
Board of Education Highlights
Reporting on the October 19, 2022 Meeting
In this Issue:
- Award of Distinction for Washington School from the Illinois Association of School Boards
- Progress of Construction Projects
- Discussion of Leyden-Norwood Conference Expectations for Behavior
Consent Agenda
First Public Participation
SPEA President Cathy Weyna spoke on behalf of the Schiller Park Education Association, for extending insurance coverage to TRS employees who have worked for SD81 for 30 years or more. President Desecki responded that it is exceptional and rare to have employees who stay at an organization for 30 years, and the benefit demonstrates the BOE's gratitude and recognition of the employees' service to the district and community.
Enrollment Report
Board Business
Leyden-Norwood Athletic Conference: President Desecki discussed expectations for school district events, in reference to spectator behavior at a recent LMS game. President Desecki stated on behalf of the Board that the mistreatment, berating, and putting hands on District 81 staff will not be tolerated. She shared that the Leyden-Norwood Conference had to create rules of conduct, due to the poor behavior of spectators, and that the BOE is not out of bounds for enforcing these rules. Secretary Ewanio added that parents serve as role models to the kids, and it is the parents' responsibility to ensure that all are having a positive experience. Secretary Ewanio noted that no one is having fun if spectators are yelling at the players and coaches. President Desecki thanked the staff for their dedication to the students despite the treatment the staff was subjected to.
Tripe I Conference: November 18-20:
Award of Distinction - Friday, November 18th at 2 pm - Educational Environments Exhibition:
- Dr. Boryszewski and the BOE discussed what an honor it is to receive an award from IASB and featured at the Educational Environmental Exhibition. It was discussed that while it is amazing to win so many awards for the school, the BOE's original intent was to bring equity to all District 81 schools, and that was accomplished.
EduSpace Conference:
- Dr. Boryszewski shared that District 81 was chosen to present at the EduSpace conference in Portland to share District 81's 21st-century teaching and learning concepts this November. Dr. Boryszewski stated that it is an honor to be asked to present on this platform. Secretary Ewanio commented that although they talk about light, space, etc. what they have really done is changed learning. It is not just a building, it is transforming learning and meeting students where they are.
IASB West Cook Division Meeting will be on October 25, 2022
Vice President Del Zotti will lead the November 16th BOE meeting, as President Desecki cannot attend.
Old Business Information
Construction Update:
- Lincoln Middle School: A repair was necessary to the west door, which was discovered due to the rain last week. Director of Buildings and Grounds, Mike Deany, shared that the repair has been completed and it should be a one-time occurrence. The turf field is complete and students are using the field for games and PE classes.
- Kennedy Courtyard: The project is nearing completion and students are excited that they can now see into the new space.
New Business Information
- Dr. Boryszewski discussed what an excellent experience this was for the students, giving them the opportunity to build relationships and develop a feeling of belonging. Dr. Boryszewski recognized Mr. Amsler and Dr. Stavrou for their amazing efforts. Mr. Amsler credited Mrs. Lane, 6th grade teacher, who loves planning the retreat, and has taken such great care for the past several years to provide a wonderful experience for the students.
Personnel Report
- Approved personnel report
Second Public Participation
None
The SD81 Board of Education
President: Maryann Desecki
Vice President: Andrea Del Zotti
Secretary: Tina Ewanio
Jose Alamillo
Allison Downs
Enas Saada
Jennifer Ziegler