SE Illinois News

Community Unit School District 200 Board of Education met April 9.

Here are the minutes provided by the board:

The first regular meeting of the month of April of the Board of Education of Community Unit School District 200, DuPage County, Illinois, was called to order at the Hubble Middle School, 3S600 Herrick Rd., Warrenville, IL, by Board President Rob Hanlon, on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 7:00 PM.

ROLL CALL

Upon the roll being called, the following were present:

Board Members: Mr. Rob Hanlon

Ms. Julie Kulovits

Mr. Dave Long

Ms. Angela Blatner

Mr. Erik Hjerpe

Mr. Brad Paulsen

Mr. John Rutledge

Also in Attendance: Dr. Jeff Schuler, Superintendent

Ms. Alyssa Barry

Mr. Matt Biscan

Ms. Melissa Murphy

Dr. Brian O’Keeffe

Dr. Chris Silagi

Mr. Jason Spencer

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Board Member John Rutledge led the Board in the Pledge of Allegiance.

COMMUNICATION WITH THE HOST SCHOOL

Dr. Jon Pilkington, Principal of Hubble Middle School, welcomed the Board and the community to the school. Dr. Pilkington introduced two members of SALT, the Student Ambassador Leadership Team for Hubble’s 7th and 8th-grade students. The students shared their experiences with SALT, discussing some of the activities and fundraisers they have participated in, as well as the school’s positive culture and the many opportunities available for students to get involved and make friends.

MODIFICATIONS TO THE AGENDA

Superintendent Schuler noted that oral report #4 (Department of Innovation and Technology Workplan Update) would be presented in front of action item #4 (Approval of Student Devices Related to Chromebook Refresh and New Career Pathway Courses).

RECOGNITIONS & ACHIEVEMENTS

Dr. Schuler and the Board recognized the following:

Community Partnership Recognition:

● Robb Davidson and Cody Sumner, the co-founders of Axiom Media Group, have supported the District with a number of video and photography projects over the years. They have also partnered with our high schools to welcome two student interns to their team, giving the students a work-based learning opportunity as part of our Broadcast Media Career Pathway program.

PUBLIC COMMENTS – Agenda Items & Non-Agenda Items

In accordance with Board Policy 2.230, members of the public wishing to offer public comment had the opportunity to do so. A public comment sign-up sheet was made available until 7:00 p.m. at the meeting site. The Board Meeting was available for viewing via live stream on the District’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/communityunitschooldistrict200.

Per Board Policy, the Board may shorten the time allocation for each person to less than three minutes to allow the maximum number of people the opportunity to speak. The Board did not shorten the time allocation for each person to speak due to the number of speakers.

Speaker            Topic

Caitlin Virga      Hubble Positives

SUPERINTENDENT REPORT

Dr. Schuler provided the following updates:

● The Student Ambassadors at WNHS and WWSHS reported on their high schools’ activities, athletics, and events from the past weeks.

● A Board Meeting and Event Calendar was provided, highlighting activities and meetings through the end of the school year. This includes the PTA Council Scholarship Recognition Breakfast, the Student Excellence Foundation Celebrate Our Stars Event, the Business INCubator Final Pitch Competition, and the Intro to Teaching (part of the Education Pathway) signing days at both high schools.

● Graduation time has changed this year. Graduation ceremonies will be later on May 24 due to the College of DuPage’s graduation ceremony.

● Two additional Board Meetings will be scheduled on May 21 and June 25 to align with the bids for project issuances 2A and 2B related to the middle school facilities work. As these do not coincide with the regular board meeting schedule, special board meetings have been scheduled. It is anticipated that these meetings will be brief.

● The IASA Annual Volunteer Recognition took place this morning, and each Superintendent had the opportunity to bring two community volunteers. Dr. Schuler’s guests included Mary Reynolds Kane and Rob Kroehnke, both of whom are very actively engaged and involved throughout the district and community, including the middle school facilities work.

CONSENT AGENDA

1. Acceptance of Gift to Monroe Middle School - Eagle Honor Awards – Recommend acceptance of gift to Monroe as presented.

2. Approval to Post Environmental Biology Textbook for Community Review – Recommend approval to post Environmental Biology textbook for community review as presented.

3. Approval to Post High School Novels for Community Review - Recommend approval to post high school novels for community review as presented.

4. Approval of the Resolution to the DuPage West Cook Intergovernmental Agreement – Recommend approval of the resolution to the DuPage West Cook Intergovernmental Agreement as presented.

5. Approval of High School Online Courseware Subscription – Recommend approval of high school online courseware subscription as presented.

6. Approval of IncidentIQ HelpDesk and Asset Management Software – Recommend approval of IncidentIQ helpdesk and asset management software as presented.

7. Approval of the Modifications to the Board Operating Principles – Recommend approval of the modifications to the Board operating principles as presented.

8. Approval of Bills Payable and Payroll – Recommend approval of bills payable and payroll as presented.

9. Approval of Minutes – March 12, 2025, Regular Meeting, Open and Closed, and Approval to Destroy Recordings of Closed Sessions Prior to November 2023 As Allowable by Law – Recommend approval of the minutes as presented and approve the destruction of recordings of closed sessions prior to November 2023 as allowable by law.

10. Approval of Personnel Report to Include Employment, Resignation, Retirement, and Leave of Absence of Administrative, Certified, Classified, and Non-Union Staff – Recommend approval of the personnel report as presented.

