GHS Principal Tom Rogers presented the Tradition of Excellence Award to two GHS swimmers who competed in the IHSA State Swim Meet on Saturday, November 11 at FMC Natatorium in Westmont. The team, coached by Nick Parry, placed 12th overall.
• Amelia Murphy placed 6th in the 200 YD Freestyle and 7th in the 400 YD Free Relay
• Claire Conklin placed 7th in the 400 YD Free Relay, 12th in the 50 YD Freestyle and 15th in the 100 YD Freestyle 

The FY2023 Annual Financial Report & Annual Comprehensive Financial Report was presented by Scott Duenser of Wipfli, LLC. He reported that the District received a score of 3.9 out of 4.0, with all categories receiving a 4.0 score except the long-term debt category, which scored 3.0. He explained that this is because the District is working to reduce debt from building our schools over the years. Overall, he said that the District is in a very good place financially, in comparison to other school districts. View the full report.

Director of Technology Michael Wilkes presented the 2024-25 Preliminary Technology Capital Plan, which includes $970 million for the purchase of new equipment for students and classrooms plus $525 million for infrastructure improvements related to wireless networks, cabling in schools and access switches. A total of $950 million is proposed after potential offset costs are figured in. Offset costs come from E-Rate, grants and student fees.

Board member Jackie Forbes reported that the 104th General Assembly convenes this week.

Dr. Barrett updated the Board on the Strategic Planning process adding that most of the focus groups are completed, the Community Forum is planned for this month plus the Community Survey is still open until January 15. He explained that we added an email address to collect written comments from the community at [email protected]. He also commented on the upcoming inclement weather, and our efforts to make the community aware of the difficult decisions involved with keeping schools open vs opting for eLearning or late starts. He added that he regularly consults with the Transportation Department and the other nearby school districts to make these decisions.

The Board approved the proposed policy updates, an out-of-country trip request, the FY2023 Annual Financial Report & Annual Comprehensive Financial Report, and the Preliminary 2024-25 Technology Capital Plan.

One Board member expressed empathy for the family that lost a child and added that if anyone needs support to reach out for help. Another member commented on their work with the Class Size Committee and thanked the building administrators who have had difficult times in recent months. Another member gave a shout out to the Transportation Department and thanked them for inviting them to their holiday luncheon. They reminded everyone about the upcoming Faculty Recital on January 19. All wished students, teachers and staff good luck in the new school semester.