001Yeah. like I ordered. Thank you. I think it's all Good evening everyone and welcome to the district 230 school board meeting on March 19th, 2026. It is 7 o'clock. Lisa, could you please take the role? >> Member Chambber, >> member Kelly >> here. >> Member >> here. >> Member Sarah. Member Dalton >> here. All right. Please rise for the pledge. >> I pledge allegiance 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. >> All right. Next, we have our superintendent's opening remarks. >> All right, good evening. I don't have a ton to say since we've only been uh 15 days since our last board meeting, 13 school days. So, not a lot has uh has happened,
002but uh we are uh officially on spring break in district 230. So, our kids uh uh I'm sure reluctantly left the buildings today at 1 p.m. and and will not come back until a week from except for clearly all the softball players, lacrosse players, band, and everybody else. um >> wrestling >> and wrestling and all sorts of things going on. But uh very proud of the efforts um in this past couple of weeks um with uh with what our schools are doing to get prepared for what is very often uh a sprint to the end after we get back from break, including uh within the week that we get back our our ACT test. So, I know our schools are really bustling with getting kids prepared, both uh uh emotionally prepared and academically prepared as
003well. Uh, and the only thing I'll say is I'm a little bit bitter tonight because the biggest upset of the W of the uh, basketball tournament is my alma mater. So, uh, I'm a little unhappy tonight, but I I will hope that the what somebody referred to my tuition paying alma mater where my son's going wins tonight. So, at least I have some win today. But other than that, >> Wisconsin is no longer my favorite school. So, there you go. >> All right. Do we have any any amendments to the agenda? >> No, we do not. >> All right. At this time, we do need a motion. We need a secretary prom. I make a motion that member Casmir is our secretary prompt tonight. >> Second question. >> All right, Lisa, you can take the
004role. >> Kelly, >> yes. >> Abstain. >> Yes. All right. Thank you so much. Next we have our school board student representatives. Good evening. In the weeks that approach spring break, the VJ students and staff have continued to work hard to achieve success throughout our building. Our remarkable T-Bolts have consistently challenged themselves this month to better our community and individual characters. Specifically this month, our BGA family raised over $35,000 for the Illinois Special Olympics. This remarkable accomplishment was achieved in multiple ways, with the most popular being students and staff plunging after school on March 11th. From wearing costumes to cannonballing, the VGA community came together to freeze for a reason in 34 degrees. Additionally, to raise funds, the student led jazz group, Queso, held an after-school concert to fund raise. Performing songs in the Andrew
005Choir Room, all all of the proceeds from the ticket sales went directly to supporting the Illinois Special Olympics. March has also been a great month for the arts. Andrew's annual variety showcased five soldout performances in the Performing Arts Center. After months of preparation, our students took the stage with incredible talent featuring singing, dancing, and live music, making the 34th annual inter tremendous show a huge success. Our talented T-Bolts also won numerous place awards at the at Marine Valley Art Show and placed eight honorable mentions. In order to prepare the class of 2026 for success beyond high school, Andrew seniors experienced senior seminar on March 12th. First, Andrew seniors were able to receive more information regarding the finances of post-secary life with topics including credit scores, loans, and scholarships. Additionally, seniors were able to hear from
006VGA staff about their experiences with life after high school with pathways ranging from community college, the workforce, and 4-year universities. Finally, seniors heard from guidance counselors, health teachers, and our college and career center regarding the importance of maintaining healthy relationships and mental health. beyond high school. In addition, there's a lot of talk about the ACT at VJA. Preparation is well underway with students receiving support during second hour and through after school sessions to help them feel prepared for the upcoming exam. We are also proud to share that 23 of our students qualified for state through HOSA and are currently competing. We wish them the best of luck and look forward to celebrating their wins. Another highlight this month was the Arab Student Union's annual IFAR dinner during Ramadan. The event was beautifully organized and brought
007over 400 members of our community to share a meal and celebrate together. Overall, Andrew has had an exciting March and we look forward to continuing to creating more sparks and leaving our marks towards the end of the school year. Thank you. Good evening. As the spring season approaches, Samberg has been preparing for a sweet start to the end of the year activities and hopefully some warmer weather. To start off, Samberg Super fans were 2026 IHSA Student Section and Spirit Showdown finalists. The fans headed to Bloomington on March 7th to be recognized for their spirit and commitment to helping the Samberg community. This week, we completed the Come Fly with Us program for the incoming class of 2030. Students received information regarding the Samberg scorecard and student attendance while also engaging in several fun games and
008competitions. Samberg students and staff also helped with building tours for the students from Jerling Sentry and OJH. Furthermore, the teacher of the month was Mr. Physique. Student council members surprised him with pompoms as a fun act of gratitude. He is a teacher who does so much for students. Also, C-SPAN attended a conference at Berkeley where they won first place over top model UN uns throughout the nation. In the DECA competition, two students, Nidi Patel and Kushi Na finished in top 10 for their franchising business plan. Also, many Samberg students had their talented art showcase at the Marine Valley High School show. This past weekend, Samberg Music Boosters hosted the craft show. It was a busy week and exciting weekend with a large number of vendors from all over the Midwest. We appreciate their dedication to
009supporting our music program. Additionally, the Samberg Scholastic Bull is headed to IHSA State this weekend after their IHSA regional and IHSA sectional championships. Samberg competes against Bradley Bourbonet and Stevenson in the first round of competition starting on Saturday. Hosa is also competing in the state competition this weekend. At the ASUS sectional, Julia Heimler took first place in the physics category. In spring athletics, the softball team had a positive start to its season by beating Juliet West in the season opener. Also, the boys and girls track team started their seasons by competing in Bradley and Huntley, respectively. Girls soccer plays Downer's Grove South tonight and baseball hopes to start its season tomorrow against Downer's Grove South. To conclude, I would like to thank the board for the opportunity to share exciting news from Samberg. Thank you.
010>> Good evening everyone. This month has sparked at the beginning of spring, bringing the exciting events in sports, theater, music, and so much more. As spring break approaches, the Chargers have been working extremely hard and continuing to represent our school with pride. Last weekend, our business casual Chargers and a capella group had the opportunity to compete in their final competition in Lockport. This amazing program is under direction of Mr. Betts. The group is made up of many talented Charger students including several ILMA state and all state qualifiers. Mr. Betts is an amazing teacher and conductor who always motivates his students to con to pursue music their musical passions and has helped many of them qualify for IMA. Furthermore, our music program reached new heights this year. Our band students delivered an exciting performance at the
011annual D230 festival at Wheaton College. The atmosphere was amazing with Stag Samberg and Andrew students cheering one on one another while per showing off their tal musical talents. This program is under direction of Mr. Makoszie, a dedicated teacher who always pushes our Charger performers to greatness. Chargers from the uh Chargers from the art department re recently represented us at the Marine Valley High School Art Show. From 2D mix medium to 3D ceramic pieces, our students prove that Stag has so much creativity and passion within our building. I hope you all had the chance to see their work firsthanded. We continue to celebrate our chargers due lit mag. Their monthly art and writing raffle to complete with a $25 gift card prize has become a fantastic incentive for students to share their work. Let Mag allowed
012allows unlimited entries. This club has created a space where Chargers feel enlightened to express themselves with to their fullest potential. As this board meeting continues, Stag's drama program is showcasing their contest play at this very moment. These chargers are competing against schools from across the state, highlighting their acting skills and emotional death death. I strongly encourage each and one of you to experience this thriller of a of a performance yourselves. They will be performing tomorrow night. I strongly encourage you once again for you all to come at on March 27th and 28 at Andrew High School for the Midwest Color Guard Circuit. Both Stag and Andrew winter guard teams will be taking the floor. Thank you all for your support for our students and all your amazing and all their amazing compliments and have a
013nice spring break. >> Thank you. >> All right, next we have our student >> Next we have our student staff spotlight. Well, good evening everyone. Last month, Samberg and Andrew recognized their ILMEA allstate students. Due to a conflict with our winter show, which affected nearly all of our honores, we have brought them here to the board this evening for recognition. But yet again, there was a conflict because we also have contest play and a number of them are also involved in outside musical groups. Carolina will be representing all of them. No pressure. >> So, Stag's fine arts program is very busy. Um, and this evening, >> turn to your right. >> Alexi. Hey. >> Now you only have half the pressure. So stag fine arts program has very busy and this evening was no different.