There were comments and/or questions on the following:

● #1: Thank you for the generous gift to Monroe’s Eagle Honor Awards.

● #10: Approving Jordan Thorse, an employee of the Business Office, for a new position following the retirement of Lisa Maher.

● #3: The novels for community review are impressive. The list includes the titles, as well as the rationale and awards won by the individual novels.

MOTION

Member Paulsen moved, Member Hjerpe seconded to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. Upon a roll call vote being taken, the vote was: AYE 7, NAY 0. The motion carried 7-0.

FACILITIES APPROVAL CONSENT AGENDA

1. Approval of ROE Building Permits for 2025 Summer Middle School Capital Projects – Recommend approval of ROE building permits for summer middle school capital projects as presented.

2. Approval to Release Middle School Capital Project Bids - Project Issuance 2A – Recommend approval to release middle school capital project bids (project issuance 2A) as presented. 3. Administrative Authority to Purchase Monroe Middle School Furniture through OMNIA Partners Purchasing Cooperative - Recommend granting administrative authority to execute the purchase of furniture for Monroe classrooms through OMNIA Partners as presented.

There were comments and/or questions on the following:

● All items are related to the middle school referendum projects.

● Recapped the bid process. Future agenda item - request for a comprehensive, updated look at the project budget in the near future, before the next contracts are awarded.

MOTION

Member Long moved, Member Rutledge seconded to approve the Facilities Approval Consent Agenda as presented. Upon a roll call vote being taken, the vote was: AYE 7, NAY 0. The motion carried 7-0.

ACTION ITEMS

#1 Approval of the Amendment to the Resolution Authorizing the Transfer of Monies from the Operations and Maintenance Fund to the Capital Projects Fund

In advance of the first debt issuance associated with the November 2024 Middle School Capital Referendum, an inter-fund loan was necessary to ensure CUSD 200 could meet its obligations in connection to the capital project expenses that were not accounted for in the FY25 budget approved in September 2024. An inter-fund loan of $6,000,000 from the Working Cash Fund to the Operations and Maintenance Fund was approved at the January 2025 Regular Board of Education meeting to ensure that the District's obligations could be met in advance of the first Referendum Debt Issuance.

CUSD 200 has received funds from the initial Debt Issuance associated with the November 2024 Middle School Capital Referendum on March 25, 2025. To authorize the funds received from the Debt Issuance to be moved from the Capital Projects Fund to the Operations and Maintenance Fund, an amendment to rescind the Resolution Authorizing the Transfer of Monies from the Operations and Maintenance Fund to the Capital Projects Fund is required.

There was additional information/comments on the following:

● Provided context for action items #1-3: The purpose of the resolutions approved in January was to cover expenditures related to the referendum that were not previously accounted for in the budget approved earlier in the fiscal year. Now that we have the bond proceeds to cover those expenditures, we seek to rescind the resolutions passed in January so that we can move those funds back to the working cash fund to be used for our standard interfund loans each spring, which will be allocated to our education fund.

It was recommended that the Board of Education approve the resolution as presented.

MOTION

Member Paulsen moved, Member Long seconded that the Board approve the amendment to the resolution authorizing the transfer of monies from the operations and maintenance fund to the capital projects fund as presented. Upon a roll call vote being taken, the vote was AYE 7, NAY 0. The motion carried 7-0.

#2 Approval of the Amendment to the Resolution Authorizing the Transfer (Repayable Inter-Fund Loan) from the Working Cash Fund to the Operations and Maintenance Fund

In advance of the first debt issuance associated with the November 2024 Capital Referendum, an inter-fund loan was necessary to ensure CUSD 200 met its obligations related to the 2024 Referendum. An inter-fund loan of $6,000,000 from the Working Cash Fund to the Operations and Maintenance Fund was approved at the January 2025 Regular Board of Education meeting. The inter-fund loan that was approved was separate from the inter-fund loans that the Board of Education authorizes each spring to address cash shortfalls in Operating Funds.

CUSD 200 received funds from the initial debt issuance associated with the November 2024 Middle School Capital Referendum on March 25, 2025. To release the $6,000,000 to be used for inter-fund loans from the Working Cash Fund to the Operating Funds to address cash shortfalls and ensure expenses can be covered, an amendment to rescind the Resolution Authorizing the Transfer (Repayable Inter-fund Loan) from the Working Cash Fund to the Operations and Maintenance Fund is required.

There was additional information/comments on the following:

● Additional information was provided in the comments on action #1.

It was recommended that the Board of Education approve the resolution as presented.

MOTION

Member Paulsen moved, Member Kulovits seconded that the Board approve the amendment to the resolution authorizing the transfer (repayable inter-fund loan) from the working cash fund to the operations and maintenance fund as presented. Upon a roll call vote being taken, the vote was AYE 7, NAY 0. The motion carried 7-0.

#3 Approval of the Resolution to Authorize Transfer (Repayable Inter-fund Loan) from Working Cash to Education Fund

Annually, the Board of Education approves interfund loans from the Working Cash Fund to the operating funds to cover cash shortfalls so that expenses may be paid. Although the District has submitted a balanced budget, a loan is needed for cash flow purposes. We are requesting a loan in the amount of $6,000,000, which will be in addition to the $19,000,000 loan approved on March 12, 2025, from the Working Cash Fund to the Education Fund.

