001Call to order a meeting of the District 208 Board of Education. We rise for the pledge of allegiance. I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, liberty and justice for all. [clears throat] [snorts] >> Roll call, please. Mr. >> President, >> Mr. Derk >> here. >> Mask >> here. Misska >> here. Mr. Novak >> here. >> Mr. Williams >> here. >> Miss >> here. >> Dr. Freighas, we have quite a few recognitions this evening. >> We do. Good evening, honorable board members and superintendent Dr. Skinkis. >> This season, our RB varsity palm team delivered outstanding performances at the state and national levels. At the IDTA state championships, the team earned second place in the 3A lyrical division and
002fourth place in the 3A open palm division. In addition, seniors Isabelle Kou and Amelia Royer represented RB as soloist. Isabella advanced to the finals and placed ninth out of 68 competitors. They also competed at on the national stage at the UD UDA National Dance Team Championship in Orlando, Florida. The team competed in the D1 large varsity palm and D1 large varsity Jazz division against the top teams in the nation. We are proud of the team's hard work and perseverance throughout the entire season. Please join us in congratulating the following athletes. Aubrey Agne, [applause] Samantha Bolt, [applause] Charlotte Caponio, Countis, [applause] Delila Castillo, [applause] Avery Cavalier, [applause] Liv Ceden, [applause] Isabella Kersh, [applause] Olivia Kristoc, [applause] Mia Bajooki, [applause] Ellis Maloney, [applause] Sophia Miller, [applause] Diana >> [applause] >> Michael Novak. [applause] It's a two pager,
003folks. Okay, it's a two pager. A lot of recognition. Ellen Peterson, [applause] Amelia Royer, [applause] Adelina Sagura, [applause] Tessa Sherman. Congratulations, Satie Towers. [applause] RAPHAELA VIEIER [applause] and last but not least, Anukica Weeks. [applause] And now I would like to invite Coach Sherman to share a few words, you know, because we're curious. A lot of accolades there. Coach, you put in the work. We're proud of you. [applause] I just wanted to thank you again for your continued support of the Palms program um and your approval to let us head down to Orlando, Florida at the start of February. We had the time of our life. Um, [snorts] I the girls performed so well and I joke that the 14 minutes behind stage that we were warming up and prepping with some of the most elite
004teams in the in the country, they grew like three months worth of practice. Oh, that's what that's supposed to look like. [laughter] So, by the time we warmed up to go out, they did such an amazing job. Um, and we beat some teams of a few teams and we were really happy with that because the the the quality of teams that were there were really really good and um and we also had a lot of fun at the parks. Uh, when we arrived home, we had about 4 days to get ready even though we were exhausted for the IDTA state competition. And um, they showed up once again and we did a wonderful job. And I do [clears throat] want to stress that for the first time we had two soloists enter and um Amelia
005Royer and Isabella Kersh did such an amazing job and Isabella Kersh man she uh did an job and placed ninth out of 68 girls which was quite an accomplishment. So very proud of this team. Um you know we're together since May. I don't know if people realize we start in May and we go all the way till February. You would think I would be sick of them and I am sad and want to cry every day that this season is over. It was really a dream and um I thank them all for their hard work and dedication and thank you for your um your support and and in all that we do. So, thank you. [applause] >> And folks, we actually caught them in the middle of practice. So, they're actually going to go take
006some pictures now as we practice. All right. Congratulations. >> Good job, ladies. Good job. >> That's why half of them weren't here. [laughter] >> Good night, guys. >> Who's next? Dr. Fus. >> We have chess. >> Chess. Okay. Congratulations to the RB chess team on qualifying for the IHSA state competition in Poria. The team placed 104 to 128. Please join us in congratulating the following students. Dalton Campbell, [applause] Hannah Glenn, Kyle House [applause] Lee, Chuck Parlo, [applause] and last but not least, David Santilli. [applause] Okay. And I would like to invite our coach, Coach K, to say a few words on behalf of the chess team. You know, congratulations, coach. Appreciate you. >> Thank you so much. >> All right. Thank you everyone. Thank you. Um like coach Sherman said for sending us down to
007state. We also had a fantastic time. Um it was in Peoria so that we didn't get to go to the parks or ride any roller coasters or anything, but that's okay. We still had a good time. Um, this has been a great season with a small but mighty team. We went to state with only six members um, playing against eight board teams and they still did a fantastic job. Um, third place in conferences and yeah, I'm proud of them and this is my first time doing this, my first year being coach uh, of chess and I'm having a great time too. So, thank you all. [applause] Hey, Bulldog. If you guys Thank you. [snorts] >> All right. Congratulations to the following RB Arts students for earning recognition at the 2025 regional Scholastic Art Competition. Their
008artwork was selected by a panel of professional artists and educators from more than 2100 submissions across the region. Their work was displayed at the opening reception on Sunday, February 1st at Don Grove North High School. We are proud to [snorts] celebrate their creativity and artistic achievement. If you're here coming up, Charlotte Orman, [applause] Bella De Mateo, [applause] Jane Oler, [applause] and Siki String. [applause] Our teachers are our teachers. All right. Congratulations to the six RB students who graduated from the plumbers's local unit 130 UA bridge program. Over the course of 10 weeks, students develop essential skills in math, tooling, and safety protocols needed for careers in the skilled trades. Completion of the program makes them eligible to apply for an apprenticeship with local 130 and begin working with union contractors, opening the door to invaluable
009career opportunities in the plumbing industry. We would like to thank District 208 board of education member Bill Durkin for his work in bringing this program to Riverside Brookfield High School and other students across the Chicagoland area. Please join us in congratulating the following students. If you're here, come on up, please. Jacob Alvarez. [applause] Kevin Cay, GALINDO, [applause] Rachel Dosk, [applause] Diego Pedo, [applause] Barbara Vikuna, and Lucas Wells. [applause] Honorable board member, that concludes our recognitions and again thank you Mr. Dunin for all you do for our Bulldogs. >> Thank you Dr. Freus and Mr. Der. >> Plumbers are taking a picture out there in the heart. >> We have the essay here this evening. Right. Come on up. Tell us what you've been keeping busy with. I'm sure it's quite a bit. >> Close here.