014Um stag drama students are doing the contest play the insanity of Mary Gerard. Saw it very good very dark. Um but um uh so we have two of our nine ILMEA allstate students with us this evening. Uh Stag High School was represented this year by sevenmea allstate course members. one ILMEA honors chorus member and an ILMEA future music educator. Equally as important are these two gentlemen right here, Mr. Chris Betts, our choir director, and Mr. Makoszie, our band director. Um each both of them um have helped to teach, mentor, and support all of the amazing talented um individuals that you're we're recognizing this evening. So, if I could have Mr. Betts, just step and just say a little bit about um our two students here. So, Mr. Betts, I did hear that there was mention
015of the Sandberg craft show. If there's anyone in the room who was thinking to themselves, "Oh no, I missed the craft show." Don't worry, Stag has their craft show this Saturday from 9:00 to 4:00 and Sunday from 10:00 to 3. We have 180 vendors and you should all be there. Um, good evening Dr. Nolting and members of the board. Thank you for letting us be here. And um I just want to add a couple of notes that this is a record-breaking year for Stag. This is the first time we've sent nine students in one in one year. >> Two of these students returned for a second time and for the first time and as as far as I know. Uh Katon Kasin, one of the seniors is back for his third year in a row.
016He's the only senior who's ever done that. So congratulations to these two here, Alexi Fonelan and Caroline Shifa and the other seven as well. So great job. Thank you for mentioning tonight's contest play. And then um the other two uh students are also at the Youth Symphony of DuPage in case anyone was wondering. Um and then also another one is currently traveling in Barcelona, I think. Is that where Carolina is? >> You don't know. That's okay. Either way, thank you for letting us present these students and show off our wonderful talents at Stag. And thank you for your continued support. Have a good night. >> Thank you for all that you do. Congratulations. All right. So, I am going to keep going. Um, if I could have our uh DuPage Countywide Institute Day presenters please
017come forward. The DuPage Countywide uh institute day uh is a single day in-person institute of presentations, activities, and workshops centered around supporting students in PE, health, and driver's educ. ation. The goal of the event is to bring leaders together from across the state. Stag High School in District 230 was well represented at the conference this year, showcasing our staff's leadership in the field. Our staff presentation topics included enhancing behind the wheel instruction with BTW booklet, success criteria for safe driving, making learning relevant with singleoint rubrics, and ESL in driver's education. Much of their work is representative uh is a representative culmination of the lead their leadership developing a culture of collaborative inquiry within our professional learning communities at Stag High School. Um so uh recognized being recognized this evening and here we have Mr. Mike
018McMahon and Mr. Brian Smith. Um also there was Mary Katherine Swanson and Tom Lai. Um and then administrators were also presenting there. Um we have the division chair for PE health and drivers, Ed, Christina Douglas, and our EL coordinator, Amanda Melgar. And then along with >> Doug Doug Bozage also um presented with uh Christina as well. So he's a presenter even though he's from Andrew High School. So please join me in congratulating these amazing educational leaders as they represented not only Stag and Andrew but also District 230 um uh as statewide leaders. So congratulations to Good evening. Uh with Doug Bozich, our uh PE division chair, PE health drivers ed division chair. We also had a teacher, Emily Johnson, who couldn't be with us due to family situation tonight. So, I'd be remiss if we
019didn't recognize her as well for presenting with Doug at the state conference. So, congratulations to Doug as well as Emily at the conference. Thank you so much. and her topic. >> Yep. Uh Emily presented on uh classroom learning instructional strategies uh to make learning not only relevant uh from the teacher clarity standpoint but also highly engaged um and outside the box type lessons um and it was very well attended um as as well as all the other sessions from the stack teacher. So >> thank you. Congratulations you Thank you. Um, moving us uh forward, I would also now like to uh move us into the academic realm uh with our national merit finalists. As you know, the National Merit program identifies students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability, strong character, and commitment to excellence. Fewer than
0201% of high school seniors nationwide achieve this level of recognition. Tonight, I'd like to read Come on, guys. Uh tonight uh we have two students from Andrew High School who are receiving this outstanding academic achievement. Hunter Bole and Ashton Zaf both who are familiar faces to you with the perfect 36 ACT scores that you recognize in August. Congratulations to both our T- bowls with the national merit finalist status. Congratulations. >> Great job. It's busy busy out there. Uh we had two Sambergians who were unable to attend uh for recognition for uh national merits scholarship qualifying test finalist status. Uh these guys are like on the banquet tour. I see them in the halls. I'm like I got to go to this. I got to go to this. But uh happy to recognize Mahir Pradhan and
021Neil Patel for also early finalist status. So give them a round of applause. ALL RIGHT, coming right back. Dr. Smith, we're on for uh we have some wrestling recognitions that we wanted to um get together. I have with me Coach Elizabeth Short, come on up. Samberg wrestler, come on up with Dr. Smith. We'll bring up the Andrew wrestlers. Come on up, Jade. >> We're doing a lot of combining tonight. It's a wonderful evening to combine together. >> Go ahead, Dr. Smith. >> It's March board meeting, which usually means we got some wrestling recognitions here uh in District 230. So, a long history of great wrestling accomplishments uh at all of our D230 schools, but uh Sam as well. and happy to recognize uh Brady Ritter for finishing in fifth place at 157 pounds in the
022IHSA uh state competition. Uh Brady's uh went down state last year. Uh grinded it out this year, finished play fifth place all state with a medal and uh he's coming back next year for for a senior season. So got got his eye on maybe even standing on the taller steps on that on that podium down there in Champagne. So round of applause for Brady. All right. With me tonight is coach Elizabeth Short for our uh women's wrestling program. Uh I'll our uh boys wrestling uh coach unfortunately had a situation um out of his control this evening. He was hoping to be here. Um so coach Short is going to represent and share what Mr. which coach Kowaltic had for Nadim. He had like just a little short script he wanted to to share tonight. All
023right, here you go. >> We're going to abandon the speeches and you guys will just rest. My money is on Jade, but that's just me. I'm biased. Um, so I am proud to introduce Nadim Haleem, a man who represents the very best of Andrew High School. Nadem is a fourtime state qualifier and two-time all-state wrestler, but those titles only tell part of the story. He is kind, a relentless worker and and a natural leader. From the first time he pulled on the Thunderbolt singlet, he has been an electric factory. He thrives in the spotlight and excels in the chaos. The best way to describe this is if you find a way to score 22 points, Dino will find a way to score 23. What truly separates Dino is his force is his fierce competitive spirit.
