October 26th Board Meeting Highlights
Student Achievements
Lake Bluff Instructional Coach Shana Lucas along with students Ella Saunders-Vinson and Pierce Sherman presented on their recent author visit with Nic Stone. The students from Mrs Purgill's class shared perceptions of their virtual learning experience with students from Hopkins Lloyd and Metcalfe Elementary School, noting excitement in seeing a female heroine of color near their age, learn more about softball, and experience a culminating project of authentic learning. You can view their whole presentation at the Board meeting here (starting at 4:00).
Budget Passes
The Board voted on the 2021-2022 school district budget following a budget presentation by Director of Business Services Heather Heaviland. The budget allows us to focus on strategic priorities for the year, including:
1) Early Literacy Instruction (4K - 4th Grade)
2) Integrated Social Emotional Learning Curriculum (4K - 12th Grade)
3) Recruitment and Retainment of Staff of Color
4) Systemic Improvements for Equitable Student Results (ICS for Equity - Year 2)
5) Enhance Connectedness & Belonging for All Students and Staff
There was discussion about how the budget would impact teacher salaries and compensation. The Board found a budget compromise that funds our current teacher salary structure, acknowledges the important contributions all staff provided last year, while striving to maintain the district's long-term fiscal health. Regarding additional wages, the Board voted, as part of the budget adoption to fund:
- A 1.23 total wage increase for all staff
- Lane movement for teachers that submitted all required verification of course/degree completion by the 10/1/2021 deadline
- 0.5 Step movement for teachers
- An additional 0.46% base wage increase for all non-teaching staff
The Superintendent outlined her plans for development of the 2022-2023 budget. The full details can be found in her report here. There will be ample opportunity for community input, and we welcome your participation.
Tax Levy Adopted
The Board adopted a property tax levy in the amount of $21,665,147, including $275,000 for a Capital Expansion Fund, to provide for operation and maintenance of the District. This represents a property tax decrease of 2.8%.
Math Student Results
Director of Instruction Sam Coleman presented the Results Report for Math following the previous board meeting's focus on Literacy. Results can be found here.
Upcoming Meetings
The next School Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 9, at 7 p.m. All are welcome to participate and you can find all Board packets and agenda items here.