010Senior year is wrapping up here fast. >> Junior. junior right to our seniors. >> Wow. >> Don't have to rub it on or just >> I'm worried about the senioritis. >> Well, thank you guys for having us. These past few weeks have been amazing. Couple weeks ago, we had our blood drive where we were we were able to collect 57 pints. So, I know a lot of people here were donating. So, if any of you guys donated, thank you. I think Dr. Fas donated. So, thank you to everyone who's involved. Following that, we had our trivia night which we had over 100 participants. It's not only an essay thing. It's open to the whole school. So, it's amazing to see all groups of people come from Scholastic Bowl to teams of four. They invite teachers
011even in. So, it's amazing to see everyone come out and then it's really a fun time. Fortunately, I got close to last place. Um, but others did better than I did. Um, but following that, this Sunday, this past Sunday, we partnered with Best Buddies. We they hosted a talent show in the little theater. This is their first time doing it, but it was a great turnout. I personally sang a song with another board member that unfortunately isn't here, but it's great to see everyone involved and everyone's talents. There was magic, there was standup comedy, there was singing. So, it was a great thing to see and I know they're excited to keep on doing that in the future. >> And that was the first year you did that. >> Great. [clears throat] >> And then
012looking a little bit more into the future, later this month on March 11th, uh we have a bowling rink at Bolo and Lions from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Um and then so to open up to the whole school, um we're trying to recruit as many people as we can. Um, we do have a $5 kind of donation towards uh Share Food, Share Love Food Pantry. So, like when you come, you give the donation. Um, and yeah, it'll be super fun. We had one back in the fall and it was a really good turnout. So, we're hoping this one's an even bigger. And then looking towards [clears throat] uh the week after March 16th to the 20th, which is the week of St. Patrick's Day, we have a spirit week planned. Um, and so, you know,
013we are coming up with a bunch of ideas. For Monday, we're thinking pajama day. Uh, St. Patrick's Day. Um, we're thinking about doing green. Wednesday, we're between pastel and patterns. Uh Thursday we're going to do like colors that um like the International Women's Day or Women's History Month, those colors. So, purple, green, and white. And then on Friday, we're doing blue and white. So, that's a little bit of a look out into March. [snorts] >> Great. >> Okay. And then in the very near future, next week on Wednesday and Thursday, we will be doing our quarterly notes of acknowledgement, which are just little handwritten notes of appreciation from our students to our staff and teachers. And I know last time we did it to finish off every quarter, we got over 500 notes. So we
014are hoping to do a great turnout like that one again this time. So again, that's going to be next week. And then a little farther in the future on March 26th, the Thursday before spring break, we will be doing our bulldog scavenger hunt. It's where we cut out bulldogs, 150 of them, and we sprinkle them around the school. We table onto the walls and students can find them and then bring them to the office and get a goodie bag. So maybe if you guys are lucky enough, you can get a feedback. And then farther into the future, we'll have more information on this in upcoming meetings, but we will be doing our annual pop top collection where we ask not just SA members, but students from all over SA to collect and donate pop tops
015where we donate to the Ronald McDonald House. And I know we're on the road to 3 million. So [snorts] maybe we get it this year. >> And then that's pretty much it. Do you guys have any questions for us? When is the election for your successors? That happens in April. Is that correct? >> Okay. Well, so we we see you for another month or two. Okay. >> Great. [clears throat] >> Great job, guys. >> Thank you. >> Good night. >> You too. >> Thank you. [snorts] >> Um we can move on to the superintendent report. Dr. Skinis. >> Uh thank you. Uh Senate Bill 637. Uh no new updates at this time. I'm still currently waiting to hear back from the zoo regarding its discussions with the forest reserve on our tenative agreement and plan.
016Uh we are hopeful that the forest reserve will present the agreement and conceptual plan to its board in March. Although we're getting close to that uh deadline, I will continue to keep the board informed as we move through, but at this point >> [snorts] >> uh no new updates. Uh 2627 uh staffing. The board will receive its annual staffing report at the March meeting. The administration and division heads are reviewing student course requests and assigning staff aotments and sections to departments for the master schedule. When we met with you uh in November and Dr. Smatana gave the staffing projection, we were anticipating about 110. We do think we're going to be able to get closer to 109. Um based on enrollment and course selections. Um [snorts] we'll have a more detailed report in March. Ellard
017Park. Uh the renovations on the baseball field are ongoing. Um they had to break the project into phases to complete the essential work by the start of the season in March. The building administration is staying in regular contact with the village of Brookfield. There were some questions uh submitted on this. Um remember the board approved the money for the Ellard Park project over two years ago. Um we're doing this in concert with Western Conference in the Village of Brookfield. Uh the village of Brookfield is the manager of the project. They handled all the bids, [snorts] engineering, uh using the village engineer and the ar their architect. Um and the general upgrades, remember, are a new back stop, new dugouts, and some repitching of the field so that we don't get flooding in the back of
018the baseball field behind home plate and into the dugouts. Um the second phase will be more of the uh fencing and the safety or the uh excuse me the storage building that will go behind home plate. So just question on that. So if the money costs more then does Brookfield come in and like we've agreed how much money we're contributing to that and then if it cost sign didn't we sign IGA >> up to $100,000. >> Okay. And then if it costs more then Brookfield will for whatever reason >> we have like I think a 10% contingency in there but other than that then we already went out to bid so we should be within a set number of for the project >> and then they're they're the ones who are managing that right Brookfield.
