Board Brief - 11/13/2024
November 13, 2024
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Jane Addams Elementary School’s Service Club
We were honored to have students from Jane Addams Elementary School’s Service Club lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance this month. These outstanding young leaders, guided by their dedicated club supervisor Jennifer Muccianti and Jane Addams Principal Dr. Amy Molinsky, embody a commitment to service that resonates throughout their school. The Service Club, which meets each Tuesday during lunch, just wrapped up a fundraiser for Hurricane Relief, an effort that exemplifies their compassion and drive, to make a positive impact on those in need.
Joining us were the following Service Club members: Reagan L., Mila H., Colton F., Luke G., Max M., Eva R., Sophia V., Henry R., Nicholas M., and Cheyenne F.
Their hard work and community spirit continue to inspire all of us in District 15. Thank you to these students for your dedication to helping others and for leading us in the Pledge with pride and purpose.
Student Recognition: 5th Grade Intramural Cross Country Athletes
This month, we were thrilled to honor the exceptional athletic achievements of our 5th-grade Intramural Sports participants. On October 15, 2024, over 300 students (WOW) from across our district gathered at North Salk Park in Rolling Meadows to participate in the annual 5th Grade Cross Country Invitational Meet. These dedicated athletes, representing various elementary schools, challenged themselves by running a full mile in their respective divisions.
A special congratulations goes to the top finishers who placed first in their divisions, setting an inspiring example of determination as well as school spirit.
Green Division: Sammi C. (Girls) and Eric C. (Boys)
Yellow Division: Arisa I. (Girls) and Brayden K. (Boys)
- Blue Division: Danica C. (Girls) and Emmett V. (Boys)
Additionally, we extend our sincere appreciation to the coaches, event supervisors, and the families and friends who supported all our student-athletes.
Finally, we want to recognize all 313 participants who embraced the challenge, supported one another, and gave their best. You have all made us #ProudToBe15!
Above and Beyond: IASB School Board Members Appreciation - Give Them the Recognition They Deserve
We were proud to recognize the exceptional commitment and service of our District 15 Board of Education members in honor of Illinois' School Board Members Day on November 15. Sponsored by the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB), this day acknowledges the dedication, volunteerism and leadership of nearly 6,000 board members throughout Illinois.
Our Board members exemplify true servant leadership, consistently championing initiatives to enrich the educational experiences of our students, such as our transformative Moving 15 Forward efforts. Their unwavering commitment to our students, families, and staff reflects a genuine dedication to community-building and advancing educational excellence in District 15.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our Board members for their steadfast service, thoughtful governance, and vision for a brighter future for all our students. On behalf of District 15’s staff, students, and the entire community, thank you for your invaluable contributions to our district’s growth and success.
Above and Beyond: District 15 Military Veterans
We proudly recognized our District 15 staff members who have served in the military as part of our Above and Beyond Staff Recognition. Their dedication extends beyond their roles in District 15, embodying a spirit of service that enriches our community. These individuals bring resilience, commitment, and a unique depth of experience to their work with our students and families.
Dr. Tom Edgar, Army veteran and Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services, aptly put it: “Our veterans have made a life-altering choice to serve both country and community.” We thank them for their remarkable contributions to District 15 and for their courage and dedication to our country.
Our honored veterans include:
Thomas Bramley, ESC – British Royal Navy
Scott R. Cochran, Transportation – Army
Mike Cornejo, Transportation – Marine Corps
Charles Diestel, Walter R. Sundling – Air Force Reserve
Dr. Thomas Edgar, ESC – Army
David Enriquez, Winston Campus – Army
Miguel Hernandez, Carl Sandburg – Army
Julie Koepke, John G. Conyers Learning Academy – Army
Elsa Lopez, ESC – Navy
Joyannie Martin Mehrl, Transportation – National Guard
Michael Russell, Kimball Hill – Navy
John Smart, Frank C. Whiteley – Navy
David Strik, Facilities & Operations – Air Force
Thomas Tamburo, Plum Grove – Marine Corps
Nick Vassos, Plum Grove – Navy
Thomas Youngs, Transportation – Navy
We also extend our gratitude to all veterans and any D15 veterans not listed. Your service has enriched our district, and we are honored to celebrate you. Thank you for inspiring us all.
School Donation: Marion Jordan Elementary School
At our November board meeting, the Board of Education recognized a generous donation of $69,500 gifted to Marion Jordan Elementary School from the estate of Mr. William Jordan, a relative of the school’s namesake and a former Superintendent of District 15. This heartfelt contribution will be allocated to enhance facilities and student experiences, continuing the legacy of community impact that Mr. Jordan embodied.
The proposed allocations of the donation include upgrades to the school’s multi-purpose room sound system, school branding enhancements, a mural, and future considerations like a book vending machine and musical playground instruments. These enhancements will not only enrich Marion Jordan but will positively impact the learning environment for current and future students, embodying the generosity and vision Mr. Jordan inspired in our District.