In a separate resolution, the Board of Education is being asked to rescind the Resolution Authorizing the Transfer of Monies from the Operations and Maintenance Fund to the Capital Projects Fund and the Resolution Authorizing the Transfer (Repayable Inter-fund Loan) from the Working Cash Fund to the Operations and Maintenance Fund, which will allow for an additional $6,000,000 to be released to Working Cash to be used for a loan to the Education Fund to cover operating expenses.

There was additional information/comments on the following:

● Additional information was provided in the comments on action #1.

● This is the typical action taken annually to account for the timing of property tax receipts. It was recommended that the Board of Education approve the resolution as presented.

MOTION

Member Rutledge moved, Member Blatner seconded that the Board approve the resolution to authorize transfer (repayable inter-fund loan) from the working cash to the education fund as presented. Upon a roll call vote being taken, the vote was AYE 7, NAY 0. The motion carried 7-0.

#4 Approval of Student Devices Related to Chromebook Refresh and New Career Pathway Courses The District currently has a 1:1 Chromebook structure in grades 1-12. The Department of Innovation and Technology also purchases technology equipment for other purposes such as specific materials required for a hired position or curricular class.

The District has a typical refresh cycle for Chromebooks. Traditionally, Chromebooks are leased every 4 years to stay current with the evolving technology. This purchase request includes Chromebooks, protective cases for middle school devices, and technology equipment in support of PTLW engineering Career Pathway courses that will be offered at both high schools.

The financing (lease) for this purchase (separate action item) will be for a period of 4 years, and all equipment will be owned by the District at the end of the lease.

Two quotes for this lease purchase were submitted, with First American being the lowest submission. The cost for this equipment under the lease with First American is $503,118.80 per year, for a total of $2,012,475.20. The lease agreement was attached to the Master Tax-Exempt Lease/Purchase Agreement Agenda Item.

There was additional information/comments/questions on the following:

● See the discussion on oral report #4 (Dept. of Innovation and Technology Workplan Update), which was presented prior to this action item.

● Not all elementary schools are on the same Chromebook refresh cycle.

It was recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase of student devices related to the Chromebook refresh and new Career Pathway courses.

MOTION

Member Kulovits moved, Member Rutledge seconded that the Board approve the purchase of student devices related to the Chromebook refresh and new Career Pathway courses as presented. Upon a roll call vote being taken, the vote was AYE 6 (Kulovits, Rutledge, Hjerpe, Long, Paulsen, Hanlon), NAY 1 (Blatner). The motion carried 6-1.

#5 Approval to Purchase Hubble Middle School Equipment from Life Fitness The PE Department at Hubble Middle School approached administration during the 2024/25 school year, indicating that the existing fitness/cardio equipment required significant repairs that were costly and beyond what was available in the local budget. Upon further review by Hubble administration, it was determined that most of the existing pieces had reached end-of-life (all of the fitness/cardio equipment is original to the building and was installed in the summer of 2009) and would need to be replaced in order to continue supporting the PE curriculum as intended. Hubble administration provided this information to the Business Office for consideration, and quotes were requested from Life Fitness, a current vendor partner of CUSD 200. After receiving quotes and having a final conversation with Hubble Middle School, we confirmed that the purchase of the fitness/cardio equipment would be required to support the PE curriculum and student wellness. Treadmills, elliptical machines, and upright exercise bikes will be replaced in this transaction. The total cost of this purchase is $113,334.77, including a 5-year extended warranty of parts and labor, discounts, trade-ins, delivery and installation. The purchase will be executed through a national purchasing cooperative called Sourcewell. Life Fitness has been awarded a bidding contract with Sourcewell for the equipment identified in this purchase. The contract between Life Fitness and Sourcewell has been confirmed and verified by CUSD 200 legal counsel.

An outright purchase of all the equipment is not a feasible option based on the 5-year projections that were shared with the Board of Education in January 2025. This is a lease-to-own transaction, which was modeled after the fitness/cardio equipment purchases for Wheaton North and Wheaton

Warrenville South in August 2024. This purchase is being combined with the Lease Proposal for the Chromebook Refresh agenda item in this Board packet, which helped reduce overall costs for the combined leases. CUSD 200 will be partnering with First American (An RBC/City National Company) to enter into a 4-year lease that will allow for a one-time purchase.

Details of the equipment purchase and the combined lease agreement with the Chromebook purchase are attached. The fitness equipment portion of the total annual lease is $29,642.90, for a 4-year total of $118,571.60.

There were comments and/or questions on the following:

● Fitness equipment/space at Hubble vs. other CUSD 200 middle schools; the intent for the design and equipment in the newly renovated three middle schools.

It was recommended that the Board of Education approve the purchase as presented.

MOTION

Member Rutledge moved, Member Paulsen seconded that the Board approve the purchase of equipment for Hubble Middle School from Life Fitness as presented. Upon a roll call vote being taken, the vote was AYE 7, NAY 0. The motion carried 7-0.

#6 Approval of Master Tax-Exempt Lease/Purchase Agreement with First American, for the purpose of purchasing Hubble Middle School Fitness Equipment and Student Devices related to the Chromebook Refresh

The Technology Department and Business Office have been engaged in reviewing Chromebook and fitness equipment purchase items as described in previous agenda items. Combining both purchases into a single finance was discussed and ultimately, provided CUSD 200 with the greatest value. Three firms were approached, two submitted lease quotes for both purchases and one submitted a lease quote for only the fitness equipment. Only the two submissions for both purchases were considered. Details of the two submissions are below:

1. First American 4-Year Lease Total = $2,131,046.80 ($2,012,475.20 for Chromebooks and $118,571.60 for fitness equipment). The annual combined lease payment is $532,761.70.