019>> It's a Brookfield property. >> Yeah. Okay. And so then if there's anything additional Brookfield then ends up paying for that. Right. >> Well they would Yes. But I I would anticipate we think we've built that into the project for some unforeseen circumstances. Okay. >> So, the contingencies have already been built in. Uh Cook County property tax dispersements. The district received an update from Cook County regarding [snorts] 2025 tax cycle. The first installment of property tax bills will be mailed out March 2nd and will be due April 1st. This is about a month later [clears throat and snorts] than usual and will intended to provide property owners some additional flexibility filing following the delayed delivery of the 2024 second installment that just happened this past fall. To the date we have received I know this
020was a board member question. Uh to the date we received approximately 90% of the property tax revenue we budgeted for for the fall collection. We remain um approximately 1.7 million short and I will keep you posted [snorts] as if that comes in. >> Okay. >> Is there a projection as to when? >> Dr. Smatan, are we hearing anything from the treasur's office? [snorts] >> No, I I don't have a projection on that. >> And then uh personnel advisory is the only advisory council that is scheduled to meet February 27th. the finance advisory council um met uh I want to say two weeks ago to review the financial projections that Dr. Smatana will be reviewing tonight. And that concludes my superintendent report and the questions that were submitted on. >> Okay, Dr. Smatana, please. >> Good
021evening. Tonight, I'll provide the board of education with financial information through the month of [snorts] January, which represents 58% of our fiscal year. The total operating revenue for the month was $2,960,390 with 64% uh from property tax and CPPRT, 13% from evidence-based funding, which is state funding, uh and then 10% from federal and state grant reimbursements. The total operating expenditures for the month were $3,621,952 with 53% towards salary and benefits, [clears throat] 18% on purchase services. Primarily, this was our special education cooperative, ladsy. It's a payment for services for the entire school year. Um, and then 18% on special education tuition. Um and again that uh primarily a large chunk of that was for tuition for several students who attend LRB which is um a special education school that Ladsy uh created for us for
022the entire school year. So the rest of our outpac students we get build monthly for those um ladsy we get build um on an annual basis and then they do an adjustment at the end of the school year if needed. um monthly financial statements. The summary of revenue shows that the district has received 40.97% of our [snorts] budgeted revenue for the year. This amount is slightly lower at this time uh last year which was 53%. Uh summary of expenditures shows that the district has spent 58.65% of the budgeted expenditures. This is tracking a little similar to last year at at around 60%. Um, as always, I provided a statement of revenue and expenditures for the board accounts for the month of January. There's one question submitted, which is on board book page 18. It was
023tuition, regular education. Um, some of those expenditures are miscoded um, and they're in the process of being recoded, some to special education tuition, um, and then some to, uh, regular education dual credit tuition. Um, and that would bring [clears throat] the that balance down of that account to [snorts] around 12,000. Um so those account numbers are all off by one which is why they got miscoded. >> Um the student activity account summary um that was provided for the month of January as well. Um remember negative account balances represent positive fund balances. Um there was a question submitted on board book page 25. So the money that is left in past classes like 2018 um we'll look at that um and we will move money out of accounts that have [snorts] been either dormant or old
024in similar accounts at the end of this fiscal year. So for example um you know if it's a a class account like 2017 2018 they'll go into like class of 26 or 27 to help offset prom. um other things. We wait a little bit because it depends on the timing of the class gift and um some classes like one class set up scholarships. So, I don't like to close it off too soon. Um but we'll take a look at that at the end of this fiscal year. Um I have several other reports for the board tonight that are included in my report. The first is the budget calendar for fiscal year 27. Um this is pretty standard from year to year but wanted to provide for [snorts] um the board's information. So you can see
025Dr. Skink has referenced staffing. So we'll present that to the board in March. Um and as you know salary and benefits drive a large portion of our expenditures. Um so that is what kind of kicks off the um budget process along with viewing registration fees um that the board will see uh tonight as well. In April, I'll ask for department feedback um to develop those budgets as well as the revenue budget. Um in May, I'll finalize a a tenative budget and present it to the finance advisory council. Then the board um is constantly seeing updates through the throughout the summer um on the budget and then ultimately the budget will be passed in September after having a public hearing. um we'll submit the budget to the state in October and then November we start all
026over with enrollment projections and levy and um and the audit presentation. So it's very cyclical. Um it makes sense once you've been on the board for a year to kind of slowly start to understand the process. Um, but we're constantly uh mo looking at the budget and um making adjustments uh that we want to make for the following year, keeping track of the adjustments that we need for the following year. Um the next item in my report is um >> I do appreciate you putting the budget calendar in because I think it's something that I reference with some regularity. So, thank you. >> You're welcome. The next uh item is just a FYI for the board. Public act 104 um 391 was passed earlier this year. Um and to be in compliance with this uh
027we will revert back to our prior practice of using a fee collection agency for unpaid student fees. The language is already in our student handbook. This was a prior practice. Um it had not been removed but after COVID um we stopped doing this and so we will revert back to doing that. um this year. >> When does that kick in for families? >> Um usually it would kick in in like November after we've given families an opportunity to to go on a payment plan. These are for this is for families that have not um gone on a payment plan or have not paid off their balance. Um so this year we will um likely do that probably in April or May. um since we didn't do it um in the fall, we want to make
028sure we provide notice again to families before uh we start doing that. Um next is uh financial projections. Um so I have provided the annual financial projection report along with the assumptions that are used to create uh these projections. It's really important to note that these projections are just a snapshot in time and they're subject to the information that we have available. Um there are a lot of big items that are beyond our control and there's also some items that are assumptions that we can't really play around with a whole lot. Um so I will go over um I won't read all of the assumptions for revenue or for expenditures. Um you can see property tax I've held at 99% collection rate. Obviously that is the biggest driver of our revenue. Um CPPRT I've held