024We saw this clearly during the state quarterfinals this year. Deep into a highly contested match, he began limping in the third period. Uhoh. Most would have folded, but as he has done 135 times in his career, he simply found a way. He pushed the match into overtime and secured the win, clenching his second All-State honor through pure determination. The Thunderbolt wrestling program is in a significantly better place today than it was four years ago, and that is a direct result of Dino's leadership. On behalf of the coaching staff in Andrew High School, thank you, Dino, for everything you have given this sport. There you go. All right, on to Jade. Um, Jade Hart. Yay, Jade. Um, so tonight we're recognizing something special. Jade Hardy. She secured a fifth place finish at the IHSA state tournament
025at 110 pounds. This makes her a twotime state placer just as a sophomore. Last year she stood on the podium finishing third at a hundred. This year she came back, battled through one of the toughest brackets in the state and proved again she belongs among the best. But what makes Jade different isn't just the medals. It's the consistency, the toughness, and the love of the sport and the way she shows up every single day ready to work. In just two seasons, Jade has built a 85 and14 record. And that includes we've been to national tournaments, we've been to Iron Man, um, state tournaments. Um, and every one of those wins reflects her discipline, coachability, and her belief in the process. She competes with confidence, leads by examples, and is raising the standard for what D230
026girls wrestling look looks like. And the scary part is she's just getting started cuz she's a sophomore. Um, so Jade, we're very proud of you. We believe in you and we can't wait to see what is next. So congrats. And here's your thing. Thank you. Congratulations to Brady from Samberg, Nadem who's graduating, Dino from Andrew, as well as Jade returning next year as well. Congratulations to all our wrestlers. Hello, me again. Uh, happy to recognize uh, an outstanding Samberg senior uh, for earning what is probably the highest honor that a student athlete in the state of Illinois can earn. Megan Donald was named to the IHSA Allstate academic team. So, round of APPLAUSE FOR MEGAN. MEGAN'S DONE GREAT THINGS within our uh swim program, our water polo program, all state level competitor, all state level
027recognition uh before school and after school uh but during school as well. Uh just is the most exemplary of exemplary students uh earning the highest level of grades in the most rigorous sequence of courses. I think her GPA is pushing 5.0 so it's in the 49s. Uh truly impressive. Uh, but the leadership with Megan is palpable. I work out in the fitness center at Samberg every day before school and sometimes the swim team is in there getting a little bit of their workout in in the fitness center as well. And just by seeing Megan sort of interact, lead uh her teammates is truly inspiring. You get a sense of what she does um in connecting with with her peers and connecting with their fellow athletes here at Sandberg. I think she's uh if you've been
028to a swim meet, they kind of do a cheer ahead of time and there's like a eagleish type noise. I won't do that. That comes from uh from the team right before for a meet and I I think Megan's kind of done that. But com combining hard work, dedication, and a little bit of fun and connectivity uh is something that she does and uh that's why she's earned her status on IHSA all state academic team. So once again, round of applause for Megan also a new athletic award that came to our state this year. It's my pleasure to um to introduce tonight a new senior recognition award. This is from the Illinois Athletic Directors Association. It's called the IADA Academic Allstate Recognition. This is just for a select group of seniors statewide who exemplify both
029excellence in the classroom as well as in athletic competitions. Kaden Wolf, we I'm honored to recognize him tonight. Um, Kaden is not only a star in track as well as cross country, but he's top in his class here at Andrew High School, giving the very best of what a student athlete is through the balance of rigorous coursework, athletic performance, and his leadership in our co-curricular speaks volumes about his character and his determination. Uh, Kaden's hoping to run cross country at Depal University and he's a future pipeline special ed teacher. So congratulations to Kaden Wolf. We are super proud. He is our only male IA I AA recognition for our southwest suburban area. Congratulations. We're moving to the fine arts. Our next recognition is the Scholastic Arts Awards. Um, I am honored to present to you
030tonight. It's my pleasure to present to you our prestigious award. The Scholastic Art Award recognizes uh the talent of students, their skill, the ability to communicate ideas through virtual arts as well as each recognition highlights the significance of their accomplishment. Uh we are delighted to have with us Dr. Doug as well as Miss Carrie Citz. Come on, where are you my art people? Ma, I'm doing all the talking and no one's standing and no one's highlighting. Right. I'm going to introduce Miss Carrie Cites, our art teacher, who is going to share about the Scholastic Art Award. Come on over. Hi, good evening. Um, this is a regional award. Um the winners actually are then forwarded on to a national award which we have had national award winners in the past. This year um we had
031two students win a regional award. Um Ma Leech is one of them for um one of her pieces that you will see in the video. We also had another student Ally who couldn't be here tonight. She also won a regional award for Scholastic Art. So it's a very prestigious award. goes back to Andy Warhol a very long time ago. So, um it's quite a recognition. We're very proud of them. Um excellent students. >> Thank you. >> Well, the uh Samberg Scholastic Art Recognition uh winners come on up. Come on up. So uh first happy to be joined by uh one of our outstanding art teachers at Samberg, Mr. Wes Gonzalez, who does a lot of great work with these students in multiple artistic modalities and forms. Uh so happy to have uh Mr. Gonzalez here
032tonight, but also happy to recognize um our students who kind of earn those recognitions. So, first is uh Olivia Pivvarek who earned silver key status for her uh art in the scholastic competition. Also Amelia Stapansky who earned honorable mention. Um and then also Sophia Norena who's here who also earned honorable mention. And unable to be here this evening was Lena Sabahi who earned a silver key. So round of applause for these Samberg artists. We're good. Thank you. >> Okay. I wasn't sure. >> Thank you for the continued um achievements of our staff. They or and students. their students couldn't do it without our staff and you continue to surpass anything that you do and everything you do. So, we are blessed. Thank you. And it is the official start of spring break, so we will
033not be offended and strongly encourage you to get up and leave if you so desire. >> Should I cut them for curriculum? Probably too late now, but >> it started spring break. I was trying to be >> Are you on spring? >> Not next week, the week after. >> All right, Dr. Huffman, our curriculum spotlight. Sorry, I should have waited till yours was over. Uh, good evening. I'd like to invite back up uh Miss Carrie Cites and Ma if she hasn't left yet. All right. Um, to showcase the district 230 and especially the Andrew art curriculum. Our art curriculum really transcends technical skills, empowering students to transition from basic aesthetics to expressing their unique personal identities. By showcasing our students work in our hallways, local galleries, and regional competitions, we really bridge the gap between
034the classroom and the community. Tonight's video highlights how VJA art experiences prepare our students for diverse futures. Whether winning a jured show or mastering a difficult medium, our students are learning that their perspective has an immense value in our world. >> It's an area that our students put a lot of time, a lot of effort in. Our teachers do a wonderful job in terms of getting kids to express themselves. It builds confidence for students and it gives them that opportunity just to kind of express themselves that maybe they can't in other classes. >> I just love the way I've been able to be creative when it comes to some of my artworks and it really allows me to express some of the things that mean most to me in life such as my faith and
035my family. >> Even if you're not like fully into art, it's still like fun. You still get to use your creative juices and get those flowing. It's great just to have a place to go where you don't have to have a constant pressure and it allows you to kind of experiment and try different things and see what you like. >> One of the best things that I see that the teachers do is they don't tell students what they should do. They ask them those guiding questions to help kids think about what they're doing and make very conscientious decisions >> rather than giving them um step-by-step formulas. um they are presented with failing and problems to be solved. Failing is a part of the process in part. So I actually like when my students fail because
036it gives them the opportunity to learn from the mistakes that they made when I'm demoing or working with students. I'm throwing out suggestions and I tell them, "I may not know the answer, but let's figure it out together." It allows you to like really open your mind to a bunch of stuff and really get creative with practically anything you want. >> It's a great thing to do that you could kind of just take a break in the middle of the day, just relax and be yourself. The community is also really great. Like everyone within our class is super creative and fun. When we're reflecting and even in critique, students are sharing different ideas amongst each other. in class we discuss so many ideas and so getting to like discuss that with somebody it's just a
