26. That's the the amount of this tax bill that went to our school district. They increased it 5.35% last year. We only asked for 3.4%. But this specific tax bill for us went up over 5%. So again, those factors really weigh in to how your house is calculated compared to all the other houses for that taxing. Again, Township High School taxes went up more than 6%. I know 214 did not ask for more than 6% last year, but this specific house taxes went up more than 6% just for 214. So that means their house value went up at a higher rate than other houses within the same school district within the same taxing body that percentage more than other other properties. Does that make sense? Okay, good. [clears throat] Now, interestingly enough, we asked

016for about 3.4% last year. You know, numbers are fun for me. Sorry. But the total bill went up 3.4%. That's not because that's what we asked for, but that, you know, okay, [laughter] numbers, sorry. Uh, so again, just a few scenarios to kind of show you individually. So individually, we've got four houses. They're each worth $100,000. The school district levies for $10,000. Each tax rate is 0.025. Everybody pays $2500. Right. Year one. All right. Year two scenario. It's a non-reassessment year. We've got four homes each worth the same. CPI is 2.9%. School districts ask for 2.9%. school district can levy $10,290. There's no new growth, though. It's not reass nobody's reassessed. All right. Everybody's tax rate slightly goes up because the EAV doesn't go up. Only the levy does, but everybody's paying the same amount

017of taxes. That's scenario one. Scenario two, it's a reassessment year. So now instead of EAB being worth 400,000, now it's worth 500,000. Oh, and there's some caveats, too, right? House number, there's not numbers. Sorry. House [clears throat] on the bottom left went up to $140,000. House down here only went up $10,000 and those two went up $125. Still no new property. So that means the district can still only levy $10,290. Let's see how the rate and the school amounts adjust every year. So on a reassessment year, no new growth, no anything other than a few reassessments, right? So it fluctuates based on your your home value. And I mean, even this house, it's home value went up 10%. But that one went up 40%. So really, the home value going up more, it's going to

018pay more. Home value still went up, but they're still paying less taxes. All right, last one. Scenario number three. Let's do the same thing, but we add in a new store built, new construction. So now the school district levies for $10,290, but then they've got money for the new property and they're able to collect that new property and end up collecting $12,348. So, it's not often that you collect new property worth 20% of your EAV. That's [laughter] quite an increase there. Um, [clears throat] but just kind of goes to show you how things are calculated. And when you throw in, you know, another 15,000 indexes for the school district really, you know, it's so questions. Yes, sir. Can you go back one slide? Okay, this one. So, you show here that the school levies are

019$10,290, but the school taxes under each property don't add up to $10,290. up to 11,000 or actually 12,000. [snorts] Oh, sorry. 25. You're right. No, no, sorry. Sorry. >> Oh, you're right. [clears throat] >> Never mind. >> I do appreciate these examples. It's a very >> complicated system. There's >> more variables in there. So if the total tax bill went up 3.5%. And all the governmental bodies are only able to increase to three that.5. >> So um this is this is the taxes paid in 2025. So last year we we asked for 3.4 which is why I thought it was interesting. But realistically, that's only what we asked for. So, we asked for 3.4, but this tax bill went up 5.35. Again, because of different scenarios and home values and appeals and everything else. So,

020the total tax bill is a culmination of all the different taxing bodies and what they're requesting and what they're levy. >> [snorts] >> I just thought it was >> Does that mean that the taxes went up or appreciation of the homes >> of the property or an inverse or I'm just trying to understand that. Well, it's it's um it takes into account like so you know when we're looking at 214, it's taking in every single taxing unit in district 214, which is probably a couple hundred thousand index numbers, right? So, of all the different index numbers, if they ask for 3.4%, you know, there's probably a lot more new property in there, which doesn't get affected for this bill, but all the current properties if they asked for a 3.4 for this house, which wasn't

021reassessed in 2024, but maybe a whole bunch of other houses had appeals. Um, you know, just like if nothing happened to this house, but other houses are appealing their taxes and getting their taxes lowered, then this house's portion of the tax is going to happen. So the answer is to some degree yes that the the increased percentage tax rate is does coincide with a loss which is that earlier chart you show. So basically the rate of appreciation of the houses or the assessed value of the houses when it's not equal to the tax rate like if the houses don't increase at a percentage to keep up with CPI it could have an adverse effect. So meaning like if the property jumped up 20%, we might all see a tax bill drop percentage-wise, >> but the

022total amount collected would still end up being the same. If everybody's tax bill went up the exact same amount every year, you would still see increase, okay, >> of you know what everybody levied, you would still see an increase of only it would be equal amongst everybody. Um, you know, 2024 wasn't a reassessment year. So, you know, but people go and they appeal their taxes and they say, "Well, my house isn't worth that. They want to, you know, my house is worth less. If your house is worth less to the county, then they're not going to charge you as much taxes." So, the rates the same. But again, if if you go and appeal your taxes and get them lowered and I don't do anything, my portion's going to go up and your portion's going

023to go down. But overall the same total will be collected. >> So that's where you see those percentage increases are to some degree there is successful challenging tax >> and and that's just the the typical one that most homeowners know and there's other you know there's other reassessments they go on sale value sometimes um you know find house sold that you know that gets a new value and you can apply that to the county as opposed to appealing your taxes. Um Does this also take into account like senior pres and everything else? Like if there's an increase in that, then you would have to >> Right. There's there's other exemptions. People might lose their exemptions again. So, right. So, when you sell your house, you might lose your homeowners exemption, you know, or you might

024gain a homeowner's exemption. Um, you also have people that uh during COVID their homeowners exemptions were frozen. All their exemptions were frozen. and that mean you have new homeowners and those exemptions were frozen for that property for so many years and then now they're not. So now you're going back and collecting. So there's okay but for the tax rate to be higher there has to be a net increase in either the EAB is going down or more exemptions being >> typically the tax Yes. The tax rate will increase when the EA goes down every year. >> And then when you freeze Yeah. You freeze things as the rate for the not to go up. >> Clear as much. >> This is also public hearing. So if anybody in the in the audience has any questions,

025[clears throat] you can certainly address those as well. Anybody on the board have any other questions? Do I hear? None. Me and >> I want to make it. >> Sure. Go ahead. >> I want to address that question. >> Not necessary. >> Excellent. >> All right. You guys know I'm a res of this district since 1986 and I want to speak out against the increase. >> Little louder. Little louder. You can't read the newspaper or listen to the news without hearing about the sharp property tax heights in the Chicago area that were reassessed last year. There has been enough of the public crime that every Cook County township has reopened for appeals to their property tax assessment through December 22. And I have personally surveyed most of the people in my area and everyone's gotten

026been denied already. As Wheeland Township was just reassessed and we know what our assessed value is, I think the above scenario will repeat itself when the second installment tax bill is issued in 2026. Personally, my assessment increased by 110,000. Using the state 2024 state equalizer and the 2024 local tax rate, I computed what my tax bill would be next year. very simple to do and the amount is over $15,200 and that's an increase from this year's tax bill of over $3,400 which will all be reflected in the second installment that comes out 2026 and that's using the numbers from the 2024 bill which we know will be higher I know that district 26 isn't the only taxing body contributing to this high tax bill there are 16 taxing districts of which eight have reduced their

027taxes for 2024 leaving eight taxing districts that have increased their taxes of which district 26 leads the board cannot be toned up to the burdens placed on homeowners who are already dealing with the higher burden of property taxes as mentioned the onus has been shifted onto the homeowners from commercial properties who have been getting the appeals that they are seeking higher prices on groceries medical insurance, utilities, etc. Many homeowners wonder if they can even afford these continued tax increases. What to do? Stay, sell? To whom? First time buyers, they can't afford these houses, nor these tax bills. And then what happens to this district when no young families can afford to move in? Food for thought. Thank you. Thank you. Any other comments? Okay, hearing none, I hereby entertain a motion and second to adjourn

028the public hearing for the fiscal year 25 tax lev. >> So moved. >> Second. >> Moved by Johnson, second by Fisto. [cough] [clears throat] Please hold. >> Yini, >> yes. >> Johnson, >> yes. >> Mart, >> yes. >> Grimpy, >> yes. >> Mister, >> yes. >> Freedelland, yes. Ronstead. >> Yes. >> Motion carries. >> Thank you. Next up is a consent agenda. Looking [clears throat] over the consent agenda, are there any items that a member would like to remove and further discuss or is there a question of clarification? Okay. Hearing none, I'd like to entertain a motion and second to approve the consent agenda item in its entirety, which includes the following. Board of Education meeting minutes and close session minutes from November 11th, 2025. Personnel report and the actual payrolls, bills and checks. >>

029Moved by Fiser. >> Second by Bey. >> Please call. >> Yes. Freedelland. Yes. >> Bianini. >> Yes. >> Grimpy. >> Yes. >> Ronstead. >> Yes. >> Johnson. >> Yes. >> And Fister. >> Yes. Motion carries. >> Thank you. Next up is RTA comments. You have the floor. [cough and clears throat] >> Thank you, Mr. President. On behalf of the RTA executive committee and the entire membership, I'd like to thank the board of education and the administration for the excellent ongoing working relationship that we continue to have. Um, we have really enjoyed negotiating with the board and it's been it's hectic but exciting and it's really nice to have that that working relationship at every representative assembly and conference that I go to with uh presidents from around the state 90% of them do not have