029flat. I've updated uh a CPI to 2.7 [clears throat] [snorts] uh for our upcoming levy in December and then uh assume 2.5 moving forward. Um evidence-based funding is probably the biggest variable in revenue. Um the assumption is to increase at 300,000. Um that more aligns with what we had gotten in the past. This year I I believe was an anomaly, but we will wait and see what we get next year. Um so that is a conservative assumption. Um and then um interest on investment I've held flat from this year's budget of a little over 500,000. And then um new I've antic I put in anticipating receiving uh rebates from the solar project um next fiscal year and then um in future years um that could the timing of that could be a little off um
030but we will wait and see as the biggest incentive is a federal uh incentive. So whether it hits next fiscal year or the following fiscal year. >> So Kristen, is there anything that we can do as a district to affect the evidence-based formula and what we receive or is that solely based on the state's you know formula >> solely based on the state's formula. We don't have any control over >> we have no control. Correct. Um on the expenditure side, um staff salaries are all reflective of our existing uh CBA or um uh CPI. Um we did make some assumptions because our contract is up at the end of next uh fiscal year. So we just continued that moving forward. Um overall insurance for next year uh we anticipate an increasing at 10%. Um that
031is high based off of preliminary increases. Um and then we have 7% moving forward. So there was a question submitted about this. Um yes it is high. Um you know the goal would be to try to contain costs for healthcare moving forward. Um and we are working with our cooperative to um come up with some ideas for that. [snorts] uh staffing projections are based off of enrollment projections. So I've assumed that it would decrease by one next year, one one FTE or one teacher um full-time equivalency is what FTE stands for. Uh one the following year and then held flat moving forward. Supplies and materials I have increasing um as well as operations and maintenance. And those are both looking at our three-year historical trends. Um as well as purchase services uh and operations and
032maintenance. Um purchase services for operations and maintenance um has a more significant increase um because we are seeing things need to be repaired around the building. Um you know, we did the referendum and a um renovation back in 2009 and so some of those things are starting to break and need to be repaired. So that's why we're seeing an increased cost in that as well. Um uh lastly, uh transportation continues to increase. Um so I have that set at 3 and a half% and then special uh education tuition at 2% increased and lazy which is our special ed cooperative at 1%. So all of those things uh go into the assumptions um or go into the model which then you can see on the following [snorts] page in board book um which would be page
03328. Uh so you can see the first column is uh this fiscal year uh our budget is to have a deficit of $555 uh,000. Um and that is primarily due to the solar panel project uh that we are uh facilitating this year. Next year we're projecting a small surplus um of 279. That also like I said previous will be dependent on whether or not we receive that uh u rebate from the federal government for uh solar project either this that fiscal year. Um if we don't, we'll probably run a slight deficit um that year. And then the following years really need to be looked at together, fiscal year 28 and fiscal year 29, because you'll see we're running a big surplus as projected in fiscal year 28, but then a very big deficit fiscal year
03429. That is strictly due to the referendum bonds coming off um of our books. And so what happens with Cook County is um we receive money in the spring based off of the prior year collection and it's the total um collection. So it assumes that your debt service is staying the same. So it collects this extra money in the spring and gives it to the district, but then in the fall it corrects for that. Unfortunately for us, that hits a different fiscal year. So that's why there's that big discrepancy. So it's not like we have all this money to spend in fiscal year 28. We are going to need it for fiscal year 29. Um [snorts] and there's no there's no way to to um adjust that, right? That that's unfortunately um how the system
035works. And then lastly, um, on this page, you can see we track the fund balance as a percent of expenditures. Um, the very last row grow going across. If you look at the amount, um, the very last line without the $2 million in working cash, which we've set aside for land acquisition, um, you'll see that by the end of fiscal year 29, if we were to hit all of these numbers as we project, we're at about a 52% fund balance as a percent of our expenditures. And that's an important number. That means we can operate um for about a little over six months without receiving any additional revenue. Um there have been times in the recent past where we've had to use that due to the delay in property tax. Um so it's really important
036to try to keep that around 50% whenever possible. With the new law, [clears throat and snorts] what how high can we go or because they just implemented a new regulation, right? how much our fund balance can be. >> There there's a reporting law. Is that what you're referring to? >> Reporting law. >> A reporting, right? >> But I think that's like over anything over like [snorts] 200%. >> Over 200%. Okay. No, we're not there yet. Yeah. There's no cap on the fund balance as I understand it. >> Okay. So, I guess I was understanding that I thought there was a cap on the fund balance. So, we didn't um have more than we needed in that fund balance. Oh, there is a report that I do that um we do annually that looks at at
037that number that's um and we are nowhere near um having to worry about that >> and that gets fed into I think it's a school report card element. Right. >> Correct. >> Yeah, >> Dr. Smatana. >> Okay. Just someone asked me this in passing um with 20 FY27 being a projected slight surplus and FY28 being a surplus because we get the bond collection, right? [snorts] If you tally those up, it's close to the 1.2 that we are then a deficit in 29. Is it safe to say though that those two years of surplus kind of cover that deficit so that we should be closer to where we were uh prior to that in 26? Or is it because that money is not from the working cash? It goes to it's spread out like the 27
038and 28 money that's the surplus is spread out over other funds. >> I'm following the question. >> Yes, you confused me there because I thought the 26 and 27 were offset by the solar project. >> If you look at if you look at 26, right, we have a 55% fund balance at the bottom and okay, so the next year we have a small surplus that goes up to 56%. Then we have another surplus goes up to 57. And then we have the deficit, right? It drops to 52. But if you if you add up the money from 27 surplus and the 28 surplus, it's almost equivalent to the 29 deficit. So someone asked me like, well, with simple math, doesn't 27 and 28 offset 29? And I said it doesn't necessarily show in the working
