Geneva School District 304 News Article

September 9, 2024

RECOGNITION, AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, PUBLIC HEARINGS 
Assistant Superintendent for Learning and Teaching Shonette Sims gave a presentation about the dual credit offerings at Geneva High School. Several teachers and students gave their perspectives on the topic. 

Director of Learning and Teaching George Petmezas updated the Board on the FY 2025 Grants. 

PUBLIC COMMENT 
Public comments were made about practices related to cell phones and smart devices by Kelli Borge and Stephanie Amore. Jessie Yung spoke to the board about dual credit.  
 
LEGISLATIVE UPDATES 
Board member Jackie Forbes talked about House Bill 5057 which will help ease the teacher shortage. She added that the veto session is planned for November. 

SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT 
Dr. Barrett shared some of the key findings from the Demographic Study. He also discussed the potential new proposed Charles Farm housing development that could have 546 single-family homes and 196 townhomes in the Geneva 304 boundaries. 

Dr. Barrett updated the Board and visitors about cell phone practices including that the District’s philosophy is to minimize distractions in the classroom and that the District has stepped up efforts to ensure good cell phone practices in the classroom. He said that the District is reflecting on areas that can be improved, including offering some community engagement opportunities.  

WORK-STUDY TOPICS & FUTURE ACTION CONSIDERATIONS 
The Board reviewed proposed updates to several policies. The Board will take action on these policies at the next meeting.  
 
BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS 
One member said they attended curriculum and back-to-school nights and heard many teachers who impressed upon parents the cell phone practices. They also shared that they have listened to parents who offered a wide range of thoughts on the cell phone topic. They mentioned the Theater Boosters are working on the high school’s first production on Oct. 5 and 6. They reminded everyone the Geneva that the Music Boosters are holding their annual Mum Sale. They said they enjoyed seeing the eighth graders perform with the high school band at the football game.  

Another member said it was exciting to see the activities happening at Mill Creek School and hopes to be involved this year. Another member attended the Fabyan PTO meeting and the football games. Two members mentioned that the Technology Task Force will meet soon, and they are looking forward to Homecoming later this month. 
 
One member talked about how exciting it is to see how the District works to make education a positive experience for students. One member said they appreciated the dual credit presentation and were excited about the opportunities for students.  

Another member thanked the parent who spoke about dual credit and reflected on the fact that community colleges and universities encourage dual credit.  
  

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