037great feeling. >> Well, we've had a long-standing tradition at Andrew to make sure that the students work gets out into the community just because um they're putting so much time and so much effort. Um and it's an opportunity for the community to see the things that we're that we're doing here. >> When student work is out in the public, it um provides students with a voice. It um tells us who they are. >> When my art's on um display, it's really cool. I love hearing like the feedback from people to see how like outsiders perceive my art. >> And we've added over the years different types of art competitions to make sure that it's not only viewed nationally, but also globally >> out in the community. It's displayed in local galleries, regional art competitions, national
038art competitions. Last year I got two honorable mentions for um a few of my advanced drawing drawings. >> Last year at the Samberg art show I got first place for ceramics and I've been to the Governor State Show every single year so far. That's been awesome. It's important that we get our work out in the public. We want to create a relationship between the classroom and the community. Um, so we find that it's important that these students who worked really hard and put a lot of effort into the work get your work done. >> I walked in thinking I was not going to win anything and they just appeared with this new new award that no one's heard of and I just got the the visionary award. So I I really like that they liked
039that I was very creative. >> I think um displaying artwork in the community gives students confidence. confidence in who they are, that their work is is good to show to people and to um tell their story, to see joy and beauty in the world, and to um be safe and able to express themselves and who they are. I just love to see students involved in the art program. I love connecting with the community and filling off our amazing artwork because they really do put in so much effort and creativity and time into the pieces of work that I do. Encouraging anything is possible as long as they can put into effort. I really like um making people happy through my art makes me happy that other people are happy when they look by like like
040the colors and all the um creativity that goes into it. The story behind it too. One of the coolest things that I see during the school year is sitting at uh the art show and having students bringing their parents, their grandparents, their little brothers, their aunts and showing them their artwork and just seeing the the look on their faces and then also seeing the the look of pride on the students face of I did that. I made that. It's stuff I used to put on my refrigerator. >> You should definitely take an art bus. If you're watching this, you should take it real quick. >> Thank you. >> I have a I usually have a question or two. Um, what is your favorite medium and are you going to pursue art do you think in
041college postsecary? >> My favorite medium is 3D or ceramics. I like working with a 3D portfolio a lot. Um, and then I don't think I'm going to go into art in college. I hope to take it as like a minor or something, but it's most likely not going to be my major. >> Well, you definitely have a talent, so thank you for sharing. >> Thank you. >> Does anybody else have any questions? >> Thank you for all that you do. >> Right. Next, we have committee reports. Mr. Member Kelly, >> you know what? We didn't have a meeting. >> They didn't have snow. Okay. All right. >> Education. education. >> Uh, all right. We met uh March 4th. Uh, the meeting began with Dr. Huffman's report that the freshman on track rate is currently 91.36%.
042A big portion of the meeting or of the session focused on the curriculum writing process and the connection to the district's professional learning series, specifically highlighting the new driver education playbook, which uses the components of teacher clarity and students self assessment trackers to improve learning outcomes. Um they also had a comment um from our presenters about the kids in the back row that were also providing feedback to the driver. So um apparently there is value in backseat driving and in learning to drive yourself. My wife will be thrilled to know. Um so Dr. Huffman also introduced a draft of our artificial intelligence plan anchored by the philosophy that humans are always in the lead. Uh this plan includes a traffic light scale to guide the ethical and acceptable use of AI uh which is slated
043to begin in the 2026 2027 school year. Uh communications director Jennifer Waterman outlined the transition of the new web content accessibility ADA requirements for state and local entities with initial training slated for April 2026. Uh Dr. Noling briefed the group on several state bills, including a bill to make election day a school holiday each year, a bill to remove the impending world language graduation requirements, a bill requiring instruction on the additive nature of gambling, addictive nature of gambling, and a bill limiting student use of wireless devices in class uh with no new policies or public comments. The meeting adjourned at 8:27 and our next meeting will be on April 1st, 2026. >> Okay. And I will read building and finance. The meeting for building and finance was called to order at 7 PM by vice
044chair Tony Seratori who announced he will now be the chair following Mr. Jabber's resignation as the chair. No public comments were made. The committee discussed strategic priorities relating to teacher retention, including staff engagement and recruitment and acknowledged efforts to support educator licensing and endorsements. Updates on summer building projects were also provided, including district-wide bathroom renovations and stadium lighting upgrades at Stackag and Andrew with f future discussion planned regarding new scoreboards. Financially, the committee reviewed February reports noting revenues of 5.7 million, expenditures of 14.5 million, and a total fund balance of 41 45.1 million as of month end. The group also reviewed the governor's proposed FY27 budget and compared student fees with surrounding districts ultimately recommending no fee changes for the upcoming fiscal school year. And I said I was going to do this so I'm
045still doing this. Katie, I appreciate Dr. McMillan. We all do appreciate your efforts when it says to working with people with educator licensing and we know that the time and commitment you've made to everyone who has sparked interest in the possibility of Arabic. You've given them from 15 minutes to a half hour conversations individually and I know that you do that to help anyone with any of our coursework. So, it is much appreciated. The meeting ended at 7:49 and the next meeting is scheduled for April 20th at 7 p.m. at the administration center. Any questions? Thank you. All right. Next, we have Adam from our teachers association. with a new haircut. So, I heard that was part of St. Baldick. So, thank you for that. >> No, absolutely. It's a great thing we do in
046District 230. So, happy to be proud of it. Uh part of it. Uh really not a lot to say. It's spring break. Teachers report is we're happy. Looking forward to relaxing. Uh get a recharge obviously heading into the summer. Happy to see that the crearyy is open across the street. So, weather's good. Teachers are doing well. Thank you. >> Thank you. All right. Christy McFarland from our ESP. Hello, good evening. Nice to see all of you. Um, as we begin our spring break, our 52-week ESPs will remain working in the schools and in the district office, continuing the important and necessary work uh of keeping our schools and our district running. We are very thankful for their continued hard work. Um, in recent weeks, we've had several ESPs apply for and take on different roles
047within the district, and we're thankful for these opportunities for them to change or advance their positions. As a matter of fact, over 75 ESPs have worked for the district for at least 10 years, and about 20 ESPs have worked for the district for over 20 years. So, those employees are to be praised for their dedication and their commitment to our district, and we are very lucky to have them. After returning from spring break, the buildings will be administering the grade specific ACT test to our freshman, sophomore, and junior students. And the ESPs who help organize and facilitate it, as well as those who administer it to our students with accommodations, are an important part of the success of this yearly test. The ESP's participation is vital to the success of this educational requirement, and again,
048we are very thankful for their continued hard work. Lastly, uh the sun will now set after 700 p.m. every day until midepptember. So despite anything else that is going on, I am enjoying this gift from mother nature and I hope you do too. It's something that us Midwest Midwesterners uh you know we get through the winter. So this is a small gift that I hope everyone will enjoy. Thank you all for your time and for giving me this time to speak and uh I hope you all have a wonderful spring break. Thank you. >> Back at you. >> Thank you, >> Jennifer. for our district 230 foundation update. >> Pardon? >> Um, thank you. I'd just like to start by congratulating the music departments at each of our schools. Last week they participated in the
049foundation's grant-f funed D230 band showcase um at Wheaten College and it was a spectacular event and I applaud each of the wind ensembles for their for their performances. Um, last week Stag hosted um or excuse me, this week Stag hosted a human library where more than 40 students had an opportunity to check out a human book and hear their stories of inspiration and hardship. Uh, this program again funded by the D230 Foundation provided an excellent opportunity in um empathy and perspective. Next week, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, is the foundation's uh hosting its annual uh annual fundraiser, Whoop It Up. And again, I encourage you all to come on out and enjoy a great evening of basketball, all for a great cause. >> Thank you. And it's a great event. If