039cash because some of that money might be this there's a small surplus that's sitting in the ED fund sitting in operations and maintenance. >> Is that accurate? >> Correct. It's also it's also dependent on your expenditures that year since it's a percent of the of the expenditures. >> Okay. >> So it will uh it will even itself out like when you look at [snorts] fiscal year 30. Um, but again, it's important to keep in mind that this is based off of all of those assumptions. So, should the state come out in August and say, "Hey, you're getting this additional tier one money," which they did this year that we weren't um anticipating, then obviously all of these numbers are going to change that would impact not just one year, but all of the future years
040[snorts] moving forward. >> Yeah. The scenario I worry about is the EBF being >> reduced. >> Correct. I mean the tier one money is a nice problem to have. >> Correct. Especially because I'm hearing some rumblings from tier three and tier four schools which are the schools that are fully funded that um they have not received any increase. So they plan on lobbying for um the state giving them a c a CPI increase which I would imagine then would eat up all of the the tiered money in that particular year. So, um, that's why I say to me, I think this year was an anomaly receiving the additional, uh, tier money that we received. Um, but only time will tell. I don't really have any indication one way or another at this point. >> And
041we anticipate it being in the same tier. >> Correct. We will I still anticipate being >> Yes. So, it would be more about funding tier at a higher level. Correct. >> That's helpful. But then there could be changes and also and because right now if we didn't get any of the rebate from the solar panels, we would have that huge deficit. We would have a deficit in 27. Um that just means we would get have a bigger surplus in 28 because we will get that money. It's just a timing issue of when we will receive it from the federal government. I'm hopeful if the project goes um on timeline, which it's scheduled to, that we we should be able to [snorts] if they process it right away, we should be able to get it in
042fiscal year 27. If not, it will hit fiscal year 28. >> Okay. So, we that's not in jeopardy. If they change the policy federally or anything, we are definitely going to get that money. >> We were grandfathered in um and so we we should receive all of the rebates that we were planning on. Okay. So this is a preliminary view, right? Revenue projections and and expenditure [clears throat] estimates. I think we'll we'll be seeing this again and again. >> We started doing this uh several years ago. And the idea behind this is that like Kristen presented that budget calendar. you it it it just has another focal point for the board to go back with as we go throughout the budget cycle throughout the fiscal year, whether it's staffing or levy or the audit or
043and we kind of come back and we just see to where things are at. So, um when we're doing staffing in March, we know that we [snorts] need to be, you know, a little more tighter to to the enrollment projection. Um you know, because we know that there's a year coming up where they're going to recoup the taxes that we collected on the bond. So, >> it's just another focal point to for us to have a nice snapshot so we're not just living in the moment, but we're also planning for the future. >> Sounds good. >> Any more comments on this? Thank you very much. We look forward to seeing it again. Um, I believe [clears throat] it's Dr. Fretas. [snorts] Thank you. >> Good evening again, honorable board members. For teaching and learning, in
044just two weeks, quarter 3 ends and there will only be nine weeks left of school. Can't believe it. And then graduation, prom is right around the corner. You know, you enjoy >> all your big days upcoming. >> Can you believe that? Nine weeks. [laughter] >> Crazy. >> For school cultures in operation for the month of February, actually occurring this evening and for the next three days. The Displayplains Valley region DVR, one of our college and career pathway partners announced a partnership with High 360 to offer targeted virtual prep course for seniors interested in pursuing the career. So test prep for our kids interested in the trades because many apprenticeship programs require rigorous entrance exam. So it's a three it's a three evening intensive course designed to help student master the skills needed to succeed in
045the entrance [snorts] in the trade exams. >> So how did they find out about that? Like >> so yeah so as seniors as counselors spoke to seniors that were interested we shared it in a newsletter. So I mean we we put it out there and of course you know we outreach to students that are interested in those traits. >> Okay. >> For the on the 27th I have a lunch with Dr. Fright and the focus is completing the five essentials. You know right now I'm following with the students that were absent people that missed you know so trying to catch up and we encourage everyone all the stakeholders to complete the five essentials survey. For the month of March on the 13th, we're going to have a health science career fair facilitated by Michelle Kaylor,
046teacher leader in the science department. She's a wonderful educator and it's an opportunity for students to get to meet with uh several health science professionals. So if the board knows anybody, you know, please contact Miss Kaylor. You know, we're looking for profession to speak, you know, dentists, you know, cardiologist, whoever, you know, people, community members that can inspire our kids to pursue those uh those uh pathways, those career pathways. On the on the 13th as well, uh applications, Hannah, can you believe it? Student advisor to the board of of uh of education, the apps open and they will close on April 10th. So, we'll be, you know, [snorts] looking for our next uh future uh student board members. Uh come coming up on the 18th. We have coffee with the principal at 9:00 a.m. here
047in the staff cafeteria. For activities in athletics, you know, spring sports are right around the corner starting up. Of course, registration is open. All student athletes interested need to register. Make sure there's a physical on file for the month of March on the 7th. Um, you know, students from RBTV and myself will be going down to Illinois State University. Our our video was chosen as the finalist for the school spirit award. You know, if you guys have been here at football games, Thanksgiving, Veterans Day, any event, [snorts] you know, it's a pretty special school, pretty special place with pretty special coaches and sponsors. So, it'll be a second out of three years, you know, >> that we're there. So, you know, I'll be going there and uh, you know, if you saw the video, Harley,
048you know, our facility dog was was the star. So, you know, I'm hoping there's an animal lover on the committee, you know, and throw RB, you know, the award our way, you know, but uh, you know, congratulations to every school that made it final. It's a great great times. On the 7th as well, we have the RB youth baseball camp from 11:30 to 1 in the fieldhouse. The cost is $20 for inquiries. Uh, email head coach Mark Orie. On the 8th, we have RBU softball camp 1 to230. In the fieldhouse, cost is $15 for any inquiries. um contact head coach Emma Gerro. And then on the on the 12th, we have the Bulldog story time for Fiji educators. And I've taken my kiddos twice. I'm [snorts] proud of Miss Kagelo and all of our students