2. Providence Capital Network 4-Year Lease Total = $2,139,924 ($2,019,036 for Chromebooks and $120,888 for fitness equipment). The annual combined lease payment is $534,981.

The combined lease agreement from First American was attached to the agenda item. The fitness equipment portion of the total annual lease is $29,642.90, for a 4-year total of $118,571.60. The Chromebook refresh portion of the annual lease is $503,118.80, for a 4-year total of $2,012,475.20.

There was additional information/comments on the following:

● The cost savings opportunity for one lease for items in actions #4 and #5 vs. separate leases.

There were comments and/or questions on the following:

● The duration of the leases for the fitness equipment and the Chromebooks is the same - four years.

It was recommended that the Board of Education approve the master tax-exempt lease/purchase agreement with First American as presented.

MOTION

Member Paulsen moved, Member Kulovits seconded that the Board approve the master tax-exempt lease/purchase agreement with First American as presented. Upon a roll call vote being taken, the vote was AYE 6 (Paulsen, Kulovits, Hjerpe, Long, Rutledge, Hanlon), NAY 1 (Blatner). The motion carried 6-1.

#7 Approval of Franklin Middle School Boundary Change

Per Board Policy 7:30, attendance boundaries are reviewed each school year to ensure each school operates consistent with student capacity limits. The last boundary change was made in 2015, with a slight adjustment in the Hawthorne and Pleasant Hill boundaries. Prior to that, an adjustment was made in 2012 at Franklin Middle School. The Franklin Middle School boundary change moved a portion of Washington Elementary School from Franklin to Monroe. A description of the moved areas was attached to the agenda item. In both of these boundary adjustments, students already enrolled at a school were allowed to continue while the new boundary was phased in. The most recent set of enrollment projections done by Dr. Kasarda shows an enrollment trend that will allow some additional capacity at Franklin. Based on that attendance pattern, the District received a request from a group of community members to review the 2012 boundary adjustment to determine if those attendance areas could be adjusted back to Franklin. This would avoid the continued split of the Washington feeder pattern to two middle schools. The District has done that analysis, reviewed it with both the HR/Policy Committee and the Facilities Committee and determined that both current and future projected enrollments would support the change. This was presented at the March 12th Board of Education Meeting. Following the meeting, the proposed boundary change was communicated through Board Highlights, a direct communication to the Washington School Community, and an additional letter to the families immediately impacted by the boundary change. Community forums were held at Washington Elementary School on March 25th and virtually on March 26th. Finally, a Google Form link was provided to collect any additional feedback or questions from community members. We would recommend a similar phased approach take place with grade 6 students moving to Franklin for the 2025-2026 school year, while grade 7 and 8 students would be given the option to stay at Monroe or move to Franklin.

The administration is proposing a change to the Franklin attendance boundaries. Feedback received from the community is supportive of the boundary adjustment. Administration received a few questions about the phased approach to the boundary change and was able to answer those questions. If approved tonight, this change will take place prior to scheduled middle school step-up activities for the 2025-2026 school year.

There was additional information/comments on the following:

● The Google Form link provided to collect additional feedback or questions from the community received just shy of fifty comments regarding the recommended change. The comments received were in favor of the boundary change.

It was recommended that the Board of Education approve the boundary adjustment as presented

MOTION

Member Hjerpe moved, Member Long seconded that the Board approve the boundary adjustment for Franklin Middle School as presented. Upon a roll call vote being taken, the vote was AYE 7, NAY 0. The motion carried 7-0.

#8 Adoption of Resolution Authorizing Non-reemployment of Full-time, First, Second, and Third-year, Non-tenured Certified Staff

Illinois School Code requires that probationary (non-tenured) certified staff be notified by April 15th if they are not to be reemployed for the following school year. This provides the District the flexibility to review staffing needs for the upcoming school year, which ensures fiscal responsibility of the District.

A resolution was attached to the board item which addressed non-renewals and /or honorable dismissals for the end of the 2024-2025 school term.

There was additional information/comments on the following:

● This is an annual agenda item for the board based on tenure laws and required dates to release staff.

● These are honorable dismissals for staff members for whom we are either uncertain whether a position will be available next year, or who may be in a one-year position covering a leave or other circumstances.

● This does not mean that these individuals will not return to the district, but until the staffing plan is finalized, if you do not take this step, you will absorb those positions in your budget.

It was recommended that the Board of Education adopt the resolution as presented and authorize notification according to the requirements of the Illinois School Code, Section 24-11.

MOTION

Member Rutledge moved, Member Paulsen seconded that the Board adopt the resolution authorizing non-reemployment of full-time, first, second, and third-year, non-tenured certified staff, and authorize notification according to the requirements of the Illinois School Code, Section 24-11 as presented. Upon a roll call vote being taken, the vote was AYE 7, NAY 0. The motion carried 7-0.

#9 Adoption of Resolution Authorizing Non-reemployment of Part-time, Non-tenured Certified Staff

Illinois School Code requires that probationary (non-tenured) certified staff be notified by April 15th if they are not to be reemployed for the following school year. This provides the District the flexibility to review staffing needs for the upcoming school year, which ensures fiscal responsibility of the District.

A resolution was attached to the board item, which addressed non-renewals and /or honorable dismissals for the end of the 2024-2025 school term.

