Kendall County Times

Oswego Community Unit School District 308 Board of Education met Jan 8.

Here are the minutes provided by the board:

The Board of Education of Community Unit School District 308, Kendall, Kane and Will Counties, Illinois, met in a regular session in the Community Room at Oswego East High School.

Note for file: All roll call votes are shown in alphabetical order in these minutes; however, during the Board Meeting votes are called out in accordance with Board Policy 2:220

1. Call to Order – Executive Session (6:00 p.m.)

The meeting was called to order at 6:02 p.m. by President LaTonya Simelton

1.1 Roll Call:

Upon Roll Call the following members answered present:

Dominick Cirone, Eugene Gatewood, Dr. Amy Murillo, Jared Ploger, LaTonya Simelton, Mary Jo Wenmouth

Members Absent (at roll call):

Jennifer Johnson

2. Closed Session

2.1 Enter Closed Session under statute(s): 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(1) The appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance or dismissal of certain employees and individuals; 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(2) Collective negotiating matters between the public body and its employees or their representatives, or deliberations concerning salary schedules for one or more classes of employees.

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to enter Closed Session under statute(s): 5 ILCS 120/2(C)(1) The appointment, employment, compensation, discipline, performance or dismissal of certain employees and individuals; 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(2) Collective negotiating matters between the public body and its employees or their representatives, or deliberations concerning salary schedules for one or more classes of employees.

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 6-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Dr. Amy Murillo, Mr. Jared Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

The Board of Education entered closed session 6:04 p.m.

2.2 Return to Open Session

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Eugene Gatewood, to return to Open session

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 7-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Ms. Jennifer Johnson, Dr. Amy Murillo, Mr. Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

The Board of Education returned to open session at 7:05 p.m.

3. Call to Order – Public Session (7:00 pm)

The meeting was called to order at 7:10 p.m. by President LaTonya Simelton

3.1 Roll Call:

Upon Roll Call the following members answered present:

Dominick Cirone, Eugene Gatewood, Jennifer Johnson, Dr. Amy Murillo, Jared Ploger, LaTonya Simelton, Mary Jo Wenmouth

Student Ambassadors

Isabelle Gershon and Luke Lockwood

Members Absent (at roll call):

None

Administration Present:

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Andalib Khelghati

Associate Superintendent of Educational Services, Faith Dahlquist

Deputy Superintendent, Dr. Heather Kincaid

CFO/CSBO, Raphael Obafemi

Executive Director of Communications, Theresa Komitas

Director of Operations, William Queen

Director of Finances, Amanda Sitar

Assistant Superintendent of Equity and Engagement, Dr. Jadon Waller

Assistant Superintendent of HR, Dr. Bryan Zwemke

Others Present:

Attorney Maureen Lemon, Ottosen DiNolfo Hasenbalg and Castaldo, as well as employees of the District and members of the community.

Recording Secretary:

Ursula Studer

3.2 Pledge of Allegiance

Pledge of Allegiance was led by Board President LaTonya Simelton

4. Public Comment

4.1 Opportunity for the Public to address the Board of Education

Michelle Trager – fully supports the approval of the junior high school English Learner support, agenda item 8.4. Ms. Trager is pleased with the company being used and that the District recognizes the need for this additional support. Ms. Trager commented on the open EL Coordinator position and shared that she believes there are at least two DL teachers that would be qualified for this position. As our DL population keeps growing, we can’t miss utilizing any opportunities in our own community. Ms. Trager commented that good things have been happening and we finally have some momentum again with this program.

Ms. Trager also mentioned that January is Birth Defects Awareness Month.

5. Comments/Reports

5.1 Superintendent Report

Welcome back, I hope our students, staff and families are feeling rejuvenated after a well-deserved winter break. The break served as a time for relaxation, reflection, and quality moments with loved ones. Now, as we step into the new year together, let's harness the energy and enthusiasm that comes with a fresh start. This second half of our school year holds the promise of exciting opportunities for growth, learning, and personal development.

I do want to pause to acknowledge several losses that have occurred across our SD 308 school community. During this time of excitement and celebration, we want to be mindful of those who are facing challenges and grief. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of these individuals who have recently passed away.

• Mr. Michael Jacobs, OHS as a Special Education teacher and soccer coach. Mr. Jacobs was known for his dedication, a true advocate for all students.

• Maximo Cruz, a 2nd grade student at Churchill Elementary. Maximo will be remembered for his sweet smile, and positive demeanor.

• Daniel Maya, 2023 OHS Graduate. Dann was a true fighter, he overcame so many challenges. His smile, laughter and positivity will be missed.

• Alex Nowak, 2020 OHS Graduate. Alex was an outgoing, happy and kind person, always willing to help others.

Please join in me a moment of silence in memory of these four individuals, and those who grieve their passing.

5.2 Student Ambassador Report

Isabelle Gershon – reported that due to winter break, there has just been one SSAC meeting held since the last Board of Education meeting. The January 26 ASCEND event was discussed and we finalized our procedure for students to select their speaker of choice. Isabelle put together a presentation for students to receive all the important information on the speakers for this event. Isabelle thanked Luke and the Board members for a wonderful first semester serving in this role.

Luke Lockwood – took some time to reflect on the past semester and what the SSAC did well, as well as some areas where improvement is needed. The committee would love to improve communication with students, teachers and admins. This will be essential to the work for this upcoming semester and the future of SSAC. We will be reopening our work on our teacher survey to get some much needed feedback. Luke thanked everyone for a great first semester as the SSAC is looking to move forward this coming semester.