030this and so it is a lot there's a good reason why they do bring this up while we continue to have this excellent working relationship because most don't. Our negotiations team met tonight and we're excited to just keep rolling along. We've been making excellent progress and I really want to thank Mr. Griffy, Mrs. Freedelland, and Mrs. Johnson. We know that not to understate Dr. Megley or Mr. But um the three of you don't and as well as the rest of the board, you are doing this by choice. You are here of your own valition. This is not your day job. You are not being paid for this and we really appreciate it all the time and effort you put in. Thank you so much. Thank you. >> Okay. Next up is visitors comments. At this

031time, I'd like to recognize any members of the audience to approach the board with their comment or question by completing a visitor comment card. Please do note that the board and administration typically does not respond. And if you wish more response, please provide your name and number or an email address for a member of the board or administration to get back to you. Speakers are encouraged to limit their time for others to participate and a threeminut time limit per speaker with an overall 60-minute maximum for visitors per our current policy. Hearing none, we'll move on to board communication and this is an open agenda for any board members. Yeah. Um, so just going all the way back because it happened almost right after we had our last meeting, but um, we had bingo night where

032Lewis had the MC and Robert >> I just watched Lewis be a great MC. >> There was so much 67ing, guys. I mean, [laughter] it was who knew that it was 067 was going to be such a blast. I mean, I think we all did. I think we all did. But um yeah, so it was it was delightful to see um all these new families because as you know, like my girls are my two elders are out of there and um Raina is in fourth grade, but it was neat to see all of the younger families coming in and it it was really just it was a fun time and um I think that there was good participation and lots of people were having fun. Um so that was a big one. So thank you

033Louis and Robert. And then um >> your reputation is legendary. >> Yeah, that's unbelievable. >> All the PTC presidents. >> I mean, and the B12 dad joke. I mean, the vitamin thing I just keep going for you. >> Keep going. [laughter] Keep going. >> So, um that was delightful. Um and then there was a Uklid um Uklid got or Uklid's got talent that was put on here. Um and I just want to say thank you to Mrs. Thompson and to all of the volunteers obviously that participate in that. Um, it was super cute. I got to watch the video of my daughter, but um, but I know that lots of other people participated and that was super awesome. >> I can keep going. >> I'll just go all at one time. All right. The orchestra

034concert last night was delightful. It was an entire holiday. Oh, did I steal from you? You can back me up on that. >> No. Yeah, I'll back you up on that. >> It was delightful. And that's all I'll say. So, thank you to Mr. Luke and obviously Mr. Smith and Mr. Flowers for all their participation. And then last but not least, um, the craft bear. I was only there for the setup on Friday. Um but I heard as I was talking last night to everyone. Um raised nearly I think she said $8,000 which is amazing um for the PTC's and then um that was just all put together by obviously the PTC um the River Trails PTC and then um I'm sure they have volunteers from other PTC's and then parent volunteers and patrons. So,

035thank you to everyone because that is a huge undertaking. Um, and I think it went really well. >> Talked to five moms who spent way too much. >> That seemed to be the growing consensus, which is great to hear. >> I mean, we're offering a service. >> Anybody else? >> Okay. >> By a month. All right. stole everybody's thumb. >> No doubt. You covered [clears throat] it. >> I like I I felt unprepared last time. So this time I was like I am writing down every single thing that I did. >> I want to I want to give credit to why Bigo night's so awesome. Um I think to to the school principal for setting the culture of getting a standing room only crowd [laughter] of families and participants. You had 300 registered or more.

036>> We didn't need two sessions. It was 180 180 pizzas or 80 pizzas. So 80 families. But >> my favorite was when you're like I don't think there's that many people and I left for 10 minutes and came back. >> I'm like >> let's go. >> But you got a good base of a community and then you know starting at the the top and you know transending it down through the teachers and encouraging it and the participation and the staff that showed up there on a Friday night. Uh, it was great and they were even yelling 67, too. [laughter] >> It was really fun. Like the event. Well done. [snorts] >> Perfect segue. Uh, next up, if nobody has anything else to add, is our school update. >> I know you're coming. >> I know.

037Um, good evening [clears throat] everyone and thank you um, board of education Dr. Margaret Lee for having us kind of host and have an opportunity to celebrate. You could um, I will begin with just a brief overview of our major areas of focus this year and um, how they align with the district's strategic plan. Um, following that, I'm going to invite Sarah Hogan up here to highlight several examples of how we bring our work to life here at Uklid. Throughout the presentation, you will see how our intentional use of curiosity strengthens u meaningful connections and supports our ongoing commitment to preparing students to be life ready here in district 26. Um, youth school goals remain directly connected and aligned with our district goals and core elements of the strategic plan. The values and beliefs of

038district 26 consistently guide how we analyze and um reflect on our goals and priorities and how they align with the priorities and goals of our school community um at the beginning or actually at the almost at the end of the previous year but early on enough our starting point comes from Dr. Michael Lee. She shares that with you. She then shares that with the building leadership and the district leadership. Our starting point is the district focus which continues to strengthen existing systems and successful practices. So one of the things you hear often from the principles and you hear often from our cabinet is alignment and consistency and sustainability. And so we want to take what's working and continue to make it better. uh each year and throughout the year we attend to student academic and

039social emotional data. So all of this work comes from information we glean from MAP from Ames web from AR um as well as survey data from Panorama and five essentials. Um we use all of that input to plan goals and to inform our staff development and our learning. You'll see here during the celebration examples of the impact that our increasingly consistent collaborative systems are having on our head and heart ready culture here at uh what I want to do first before I invite Sarah up here is to [clears throat] make sure that you know what are our areas of focus and at Uklid we are continuing to focus on the same four targets that I shared with you last year. So when presenting to teachers, this is the same as it was last year. All

040we're doing is taking what works and strengthening it, systematizing it, making sure that the good stuff is sustainable. Um, our staff is engaging in high quality professional development. We're using intentional instructional practices when we learn together as adults so that they can bring that into the classroom as teachers. uh we are looking at strengthening students critical thinking their problem solving skills emotional development and metacognitive abilities. The five essentials domain of collaborative teachers was the only measure in five essentials that didn't was the only measure that didn't show growth. So in the collaborative teachers domain that was a measure that remained flat. Everything else was continuing to improve. Specifically, an item in that question asks teachers about observing another teacher's classroom, which we weren't doing. So, um, this matters. Why does this matter? Because we're doing

041great things in our classroom, but it matters because the research spec specifically John Hattie, but the research consistently shows that collective teacher efficacy, the work we do together with each other, has one of the strongest impacts on student learning. And so, that is something worth investing in. support this. We launched a formal structure for teachers to visit and learn from colleagues. [clears throat] In our first round of walkthroughs uh two weeks ago, 90% of our core teachers participated. So, of all the teachers that were invited to say, "Hey, are you ready to do this?" All but two said, "Yeah, let's do it." And it's been really positive already seeing the ripple effect of what we're learning from each other brought into other people's classrooms. Meanwhile, to deepen our students critical thinking and problem solving, we

042continue to strengthen um our studentto student discourse, which you saw from us last year, you saw with Bill last year at Indian Grove. Our academic data for MAP and I however still show that we need to continue to improve our literacy outcomes, and that is something that we definitely are working collaboratively with Christie. All four of the schools in district 26 are collectively implementing a comprehensive professional learning plan on literacy, on reading, writing, listening, and speaking across all classrooms. So, if you were to visit any of our professional development, that's very likely what you would come and learn and see what our teachers are learning about to improve their practices and strengthen what's already working but making it better. And finally throughout the year we are emphasizing curiosity about ourselves and each other and the

043world as a driver for engagement and learning. Um this shared curiosity helps students and staff build stronger connections and reinforces our capacity to learn and grow together. So as we head into this our major concepts of curiosity, connection, consistency at a time when many students, all students almost are gravitating towards passive short form media. We recognize the power of tapping into their innate curiosity. Curiosity enhances learning. It enhances memory. It boosts academic engagement and supports emotional well-being while strengthening their social connections. So, while there are many ways we're strengthening systems and processes at Uclid, I'm pleased to turn it over to our assistant principal, Sarah Hogan, who will highlight and celebrate how Uclid brings curiosity to life here at Uklid and fosters strong, healthy connections across our community. >> So, um hello, many of you

044know that my career began as a social worker. Um, excuse me. In my heart, I've always been a champion for those that are not always seen and I'm deeply committed to ensuring that every child has access to meaningful learning opportunities. As a parent of a young adult with a disability, I carry a personal understanding of what inclusion truly means for students, families, and our school community. True inclusion means creating an environment where all students, regardless of disability, culture, language, race, social economic background, or any other aspect of identity, feel valued, supported, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. Since I've been here, great, nearly 26 years, [laughter] um the community has always been at the forefront of Uclid school culture. While it's been embedded in our culture, sustaining and growing it takes some work. So,