There was additional information/comments on the following:

● Same introduction as the previous agenda item (action #8).

● These are also honorable dismissals for part-time individuals, most of whom will be returning in some capacity. Similar to the previous item, this action is taken until those staffing needs are fully determined.

It was recommended that the Board of Education adopt the resolution as presented and authorize notification according to the requirements of the Illinois School Code, Section 24-11.

MOTION

Member Hjerpe moved, Member Paulsen seconded that the Board adopt the resolution authorizing non-reemployment of part-time, non-tenured certified staff, and authorize notification according to the requirements of the Illinois School Code, Section 24-1 as presented. Upon a roll call vote being taken, the vote was AYE 7, NAY 0. The motion carried 7-0.

ORAL REPORTS

#1 - Middle School Capital Project Update

Mr. Michael Dolter of Perkins & Will, the lead architect for the middle school capital projects, provided the Board of Education with a PowerPoint presentation and update on the projects. This included information on the following:

● Project Schedule

○ A 3-Issuance Approach (Issuances 1, 2, and 3)

○ Project Timeline (Issuance 1 - enabling work at Monroe and Franklin, Monroe standard classrooms; Issuance 2 - building additions & associated projects at all three schools; Issuance 3 - bulk of the work at all three schools)

● Edison Middle School

○ Gymnasium Plan

○ Gymnasium - From South - Signage

○ Gymnasium - From Southwest - Signage

○ Gymnasium - Interior from Southeast

○ Gymnasium - Divider Curtain

● Monroe Middle School

○ Addition Floor Plan

○ Enlarged Auditorium Plan

○ Performing Arts Addition - From South

○ Performing Arts Addition - From West

○ Performing Arts Classrooms - From North

○ Performing Arts Classrooms - Interior

○ Performing Arts Classroom - Hallway

○ Auditorium Pre-function Lobby

○ Auditorium - From House

● Franklin Middle School

○ Addition Floor Plan

○ Performing Arts Addition - From East

○ Accessible Entry - From North

○ Performing Arts Corridor

○ Performing Arts Classroom - Interior

There was additional information on the following:

● Budget update: as we reach a point in project issuance 2A and 2B where we achieve a 90% control estimate, that budget estimate will be completed by the construction manager and presented to the Board.

● The overall project timeline stays as it has been; in the process of design work for contract documents for Issuances 2A and 2B.

● The Edison addition start date is expected to be spring break 2026 in order to maximize the use of the PE spaces during the winter months, and will allow PE classes to happen outside when that facility is taken offline.

● Refining concepts that have been presented for each of the building’s design work and collaborating with all three schools to confirm and review many of the design elements.

● Edison - continuing to review exterior windows and glazing on the south side of the gymnasium, as there is direct light coming into that space; focus on natural lighting and reducing glare.

● Edison - working with the park district closely on the basketball courts outside of the building.

● Monroe - working closely with staff regarding the addition configuration as it relates to the auditorium and the band, orchestra, and choir spaces; working with an acoustic engineer to limit the sound bleed throughout the spaces and theater consultants on how the auditorium functionally will work.

● Monroe - working closely with landscaping, as well as civil engineering to understand the stormwater management requirements, as well as planting requirements.

● The performing arts classroom hallway serves multiple functions, including being used as green rooms during performances.

● Franklin - going through the same process as Monroe with regard to the conversations with staff and the addition configuration and acoustic studies.

● Franklin - accessible entry - moving from the east side to the north and south side due to demolition this summer.

There were comments and/or questions on the following:

● The Monroe entry point from the south and the use of a screen wall.

● Monroe auditorium - number of seats (511 total) is on par with Hubble.

● Validation of seating counts for Monroe auditorium and Edison gymnasium based on historical attendance.

● Auditorium and music rooms - the process used for furnishings and technology in these spaces.

● Franklin accessible entry - intention to cover to the top of the ramp; discussing how to maximize the coverage of the ramp and stairs.

● Franklin courtyard location and design.

● Franklin music rooms and the intention to outfit them with sound systems for recording or playing.

● City of Wheaton - building permits and minor variances; public hearing this month; review of stormwater responses with minor tweaks; stakeholder meetings on Issuance #3.

● Expected value of Issuance #2 - expecting a budget update from Nicholas & Associates in the coming weeks.

● Auditoriums - the size will not be sufficient for an all-school assembly, but large enough for concerts and music events.

● Suggestion to involve kids/students in school construction projects as part of a construction advisory group; would put a different set of eyes on this.

#2 - Series 2025 General Obligation School Bond Sale Recap

Assistant Superintendent of Business Services, Dr. Brian O’Keeffe, introduced Mr. Bob Lewis, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of PMA Securities, LLC, who provided a recap of the General Obligation School Bonds - Series 2025 competitive sale and closing from March 2025, which included information on the following:

● Details of the 2025 Bonds

○ Sale Date (March 3, 2025), Closing Date (March 25, 2025), Net Proceeds ($76,000,000), Final Maturity (January 15, 2041), Call Provision (January 15, 2034), Tax Status (Tax-exempt), Underlying Rating (AA+ by S&P), Municipal Advisor (PMA Securities, LLC), Bond and Disclosure Counsel (Chapman and Cutler), Underwriter (JP Morgan)

● Bid Summary

○ Competititve bids for the bonds were accepted on March 3, 2025

○ The winning TIC (True Interest Cost) of 3.55% was submitted by JP Morgan which compares to a TIC of 4.06% assumed in the pre-referendum analysis

○ Summary of the bids submitted using PARITY

● Next Steps

○ Comprehensive Overview of Plan of Finance Review and Discuss Modified Financing Options for 2026 Bonds - September/October 2025

○ Board approves resolution to authorize the sale - November/December 2025

○ Estimated sale date for 2026 Bonds - February 2026

○ Closing 2026 Bonds - March 2026

There was additional information/comments on the following:

● The difference between the winning bid and the last-place bid was only .0606%, or six basis points. This is indicative of selling into a very strong market.

