Making up Snow Days, Communication Update and Staff Changes

District 124 Board of Education members met Wednesday night  and discussed findings from the Communication Committee, student and staff highlights, and the need for a new financial task force among other items.

Student and staff highlights

Superintendent Diane Cody and the board congratulated Karalyn Burke and Emily Ryan for winning the Bookmark Contest. Miguel Madrigal, Audrey Fetcho and Morgan Markowicz were recognized for winning the PTA Reflections.

Communication Committee Update

Communication Committee chair Amy Poore presented findings from the school's Communication survey and gave recommendations based on the results, for how the district can communicate more effectively with parents and community members living in the district. The survey was to determine how D124 members desired to receive information about the district. Conducted online and in paper, Poore said out of 202 total responses, 16 were hard copies, 186 were submitted online, and 15 were submitted in Spanish. Poore said the committee was able to identify methods that were already working and additionally gave future considerations. The committee's next meeting will be in the fall, unless otherwise noted.

Calendar Revisions

Because of days missed during the February snowstorm, students in D124 now have to make up two school days. Cody said students will graduate on June 9 instead of June 7, and the last day of school will be June 13.

Staffing Changes

Cody said a few staffing changes will be made in the district. Three half-time certified staff members have been dismissed. "One of those people are retiring," said Cody, and another will go to a different district. Conversely, the district will be looking to fill a few positions; two full time special education teachers, two speech language pathologists, a psychologist and a Social Studies opening.

Southwest Elementary School Principal Position

According to Cody, the board has narrowed down the selection to four candidates. She said they will hopefully hire a new principal for in the next month. After an extended leave of absence, the district announced in January that . Sandy Truax has been serving as the interim principal in Thomas' absence.

Financial Task Force group approved

The board voted to enlist members of the community to create a financial task force. "We need to be looking at the monies we have," said Cody, "where our money is best spent." The board said the force will help educate people on the finances of the district. According to Cody, the state owes D124 nearly $1 million in funds. The board said it will be looking for 30-35 people for the group.

Check back with Evergreen Park Patch for more on the District 124 March board meeting.