045I'm really excited to share just a small sample of some of the work we've done this year. So, um take a look at the projected questions. Don't worry, you don't have to answer them on the just think for a moment about them and how they apply to yourself. So, what if you were able to share with each other and hear how others would answer these questions? How might that how might answering those um for yourself and listening to the answers from your peers increase your curiosity for your connections with others? This is what we've done with our students in the classroom and school community at large. So, using a Excuse me. Using a one book strategy. I read the book Just Ask. I have there's a couple copies on your tables if you're interested with

046beautiful illustrations as well. Um the book is by Sonia Sotoayor and the curious themes of be different, be brave, be you. Um each page contained examples of students who have a unique learning style with an accompanying question some of which you saw on the previous slide. Though these example through these examples and questions we were able to promote acceptance of all learners and pride in oneself by sparking curiosity and discourse during morning meeting it intervals and second step by featuring the book in morning announcements and providing a copy to every home room teacher. We created a consistent message across the whole school. Here is a small sample of some third graders work over there. Um, they use the book's questions to reflect on their own strengths and share it with one another. I know it's

047a bit hard to read um, but you can check it out later. Um, I wanted to share one example uh, from the what helps you learn when things get hard. You might think I found the answer, but when I saw the postit, I knew it was a perfect one to share. Um the student literally read uh wrote mistakes and curiosity which um and anyway you can you can see the proof later there. Um but these activities support students as they hone their thinking and writing while feeding their curiosity and their connections with their peers. Earlier tonight, a lot of you um enjoyed the benefits of the treats from Rogers Refreshments. Um thanks to Stephanie Swa. Here's a peek into what their Friday mornings look like. [music] And Josh, what's your job? >> You pushed the

048cards. >> Yes. >> Nice. And you were also helping with the orders, weren't you? >> We kind of all help with the orders. And then when we go to the delivery part, they all have an assigned job. Awesome. >> [laughter] >> And then a red bag. >> And then a blue bag of sunshines. We have a surprise. >> We have Rogers impressions. >> Okay. What did you get? What did I order? >> Wow. Okay. I'm on a diet, but I need to order this. [laughter] >> Oh, what do you have FOR ME? I FORGOT MY ORDER. Thank you. How much do I owe you? $250. >> Awesome. Thanks, Awesome job, buddy. >> We're all good. >> Awesome job. >> Oh my gosh. How much do I pay you? >> $2. $2. All right. Thank you.

049>> Thank you so much. >> Thanks, Dad. >> How much do I owe you? >> $3. Okay. >> Do you have change for a pie? >> Yeah. >> Which flavor do you have? 5 - 3 Renee, how much? >> Good job. >> Thank you so much. more. So, I love that you got to see these students and staff in action. Uh, making a difference one purchase at a time. Um, as a video illustrated, it really provides a unique way to reinforce skills such as money math. following directions, reading a map, um all while making those meaningful connections with each other, peers, and staff throughout the school. Just a brief, uh little bit of history. Rogers refreshment started in at the school year 23 24 um expanded to river trails in 2425 and now this year

050we have um successful programs at both schools um which really helps to ensure the consistency of the experiences between schools and across programs and then for the students moving on the trails. Additionally, I'm really proud that as our self-contained categorical special education program grows. Uh so do the opportunities for all of our students to learn and grow. We've also expanded our opportunities for general education peers participate um in that program creating meaningful inclusive learning experiences that benefit all the students. The previous two examples illustrate how we are committed to consist consistently embrace connections and curiosity within UCL itself beyond our school walls. We have worked to strengthen some important partnerships. While we've had these connections for some time, we've continued to deepen them to support sustainability. I'd like to share one highlight related to our

051annual winter clothing drive. This year we had the highest number of people participate, 70, which is amazing. Um, and we were also able to give away 20 Thanksgiving dinners and many non-p perishable items, all through a partnership with Higher Up Ministries. These connections and partnerships also ensure consistent experiences for our students no matter what. Additionally, while Uclid spearheads these connections, the resources are extended to all in the district. To continue strengthening one of our most important partnerships, our families, we are excited to shine a light on an upcoming community event, Voices of the World. Using data from Panorama and the Five Essentials Survey, our school improvement team identified a goal of showcasing and celebrating the diverse cultures within our school community. Our first event in January will feature stories presented in multiple languages by students,

052staff, and families. In April, we'll have a second larger event featuring even more participation from students and family members through the exploration and sharing of culturally representative art, music, and food. This work is yet another example of our belief that curiosity about one another's experiences deepens connections and strengthens our collective community. Finally, uh we know that critical thinking grows out of strong social understanding, a clear sense of self, and an understanding of moral and ethical principles. Connection and curiosity nurture all of these skills and we are thrilled to have been able to share some of the work we've done this year. This work ultimately strengthens our students ability to be life ready which as you know is our ultimate goal in district 26. [applause] >> So I'll start off question >> questions. >> Um so

053when does Rogers refreshments expand to Indian Grove? [laughter] >> Good question. Uh and number two, when you talk about the teachers learning from teachers, are they strictly within the same grade or are teachers going to other grades and watching other teachers? >> Great question. Um they actually are going across and it's based on um characteristics of their instruction and student learning goals that the teachers determined supported our focus, our areas of focus. So, they're looking for student discourse. They're looking for student student opportunities to write, studentto student talking, students writing, critical thinking, problem solving, um, and instructional strategies that create opportunities for that. And so, teachers literally will say, "This is what I want to learn." And then the instructional coach helps connect teachers with teach other teachers who said, "I'm willing to share this."

054Got >> this is a part of my day that I'm opening my door for anyone to come see. >> Awesome. Thank you. >> Anybody else have any questions? >> I'll go. Um I just wanted to compliment the one book initiative, especially this book. I've read it >> I don't maybe two or three years ago with my kids and even an adult. check it out. >> Um because I it's a powerful book because I think as you kind of alluded to is you might see yourself in here, >> but more you might see another kid who you're not sure what's happening with them and um understand better. We had a lot of good conversations in our house with this book. >> So great. >> Anybody else? Um, I just think that it's a neat program because

055it definitely sets students up for success. I think the earlier that we do programs like Rogers refreshments, I mean, they have that in 207 and in 214. And these are things that they continue on as we go toward our work programs and making sure that our students are active participants in the community and, you know, have rewarding experiences and likewise get to deliver rewarding experiences. So, I mean, kudos for getting up and running. I mean, it's a lot of work. >> By the way, no plans to expand to any group. >> Talk to Bill. >> It is it is directly connected to our our cross categorical self-contained program which is here at Uklid and then uh middle school. Um so that would be the only caveat to that request. >> Bill would love a refreshment.

056Bill could Bill could [clears throat and laughter] push a part around and sell the snacks. >> Bill's bodega. >> Not a question, but a comment. Um, you know, my heart is always at you as this was my children's first experience. And um, I find it hard to say that you guys are just continuing to grow and grow. I mean, you guys have been exemplary for years, but just the growth that I'm seeing across um all levels and all um all grades is just amazing. So, thank you for your hard work and your dedication um and and definitely being um sensitive to some of some of our our most challenging learners. >> Thank you. >> Great. Anybody else? question comment. [clears throat] How often have you done in the past or do you plan to do

057the one book initiative with one book in every classroom >> across all the >> so this was the first time we um >> ever >> through no history >> through the announcements on the announce >> last year we did a book um I want to say it was called Malala's pencil >> and the year before that we did another book those two were those two were initiatives that brought together multilanguages, people from different cultures. This one was um identifying different neurodiversity. Um and so so we've done it now each of the last two years and we're doing another book on announcements that's kind of carrying on our thread of curiosity and connection this year. >> No, I I really like that because I think in all your messages over the past couple years keep coming

058back to your same themes which one of your themes is continuity and the one book across all the classrooms just keeps reinforcing that. >> I just think that's really powerful. I like it. I didn't know how often it was done and if we're doing it across uh great trails even I like that message. >> Thank you. >> Anyone else? >> Thank you so much. Great presentation. Uh, next up is the fiscal year 25 tax levy, the action item of it. Right. Is there any more to present or we just go right into the motion? If there's any more other questions or comments, >> I'll hit that after we get the motion then. Thank you. Uh let me hereby a motion and a second to approve the 2025 tax levy resolution to be necessary in the

059total aggregate amount of 29,37,400 and to adopt the resolution to direct the reduction of the 2025 tax levy and to direct the board president and board secretary to sign the prepared resolution by the Cook County Clerk's office pertaining to the 2025 tax levy, the certificate of the tax levy and the truth in taxation certificate. Moved by Grimpy, >> second by Freedelland. Comments or questions? >> I would like to comment that we are evading taxes one point. Is that part of this? >> Um, >> or is that the next one? >> That's the next one. Okay. Then I'll keep my mouth shut out there. Thank you for the preparation. I think this is a responsible uh tax levy that uh you know increases our our percentage along with the CPI student populations roughly remaining the same.