● The timing for the second bond issuance is related to the cash available for the project, and fitting it into a tax year; the operating levy deadline and the bond filing deadline; the importance of achieving a sale by the deadline to avoid seeing the payment drop off and having to raise it back up again.

#3 - CAC Feedback About Cell Phone/Cell Device Policy

Per interest expressed by the Board of Education, the Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) has spent time this year reviewing cell phone/cell device policies.

Dr. Schuler reviewed the document that was attached to the agenda item, which walked the Board through the background, current policy/handbook language for all levels, and provided a summary of the research and stakeholder feedback. There was no specific action or recommendation provided, as per the HR/Policy Committee, this will come to the Board in May.

There was additional information on the following:

● Background - cell phone policies during the school day have been a topic of discussion both in our area as well as around the country.

● The Board expressed interest in exploring this topic with CAC to research and solicit feedback.

● Current CUSD 200 policy language - the language is found in two different places in the handbook, both in the general portion of the handbook (elementary and middle school) and in the student discipline portion of the handbook (all levels).

● Consolidating language around expectations of cellular devices in one good, consistent statement.

● Research and feedback done this year - started with a review of a research brief by EAB (a research organization the district partners with). This not only covered cell phones, but the topic of technology use and its impact on students.

● Asked CAC to develop questions they wanted to ask in response to the research, both what questions they wanted asked and who the questions should be directed towards. This included a list of questions for students and for staff (both teaching and mental health staff).

● The questions were captured in a document.

● Three options/potential paths were clearly identified for CAC to keep in mind as they prepared to hear the feedback relative to student phone use and the impact on students.

○ Option 1 > make no change and leave everything as it is

○ Option 2 > make minor adjustments and provide clarity in the document itself

○ Option 3 > consider a broader/significant change to current practices. The biggest impact would be at the high school level.

● Board student ambassadors helped gather student feedback through focus groups and a survey tool. They shared feedback with CAC at a meeting and engaged in discussion.

● High school staff surveyed all high school faculty and joined CAC to present that information, and engaged in a similar discussion with CAC members.

● Following those discussions, CAC considered those three options and provided quantitative feedback on their preferred recommendation to the administration, along with additional comments.

● This feedback was brought back through the HR/Policy Committee, which recommended this feedback be provided to the board tonight.

● The intention is to bring a modified policy to the Board at their May meeting.

● The administration has been actively working with their administrative teams based on this feedback to review and work through some revised policy language.

There were comments and/or questions on the following:

● Depending on what occurs in Springfield, would that lead the District to options 2 or 3? It would eliminate option 1. Only the draft language of the bills is known, but believe it would steer us toward either option 2 or 3.

● The language in the bill regarding instructional time does not provide specificity on what is considered instructional time. The District would define it in our policy.

● Are we looking to have cell phones put away in instructional spaces or during instructional time?

● Defining how cell devices are put away/stored in the classrooms - backpacks vs. phone caddies. The teachers want something consistent. Will our policy be that specific?

● The need to bring enough clarity and provide specific direction, a consistent set of expectations that are clearly understood.

● One piece of student feedback indicated that when cell phones were allowed in the classroom, there were more social conversations at lunch. Concern we may be going back to taking that social piece of lunch away if we allow phones during lunch periods.

● Cell phones allowed during passing periods?

● It would be easier to go from option 2 to 3 (should that be what comes out of Springfield) than to start at option 3 and relax back to option 2. Adopt a plan and test it for a year or two.

● Storing cell devices in backpacks would allow students to access during an emergency situation.

● Elementary and middle school levels - phones out of sight from bell to bell.

● Develop a plan and tweak it as needed; looking for guidance from the administration with the feedback from students and staff.

● The teacher's voice should serve as the baseline, incorporating perspectives from both students and parents to enhance agility.

● Student personal devices can connect to the District’s guest network.

● This has been a very long process, and we have had a lot of input and a lot of information to develop a good recommendation to review.

#4 - Department of Innovation and Technology Workplan Update (*This was presented prior to Action Item #4)

The Department of Innovation and Technology provides an annual report to the Board of Education on the progress of this year's work plan. Mr. Jason Spencer, Executive Director of Innovation and Technology, presented an update to the Board through a PowerPoint presentation on the Department of Innovation and Technology, information on 1:1 research findings, the ethical use and guidance around the use of AI, and the AI acceptable use scale. This included information on the following:

● DoIT Innovation Categories

○ Implement learning acceleration and programming > Identify the roles digital tools and 1:1 environment have in support of learning acceleration

● Chromebooks

○ Evaluate the current 1:1 structure at the elementary level

■ Chromebooks are used daily across the system; 55 minutes a day is the average time spent; parents have the ability to limit at home device usage through Lightspeed content filter; starting in the 2025 SY, YouTube will be blocked grades K-5 & parents 6-12 will have the option to opt-out of YouTube per Google’s parental consent requirement; block scheduling makes it hard to share devices; biggest current use case is for computer literacy practice and supplemental skills practice; standardized testing is now largely digital; ML & SpEd accommodations utilize digital devices; eLearning plan leans heavily towards every student having a device

