The 2024-25 Preliminary Education Fund Budget and the 2024-25 Draft Budget were presented by Assistant Superintendent for Business Services Todd Latham. Mr. Latham shared preliminary assumptions regarding revenue sources and district expenditures for the coming fiscal year. A tentative budget will be shared next month, and the final budget will be presented for approval by the BOE later this fall.
Board member Jackie Forbes updated the board on the bill recently signed by the Governor establishing the Illinois Department of Early Childhood.
SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT
Dr. Barrett discussed plans for the upcoming school year, and he shared that our theme will revolve around our updated mission and vision. He noted that we have much work ahead but that even the most difficult missions are possible when we work together.
He added that a lot of preparations are taking place for the start of the school year including hiring, curriculum planning and development, data analysis, construction and maintenance, start-up activities and communications.
He shared that the demographic study is in the final stages, and he plans to present the findings at a future meeting.
Dr. Barrett updated the Board on the Strategic Plan, as the team is working on actionable goals, data components, a public-facing dashboard, and communications.
BOARD DIALOGUE TOPICS AND PENDING ACTION CONSIDERATIONS
The Board approved an update to a policy.
WORK-STUDY TOPICS & FUTURE ACTION CONSIDERATIONS
The Board reviewed updates to several policies and will vote on them at the next meeting.
BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
One Board member mentioned that they plan to attend the IASB Annual Conference and encouraged board members to register. They said they attended the Technology Task Force meeting and thanked the Director of Technology Michael Wilkes and his staff for all the work done to ensure students have their devices for school. They wished everyone good luck as they start the new school year.
A Board member said they attended the Facilities Task Force meeting with the interim facilities director who brings experience and professionalism to the role, and that there were many good discussions in the meeting. They are looking forward to seeing what improvements may result.
Another board member mentioned the upcoming Communications Task Force Meeting and said they are always surprised by how much activity occurs over the summer, especially at the libraries.
A Board member said they toured the school buildings and it was illuminating to see the schools from a different perspective. They suggested that their fellow board members attend the Diversity and Equity sessions at the annual conference.
Another Board member said they applied for the IASB School Board Recognition program. A second Board member also mentioned the Facilities Task Force meeting, saying it was exciting to see some improvements in efficiencies. They echoed the suggestion that board members attend any DEI sessions at the annual conference. They added that they toured the high school with some visitors from France.