Board Highlights
The Winnetka Public Schools, November 2024
Dr. Becky Mathison, Assistant Superintendent of Innovation, Teaching and Learning, led a session on the Literacy curriculum implementation, including insights and observations from the District principals and assistant principals. The focus of the discussion was on the strategies working to best support educators to ensure a successful transition to the new curriculum as well as anticipate professional learning needs. Additionally, Mr. Patrick Dawson, Director of Innovation, Teaching and Learning, shared a timeline for the Math Curriculum pilot and implementation plan, a plan informed by what has been learned throughout the Literacy curriculum process.
Regular Meeting
Dan Waters, President, welcomed all in attendance. He noted the results of the recent Greeley mascot elections and thanked parents and educators for their recent involvement in conferences. In advance of the presentation on the 2024 Tentative Levy, he expressed the Board’s commitment to sound financial management.
Dr. Kelly Tess, Superintendent, recognized the seven members of the School Board in light of the November 15 School Board Members Day in Illinois. These individuals all serve on a volunteer basis and their efforts benefit all students, staff and families in The Winnetka Public Schools community.
Reports on the following Committees were shared by participating Board Members:
Winnetka Public Schools Foundation (November 6, 2024)
TrueNorth Cooperative 804 (November 13, 2024)
Presentation
Steve Wilt, CSBO, presented information on the 2024 Tentative Levy. The Levy is a request for property tax income, representing over 90% of the District’s annual revenue. A public hearing to discuss the proposed tax increase, and the School Board approval of the levy will be held at a Truth in Taxation Hearing on December 17, 2024 at 7:00 p.m., immediately prior to the regular Board Meeting. The District is seeking an aggregate levy increase of 6.85%. The increase includes 3.4% for CPI, and an additional 3.45% to ensure the capture of new property growth. The 2024 Tentative Levy was approved later in the evening. To access FAQs on the 2024 Tentative Levy, please visit this Tax Levy FAQs 2024.
Informational Items
Bulley & Andrews shared an Executive Summary on construction.
November 1st Institute Day Summary
The District hosted the Fall 2024 Institute Day on November 1, 2024. Included in the summary are activities/descriptions that all Winnetka staff members participated in throughout the professional learning event. The administration will be working collaboratively with the Professional Development Network, comprised of Winnetka staff, to review all staff feedback and begin planning for the next institute day to be held on February 7, 2025.
School Maintenance Project Grant
The Board approved applying for the $50,000 matching grant from ISBE for building maintenance and repair. The funds will be used to supplement summer projects this year.
Project Authorization-Crow Island School
The Board approved extra work that needs to be completed by Perkins and Will related to the referendum. The cost was $37,000.
October 2024 Financial Summary
The Board was presented summaries of the financial position of the district through October 2024. Currently, revenues are in line with expectations and expenses are under budget, with 27% of budget spent through 30% of the fiscal year.
The Consent Agenda and Following Action Items Were Approved:
2024 Tentative Levy
School Maintenance Project Grant Application
Project Authorization with Perkins & Will for Crow Island Construction
To view the entire Board Packet from the November 19, 2024 Meeting, click here.