060I understand that it does burden different taxpayers at different years you know sometimes you win sometimes you lose but you know it's largely you know a lot of it's tied to our property values our property values are largely due to the quality of our schools there is no tax like tax that doesn't get reinvested right back into our communities. And uh you know, we're stewards of our schools now and in future generations and those who, you know, may not be using the schools now, but who are living in our community, we thank you for your continued support. That money is being well spent and you know, be proud of the the schools that you have and the the help that you're giving the next generation. >> Anyone else? Yes, ma'am. >> I will also comment

061that most of the businesses in the Kensington Center have 6B tax exemptions. We have gone to the village and complained. There's nothing we can really do about it other than voice our objection. Um, and what really irks me personally is they're supposed to get the exemption for 12 years and the village turns around and gives them another 12. >> So whenever they get their reduction, somebody has to pick up what they're not paying and that ends up going to the residents. So, um I have gone to a couple of their village board meetings and complained uh publicly at the board meetings, but um like I said, there's all they do is Yeah. Well, you're a resident and we need to have Kensington filled and the way they can do it is to give them tax

062breaks. So, just keep that in mind, too. >> Just to balance that a little bit, the difference between the 25% 10% is quite a delta. >> Yes, it is. >> And I can tell you as a as a business owner myself, I I was I've been looking at properties and in some cases uh you know to mortgage a property these days that debt service and tax bill are about the same. So the burden on businesses is not small either. So we also thank our businesses that contribute to that we all you know either work at or we uh we visit and patronize you know that's that's all part of the the >> please call roll. Yes. >> Grimpy. >> Yes. >> Freedelland. Yes. Mister. >> Yes. >> Mardo. >> Yes. >> And Keaney? >> Yes.

063>> And Johnson? >> Yes. >> Motion. >> Thank you. >> All right. Next up is consideration of a resolution abating the tax levied for the year 2025 to pay debt service on general obligation school bonds. Alternate school bonds series 2024 and general obligation school bonds which is altered reference source series 2025B of school district number 26. This is an information and action item. So this is a resolution we did last year for the 2024 bonds. Now we need to do again for the 2024 and 2025 alternate revenue bonds. essentially saying that the revenue um for those bonds is coming out of general operating funds out of the regular levy. It basically is abaded change to the um debt service fund in order to pay for those bonds. So it's taking it's not abating things back

064to the taxpayers but it's abating from a regular levy into the debt service levy so that we can pay those bonds that were approved in 2024. Okay, let me get a motion and a second to adopt a resolution abating the tax uh levied for the year 2024 to pay debt service on general obligation school bonds series 2024 and general obligation school bonds series 2025B school district number 26 >> moved second >> moved by Fiser second by Keany any comments or questions on board you want to make your comment >> all Nice job, Mr. Barry. >> Any other comments or questions before we call roll? >> Okay, hearing none. Could you please call roll? >> Johnson? >> Yes. >> Griffy, >> yes. >> Okay. Next up is our committee. First up is an associio. Mr. you.

065>> Yep. Uh first of all, sorry for the uh the late submitt of the notes. Just quickly recap. Uh we should have uh all the articles of agreement were at least uh fully ratified by at least five districts. So that makes it move forward. So we anticipate a unanimous uh unanimous agreement on those articles. Um so the focus has shifted towards uh program evaluation and facilities initiatives um with the uh the I also I talked about the you know last year we had the surprise u you know costs of the air conditioner. So I questioned the question the administration about any anticipated surprises this year none are anticipated. I I asked to follow up on that to make sure that you know not 100% but we have a high likelihood of no surprises this year.

066Um the audit report was delivered and and is clean which was nice. That was the first one that was done purely gather. Um and then uh you know enrollment continues to shift around you know early part of the year. Some schools get students that they either can't handle or they decide, you know, the year that uh part of the year that they want to move them into a program into an SSO that better fits them. So, you know, that continues to adjust and that's where you, you know, everybody's getting more familiar with that that that's how the the budget, you know, it's approved here and then it can change as the the year goes on based on on enrollment. Um so they are starting that process of budget formation and uh negotiations are also underway.

067So started with that we're we're making good progress with with them I think with the similar I think the same person leading here is also on the team there but uh so we'll be off in January. Uh the administrators will be meeting for their first operations board meeting in January. Excited about that. Uh otherwise just routine business. And then there was one thing that came out of actually was the uh sort of the negotiations which I heard was that some of the the teachers and the staff they gotten and it's not direct to necessarily anybody here but you know they there are times where they might have an incident with a student where it's you know a Friday afternoon it's like wait for this kid this child has to move to NSSE and that you

068know it's the district's responsibility to make sure that child is in the best place for them but I think wherever there's as much notice and ation that can go along with that will help ease the transition for both the student and the staff. So I, you know, my armchair quarterback in me says, you know, if you've got some students you think might be pathing there, like maybe start some of that communication so they they have a heads up that that a child might be coming their direction. So if there does be an if there is an incident that you know pushes it over the edge that uh you know they're not you know kind of coming in [snorts] blind and they they literally set examples where it could be the next day and that's that's

069that's hard to take any new student on next day is it's very hard to take a a a uh a child with some challenges. >> Well I'd like to thank you for your your efforts your flexibility and your patience through the whole articles of agreement process. It wasn't easy. It was long. Uh I know you came you personally came a long way, you know, throughout that process. Uh so I I just want to personally thank you thank for your efforts on that. I I really appreciate going to a couple of the meetings myself. I can see sometimes there was some tension in the room, but it looks like everybody's come together and for as a team um and and now are moving forward as a team and that's what we all want to do as

070a board. So great job and thank you for your efforts. >> Thank you. It was a it was a lot of work and uh I appreciate your your feedback. Uh, honestly, I don't feel like I moved much. I feel like it uh, you know, I feel like it it kind of was getting everybody else to kind of come along and see. Sure. Maybe some of the things that that myself and some others were seeing, but I'm however it got there, I'm happy, very happy that it's resolved. >> Sure. >> I don't know any ill will. I would love for it all to just kind of snap and be done, but you know, whatever. Sometimes it's the journey and I'm very excited. I know I was pretty very excited to see that we get a working

071structure going forward that that covers all the bases that gets the participants and still keeps the governance. It's going to be good and I'm feeling that feeling everybody starting to come together on the finance side and the special services side and administrator side. So good. >> Um I just wanted >> No, no, >> I just wanted to compliment the memo. So when does that go like separate meetings? >> So officially so the superintendents have been meeting in a council meeting which has kind of been an informal kind of working towards this and officially starts off as a meeting with published agenda in January. other than you know adding some structure you know I think that >> yeah I feel like they're official like January 3rd or whatever it was 90 days from >> what was

072that the October meeting so >> yeah and and it definitely this first year is going to be a you know we've got a good structure now we got to figure it out you know we got to I shouldn't say figure it the structure is there or you have to operate within the structure. So we'll find some things that work some things that don't you know and we'll thank you for the feedback that was Dr. Megar's suggestion for the memo template and that's been fantastic tool to help standardize updates and also make them >> which is not my strong but thank >> you're doing a great job. Anybody else? Okay, next up is our IASB delegate, Mr. B. >> Yes. So, um definitely an interesting process, my first time doing that and um just a great

073amazing learning experience. Um the resolution that passed pertains to the school bus safety. Um and then that was requiring all newly purchased school buses to be equipped with a threepoint seat belt beginning in 2031. Um the recommended ch changes to the constitution um was what really took the bulk of the time. Um numbers 1 4 5 7 8 and 10 were moved forward on the consent agend agenda leaving 2 3 6 and nine were brought to vote and there were different levels of discussion about each of those um each of them eventually all went forward. However, the one that became relatively um dicey and particularly revolved around the elections and how we are able to accept a vote from the floor and is that really a free election because myself as the delegate have already

074received instructions based on so um again it did move forward utilizing the same structure that we're doing but maybe just some thought as we're entering into it. um into the conference next year just to have that discussion and and have other um options or just you know being able to to look at that voting process um was just something that that was talked about in depth. Um the president was voted there were no nominations from the floor so Tracy's there. Um, and then the vice president did have a nomination from the floor. Um, a woman named Liz Campbell, and I'm not sure which was not identified what district she was from. Um, and that made the election a little bit closer, which was 227 to 113. Um, with Alva becoming the vice president. Um, so

075again, just it seemed very straightforward. uh not a lot of heated discussion until we got to the point about um free elections and is it really represent is the current system we have really represents a free election and kind of the the delegation of power from one to the next. So but overall it was a very enjoyable experience. I got to meet several other representatives. I appreciated the opportunity. >> You're the first one to say it was enjoyable. you're going to be stuck doing it if you keep coming back like that. >> Yeah. You know what? No, it was it was actually a very it it was it was really neat to see the process. I do want to come and the two representatives from the um agricultural um community. They are from Future Farmers

076of America were the two student representatives. They were amazing. >> All the ones who speak at the beginning. >> They were absolutely amazing and articulate. I they seemed like 35 year old adults, not a 17 and an 18y old. Um, and they were wonderful, courteous, respectful, and so that really helped to make the event um, memorable as well. So, I did want to give them credit um, in just what they were doing. They were a great example of education. >> Thank you. >> Anybody have any questions for before we move on? Okay. Uh, next up is negotiations. Mrs. Freeland, you are the chair. >> Clearly the most fun. >> This is Bob mentioned. No, I'm just kidding. No. Um, I I do want to just echo Bob sentiment or sentiment like it it has been