The Board and school community extend their gratitude for this impactful legacy, celebrating how it supports an enriched educational experience for our students.
8th Grade Graduation and D211 HS Summer School
As shared, all 8th graders will graduate on Wednesday, June 11, 2025.
For families considering summer school in District 211 in June, Superintendent Small shared that although their summer school start date cannot be changed, District 211 is ready to work with families to accommodate any missed days.
They understand our extended schedule and are committed to ensuring a smooth transition for students. Families should coordinate directly with their child’s new high school to develop a plan.
Revised Board of Education Meeting Schedule
The Board approved a revised schedule for the February Board of Education meeting, moving the date from Wednesday, February 12, to Wednesday, February 19. Please update your calendars and join us as we continue working together to support our students, staff, and families.
Inclement Weather Update
Updated Language (as of Oct. 1, 2024)
Extreme Cold Consolidation and Renaming
Wind Chill Watches will be renamed to an Extreme Cold Watch
Wind Chill Warnings will be renamed to an Extreme Cold Warning
Wind Chill Advisory will be renamed a Cold Weather Advisory
Freeze Consolidation
Hard Freeze Watches will be renamed to a Freeze Watch
Hard Freeze Warnings will be consolidated to a Freeze Warning
Physical Education Waiver Presentation
In alignment with Illinois School Code requirements, District 15 held a public hearing to discuss a proposed waiver for K-5 physical education, requesting flexibility from the state mandate of three PE sessions per week.
Currently, middle schoolers attend PE five days a week, exceeding the requirement, and elementary students have PE twice weekly for 30 minutes, supported by additional recess and movement opportunities.
Dr. Lori Lopez, Assistant Superintendent for Teaching, Learning, and Assessment, noted that the waiver would allow us to maximize shared spaces and continue exploring ways to enhance student wellness.The Board approved for the application to be submitted to the Illinois State Board of Education for final consideration.
There were no public comments for this public hearing.
FY24 Final Audit Results
Presented by:
Mr. John Epperson, Partner, Miller Cooper
Mrs. Diana McCluskey, Chief School Business Official
District 15 recently received the results of its FY24 financial audit conducted by Miller Cooper & Co., Ltd., which included a comprehensive review of our financial statements and internal controls. The audit yielded an unmodified opinion—the highest level of assurance—confirming that our financial statements are accurate and compliant with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
Mrs. McCluskey highlighted key takeaways, including the District’s overall fiscal health and the notable financial adjustments required for the Moving 15 Forward initiative.
District 15 has maintained strong financial stewardship, demonstrating stability and transparency in its financial operations. The audit results support our ongoing commitment to prudent financial management as we move forward with strategic improvements that benefit our schools and community.
This detailed audit review ensures that the District remains accountable and fiscally responsible, reinforcing trust with our stakeholders as we continue to invest in the future of District 15.
You can view the information in Diligent Community or watch the presentation on Youtube.
Tentative 2024 Tax Levy
Presented by:
Mrs. Diana McCluskey, Chief School Business Official
During the November Board meeting, Mrs. Diana McCluskey presented the tentative tax levy for the 2024 tax year, a vital part of the District’s funding process. Property taxes make up roughly 73% of District 15’s revenue, and state guidelines limit the levy increase for 2024 to a maximum of 3.4%, in line with last December’s CPI under the Property Tax Extension Limitation Law (PTELL).
Mrs. McCluskey recommended a levy of $159,057,959 or 5.79% increase over the LY23 extension. The levy or "ask" must cover unknown factors that affect the amount of taxes actually extended. These unknowns include the construction of new property coming on the tax rolls for the first time, potential legislative changes, increased homeowner exemptions, and tax freeze proposals. Under levying has a compounding effect in later years from forfeiting property tax revenue. Maximizing the levy ensures stable and adequate funding for our students and schools. Again, the final extension will be limited to the PTELL or 3.4% plus new property. The final levy decision will be adopted in December following a public hearing, underscoring the District’s commitment to balancing student support with fiscal responsibility.
You can view the information in Diligent Community or watch the presentation on Youtube.
2024 Illinois Report Card
Dr. Lori Lopez, Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning & Assessment
Dr. Lori Lopez presented the 2023-24 Illinois Report Card, celebrating key achievements and outlining areas for growth. This annual report, issued by the Illinois State Board of Education, provides a detailed look at student performance and district progress as part of their designation process. A school’s Summative Designation is one of five ratings: Exemplary, Commendable, Targeted Support, Comprehensive Support, or Intensive Support.
Dr. Lopez announced that Hunting Ridge and Marion Jordan Elementary School received Exemplary designations, placing them in Illinois’ top 10% of schools for high growth in English Language Arts (ELA) and Math and low chronic absenteeism.
All other District 15 schools earned Commendable ratings, which means that all schools, and each of the student groups within each school, outperform the “All Students” group of the lowest-performing 5% of schools.