049that want to be teachers. So they do kind of little read along at the North Library. We read, we do arts and crafts, you know, and of course, you know, as a principal. I think it's important to build the next generation of educators. So I try to show them love, you know, and read together and participate, you know, but we got students, you know, RB students that are interested in pursuing our noble profession. which I'm excited for them. And there was a question about a club here. So, our business club is run by Miss Katie. There's similar clubs in other schools, you know, business uh uh leaders of America, all those things. So, they meet professionals, they work on business plans, they brainstorm, you know, anything business people, students that are curious in business, they
050want to lead, manage and all that, you know, those are some of the meetings and the topics that Mr. Arcaty facilitates. So, do they have like a competition or something where um if this club kicks off, then they'll be able to compete in certain areas against other high schools that >> Well, well, right now we're just starting, but knowing Mr. Ar and what she's done with her curriculum here, I can see that as a reasonable activity. She's done it in the business class where students kind of, you know, create the business model, sell whatever products. So, I can see that happening. But right now, we're just starting. >> Okay. and uh you know and just to you know my my last addition here in my report I believe our our board members may have inquired
051about the letter that I sent uh last Friday. So I sent a letter on how we handle student demonstration. It's not new. You know, we've had climate change, you [snorts] know, walk out. We've had the Stoman Douglas as well. So, all pretty much all the attendance procedure expectations are the same, right? You know, my admin team and I, you know, we've met with a lot of the students that are interested in organizing and want to walk out, you know, and we've offered, you know, safe alternatives. I mean, we have our our stadium, the Canadian complex. We can supervise and watch that. If the kids leave campus, we cannot supervise. We cannot watch that. Right? There's risk out there, right? When you're with the general public, you know, there's risk, you know, in general. You know,
052we encourage all the families to talk to the kids on how to reasonably, you know, um express yourself. You know, everything we sent was reviewed, you know, by a district attorney and very similar to neighboring schools, you know. Um guys, we value our kiddos and and and their freedoms, [clears throat] but we [snorts] can only control what happens here, you know, and I mean, we have a policy. We have acceptable reasons and not and you know, we just want to make sure the students are safe. Hopefully, you know, if if they do walk out, they they come to the stadium. If not, you know, you know, we've engaged our local law enforcement officials, so they're aware and they know. But again, once you're off campus, there's very little authority that I have, you know, over
053the safeguard. >> Thank you, Dr. Fredas. And the board will get a more detailed uh on your security plan and safety plan >> in close session. >> Yes, sir. >> Okay. >> And now I'd like to turn it over to you, Superstar. Go ahead. Under teacher learning, I wanted to quickly warn that the third quarter is ending, so me and my peers should be checking up on grades and assignments before um all the deadlines rush in. Under school culture and operations, on February 9th, our local scholarship applications were open to RB students and they're found on RB's website. This is a great opportunity that's open solely to RB students. Um as local scholarships minimize the application pool significantly, making it easier for us to win money. Um, on March 9th, Lions Township High School is
054hosting the Illinois Regional College Fair from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Students and families must sign up prior to attending and the form can be found on Arby's website. On March 13th, the Student Advisory Board of Education application opens and I really like encourage all juniors to apply. This is a great opportunity for me. I love being here listening to everyone's opinions and like giving forth, you know, student opinion as well. Um, from March 30th to April 6th, students will be offered the spring break. Under activities and athletics, over the weekend on Saturday, February 21st, our boys swimming and diving team headed to sectionals at [snorts] East Lake High School. And I want to say congrats to the team. And for the fourth, the four medal winners. Um, tomorrow on February 25th, our boys basketball team
055plays at regionals at Morton East High School and the game start at 7:30 p.m. Um, from February 26th to March 1st, spring musical Legally Blonde is going to be taking place in the auditorium. From February 26th to the 28th, um the musical will be taking place from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. [snorts] And on Sunday, March 1st, it'll be taking place from 2 to 4 p.m. Tickets will be available on AL for online purchase or tickets can be purchased in person. Adult tickets are $20 and senior and student tickets cost 10. And um RB will continue to show off the musical talent on March 5th with the winter band concert which will be held in auditorium from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. And I really encourage you to come to the musical and winter bant concert and
056support our musicians. >> Hannah, will you be recommending anybody to apply for student advisor at the board? >> Not not so far yet, but I should probably talk to my junior friends. >> Put your feelers out for us. You've done a great job. >> Get us some good candidates for sure. Um information items. I don't think we have any this evening. Dr. Skinkis, visitor statements. Are you guys here for visitor statements this evening? You can please come up and state your name and uh Dr. Skinkis will time you. >> I won't time your speech. You just get three minutes. >> I do have a short uh intro to read. >> I don't expect to be three minutes. >> Yeah. The board of education welcomes and encourages the participation of its citizens in the business of
057the school district. There are two points in the meeting where visitor statements are scheduled. Citizens are welcome to raise questions or make comments at either one. Comments will be limited to three minutes per individual and cannot be combined. Please note the board of education will not answer questions or engage in dialogue during visitor comments. If a person would like additional time to address the board, such a request should be submitted in writing 48 hours before the meeting to the superintendent. So, without further ado, please introduce yourself. Um, just one point. You do need to want to check your board policy because it says 24 hours on the board policy >> to submit for lengthen. Okay. Thank you. >> Doesn't it's not 48. It does say 24. >> Okay. I appreciate that. Thank you. >> Point