077a um is always an interesting process, but I feel like there is such a healthy relationship between the RTEA and the board members and the administration. is very um open and I think honest and that'll lead into my session that I had at Triple I but um just being able to have those really kind of um tough conversations or not even tough conversations but conversations that could have some tension in them and being able to ask questions and have curiosity and figure out where people are coming from. So I appreciate that from you and your team. Um and I appreciate that from the team here. Jody's always asking great questions and I'm like kind of digging into the pieces that maybe we just don't necessarily know um quite as well um because of our varying

078experiences. Um I do just to keep it at a very high level obviously since that's part of our close session pieces. Um but we have around we started off with about 188ish kind of thing. So things that we are moving on um and have kind of approved in terms of cleaning up language and doing things like that. Um, we are probably going to start looking at some of the bigger items over the next few meetings. Um, you know, possibly looking at some, you know, financial pieces and things like that. Just just dipping our toe in the water. Um, and slowly getting there. Our last meeting was last week. Um, and that went really well. I felt like it was long, but good. Um, and uh, we have a meeting next week. Um, and just so

079that the board members have the opportunity to keep up with everything. Please don't forget about our running document that we have that everyone has access to. Um, and Jody made it very accessible by adding the links at the top so that you can go back and see anything that we talked about. Um, we're, you know, kind of bumping to the most recent meeting. Um, again, very grateful. It is a long day. Everybody's coming from work. So, um I do really appreciate um all the efforts on on everybody's part. Um and please if other any other committee members want to add something that I forgot, please do. >> Spot on. >> Thank you to the team for our work. >> Both sides. >> Absolutely. >> Just trying to define what a what attendance day is. >>

080Two hours. Yeah. two hours of our lives we won't get back >> right [laughter] here. >> Anybody else? Any questions for Jannine before we move on? >> I mean very high level but >> true. >> All right. Next up is the president's report upcoming events. We've got an orchestra and chorus concert at Indian Grove on the 11th. Uh back at the middle school there's a band and chorus concert on the 15th at 6:30. The winter carnival is at on 12:17. We've got winter break. I can't imagine. I can't believe they're already up to it, but uh that's from the 22nd to January 5th. Uh the staff returns on the 5th. Students will return on the 6th. Uh as far as uh upcoming dates for the board, we have a policy committee meeting on the 13th

081at RTMS. Um there's a jazz band uh concert on from RTMS on the 13th at 6:30 in the cafeteria before the schoolboard meeting. after the policy committee meeting but before the schoolboard meeting. So get all your ducks in a row and then of course our next meeting will be on the 13th at 7 o'clock back in the middle. And then we um we had a very nice dinner at at triple I where we got to sit as a board and kind of uh talk about our day and our days I should say. And my icebreaker fell flat but I went with it anyway. I don't think you felt that at all. >> I mean, you committed. >> I I I went >> So, one of the sessions I I went to don't >> No, we

082won't answer the question. >> Don't torture the public. >> The the thing that they taught you taught us at the session I was at is one of the questions to ask people if you want to break the ice is tell me about your scar. Everybody's got a scar for some reason. And so, I tried that. >> External scar, not >> correct. Great point. Great point. So, it may not have been the best topic for dinner, but I went with it anyway. And I was fully committed [laughter] to make sure we went around the table. Um, so you may not want to do >> halfway [clears throat] around the table. [laughter] >> We've got the holidays coming up. You've got family coming over. You know, if you want to avoid politics, you can talk about scars.

083So, anyway, but uh we did talk about our session, but if there's anything anyone wanted to add or if you weren't at the dinner and you wanted to talk about it, love to hear it. >> You want to talk about conference. >> Oh, sorry. I thought we were You say the dinner, the scar, what? >> No, no, just anything that we didn't cover that you'd like to discuss from the conference, your experience at the conference. >> Um, I Okay. I really appreciate I know that not everybody has the opportunity to head down for those Friday sessions, but I felt both of our like both the Friday sessions that I attended um were just they were really really good. Um, the second session or the second session that Phil just mentioned, it was really it was

084called called Oh no, hang on. I got it written down. Hold on. Tiny moments, big impact, leveraging everyday interactions. And it was phenomenal. And um like we just got to find different ways. And I found it personally valuable just to be able to connect with my own children and like people that I was talking to along with implementing those things like in my classroom. And I could see how it would work with just everyday interactions. Just finding these little connections and especially um in a time of such volatility when I think people are always looking for differences and seeking those out. This was really kind of intentional um grounding for finding ways that we're all connected. We also got to meet um a lot of the um student school board members which was super interesting.

085Um I know that we got information from IASB about having like a school or a student um board member. I don't know if that works for our district um necessarily. I know that we have students who participate in different committees. So that's always really to have that student perspective because they're, you know, they're on the ground running from, you know, with with different policies and programming that we have. Um, but that was really neat to meet all of those school board um student school board members. Um, the other thing I had was um uh was or fierce conversations and that was again diving into how do we have these difficult conversations among board members like where we disagree. I think the one thing that I always see at Triple I is the fact that we

086have a board that is open and honest and can be able to communicate. You listen to some of the things that happen at other districts and it is >> mindboggling. >> Yes, >> mindboggling. I think that that's probably the most courteous way to put it and um and the dysfunction and some of the other things. And I am I I I really felt like we do a lot of the things that we talked about at this year's conversations, but it also gave you know just strategies um for continuing to explore kind of those more difficult um ideas or you know what do you like just even approaching people who have made a mistake? How how do you take some of that um and make it a learning opportunity versus a blade game? So it was

087it was thank you for this opportunity to always do this professional development because I really feel like I took a lot of >> if I can add to that. So, we uh we were signed up for the same second session on Friday and the original one was leading schools in a polarized world and we I know I get picked on for being the social butterfly of the of the board with all these other districts, but we all ate together with some of the other neighboring districts and some of the people who attended that same session in the morning were like, "It's horrible. That guy was a bad presenter. You know, if you can skip it, skip it." So, we went to the the little moments, big opportunities that call them. You wrote it down, right?

088>> Tiny moments, big impact. >> That was close. Um, but yep, that's uh but that was to your point, it was phenomenal. And I'm glad we didn't go to the one that ended up being a dud and and ended up attending one that was just I got a lot out of it. And and you also didn't sit down. I mean, you sat down for about the first 10 minutes and then you were up and you were moving around and talking with people and meeting new people and then you get had to get a new partner and it was it was pretty wild. It was great. Thanks for bringing that up. Anyone else want to share? Love to hear. >> I'll share. So, I won't go through all of them, but one of them um I

089attended was about LEAP parent participation. So, LEAP is um limited English period. And so, there's a lot of, you know, there's laws that we have to communicate in certain languages and percentage, but um the kind [clears throat] of overall theme of this was how district 88 is trying to um overcome some of the challenges to communicate with parents but also bring them into the community. So one of the ideas that I was going to talk about which ties in nicely was the three ways they found that easy to bring parents and family men culture. So food, music and dance >> and dance. Yes. Or bingo games. But a lot of most cultures have specific dance. These kids are taking dance classes in it. So they have kind of a talent show they can show off

090and families. food into the school to share and they have these nights that um have been really impactful. They have different mariachi groups and other musical groups that have formed. So I was so happy to hear about the voices of the world event and how it could be hopefully expanded to some of our other schools too. Um a lot of grants saying I'm very thankful to be able to go and to learn and one thing that travel does is um help you appreciate home, right? There you go. And so, um, it allowed me again to refocus and reflect on the power of our community. Like extremely grateful for the staff, the leadership, the teachers, the students, the families, our board members that we can have challenging conversations, tough conversations. We don't always agree, but we're

091all aligned and devoted to what our ultimate goal is, which is creating a healthy and safe place for our students. Anybody else? >> I'll go. [snorts] >> Um, first of all, I want to say thank you to Mr. Flowers >> for the uh the steel drum >> the steel drum presentation that they did. Kids were awesome. >> Kids were lowering. >> Well, I don't know anything about how the how they got there or whatever. I just saw them perform and they were fantastic. So, Oh yes. So thank you very much to him for that. Um I happen to go to um oh first of all um my favorite thing is to visit all the vendors and um it's really kind of neat because at least three of them remembered me. [laughter] So I don't know

092if that's good or bad you know. Yes. Exactly. [clears throat] Say so anyway. So then um I'm the social butterfly of the vendors. You're the social butterfly of the board districts. Anyways, >> I um went to three events uh three sessions. Two of them were on community engagement. Um basically I was looking for ideas on what we can do better or what we could do. Uh it turns out that we are doing just about what everybody else is doing. Um everybody is struggling with trying to get more community involvement. Um so it was no no big surprise to me. Um one of the community engagement sessions had uh superintendent from district 214 there, Dr. Ro. and I was interested in how he steered the board toward the referendum community engagement. So that was interesting to

093hear him talk about that which we have all read in the newspaper so I won't bore you. Uh and then the third one I went to was negotiations and Ryan was there. So it was really nice because I sat there going, "Brian, get that information. Get that [laughter] information. You call the guy and get the information." Because going from one business uh person to another, they would be more uh u tuned attuned to giving and sharing as opposed to me just being a board member calling. So, and in talking to Ryan, he's been doing it and we're getting some there's little calculators. What did what do they call those? >> Calculators had a um call a playbook or something like a checklist of a few different things to do, >> right? >> And you could