○ Screen Time Discussion

■ Active vs. passive screen time; generally older students use Chromebooks more than younger students; continue to educate families about their role in responsible screen time at home (Lightspeed parent portal, out of school screen time tends to be right before school - 7 to 9 a.m., and right after school - 4 to 6 p.m)

● DoIT Innovation Categories

○ Develop implementation resources aligned with our Portrait of a Graduate (POG) > Identify how an innovative 1:1 environment can create opportunities for students to increase their exposure to each descriptor

● AI Education

○ Address the responsible use of artificial intelligence by staff and students to support Portrait of a Graduate characteristics

■ CUSD 200 has notified all staff of Responsible & Ethical Use Guidelines (students as well in 6-12 if using tool as part of class or exploration); creation of AI Explorer Cohort K-12 (K-5 > exploring teacher use, 6-12 > exploring teacher & student use - MS classroom letter sent home, Gemini communication sent home to HS families); Gemini turned on for HS only; If any teacher is using any other student facing AI tool > data privacy, age requirements, transparency, full control of access dictated by teacher, any feedback given by a tool is for formative feedback only

○ What’s Next?

■ To be addressed: Continue cohort model and look for potential expansion; we are seeking to answer the question “Does AI actually do what companies tell us it can do, well”?; AI is evolving and changing too rapidly for CUSD 200 to, at present, sign on with a tool districtwide

● DoIT Infrastructure Categories

○ Develop and maintain robust technology systems

■ Annually assess the stability and security of district technology systems; Ensure comprehensive data systems are accessible and usable for staff;

Regularly evaluate digital tools and subscriptions to ensure they are meeting the needs of the school system and are aligned with strategic work

● Vision 2026 Work

○ Develop and maintain robust technology systems > annually assess the stability and security of district technology systems

● Stability and Security

○ CUSD 200 participated in a half-day tabletop exercise facilitated by CISA (re: fictitious cyber incident); CUSD 200 implemented network monitoring tools; Continue ongoing cybersecurity education and phishing campaigns with CUSD200 staff; Implementation of camera and door access system districtwide

○ What’s Next: Investigate software that will perform regular penetration testing; Monitor Federal Gov’t funding of CISA (provides many gov’t bodies with free tools and services for cybersecurity); Investigate the financial viability of bringing on a SIEM/SOC solution (SIEM: software that gathers logs from any of our network monitoring software and makes sense of it; SOC: real time 24/7 monitoring of our network by a human particularly during off-hours)

● Vision 2026 Work

○ Develop and maintain robust technology systems > Ensure comprehensive data systems are accessible and usable for staff

● Comprehensive Data Systems

○ Assess areas of need for innovation and reliability in district systems

■ Continue to refine our online registration process; continue to look for ways to automate crucial systems; Transition to a new helpdesk and asset management system > better end-user experience, better tracking of cost to repair and maintain district assets (Chromebooks), has the capability to create synergy with facilities and HR workflows

There was additional information on the following:

● Provided an update on those workplan indicators where substantial work was done.

● The District transitioned to a fully 1:1 digital environment during the pandemic.

● Kindergarten is not a one-to-one device environment.

● The average time spent on a Chromebook at the elementary level is 55 minutes per day; remember that this is for the whole day, across all grades one through five.

● As you progress through the grades in elementary, the amount of time increases, so fifth-grade students spend more time on a Chromebook than first-grade students.

● All Chromebooks come with several content filters and a basic firewall. Once connected to the internet, they activate content filtering. YouTube and Google implement their own filtering, and there is also the Lightspeed content filter.

● Educating families that they, too, have the ability to control what content is on a device after school hours.

● During returning student registration for grades 6-12, parents will see a permission request asking if they want to opt out of allowing their student access to YouTube.

● Tried to be as comprehensive as possible, obtaining feedback from a number of different staff - had input from every elementary building, every grade level, every elective, and every support staff position as it relates to the current 1:1 structure at the elementary level.

● There is a huge difference between active screen time and passive screen time. Active screen time - things students are doing to create connections in their brain, and they are actively doing something to apply a skill using a digital format. Passive screen time examples include doom scrolling, passively watching YouTube videos without engagement, and letting content scroll without interaction. Want to increase active screen time and decrease passive screen time for students.

● Planning to launch a technology education committee next year, and plan to tackle how parents can reduce passive screen time for students as part of this committee.

● The Ethical Use and Guidance Around the Use of AI document includes information on data protection, ethical use, and classroom use guidance. This document is for both staff and grade 6-12 students.

● AI Explorer Cohort - for the classrooms participating in this at the middle school level, the tool is Brisk Education. This is a very classroom-focused tool that the teachers have control of. At the high school level, the tools being used are both Brisk Education and Google’s AI tool, called Gemini. This is currently only being used by some classrooms at WNHS. This will expand to WWSHS in the coming months.

● AI is not being used for any summative type of grade; any AI tool that a teacher uses that involves feedback on an assignment is only used for formative feedback.

● As with any Ed Tech space, there are numerous options, particularly in the AI sector. AI is changing and evolving too rapidly for the District to adopt a tool districtwide.