058of reference. >> I will look at it right now. >> So So thank you uh board for the opportunity to address you tonight uh and for the work that you do. You do not have an easy job. I received the letter that Dr. Freighto mentioned on February 20th about possible student demonstrations. As I was asked in the letter, I spoke to my wife who is here tonight and I spoke to our daughter about her possible participation in a school walk out to profess the unjust and possibly potentially illegal actions of ICE. Her mother and I told her that we will fully support her in whatever [snorts] decision she makes. We have also told her and others that when we feel the school abuses its power to punitively punish students by taking away special privileges and
059for exercising their constitutional rights, then they have every right to use the school rules to their advantage. For example, why walk out when you can just not go to school? Per the student handbook [snorts] in Illinois law, students can take a mental health day or attend a civic event without any consequences. However, why do we need to play this stupid game when all that the students want is a better world? Most of our students do not have a voice in our government, but they have a conscience. What they see happening today goes against all founding principles of our great country and most religious and philosophical teachings. We have mass government agents killing American citizens in the street. One of the few options our students have today to have their voices heard is to protest just
060as the students did in East Los Angeles in March 1968. Many students in this room many people in this room would likely not be where they are at today if it was not [snorts] for the students and those like them in the past who protested, who marched, and who walked out of school for equal rights. The students of Riverside Brookfield High School are not just protesting for themselves. They're protesting to protect our rights. Many in this room could be pulled over tonight, stopped on the street, and detained just because of the color of their skin, the language one speaks, or the accent one has. This is not right. And our students know this. They want you to know this as well and to give them a space to have their voices heard. These are unprecedented
061time. Yet, most of our leaders today do not seem to understand or comprehend the gravity of the situation. But the students do. If no one speaks up now, it will eventually be too late. It is utterly and absolutely unfair to punitively penalize any student that exercises their right to free speech. I respectfully ask that the school exercise discretion and determine the consequences for students that walk out of school to protest the injustices committed by ICE and our government. Or better yet, just mark them absent for the classes they miss and call it a day like many other school districts have. Again, thank you for your time tonight. >> Thank you. And I didn't get your name. I apologize. Yes, David Barat. >> Thank you, David. >> Is anyone else here to speak this evening? >>
062No. >> Thank you. Uh, old business, life safety items, capital improvement, sustainability. Is there any update on the solar project tonight? No. Uh, under new business, we do have the [clears throat] resolution abating the working cash funds for the district. >> Uh, the district sold exempt working cash fund bond for capital projects. uh on February 10th. Today, the district received the proceeds of this bond, which were $4,53,439. Uh the final step in this process is to transfer the proceeds from the working cash fund through the operations and maintenance fund and then to capital projects uh so that the money can then be spent towards capital projects. >> Are there any questions on that or were we comfortable moving ahead with the resolution? And we've officially closed today, right [snorts] Kristen? Correct. >> These are closed.
063I think um everything's been signed to my to my knowledge. If everyone's comfortable, we can move ahead. I believe this >> u resolved that the board of education township high school district 208 Cook County Illinois hereby approves the abatement of the working cash fund in [snorts] the amount of $4,53,439 as presented in the February 24, 2026 board agenda packet. >> Second. >> So moved a second for Mr. Durkin. Let me just check with Dr. Skin on one matter very quickly. Is it I want to make sure you have the right dollar amount. >> 43 or 63. >> I just saw that. Let me pull it up. >> Could you pull it up just so we get it correct in the in the resolution? >> Everyone can just give us a second. >> It is 63.
064>> Okay. >> Could I have you restate it, Miss Gasket, just for the record? Thank you. >> So $63.9. Okay. Resolved. Resolved that the board of education, Township High School District 208, Kak County, Illinois, hereby approves the abatement of the working cash fund in the amount of $4,53,639 as presented in the February 24, 2026 board agenda packet. >> So moved. And we have a second from >> second from Mr. Durkin. And we do need a roll call, please. >> Mr. Caputo, >> yes. >> Mr. Derkin, >> yes. >> Miss Gasa, >> yes. Miss Ruska, >> yes. >> Mr. Novak, >> yes. >> Mr. Williams, >> yes. >> Miss Blet, >> yes. >> And is the next item of first read? Dr. Skinis. I'm >> sorry. >> It is a first read the >> the student
065registration fees. I'm sorry. I just I was just reading. I could speak. >> Yes. >> Dr. Sana, did you want to touch on the changes, please? >> This is student registration fees for the 2627 school year. >> There's [snorts] one recommended change, which is to the technology fee for the incoming freshman class and beyond. So, class of 2030 and beyond, the recommendation is to increase the fee $25. Um, as this fee has not increased since going 1 one in 2015. So, in 11 years, as you can imagine, the cost of the Chromebook, Google license, and insurance have all increased. That's the only change being recommended. >> That will start with this year's freshman class only. The sophomore, junior, and senior will continue to pay. Correct. So the class of 20 >> 30 and that'll be
066>> so the incoming freshman next year. >> Correct. Not not this year's freshman, next year's the 26 27 freshmen. >> So I do have one question uh cuz as you were going over our um the budget calendar, you're going to meet with the different uh departments and ask them about their budget and everything. Have they had a chance to chime into any kind of student fees or anything? um in case their materials are going up. >> Yes, those all get approved in October as um they are often listed in the uh curriculum guide. Um and so that's why those happen in the fall so that um parents are aware of those in November when they're signing up for classes. So uh those departments have and then these specifically were reviewed by um the necessary uh
067people. So Allison Marsh who oversees the yearbook reviewed hers. Um I worked with the technology director to um come up with the increase. So yes, they have all had a chance to provide feedback. >> Okay. So that's included in your chart. Okay. >> And this was a first read, so we're not taking action on this tonight. If you have any thoughts on this, we can circle back at our next meeting. And then also the student handbook changes. It's a first read for this evening. >> This is a first read for the board. Um Mr. Mans will be speaking with you in close session to talk about a few things related to safety. Uh the committee [snorts] changes are recommended. There's been a staff participation, student participation, a parent survey, and then uh Mr. Novak uh