050you haven't signed up, there are still seats available. >> Yes, there are. >> Okay. All right. We have two public comments before I let um call on the speakers. I am going to read something if you haven't come and spoken before. Per board policy 2230, we ask you state um address the board and state your name and the reason for your comment. Each of the two people will be allotted no more than five minutes for public comments. Per board policy 8:30. The school district expects mutual respect, civility, and orderly conduct among all people on school property or at a school event. Disruptive behavior or use of vulgar or obscene language will not be tolerated. Please be respectful when addressing the board as well as be respectful of the speaker who has the podium. Disruptions will
051not be tolerated. While the board appreciates your comments, please understand the board does not actively engage in dialogue during public comment. We take all matters very seriously and if there's a specific question or comment that requires follow-up, the appropriate board member or administrator will follow up with you. So, that being said, first one, Nikki Smith. Good evening. My name is Nikki Smith and I'm coming to you tonight directly from Carl Sandberg High School where I serve as a paraprofessional educator with our wonderful special needs students by day and co-direct the spring musical in the evening. I am also a proud graduate of Carl Sanber High School in 2010 with Miss Susan Dalton's daughter, dear friend of mine. >> when I was enrolled in honors French 3, honors German 4, and honors Spanish 5 all at
052once. I then took and passed all uh AP tests in all three languages. went on to become a pastor, studying Hebrew and Greek, traveling the world, teaching and preaching in all three languages. I should say four, including English. I mostly do English now. I also went on to learn Mandarin and a bit of Cantonese while working for four years in Chicago's Chinatown. I mention all of this because it has been brought to my attention that members of our community have repeatedly brought to this school board the topic of adding Arabic to our world languages curriculum and has repeatedly been met with deferral or obfuscation about the complexity of learning or teaching this language. Arabic can be successfully taught and learned. It is being done right now at Oaklan High School, one of our neighbors. Aside
053from recently ending the Latin program, our world languages curriculum has not been diversified or broadened in almost 50 years. But our student body and surrounding community has and our curriculum ought to reflect that. In my experience, the single most effective strategy in language learning is the opportunity to apply what you learn in the class in your community. I learned Spanish by applying what I learned in the class at local Takaras. I learned German through applying what I learned in class by going to Austria through Sandberg's exchange program. With so many Arabic speaking neighbors, local restaurants and coffee houses, we now more than ever have the perfect opportunity for our students to apply what could be taught in the class in their lives. But it needs to be taught in the classrooms first. I would love
054to see us add Polish as well, but one at a time. I am not the first to bring this up and at this stage any further tableabling of this discussion without seeing progress is a result of either negligence or prejudice. But I know better. I know District 230. It made me We are neither negligent nor prejudiced. We are capable. We are committed and we are beautifully diverse. So, dear school board, your community has repeatedly requested that Arabic be taught in our schools. I ask you to put in the work and help make it happen. It will take innovation. It will take empathy. It will take leadership. But that is who we are. We can do this. Thank you. Our next speaker is AJ Kerr. >> Good evening everyone. Um topic I'd like to speak about
055is also languages being offered in schools. And while we have a wonderfully diverse community at District 230, um the Arabic language that is on the table while being offered as a language in district 230, I also know that and that there are large groups of Polish, Irish, Greek, and other other wonderful ethnicities in this district. And I feel if one of those wants from a certain community is met, then every want from every other community is met. So if one language is going to be offered, they all should be offered. And furthermore, I would hope if all of those languages are offered and certain groups get their wants and all the wants are met from them, I would hope it does not take from the wonderful curriculum and education of District 230. Uh, thank you
056all for your time tonight. Have a great evening. >> Thank you. >> Next, we have the consent agenda. Do I have a motion for that? >> I move the school board approve the consent agenda items as presented. >> I second. >> Any questions? >> All right, Lisa, you may take role. >> Member Kelly, >> yes. >> Member, >> yes. >> Dolphin, >> yes. >> Member, >> yes. >> Member Zer, >> yes. Motion passed. All right. Next, we have projects report from Dave Keading. Good evening everyone. Not a whole lot to update with the projects. Um ramping up for summer. It's like two months away, so I get freaked out, but we're moving along. Um but the most recent update was the um the pivot to try to add Andrews lighting over here for the uh
057LED replacement. Um we secured the pricing through Musco. We got a great discount for doing the two schools. So we're moving forward with both projects. >> That's even better. So I know we pivoted a letter and it ends up helping us financially. So great to hear. >> Any other questions on the other projects? >> Thank you. >> All right. Next, we have new business. I know um Lisa has presented the board and committee meeting schedule. There were just a couple things that we were working with some assistant soups and the chairs on some changes. I think we've gotten those all fixed. Okay. Um so that's one thing. And then >> so this schedule is the one. >> Okay. Good. >> So it is a draft. So please look at it. Okay. I know we we
058we during the week we made a couple um catches that we had especially like triple eye conference where we always have to move some things and just things like that. So I think we're good. But if not make sure you let Lisa know. All right. Secondly, we did check you got an email from Bob earlier today that we could put um the next topic still with new business and we can. So, I'm going to turn that over to Bob. >> Yes. So, uh first of all, I appreciate the board yesterday, uh taking um a series of calls from our office. We had a meeting with um the mayor of uh Palis Hills, uh Palis Heights, excuse me, and his village manager, uh regarding uh the current, uh Lake Katherine Tiff, uh which is uh set
059to terminate very shortly. Um, we we wanted to present uh what the mayor and and his office presented to us, which was a request for our district uh to support a 12-year extension. Uh, they provided the rationale, which I uh which I echoed last night. Um, I will say that based on my conversations, it wasn't 100% consensus, so I felt it was appropriate to bring it to the board. Uh, I do also want to note that there's two pieces of information. and one is uh the numbers that uh were provided last night are adjusted. So Jeff could provide a little bit of a of an update in terms of what the financials would be for district 230. Um and I also realized that we have a couple other entities that have not yet met with
060the mayor's office um which um we discovered late afternoon. Um so um there are several options that I put into an email towards uh to you but uh by law um an extension is granted by uh legislative action um and it would require that all public entities that reside within the TIFF boundaries um provide either a letter of support or a letter of uh willing to accept the the tiff as an extension. Um so this board is tasked with that. Um it's up to the board to to have that discussion and provide direction. Um, you also have the opportunity to vote. Although, we cannot vote tonight because it was not added after the uh 48 hours uh of posting. So, if the vote was something that the board desired, uh we would put it for
061the April board meeting for an official vote uh as a resolution. Um and then Jeff and I could answer any questions you had as Jeff was with me um as we met with the uh with the mayor yesterday. >> Do we want to do questions now or do you want to do that later? We have to have that an open conversation. So if you have a question, Jeff has permission. If he doesn't have the answer, that helps him gather it for next conversation, whether it's here or building and finance or both. >> Jeff, how much uh would it cost us a year? >> And Jeeoff, if you don't know, that's okay, too, because I know we've had >> I'll make it little time to to prepare. >> If you take a look at that, there's
062six parcels um right now that are part of uh the tiff on our side. Um Harlem Avenue divides the tiff between us and district 218. So, our side of the tiff, uh like I said, has six parcels. If you take the amount of money that each of those parcels puts into the tiff on their their tax um tax bill and then multiply it times the percentage of that we get. Obviously, there's other u public entities that get money from that uh that tax bill. Uh we are going to receive probably just around $13,400 a year. >> So each year that this tiff goes on, that's the amount of money that the tiff receives that we don't. >> Okay. And this tiff has already been in place for I'm sorry. >> How many years is that?