● AI Acceptable Use Scale - does not have to be all or nothing. The scale includes no AI use (no generative AI tools allowed on a particular task), Allowed Before (for Planning), Allowed After (for Feedback), Allowed During (for Collaborating), and Full AI Use (no restrictions on school-approved tools).

● Schools are soft targets for cyberattacks. This is why network monitoring tools for the district are so important.

There were comments and/or questions on the following:

● AI Ethical Use document - where will this live, and will it be in the student handbooks? Student and teacher expectations.

● Elementary 1:1 device environment - any research on academic outcomes, mental health, etc.? As far as engagement, everyone has a different definition of what operational engagement is.

● Research on the use of screens vs. reading on pencil/paper. Screen studies - is there a differentiation between active and passive screen time? Look at connectivity. We should examine why we need to keep them versus why we need them.

● The cost of not exposing kids to essential skills they will need to be successful.

● Would have liked to see more evidence-based research put into the 1:1 decision.

● Staff surveyed - only elementary or other levels? Fifth-grade teachers noted their meetings with middle school staff, ensuring they send students with the necessary skills for the next level.

● Timed writing and dictation tools - teachers at the upper level are seeing increasing challenges, and what this may be attributed to at the elementary level.

● Standardized testing on Chromebooks - FastBridge begins in the spring of first grade, IAR begins in third grade, and ACCESS testing for ML students (even in the primary grades) also takes place on devices.

● Chromebooks vs. Windows-based or Apple devices. Google Suite and the benefits, including cost savings for Chromebooks and the central management standpoint of Chromebooks vs. Windows or Apple.

● Devices being sent home with students - need education on Lightspeed, blocking YouTube at the younger grades, and educators providing homework assignments that are paper-based.

● Ways to educate teachers on developing tools for more productive use on Chromebooks. Noted the Innovation and Technology coordinators at the elementary and middle school levels to assist with this.

● The average time spent on Chromebooks is 55 minutes per day, which is for the whole day, not just during school hours.

● The number of parents who choose to limit home device usage through Lightspeed or opt out of YouTube; is the message being received, and if not, what else can we do to get the message out there to parents? Toggling on/off for home device usage - will remain off until it is toggled back on.

● Engaging our cyber insurance company promptly in the event of a cyber incident. 

● Appreciation for all of the research and tools that have gone into this topic. The diverse community in CUSD 200 - some view devices as a distraction, others view as a need. Increasing awareness among our students and parents about the necessary actions.

● Bookworms and Illustrative Math (IM) - outside of writing, what are Chromebooks being used for? Noted the opportunity for supplemental practice in a digital platform for IM at Johnson Elementary (through Title funds). For Bookworms, students are writing assignments on the Chromebook. They are also doing online research on the topics that are part of those writing assignments.

● The need for handwriting skills has increased because of more handwritten exams at both the high school and college levels, stemming from the use of AI.

● Younger students' brain connectivity using devices vs. not using devices for learning. Have we looked at the whole picture neurologically?

● Students do receive regular handwriting practice as well as devices - there is a balance.

● Appreciation for the variety of opinions on the topic. This is an ongoing conversation and a topic to continue exploring.

OTHER REPORTS FROM BOARD MEMBERS

Board members noted visits to/participation in the following:

● Visits to adopted schools

● An abridged version of “Silent Sky” at a competition

● WWSHS Choral Classic

● Toured Europe with the WNHS Varsity Choir

● Attended the IASB Advocacy Ambassador meeting - noted two items: HB1358 (limiting school code waivers) and HB2970 (can limit the ability to manage employee misconduct)

WRITTEN REPORTS

Monthly Financial Reports

FOIA Report

Board Communication Log

Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC) Report

TOPICS FOR FUTURE DISCUSSION

Middle School Capital Projects Update

● Request to add the following topics for future discussion:

○ Suggestion noted earlier - a construction advisory group

○ Developmentally appropriate use of educational technology (in the SEL wellness space)

NEXT REGULAR MEETING

May 14, 2025, 7:00 PM, School Service Center

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Saturday, April 12, 2025 - Coffee with the Board, 9:00 AM, School Service Center April 23, 2025, Committee of the Whole, 7:00 PM, School Service Center

Thursday, May 8, 2025 - Board Reorganization Meeting, 7:00 PM, School Service Center

CLOSED SESSION

The Appointment, Employment, Compensation, Discipline, Performance, or Dismissal of Specific Employees, Specific Individuals who Serve as Independent Contractors in a Park, Recreational, or Educational Setting, or Specific Volunteers of the Public Body or Legal Counsel for the Public Body, including Hearing Testimony on a Complaint Lodged Against an Employee, a Specific Individual who Serves as an Independent Contractor in a Park, Recreational, or Educational Setting, or a Volunteer of the Public Body or Against Legal Counsel for the Public Body to Determine its Validity 5 ILCS 120/2 (c) (1)

MOTION

Member Long moved, Member Rutledge seconded to adjourn the meeting to closed session pursuant to 5 ILCS 120/2 (c) (1). Upon a roll call vote being taken, the vote was AYE 7, NAY 0. The motion carried 7-0. No action was expected following the closed session.

The meeting adjourned to Closed Session at 9:53 PM.

ADJOURNMENT

MOTION

There being no further business to come before the Board in Open Session, Member Long moved, Member Kulovits seconded to adjourn the meeting. Upon a voice call being taken, all were in favor. The motion carried 7-0.

The meeting adjourned at 11:01 PM.

https://core-docs.s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/3696/CUSD200/5629021/Minutes_4.9.25.docx.pdf