068conducted the board member review with Mr. Mannon of the recommended changes. I did not receive any questions uh submitted for this meeting. Again, it's a first read. If there are [snorts] any questions, please review and submit your questions and then uh we could go for approval in March so that they can go out to the printers uh shortly after spring break. >> Where do we see the full version? >> The full version is on the uh website under the students tab. >> So will that have the new changes? I mean the one that we're going to approve to go for print where do >> so I they we had that sheet where the new policies are coming in uh where where do we see all that incorporated into it so that we can see what's
069going to be printed. So this is the the the current handbook is on the website under the students tab. It says student handbook, >> right? >> This is the practice we've been following for the last several years where we give you just the pages where there's changes. If nothing else has changed only these sections are changing that gives you where the current language is and then what the proposed new language is on the summary in the board packet. >> So this just to clarify this is not a summation. This is the proposed new language. >> This is only the changes. It gives you the page page number the current language and then what the new language is proposing. If there's nothing listed else listed then the rest of the handles remaining the same. >> So
070like where it says page 28 you know the mental health uh the proposed change language that box is that's what would be replaced on in the current handbook is that for next school >> for 26. Okay. And then um I think right right on down the a the AI are are you doing more work or is this all that's going to go in there? >> This is not related to our AI policy. This is talking [snorts] about students use of AI and prohibited behaviors. >> Okay. Okay. Well, that's why I'm asking. So I >> Right. It's all laid out there though. The prohibited behaviors include Okay. >> David, privacy, technology, all the stuff that's going to be added is listed there. that's going to be added. Okay. So, it's in there. Okay. So, I know
071I did ask I wanted to see be able to look at the whole thing in one thing. >> Okay. >> So, again, that's a first read. So, any questions? I think submit it and we can have a a longer discussion at the next. >> We vote in March on this. >> Yes. The next one. Correct. >> Yeah. And there also is a member review of this. Correct, Dr. Stinkis? Cor correct remedies that that occurred already with Mr. Mr. >> May right can you go and just give one sentence or two sentence on who has looked at this so far? >> Yeah, as I stated when I I think I did that right in the beginning. >> Did you I >> So there's been a parent and student comment >> looking up the surve looking up
072the student comment and and we are incorrect. It's 24 hours. So I'll say that to member of the audience. >> So it was there was a the um teacher rec the union contract committee. There was also a staff survey. There was a student committee, a parent survey, and then board member review. >> Perfect. Thank you. So, we will discuss that further at our next meeting. Uh, bulldogs and business activity account, I think, is an item for this evening. Is this a first read? [snorts] Are we looking for action on this? >> Um, this can be a first read. Uh, uh, we are requesting that the board approve a new activity count for Bulldogs in Business Club. This was a club that was newly formed uh this year and they'd like to hold fundraising events. Um
073and so in order to do so they need an account to deposit their funds. >> I don't I don't think there I mean the board has the option if they want to wait for a second read but technically this is just a formality so they have a >> they can it'd be great if they can get started if it's okay with the board. Is this the stage? I I asked the question where it's a volunteer where [snorts] the >> the teacher who oversees it, it's their volunteer for two years or this is that preliminary 2-year period of time. >> The two-year probationary period starts. Yeah. >> Okay. So, that's what we're starting there. Correct. Two-year probationary. >> This is giving them the account to to to move. >> Yeah. The sponsor was approved at a
074previous meeting. Um, this is just to approve the activity account, >> right? Cuz I feel like we have discussed this previously, right? >> Yes. >> Okay. Yeah, that's what I had asked. I wasn't quite sure. >> Yeah. Any objection to moving forward this evening or do we want to take it as a move forward? Okay, >> let's do it. >> Thanks. >> Resolved that the board of education township high school district 208 county hereby approves the activity account for the Bulldogs in Business Club as presented in the February 24, 2026 board agenda packet. >> Second. >> A second from uh Mr. Williams. And this is a roll call, please. >> Mr. [snorts] Durkin. >> Yes. >> Miss Gasco. >> Yes. Miss Ruska, >> yes. >> Mr. Novak, >> yes. >> Mr. Williams, >> yes. >>
075Miss, >> yes. >> Mr. Caputo, >> yes. >> Visitor statement, second opportunity. [snorts] >> Okay. Thank you. Uh, board of education discussion items. Miss Ruska wanted to refer to board of ed policy 6280. I'm getting closer. Um, I did appreciate uh uh a I've been working with my daughter as an engineer on the chat GPD using that as part of the search and um that's been um quite a learning curve because not everything you get is real. Uh, this is an amazing search engine that collects text. Incredible speed [snorts] of >> Are you looking at the AI policy? I'm sorry, I misunderstood. >> No, I it's just it was fun to read the AI policy, how they were talking about that chat GPD, and then as I'm learning to use the tool myself. It was
076interesting how we said there is a viable place for it in our classrooms, you know, in the new policy and that, you know, how it's going to be used. And I can just speak to that as I'm learning to use this, but my daughter is an engineer. She uses [snorts] it daily. Um, just learning that not everything that comes through is fact. and how she's showing me how she builds in references and that you have to go back and crossch checkck and you have to cross-check your different searches. And so that's been um an interesting project for me. But I am pretty close. I've got about five high schools that surround us. If anybody has wants to add a high school, let me know because I could just expand that search and I think by
077next month I we should be ready to go. >> So you'd like us to keep this on the agenda for future discussion? Okay. Um any board of education items for future meetings from anyone? No. Seeing none, we do have matters for close session. Appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance or dismissal of specific employees with the public body. We have an HR packet this evening. Student discipline, individual student matters, purchase, sale or lease of real property, probable imminent or pending litigation, collective negotiations, and school safety. Um the board of education high school district 208 Cook County Illinois enters close session for the purpose of considering close session matters as presented in the February 2426 board agenda packet. >> So moved. Is there a second? >> Second by Mr. Durkin. We need a roll call to go to
078close. >> Mr. Rosco. >> Yes. >> Mr. Williams. >> Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Okay.