Key Insights from the Presentation:
Academic Growth: Dr. Lopez noted positive growth in both ELA and Math, especially among students nearing proficiency. This growth is a promising indicator, though moving students fully to proficiency remains a focus.
Assessment Challenges: The rigor of Illinois’ IAR, which demands high benchmarks for proficiency, was discussed. To support students, the district is enhancing opportunities for practice with constructed responses and aligning curriculum pacing.
Equity and Engagement: Progress on the ISBE Equity Journey Continuum reflects improvements in learning conditions and support for educators, though work continues to reduce chronic absenteeism and close performance gaps among student groups.
Dr. Lopez shared that next steps include boosting attendance, refining Math instruction, and increasing engagement opportunities for families—all aligned with priorities outlined within our multi-year Strategic Plan. Board members recognized the district’s steady progress and commitment to advancing student growth and achievement.
Discussion and Decision on Electric Bus Pilot
By partnering with Highland, the district will access grant opportunities, avoiding upfront costs and maintaining a predictable budget impact over a twelve-year lease, with an option to extend for three additional years.
Key Points Discussed:
Cost Efficiency: Highland will secure grants on behalf of the district, allowing a fixed annual payment structure that supports financial planning.
Pilot Goals: The pilot will help assess how electric buses perform under midwestern weather conditions and guide future decisions on expanding electric buses within the fleet.
Implementation Timeline: The buses are expected to be operational by the start of the next school year, integrating smoothly into our regular routes.
Board members expressed confidence in the readiness for this initiative, noting that due diligence has been completed, and logistical questions—such as garage compatibility—have been addressed. This pilot marks a proactive step toward sustainable solutions in student transportation and will be closely monitored for effectiveness and adaptability.
You can view the information in Diligent Community or watch the presentation on Youtube.
Education Research Development (ED-RED) Committee
Board Vice President Annerino shared that In the latest Ed-Red meeting, legislative priorities affecting the district were discussed, including efforts to align Cook County’s Paid Leave Ordinance with state policies. The district has requested an exemption for schools to maintain leave practices outlined within collective bargaining agreements.
Ed-Red is also supporting legislation to allow schools to opt out as polling places, which could reduce disruptions on election days. For more information, visit ED-RED’s website.
one-five Foundation
Board Member Taylor shared that the one-five Foundation recently closed its mini-grant application window after receiving 33 submissions—a great response from our district’s educators. The Foundation will review the applications and announce awards in early December. Their next meeting is scheduled for November 21st.
Please visit https://www.one-five.org/ if you would like to donate to the one-five Foundation.
Finance Committee
Board Member Wang shared that the committee met on November 4th to review key financial updates, including the district’s tax levy and recent audit details.
Equity Committee
Board Member Khan shared that the Equity Committee recently toured Lake Louise, Carl Sandburg, and Pleasant Hill schools to observe district programs supporting equitable access to programming in our schools.
Highlights included bilingual Pre-K, full-day kindergarten, and specialized programs like MILE, LEAP, and SIP, all demonstrating the district’s commitment to inclusive, high-quality learning. These visits are part of the committee’s work to align initiatives with the Strategic Plan’s equity goals and ensure ongoing progress.
2024 Resolution Committee
Led by Board Member Khan, the 2024 Resolution Committee reviewed upcoming proposals, discussing each in depth to determine alignment with district values and priorities. After a collaborative review, the committee provided guidance on which resolutions to adopt and which to oppose. Board members shared insights on specific items, helping clarify positions that will represent our district’s stance effectively at the upcoming assembly.
Board member Khan will serve as the committee representative and will vote according to the board's direction, ensuring the district’s voice is clearly represented at the state level at the upcoming Triple I Conference.
- 10.1 Approval of Personnel Report: Administrative, Certified and Non-Certified Staff - APPROVED
- 10.2 Approval of HEF-P Palatine, LLC Agreement for the Lease of Five Electric Buses. - APPROVED
- 10.3 Approval of the full-time Assistant Director of Partnerships, Community Services, and Grants position. - APPROVED
- 10.4 Approval of Bid Award #25-004 Emergency Transportation Services for Unassigned Bus Routes - APPROVED
- 10.5 Approval of the Resolution Estimated the Aggregate Levy for the Year 2024 - APPROVED
- 10.6 Acceptance of FY2024 Final Audit - APPROVED
- 10.7 Approval of Physical Education Waiver Application - APPROVED
- 10.8 Approval of School Maintenance Project Grant Application - APPROVED
- 10.9 Amendment of CTC Negotiated Agreement - APPROVED
- 10.10 Approval of Revised Board of Education Meeting Schedule - from Wednesday. February 12 to Wednesday, February 19 - APPROVED
Next meeting of the Board of Education
The next regular meeting of the Board of Education will be held at Walter R. Sundling Middle School, 1100 N. Smith Street, Palatine, on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, at 7:00 p.m.
We wish all of our District 15 families and staff a joyful and restful Thanksgiving—may your holiday be filled with warmth, gratitude, and cherished moments!