094put a number in like if you wanted to uh have this much for um let's say x then that's how the number changes, how the number the money number, it's it's a money [snorts] calculator. So, um it was >> Don't let Bob see it. >> No, they >> No, no, they share it with us. >> So, you're using the same information when >> Right. Take that back. >> And then you can manipulate. [clears throat] >> Yeah. Well, and so that so that if >> they're making the same assumptions using the same calculator and >> one party can't one party can't come and say, well, when we put the number in, we get this. >> No, when we you both quote it in, you both come up with the same same end result. So, that was

095very interesting. And I'm glad Ryan was there because wow, there was a lot of I was taking pictures because they hadn't uploaded the documents for you yet. And >> oh, screenshots. >> The screenshots. Um, except I left my phone at home tonight. So, there's not much I can tell you. >> So, anyways, that's what I did. >> There you go. >> Um, just high level stuff. Every year I find the triple conference to be valuable. some years better than others with content and individual sessions and you know just like this time three sessions two okay one forgettable I don't even remember what the third was it was so forgettable but that's what it is uh but the consistency in going I think is is valuable at least for us to share and connect and openly

096speak on ideas uh quickly one of the two was on evidence-based funding and what school districts should expect both from the federal government state in terms of revenue. And uh these were presented by three state legislators um down in Springfield. And essentially they said whatever you're planning on expect. >> Um so he couldn't put his finger on exactly how much less, but don't plan on getting the full amount that's in your budget. Um and just like we all do down to the the micro level within schools and teachers and districts, it says it's always just one piece. So whatever you take from one goes to another. There's no creation of additional funds. It's, you know, somebody wins or somebody loses in that that pie of of the funds. Um so I think that's always applicable

097in discussions we have how we budget spend things. Um and then the other one was on uh coaching um peer uh teacher coaches and I think Mary Flus is one of our district coaches. >> Um but they It's not enough. And I love how they started this with, you know, the the world's greatest athletes always had a coach. And we have some of the best teachers. Uh, but they also have coaches. Have Tom Brady, Michael Jordan, all have have coaches. So, your rockstar teachers probably still couldn't even elevate their game with more, you know, inschool coaching. So if if Mary is is one of our rockstar coaches, well, we have three other coaching, you know, in school opportunities that could be considered, you know, availability and funds, how we want to do it. But maybe

098something that every district should take into consideration to allow their teachers and have an avenue for both personal and professional growth and of course to help the students to be instructed by the best possible educator in the buildings. Those are my quick takeaways. >> That's good. Thanks for sending us. Anybody else? >> Yeah, I would like to pass. Um, well, first definitely thank you and to the steel drum band and then also for all of the support of loading and loading the truck >> from our fearless leader here. That was amazing. Um, and then I really enjoyed um the speaker Damon West with the coffee bean analogy and conversation and I actually used that frequently over the last week, week and a half um referring to it. >> And that number is his real number.

099So he gave everybody in the audience his phone number. That was real. I called it for a purpose but I was really like I'm gonna see if this is real. Um, but that being said, and just that whole uplifting conversation I think was extremely helpful. Um, I do love the opportunity to be able to um have adult conversation and to be impactful and and then reflect back in what what we do on a daily basis. Um, one of the presentations I went to that I found extremely helpful and also unfortunately reflective and concerning was um about mental health and it's called it takes a village. >> Um, and it was talking about new mental health numbers and crisises that we're having throughout not only the state um but the country as a whole. Um, it

100did it was focusing primarily on more adolescents. However, they touched on how the numbers both in early childhood education and elementary education were skyrocketing as well. Um, they did a little cahoot, so I'm not going to put you all through that, but I did want to mention um of great concern was that now we're seeing um one in six children experience a major depressive uh experience and one in nine with suicide. So, just being aware as a [clears throat] um as in as as the first sometimes the first line of defense in these situations. Um, you know, how how we're able to support our our students and then and they provided a lot of of different suggestions and partnerships and and whatnot. So, I found it um although it was enlightening, it was and maybe

101started off as negative, it was just very informative to see how districts are able to access community resources and um be there for the families and these particular children that the numbers have just went up exponentially to then turn that back around. So, um I really enjoy that one. [snorts] Okay, moving on. We'll go to superintendent report. >> Um, before I jump in, >> are you bringing us refills? >> No, I'm just going to grab um before I jump into my midyear review, I did um just want to give you guys a little bit of information on the school calendar. um the last few years we have brought it for information in December so that we can get it approved pretty early for families to plan for the following school year travel etc. And so

102um with negotiations we're a little bit delayed but um the TLC who is the group that meets to develop the calendar met uh yesterday after school and so um you guys will see a draft. I will I will share it with the board as a whole but I was hoping that um you would be ready for action in January. Um, so I just wanted to give you just a snippet of uh what we agreed upon yesterday. So what you're going to see in the calendar is um a kind of a reset uh from the construction calendars. So you'll see us moving back the start date slowly. Um so it's definitely not going to be as late as it was this last year and not as late as the year prior. So, we're are looking at

103a start date of like August 19th for students, which again is not as early as we had been, but again, just slowly moving it back. So, you'll see that. And then you'll also see um a re a reset of the holidays. So, you'll see some uh more of those traditional holidays coming back. Um Martin Luther King will be uh back on the calendar as a day off. Uh Columbus Day will be back on the calendar as a day off. Um, President's Day is always, uh, we've left that in February. Um, there is, um, a pre-planned day off for the November 3rd election. Um, we are not mandated to be out of school, but basically North Cook, ISBE, everyone is recommending that we plan to be off in case Governor Pritsker decides at the last minute

104that we cannot be in school. So, we have pre-planned proactively for that. Um, both high school districts are also planned to be off on that day. So, um, so instead of making last minute pivot. We just all agreed to put it in. So, um, so again, you'll see more of a traditional quote unquote normal calendar come to you. Um, but please after I share that, ask any questions. Um, just want you to feel comfortable for an action in January. >> Quick question. You have two yellow dates. November 2nd, Thursday, April 22nd. >> Those are conferences. Those are >> conferences nonattended days for students >> for students. >> Yeah. >> But they count as student attendance days if you want to talk more about that. No, >> they do. I mean, [snorts] >> is my kid

105going to school? >> No. >> Yeah. Yeah. >> I I will throw in about the election day that I get it, but we now have so many opportunities to early vote now. Um, well, it's a Tuesday, which means we're back in school on a Monday and off No, off Sunday. >> Well, we plan to have conferences on that Monday. >> Okay. I was going to say >> it was a little bit less um cumbersome. Um >> Well, it's just there's a temptation there for anybody to take a long weekend. >> So, anytime there's that kind of setup is >> Yeah. Yeah. Setting us up for >> Yeah. >> I think um we were fearful that the governor would mandate us not being in school and calling it a holiday. I think he did that a

106few years ago or maybe that was just the general election, but um so it it really works timing wise is a nice piggyback to have conversation. >> I'm sure you you'll figure out what to do. Ironically though, it kind of makes it harder for everybody else to vote, but like everybody can vote early. So, it's like I mean we all kind of need to throw that one on the table and figure out >> like are we going to do it or not? You know, be off that day or not. But I totally understand. >> Any reason to do it slowly kind of getting back to our previous calendar pace? >> Um I I don't know. I think we just thought that a three-w weekek shift moving back really actually almost four weeks back to mid

107August would be a bit of a shock. So, still getting out a week later. >> I mean, we're still getting out the 28th of May, which >> No, I mean, but this year ends like the first week of June and then you would be like start August 11th or that's a very close. Yeah, >> I think we're I think we're also um I don't know, we didn't really talk in detail, but I feel like I've gotten a lot of feedback from parents that really like the late start. And so I think this might be a good experiment to see like what is too early for us and what is not too early for us. I think um getting out a week before Memorial Day, you know, start date, determination, end date is a really early

108uh thing to get out. Um so, >> and I've obviously been corrupted here because now I think about the teachers, not just myself, they aren't. So, the teachers do need that some spacing to have some time off during the year, much to the parent, but you know, there's that balance. >> Yeah. And yeah, so okay, so now jumping into my midyear update. Um, I know that I frequently tell you guys that I welcome feedback anytime, but this is always a good time to pause and reflect and talk about how things are going and give you really an open door for feedback and to make your progress. So, um, couple of the things I'm referencing are the rubric. So, when you do my evaluation, you will look at a rubric with some goal areas and then

109specific goals. So, um, I have three goals and I'll talk specifically about those and then four different domains and competencies that come from the refrain because we've seen this already. I love when I see it still from the schools. Um, you know, core belief for everybody is just having that alignment and making sure that our work is all supporting each other. So, um, you will see that as I go through actually there's a lot of repetition I feel like of things that have already been said either from Karen um or even Janine had mentioned something earlier from negotiations that um that I am going to reference also in my update. So, um, So this image starting at the top um of course I've aligned my goals and competencies with the objectives and our strategic plan.

110So you'll notice that business and finance appears twice once in the collaboration domain and again in systems and communication. So there are two different competencies that for me fall under two separate pieces of the strategic objective. So I'm going to talk to them separately. So, in terms of collaboration, this is probably the biggest area that I'll talk most about. Um, partly because I I believe so much in it, but um I feel like it's the core to a lot of the work that we do and that I do in the district. So, the one focus area under business and finance is budget development and maintenance. And so clearly much of that is Ryan's Ryan's job and his responsibility. But um this is where this collaboration for me comes in. Each spring we meet with administrators.