06313,000 times how many >> $13,000 a year. So it's going to be expiring 27. Okay. >> So, for every year after that, it would be $13,000. We don't receive probably plus some increase because the property values would probably rise. >> Okay. >> And these six parcels have already been in the tip for 23 years. >> That's correct. >> Is there any big uh rationale why another 12 years is going to give paleis what it needs? Like, >> well, I I believe based on our conversation, there's some developments on the in within the tip that haven't been completed. So this would provide an extra um length of runway to get those those projects completed. Did they give any specifics about which part of the development is yet to be done? I mean I know familiar with
064that intersection, right? Like the eastern side of Harlem on the north side of Route 83 is undeveloped, but you know that's really not in our area, right? I mean, so for us to extend the tiff, I mean, Palis Heights could end this tiff and establish a new tiff, right? That was only on the eastern side of Harlem and ask 218 to sign on to a new tiff. And, you know, I mean, like there's there's no upside development in any part of that tiff where I think that we're going to get, you know, down the road increased revenue from what it is. I mean, aside from something moving into where the bank is, you know, but that's not really a blighted property. I mean, you know, I just don't want us to sign off on a
065TIFF extension that really is just like, you know, something that maybe 218 should be, you know, signing up for rather than 230 because I don't think any of the development is coming on Yeah. coming on our side of Harlem. So >> yeah, that north uh east corner of um 119th in Harlem, that that empty space um was slated to be a car wash uh gas station kind of food establishment. Um that I I we were told that it fell through, so it didn't it's not going to happen. Um on the west side of Harlem, uh there's the uh Tiffany Center, which is kind of the L-shaped. Um there's some plans to improve the parking lot and then kind of an access road to a lot behind that Tiffany Center. Um that would give um access
066to uh the lake and kind of uh canal area back there. Um on the corner where the bank used to be, there used to be two separate buildings. Both um I believe have been raised. Uh they're looking to put a culverse in there. So that's in uh the works. I'm sure that work will be done by the the time the tiff expires. Uh but you're correct. The the major part of any possible undeveloped land would be in that that northeast uh part of that uh that intersection which would be 218. I would think that I agree with member Casmir that when Orland Park wanted to revamp their tiff, you know, they they let the one piece expire and then they reconfigured the tiff to present again. And I I would think that Palis Heights could
067let this tiff expire and then start a new tiff for the section that is east of Harlem that is um the other school district. I don't know why we would need to extend ours or our the side the west side of Harlem um and and lose that revenue. You know, that tip was already gone through and I I don't think that would benefit our taxpayers. >> One of the questions we asked was if they went through with this extension and they got the work done early, would they possibly end the tiff maybe after two, three, five years? Um they said they would uh entertain that, but obviously there's no assurance that that would actually happen. Um so there's really no no way to tell if they would or wouldn't, but they would um entertain that.
068I have a statement and a question. So years prior to ever knowing I would be in public service, I learned about the concepts of tiffs at my parents' kitchen table because my father poured over the tiff for Lake Katherine for hours. He probably would have been a public speaker tonight if he were here. Um my question to you is you said there's when we vote they our vote is really meaningless. They can go on with the 12-year extension without us. What happens if we don't vote for it? >> Yeah. When when it comes to an extension, they would need all voting, all public bodies, all taxing bodies. >> Okay. For the extension >> for an extension. What you said is accurate for the original tiff. >> Got it. >> But not for an extension. extension
069requires all all public bodies to to sign either a letter of of support or a letter of not I can't remember the term but essentially letter that we won't challenge it >> right the the biggest thing when you establish a tiff it doesn't necessarily need a legislative um action by the state like Dr. Ulting stated, >> okay, >> it just needs kind of a public or a local approval by all the members of the joint review board, uh, which is the the taxing bodies that would be affected by this tiff being enacted. Um, this is a case where there would be legislative need by down by the state. So the the Palos Heights is looking to gather some support that they can bring down uh as part of their case to say we have local
070support. Can you please extend this by the the 12 years? >> Uh Jeff, we still have some big bills coming for the life and safety update. Is that true? >> Uh that is true. >> Uh and this uh this I this 150,000 of course in TIFF money is a rounding error on that, but in my mind it's still 150,000 or so. Um I don't I don't understand what's in it for us. Yeah, I I think that's obviously we we have to act in the best interest of 230. Um, you know, I want to be able to be, you know, working collaboratively obviously with uh, you know, the city of Palis Heights, you know, to help them accomplish growth for the community. It's part of our community as well. Um, but, you know, in the spirit
071of a tiff, um, you know, we have to understand what the, um, what the benefit is going to be to our district. Is it going to increase the assessed value where it, you know, increases our our tax roles? Um, is it necessary too? Just like when a tip isn't initially established, you know, it's got to show need for it. You know, do do we really see essential need to extend this for another 12 12 years is another long time to do whatever it is that they're they're looking to do. >> Jeff, one last question. Is is there any did you get any information that would suggest that developing that area would raise other property tax values and then we sort of get our money back eventually? Did you get any kind of facts, any details
072on that? >> So, so how that would work is when the tiff was established, the EAV for that property was about $4 million. That's the base tiff. We still have the ability to tax against that. So when we uh issue uh our our rate that rate is applied against that that uh property value and we get taxes on that property. The increment which is the difference between that base and what the current EAV is which is about 7 million. So that $3 million difference that's the revenue that is going into uh the actual TIFF fund. Um so we are getting some money on that. the the the tiff is getting money based on the uh the uh the tax rate that goes into that. If the properties improve, that seven million becomes maybe let's say
0739 million of EAV. So obviously the tiff would improve and would would garner some more funds. Uh when the tiff ends we then have the ability to then tax on all 9 million going forward. So we've been paused a little bit here for you know 20some years at that or frozen at that $4 million number. So when the tiff ends, whether it's 27 or 39 or or whenever, we would then have access to to um tax at that increased value. So there is some benefit to these properties, you know, gaining in in in value um whether it's at the beginning of the tiff or right at the end of the tiff. >> And the current balance in in the tiff was about 2.1. >> Correct. As of fiscal year 23, uh which is the latest
074report, 2.1 million is the fund balance of the tiff. uh if if the tiff were to end and there was a balance in there, there would be a prorated distribution back to the taxing bodies of whatever balance is in there. >> Do you need direction from us? >> I just have one more question. Um I I know um some documents were circulated earlier today that um to my reading implied that there were some administrative fees like bundled in um I think to the tune of $12,000 a year that looked like it was to staff of uh Palis Heights. Um, am I am I understanding that to mean that like they're receiving $12,000 a year like from the tiff like they're being reimbured that? So the the report um states that there's 12 million going to
075city staff professional services and then professional services and the description says cost of studies, surveys, uh plans, uh implementation of of the redevelopment plan, other costs. So it it could be going to uh surveys that maybe the uh the village or city did at that then they they charged that against the the actual tiff. Um I don't think that's actual salaries because it uses the terms professional services. So it's it it appears it's more of a reimbursement for costs associated with that parcel of land. >> All right. Well, I was just trying to understand. It's like is the city of Palis Heights like getting a check from the tiff and we're being asked to wave hours. >> Understand? >> I have one other question. Is that the timeliness of getting this information seems um >>
076unusual? >> It seems unusual. Was this something that they were planning and they needed to get certain information before they could present it to us or um is it >> were they were they proposing that this tiff extension would happen and then that uh company s or maybe Culver's was then interested and then they wanted to move forward with it. you know, just it seems um to to give a school board, you know, couple days to digest this seems like very short >> notice. Yeah. >> And I'm just curious why this was asked of us. I know that we don't have to give an answer tonight, but just curious on their timeline, what prompted their timeline for this discussion? >> Sure. the the uh need for legislative approval. They wanted to get that into the
077spring session down in down in Springfield. So, uh them gathering these letters of support in a in a timely manner would get that down there. Then, um the appropriate bill could be created along with other tiffs that may be wanting to be extended. I think they kind of lump them all into a a single bill and then get that passed this spring. Um, I think once they get past the spring session, um, they might think it's too late. Um, I'm not sure, but they did mention they're trying to get this spring session this to pass. >> But again, if they knew the spring session, why didn't they ask us more than two days? >> Yeah. And I don't want to speculate as to what their timeline as well, but it sounds like if I could
078just summarize what I'm hearing, at minimum, there's there's uh two concerns that I think we need to to seek more information on. One is what we just spoke about is in terms of the timing and and and is there some more concrete plans for the TIFF? And then secondarily, are there alternatives to a 12-year TIF for the entire uh the entire um geography of the TIF, if you will, versus other potential uh opportunities, whether it's to let the tiff um um conclude and and start a new TIFF in the area that they'd like to to resolve. So, I think Jeff and I could certainly reach out to their uh village manager. We told them we would do that tomorrow, get for more information in time for the April board meeting and then by that time
079the board will be in a better position to decide if they want to bring it forward for a vote or not to which is which is the option or which is the uh obviously you're you're right. >> Does that sound >> everybody okay with that? >> Sounds okay. >> All right. Thank you, Jeff. >> All right. Next superintendent updates. >> Yes. uh I have in front of you uh again not much has changed since it's only been two weeks and a day since we met last but uh or three weeks I guess in count weekends but um if I could just uh uh again I'll I'll highlight certain areas if you have questions on other areas or questions within please ask them as as you see fit. Um page two if you could focus your
080attention. So um again I want to thank the board for allowing me to participate in the ISIL training leadership cohort. Uh, I'm almost completed. I get to quote graduate in a couple weeks. So, you're all invited to my graduation party. Um, which will be just me by myself sitting in the back porch having a c cup of coffee or something. But >> will there be cake? >> There there might be cake. There might be cake if if >> cupcakes. Bun puntinis. We'll do some buntinis. >> Um, but it it has been an enlightening experience and and I think it has allowed uh for some really uh good work. I plan to share my presentation with the board. that's part of the culminating culminating experience. Um, but I think you'll see once you see that presentation,
081I think that you'll realize that we've we've gleaned a lot from that experience, uh, working with superintendents from around the state. Uh, we're also participating in scope meetings, IHSDO, as things heat up in Springfield. Um, and just as this afternoon, uh, Mr. Avano and I attended, uh, what is now a second articulation meeting with our partner elementary districts. Um, the first one was focused on curriculum instruction. Unfortunately, Dr. Huffman had um prior engagements. So Dr. Augustine from Stag actually represented the district did quite well. Uh Mr. Avando today. Uh we're going to focus on EL programming next. But I just want to highlight that is is just I think it's a next level of of of articulation with our feeder programs and um I think everybody involved has been really um um really pleased with
082how things have um have really helped us understand more about how our districts are are working and we've come up with some pretty good ideas to continue to bridge communication gaps and maybe some data exchanges that I think would be beneficial to both um districts or all districts I should say. >> That's awesome. um focusing on and district 118's um office is pretty cool. So I I was glad to see I Charles I can't see Charles is here but >> felt felt like we need to move it into the woods. Yeah, based on my experience. Um also highlighting um the the PPS core team which which Charles uh works as well but it's made up of our APS uh as well as our uh guidance directors and other folks as well. um did a really
083nice job of of building um some intervention programs to support our attendance uh efforts. Um looking at what they're calling a root cause analysis protocol, which is a way to really develop a systematized approach to determine not just when kids are missing, but why they're missing and are there ways that we could intervene based on the cause. Um, as we've discovered over the focus, uh, time that we focus on this goal, um, there are some general things that some of our policies have really drawn kids back into regular attendance, but there are still some barriers to for some families uh, for for what we consider good attendance in in high school. So, I think this is a nice step to to get to what I call kind of that phase three of addressing chronic absenteeism.