111We review their building budgets. We review their requests and we do that as a team. So one of my most significant roles in that process is really working with Ryan on reoccurring costs or large new costs. Now, reoccurring costs are those that are going to compound each year [cough] and that we'll see uh coming back um every year. And so staffing is probably the best primary example of this reoccurring cost. And so that's where my work involves really [clears throat] monitoring those staffing levels and the class sizes. So this year, as you guys know, we closely watch two grade levels and we needed to make sure like whether additional staff would be necessary. And it's never easy to say no to principles or to staff members when they [snorts] want additional resources. But that's where

112like I feel like the tough part of of my job and Ryan's really good about this too is um listening and being very thoughtful. And so again, the work collaborative. I approach those decisions with re like with caution. Um I want to make sure that I'm listening. I want to make sure that I'm balancing the different perspectives. And so um that's where I feel like a big part of that budget development, that maintenance is is on my shoulders. And so when you guys saw the staffing report this year, uh specifically we were watching kindergarten if you remember and fourth grade Uklid. So um easy to say like yes. two more teachers, right? So, two teachers on the low end over five years, that's $750,000. And so, like that reoccurring cost, that's staffing and benefits is

113one of our biggest costs. And I I want teachers to have the resources. I just want to make sure that we're being thoughtful about it. And so, um so I thought [snorts] that uh that number, I mean, that's a big number. And so, um, that's kind of where my oversight with the budget development and maintenance comes in. [snorts] Um, looking at goal number three, I'm sorry that's three first and not number one, but that's the number in order on my contract. Um, is contract negotiations. So, in my goal, I have some key outcomes. So one is wrapping it up by May and I hope that it's done before that but um that was one of my outcomes supporting a process that is grounded in shared interests, mutual respect and obviously a legal um being legal

114compliance. Um, additional expectations really include aligning our interests with the district's long-term and short-term goals and making sure that I've gathered stakeholder input prior to negotiations starting. Um, and then operating within the district budget to make sure that we have long-term financial stability. And so those are the pieces that are um, in my contract. I have uh quite a few different um um different quantitative and qualitative [snorts] um factors. So qualitatively I would say that um as Janine talked about the level of discussion the questions and the dialogue that is happening between and among the teams has been super positive. Um I think both sides aren't afraid to ask for more detail. um they're not afraid to ask tough just curious questions and sometimes those can come across as being like I don't know like

115not nice kinds of questions but um the willingness of both sides to explain and to elaborate has been I think um just very very good to the process. So that has been one great key outcome. Um, two, Bob and I have done a lot of work in the background. And so the progress um that we have been able to make um sending that information to the teams to preview and then previewing that with the teams, we've made a ton of progress there. Janine had mentioned um the number of TAs um is really more like at 25 and some of them it's okay like some of them are multiaceted. So there are multiple TAs within a TA and so um making a lot of good progress there. Um we are creating agendas before every meeting. We

116are sticking to the agenda and we're getting through the agendas. Sometimes they seem a little bit too long like are we actually going to get through this? But but we have and so um looking ahead the um the timelines like I have timelines in my own mind that I'm keeping like in just try to keep myself on track but I think you know we're going to start to get into some comp compensation and some more financial things which again goes along with the timeline of really moving through the the process. So, um, we are we're doing a really, I think, efficient job of tackling a lot of work in a short period of time. Okay, moving on to community. So, those key indicators are really looking at relationship with the board, looking at community relations,

117and looking at staff relationships. And so, you know, my relationship with the board, like the indicator there is transparency of information and getting you guys information. And so, um, you know, my relationship, I think, is rooted in open communication and just consistently sharing information. So, mo most often you get that via board meeting or my regular updates. Um, each year I work at trying to vary the cabinet presentation so you're not just getting the same thing every year. Um, I want you all to have a clear understanding of our progress and our priorities. And so I hope that working with the buildings in their presentations are is telling that story for you. Um you've seen the assistant principles now join in on the presentation and um give a little bit and we've given a little

118bit different approach to our fall data with the realignment and the rearmoring and again just trying to build that understanding as we move through the school year. In terms of community relations, I feel like we're working to expand our outreach taking brewing with the board on the road in the community. Our first one being at the Mount Prospect Library. I feel like we have had good connections through the strategic planning process um with community members responding to the survey, community members um wanting to partake in the focus group. So that has been very um I promising. We have regular press releases and our community newsletter um helps us make sure that we're continue to be visible, accessible, and transparent to the community. We've uh tried to continue to refresh the buildings and make sure our

119branding is on point with the mascots on the outside of the buildings. Um not going overboard, but just trying to sprinkle some refresh in here and there. And then um you know I feel like we have done like as a board your community engagement like bingo like some of those things have gotten to be really great. Um the serving freeze pops at the uh waffon and so I I feel like that has strengthened um those relationships with the staff and the the students. So my relationships with staff are always ongoing. I work to make those intentional. I try to make it a priority to be present at school events and in the buildings throughout the year, asking staff about their families and having more personal conversations and always professional. Um, another key area of focus

120this year is personnel matters, but basically Ryan and I kind of work on those together with HR and um, you know, each year I find myself learning new new personnel type issue matters and so I like the variety and I like learning new things every year. So that's kind of community there in a nutshell. Moving on to curriculum, that's my my biggest my first goal is student growth and monitoring student growth. So for that, we've we've always have the goal of 65% of students meeting growth goals in reading and math. Like that has been our strategic plan goal from five years ago and that is the target that we're all working towards. So you kind of heard Karen talk about that. Um last year three out of our four buildings met our ambitious growth goal

121in math and one building achieved the goal in language arts reading. So you know we set that challenging bar several years ago and we've been making consistent progress ever since. I feel like the math scores were some of the highest that we had had ever seen. And so of course you're hearing the buildings talk about discourse and the focus on literacy and obviously that makes sense with our growth and where we're going. I feel like um I am fortunate to work in a district where I can focus on curriculum and instruction and not just operations. A lot of superintendents only focus on operations and so I appreciate that I can really spend time on student growth and instruction. So I feel like from my chair, my main responsibility when it comes to this is making

122sure we have a good vision, vision alignment, we're optimizing our resources, and that there's accountability. And so I think, you know, like I would celebrate our alignment as one of the best things that we have going for us right now. Um, our collective e efficacy of our administrative team and the alignment. Um we are not just unified in purpose but like we are unified in action. Um the principles are learning from each other. Um we continuously make each other better. Kind of like what you were talking about your relationship with each other on the board. Um we have the same dynamic going on. And so I feel like that's one of our most powerful assets right now that um our team alignment is ensuring that our resources, our decisions and our accountability flows directly towards

123maximizing this student growth. And so I'm really proud of that. Um and it's, you know, I think again one of the best assets we have. I feel like we have very clear targets. Alignment is visible. Like you heard it tonight, you've seen the triangle. You hear the strategic plan being referenced in the presentations. You hear it in the discussions. You see connections across the district. Every building principal and assistant principal is fully aware of that growth criteria. They reference it with their building leadership teams. They reference it with their staff. So our targets are very clear. Our communication is super clear and we're constantly communicating these targets. So in terms of resources and optimizing those, I feel like that's a cabinet approach. And so the cabinet really works very closely on optimizing the resources from

124curriculum to staffing to time. Time is one of our biggest resources. We share that among the team and we make sure that those resources are aligned again to the district's strategic plan. Um and we also share accountability. And so from my 50,000 foot I feel like it's my responsibility to have a system for obtaining the information um for making sure that I'm in the buildings [snorts] to see how these plans that the principles are talking about are playing out. I need to see the professional development on Thursday. I need to be present in the classrooms to see how the pilots are rolling out. And so I need to make sure that I have a system for obtaining that information. um and a system for giving my team feedback. And so I spend time and I

125make sure that I vary my approach that I'm in the buildings and that I'm working closely with principles and my cabinet to keep keep up to date with the things that are happening. The cabinet view is more of that like 20,000 foot view and they own the accountability within their specific domains in their different departments. And so they also share the responsibility of giving feedback of monitoring the delivery of their goals and their work inside their departments. Um this year I've integrated another layer of feedback into evaluations. Last year, I asked Carrie to join in on the principles to do the assistant principal evaluations. One, so that the assistant principal was getting multiple forms of feedback for their review, but two, their work is not just siloed in a building. It's also districtwide. So Carrie's

126feedback can provide that systemic view in terms of what's what's happening in the buildings and the buildings can give a little bit more focused um internal view. So this year I've asked Christie to join me in the principal evaluations for really the same reason like one I've given you feedback for the last four years. I want to make sure that you are getting varied feedback and from different lenses from from also different people who have different strengths and so I don't pretend to know everything and I think adding that layer is also a valuable way to give them feedback that's not just coming from me. And then moving on to systems and communication again business and finance comes up here again more systemically and that's really with um [snorts] the piece with facility priorities. And