084Um, phase one was really just trying to emphasize the the importance of it, uh, kind of a a campaign. The second was some of the policy changes that we talked about. This is really that third phase to say, okay, if this is really a a chronic issue and there's a significant barrier, how can we support you? So, great efforts um done by that. They're kind of teasing through it. So, I exper I think I wouldn't call it experimenting, but they're kind of seeing how it's impacting the the the attendance over the course of this semester, make some revisions, and really uh hit it robustly in the fall. Um if I could focus you on page eight of 12. Uh just to highlight in there. Um and again I thank Dr. um Zeta for her participation
085as well as um Miss Dalton with regard to our interfaith forum. Uh wasn't as widely attended as we were hoping for it to be but it was very uh it was a very nice event. um learned a lot from um those individuals and you'll see we had uh people from the Presbyterian faith, Baptist Islam, uh Islamic faith, Catholic faith, and Ukrainian Orthodox. Um and he was Ukrainian. >> They was he was from Ukraine. So just a great way to understand what their communities are are are dealing with in terms of helping our students as well as sharing what we're doing. Um there is a lot of overlap um which is which is a good thing. Um and exchange a lot of cards which I think is an even better thing. So um and I don't
086know if you want to add anything you >> I agree it was small but mighty and I think the dialogue and the openness and then even the um religious leaders asking for assistance they are now um facing with dealing with students who are divergent learners and asking for guidance and suggestions. So, I'm hoping we can continue that dialogue with them because they were really looking towards the educational community for strategies so their students can actively participate in their in their faith. So, it was very nice and I'm glad that we held it. So, thank you for that. >> Thank you. Uh, and the last thing I'll highlight is on page nine. Um, again, usually when I report out some of the events I get to go to, it's a lot of sports, a lot of
087fine arts, a lot of band concerts, really cool things. two things I although that were unique to the last couple weeks. Um through uh an exchange of some South Suburban superintendents, uh I attended the South Suburban United Negro College Fund event in Tinley Park. Uh huge event. Um had a lot of people that were uh very distinguished uh guests that were there to present. Um but it was essentially a fundraiser that um uh our our communities put together. The Andrew Choir performed with choirs from around the South Suburban area from Rich Township to um Breman and Hillrest and and and Tinley Park high schools. Um Marian Catholic was there and and all sorts of things. Raised a lot of money and in fact tonight they are issuing three scholarships to District 230 students. Two of
088which were supposed to be with us tonight. So clearly they went for the money which I don't blame them but uh very very happy to be part of that. And then uh also kind of connected to our district um our St. Baldrick's events and Julia's Legacy of Hope, which is a fundraiser, excuse me, which is a raises money for for cancer for for um adolescent cancer patients. Um and it was just a great event. Uh Dr. McMillan was there um in green with with all the other folks and and a lot of uh folks from the mayor's office and so on and so forth. But, uh, the really cool part for me is seeing our kids work in the event as, as volunteers, um, and really seeing how they engage with the community was was
089kind of a nice side benefit. But raising lots of money for for kids in our community was was was even um was was the best part. So, just wanted to highlight those little unique events that occurred in the last couple weeks. >> All right. Any questions? Okay. Um, next Voya'sformational and then we have board comments. Member Kelly. >> Um I just have compliments. They're just u just impressed with all the work that's going on this this month. Um shout out to Katie McMillan again about having all those conversations to assemble resources for people looking to teach Arabic and um just there's so many amazing we just saw so many amazing students tonight. Um it's just impressive. So thank you Dr. Noling and the team. Um you guys are just doing an awesome job. Thank you
090member Dton. >> I would just also like to take this moment to thank our administration and the various roles they've been playing um in this year. We're cons, you know, when you get to March, you really start seeing how the lift has um supported our students and and moving us forward. So, I just want to thank you. It's always great to have our our students out here. um they make us so proud in so many ways from our athletics to our arts to our community service and um and so I just thank you for your part in providing those opportunities to our students. Thank you. >> Member Danla. >> Yeah, I'd just like to give a shout out. I know we we've had a lot of um great fundraising events lately. Um, one I was
091a part of last weekend again was the annual uh Guns and Hoses versus 230 hockey club match. And if you've never been to this before, and I really I apologize uh in hindsight here, I should have let you guys know. I decided to go last second, but but what a great uh time that is in the community. They raised nearly $15,000 for Special Olympics. Um, so it's our Orland fire, our Orland policemen take on our 230 hockey club in the charity match and it was at Art Arctic Ice Arena. Um, always a great time. Split the pot, chuck a puck, all that fun stuff. And our own uh, former RSO Sanberg Officer Walsh. >> Special shout out to him for coaching this year for the Guns and Hoses team. They lost, so you know, hopefully
092maybe he'll end up on the ice again next year, but um, but it it was a great turnout. a lot of people from the community and thanks you know there were so many people who volunteered and to be out there on the ice to do that to raise money and it was just a great show. So thank you guys. That was cool. >> Member Kazer. >> Um I would also like to um compliment Dr. Huffman on her presentation and everything we're doing for the Arabic foreign language that we had last month. I know that that was a uh the culmination of a lot of work and um you know thank you doc uh Dr. Dr. McMillan for um you know reaching out to some of those candidates that reach for us. Um I I think
093that you know sometimes unfortunately people think that they're qualified for something because they've done something at a community center things like that but they don't really have the certification. So um you know but for that program to be successful it's taken a lot of people from Dr. Nolton on down. So thank you all for the work you've done in that. Um I just also want to uh thank all the parents that participated in the uh craft fair last week. Um I know that on Friday afternoon when I was there running extension cords um there were dozens of parents running around and I know that um that continued throughout the weekend. Uh you know as a parent as somebody who's in the music program I appreciate everything those parents do to raise that money and for
094all of the Sanberg staff that was there to help too. So thank you guys. >> I have a couple things. First of all, I'd like to give a shout out to member Dalton who's hiding her distinguished board member pin that she just earned. and unfortunately some of us were at the um educa the student support meeting and we couldn't be there but we were there in spirit. So thank you for your continued commitment over a decade of being a board member and the countless hours that you have put in. So that was very welld deserved. So thank you. Um the second thing I had the opportunity today to attend the Orland women's lunchon so that was very nice to network with people and you know I'm not a shy person. In doing so, I ended
095up meeting with people who work for I Can Dream, and that is one of the programs that support our transition students. They asked if I would write a letter of support. They actually wrote it for me um and helped me, but I could have written it. They're looking for a block grant to help our students with housing insecurity. And you know, that's one of my passions. So, if anybody has a problem with it, otherwise I will write that. But that will benefit um many, many students if they can get their grant. And we know with funding any dollars that people can get is appreciated. Um I also want to give a shout out to the driver's ed team. What I really appreciated and we saw a much more comprehensive presentation at the committee level. The
096work that they did um is a model for all to see the teacher development through the curriculum advisory board. Their connection with the e teacher their model could be used for all courses. And Dr. Dr. Huffman reminded us we have over 300 courses and it reminded me of where I sit as a board member and I ask myself two questions every day. Do I do I trust the administrative team? That is a resounding yes. And do I trust the curriculum advisory board process and those two things regardless of the course in hand we have wonderful people and wonderful systems in place. So, thank you for showing that and showing casing just one course of what we do for all and keeping our kids safe on the road is ever important. And then lastly is Eid
097Mubarak for our families that are celebrating tonight and couldn't be here today. So, with that, oh, member Casmir, you did a nice job reading the motion last time. Uh, I'd like to make a motion to enter into executive session to consider information regarding the appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance, or dismissal of a specific employee or legal council for the public body. To discuss student disciplinary cases to discuss matters relating to placement of individual students in special education programs and to consider other matters relating to individual students. To discuss collective negotiating matters or deliberations concerning salary schedules for one or more classes of employees. and to discuss pending or probable litigation against affecting her on behalf of the public body. >> I second. >> At least you want to take role. >> Member Kelly. >> Yes.
098>> Member Casmir. >> Yes. >> Member Dalton. >> Yes. >> Member Dan. >> Yes. >> Member. >> Yes. We are going into executive session at 8:24. When we come back, we do not put that back on the screen. So for those of you who can officially now start spring break, have at it. The rest of us have a little bit more work to do. So thank you.