127so, um, yes, we've completed Indian Grove, we've completed Uclid, but there is also long-term infrastructure planning for the middle school and continued maintenance in the district. So, this year, um, my goal is to return to the board in early spring, um, partnering with Brian and with Dan to really give you all, uh, more details with unfinished facility products. unfinished facility projects from the buildings who that have been renovated and a timeline and um key dates lifespans of things at the middle school with priorities attached. And so this is more of a systems um piece, but infrastructure is um still and will be on my radar as far as planning for the future to help guide our next steps. Um, strategic planning goal number two. I gave a little bit more of a detailed update last

128month, so I'm not going to rehash that, but some of my specific goals set for the development. So, my my hope is to give you guys a rough road map by the end of February, like where are we headed? Um, an adoption of the new strategic [clears throat] plan by the end of May. And then as part of the strategic plan, I also want some sort of monitoring dashboard metrics, something to go along with the plan that can be visible. So I'd like that in place by the end of June. So um I set some aggressive targets for community engagement for the number of surveys and I saw um some strong participation. I didn't meet all of the goals that I set for the numbers, but um was still happy with some of the targets

129overall. So, like I wanted 100 community members for the survey. I got 94. So close. Um 984 survey responses in total. I think I had mentioned this maybe a couple months ago. Um but I was really hoping to get 50 former students and that's just, you know, that's just me coming up with numbers and only got 11. Um, but I think that was the hardest group um to target and that was just had never done it before and uh just didn't anticipate trying to [clears throat] get students uh former students would be that difficult. So um really pleased that we've had a strong interest in focus groups. 21 parents expressed interest in participating. Nine community members and 17 staff members. So um we've completed three rounds of parent focus groups and um the feedback that

130I've gotten from the administrators leading that has been very positive and then one round of staff focus groups so far which is being facilitated by our third a third party partner so that there's not an administrator facilitating those that they can um feel like they can speak freely and um openly without um you know any repercussions. So, I'm excited to continue through that piece of it. Um, looking ahead, I mean, this year focused on contract negotiations in strategic planning. I feel like I'm spending more time in my office and um at my desk or in meetings than I'm normally comfortable with. But, um, so that's just like me. That's okay. Um, I I do the best part of my days are being out with the kids and being in the buildings and being with staff,

131but I know like these are two big projects obviously that uh I'm taking on and have taken on for the first time. Like I have not done contract negotiations here. So, I didn't know what to expect as the year went on or as when the year started and I knew that I didn't want to uh invest in a third party to do our strategic planning. I knew I wanted to do that myself and I'm happy that I that you know myself and the admin team have taken it on because I feel like we have really learned a lot through the process. Um but it does you know takes more more desk time than I'd like. So, um That's kind of where things are at. Um, thank you. And I, you know, specifically added some thank

132yous, you know, again, uh, for my admin team and those facilitating the focus groups, the surveys, the student surveys, um, the board members that have been a part of the um, negotiations, the uh, strategic planning. Again, like it's just more um, and things are busy. So, thank you to you guys for devoting the additional time to connecting with the community, to working through negotiations. I think um the efforts are moving the needle. I feel like we're making really good progress in all of the areas. And you know, again, then the thank you to Stephanie. um a lot of a lot of strategic planning posts and postcards and posters and QR codes just you know a a lot of things that are in addition to everything else. Sorry, a lot of talking. Um I will pause.

133Any questions, feedback, comments? [clears throat] Thank you. I think this is great. I know we have to to review soon, right? >> A couple months >> due in March, which is almost. That's how I feel though. So, it was good to have this review and like as we're writing and reminders. I know you always give great evidence to the portal. Um, so yeah, my question was just what what is the timeline for the review and like I to know now, but I think in the past you sent out some dates because we have to have a separate meeting and um I just want to make sure that I have it on. >> Yeah, I believe usually you guys have met as another meeting in February. Last year I think it was like February 18th, which

134I just doesn't feel that far away to me. So, we can work on getting get starting to coordinate that for sure. Any other questions? >> I had a question. Um, you touched on it pretty thoroughly already on uh what you are setting for goals and measurements of your success for the contract negotiations, but is that going to be clearly outlined for us in the review so we can know ahead of time and identify like yes, our interpretation this was successful based on what you defined for yourself? Yeah, [clears throat] I mean um in the goal it's it outlines mutual respect [cough] and legal compliance and just a process that's grounded in that. So that's not >> Yeah, you did say that already. So >> So that is written in the goal as a key outcome.

135>> Um aligning interests with the district's long and short-term goals. And again, these are written more on the, you know, on the front end. And so, um, making sure that I had stakeholder input and operating within the district's budget. So, those are like the four key components. You know, now that I'm into it, I feel like I've got better a little bit better data. So, like in terms of this process grounded in trust, I mean, I I talked a little bit about just being able to ask questions, deeper questions. So, I feel like that is an outcome of that. But when we agree or ta something I feel like it has gone like one session and then we're back at it and we're making a decision on it. So we are either saying like hey

136we're tableabling this or we're making a decision or we're coming with a counter proposal. So like that progress every meeting is a little bit of data. I mean, so I will add some of that evidence to um my portfolio upload, but >> with those successes, it's not you have to keep coming back to the same topic over and over able to advance. >> Yeah, for sure. Otherwise, we'd still be rolling and Yeah. Yeah. Um and I think, you know, like the the piece I referenced about just Bob and I doing some of the background work. Um, I mean, we're just stabbing at language and the team has felt like they can edit that in front of everybody and and it's like great, thank you for providing additional feedback. Um, and then they trust they're good

137with us doing that. So, I feel like there's some good pieces of evidence. Um, >> so I'll include some of that. >> Any other questions? I just want to comment on you spoke a lot about alignment and uh when I was first appointed to the board nineish years ago it seemed like we had four well only three at the time silos and they were schools and somehow we made a district and that's my expectations to get more aligned and to have more collaboration. You've blown my expectations out of the water and uh and I I can't thank you enough for it. And I I always figure there's times where we get to a point where it's like, okay, well, that's as good as it's going to get. And and I don't mean that negatively, but

138you then exceed those expectations. So, I I can't thank you enough. This is a great update. I appreciate it. >> Got the team on the bus all in the right seats. We're all driving and going in the same direction. >> I think what you're saying though is we got to figure out a way to move the goal post on her. [laughter] >> Could be. Could be. Absolutely. >> I like a good game. >> I don't think she'd be afraid of it. >> Yeah, >> which I like too. [clears throat] >> Anybody else? >> Okay. Thank you so much. Next up, our communications to the board. We did not receive any emails, so we'll move on from that. Next up is future topics. Does anyone have any topics for us to consider? >> Okay. Well, nobody's

139saying anything, so >> I guess I'll I'll throw it out there. Um, I was wondering, um, if anyone would want to take a stab at the pros and the cons of posting a sign on signs on all of our properties. uh that is similar to the district 21 sign that says uh ICE cannot use our property for their staging areas and stuff like that. So I sent a picture to everybody of what I'd seen on District 21 property and I'm curious if anyone would like to um talk about that. Not tonight. Tonight is just yes or no you would like to into it and direct the administration to get the pros and the cons of doing something like that. >> Okay, let's uh let's take a strong poll. Uh just go down the board or

140we can anyone can jump in on their own. I'm obviously for it. >> Okay. I I would be for it, too. And also, the governor passed a law today, HB 1312, that I perused. I I can't tell if it applies to school districts or something college to state schools, but I think kind of wrapped into that would be looking into that as well. >> Anybody else? >> Yes. Yeah. I mean, yeah, if I'm looking into it, I'm like I I would also like to know more about the I was reading about the bill that passed very well signed. >> So that's >> more than the four that's needed. Uh so our direction to the administration is uh just to balance that statement against what the bill was today that was signed or >> that would

141be part of it. And then What would we if if the bill has nothing to do with that then what are the pros and cons of us heading down that path and how did 21 do [clears throat] you have questions or >> okay >> just to comment on the 1312 that primarily came from the incident that happened at an early morning facility >> so um it was dealing more and again I'm not I'm not the full expert on it but Um where 1312 was going was for social services, community agencies such as early childhood agencies um and their ability to to provide personal information and how they now have to collect how they have to collect information differently. Um so I don't know, you know, again, it doesn't necessarily affect the school district response to

142ICE. This was more for community based social services, uh, early childhood education, those types of things. Um, but leaning on it for some kind of guidance might be helpful as well. >> Well, I just again and I'm not an expert on the bill. is extremely extensive. Just what was discussed as far as its ability to be enforced was still in question from both um operating as an independent agency and federal precedence over state president. So just again looking at it from the standpoint of how it could apply to us would be you know a great that's quite an endeavor that both quite lengthy >> yes by attorneys. >> Yeah. >> Sure. >> Okay. Any other topics to discuss? >> Okay. Uh this being our last uh school board meeting of the calendar year, um just

143want to wish everyone a a merry Christmas. Uh happy Quanza, happy Hanukkah, whatever it is you celebrate. I hope everybody has festiviveness. Uh I hope everybody to spend some quality time with family, unplug, take a breather, and uh get ready for 2026. So >> guess what we have? >> not on camera. So with that, let me entertain a motion and a second to adjourn at 9:14. >> Second and >> Ronson, >> yes. >> Mr. >> Yes. >> Keiny, >> yes. >> Grimpy, >> Yes. And Johnson, >> yes. >> We are. >> Great. Thank you.