5.3 Board Committee Reports

Equity & Teaching and Learning – Mr. Ploger reported that they discussed the involvement with the MAP center and the upcoming workshop. Also discussed, the organizational, curriculum audit process. The committee definitely recommends that this be brought to the entire Board for review.

Finance & Facilities – ISBE is currently backlogged with RFP’s for food service. Hoping to have more information at the next meeting. Plank JHS roof top unit project is on track.

Policy & Legislative – Most of the meeting was spent reviewing numerous Policies. On a couple items more information is needed and will be reviewed at the next committee meeting. There was not much time to discuss legislative agenda items and there is definitely a need for both.

5.4 Board Member Comments

Mr. Cirone - Attended the services of Maya, very sad, many things there to remember him by. Many BOE members got together to do charity work. Plan to do that moving past the holiday season. Reminder to the community to be of service and give back. Held a pancake breakfast for the Transportation team the day before Winter Break along with administration. First time doing this type of event in gratitude for these staff memebers. Attended the roundabout celebration, it was a 20 minute event, and talked with officials and legislators about ongoing projects. First time at the roundabout today since school opened, it was a little busier but worked fine.

Mrs. Wenmouth - Attended the robotics team kick-off over the weekend. Incredible; they received their project for their first competition. Project they’re doing was met with excitement from students! Appeal to parents, especially senior parents, while she attends indoor concession events as a volunteer, there’s an obvious need for help. These concessions benefit Senior Celebration. Please volunteer!

Mr. Ploger - Took only 7 minutes to get here- thanks to the Village! Appreciate words shared by Dr. Khelghati about grief. Today would have been his brother’s 45th birthday. HB 3822 was an attempt to help districts with dual language programs- shortage for staff is wide, not just here. The bill that was passed and signed includes, “How to Build the Supply of Qualified Teachers for Dual Language Programs”…several ideas shared. Brought up to illustrate that the demand and challenges for personnel are not unique to here, it's seen statewide. Happy that the problem is getting attention, the law is requiring further attention at the state level to address the shortage.

Dr. Murillo - Teacher pipeline beginning. The potential and passion exists in our district to be on the cutting edge of this program, our dual language program has been around much longer than others in the state. Haven’t been to the roundabout yet! First day of the second semester, everything went smoothly for her high schoolers.

6. Consent Agenda

6.1 Approval of Minutes from previous Meeting

6.2 Acknowledgement of Freedom of Information (FOIA) Requests 

6.3 Approval of Field Trips – Overnight and/or more than 200 Miles

6.4 Board Policies References and Legal Updates: Section 3 (3:50) Section 5 (5:50, 5:90, 5:120, 5:150, 5:190, 5:200) Section 6 (6:20, 6:65, 6:270, 6:280) Section 7 (7:50, 7:250)

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Eugene Gatewood, to approve all items under consent, including 6.1 Minutes from the Board of Education meeting on December 4, 2023, open and closed session; 6.2 to acknowledge the FOIA requests received by the District; 6.3 to approve the Field Trips for overnight and/or more than 200 miles and 6.4 to approve the following Policy References and Legal Updates: Section 3 (3:50) Section 5 (5:50, 5:90, 5:120, 5:150, 5:190, 5:200) Section 6 (6:20, 6:65, 6:270, 6:280) Section 7 (7:50, 7:250)

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 7-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Ms. Jennifer Johnson, Dr. Amy Murillo, Mr. Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

7. Information

7.1 Financial Statements and Investment Schedule

Mr. Obafemi share why the District has no need this year to purchase Tax Anticipation Warrant, which would save us interest.

7.2 Securly Classroom

Kevin McDonald and Brent Kiger provided the Board with an update on Securly classroom. Securly classroom provides a new teaching tool for our staff to use to assist with classroom management. Since going to a one to one Chromebook program for students in grades 1-12, teachers need to try and keep students on task and engaged when their Chromebook is needed for an assignment or class activity. We currently use Securly for our filtering, monitoring, and alerting solution for students’ internet and google workspace activity. Staff is looking for the ability to lock the students’ screens in order to gain full attention of the class, to automatically push a set of websites to the students’ devices to help increase the amount of learning time they have, and the ability to lock their screens for a specific tab or website. A pilot was conducted with 40-50 staff members using the tool. All the responses at the end of the survey were positive.

The Board members would like to see other vendor proposals and reasoning as to why this is the best product for our District in comparison.

Dr. Morillo shared that she would support this, but she cautions for teachers to find a balance between using this tool and still letting creativity develop in students.

Luke shared that he sees the benefits of ensuring that students stay on task during a lesson. It’s easy to wander off task with a Chromebook. It would be a great program for students, but also teachers. Isabelle agreed that there should be perimeters, but is concerned that it will lead to additional pressure for students. Also, students need to know beforehand about the kind of monitoring that is happening. Mr. McDonald shared that the price is per student, so it would be less if it was just implemented for grades 6-12. The Board will be provided with more details regarding this item.

7.3 Operations Project Update

Mr. Queen provided an Operations project update. Contractors have been on site over the holiday break to do the preliminary work to put us in position to start the project sooner than expected. Units have been ordered and we are awaiting a ship date. We are anticipating getting the smaller units by March and installing them over spring break. This would put us ahead of the scheduled summer start date. There has also been much discussion regarding the track at OEHS. One of the biggest problems is the water retention. The project was rushed through, with no communication between the civil engineer and the architect that knows the water table. The goal is for this project to be completed this summer. OHS just need to have to rubber laid on the track as soon as the weather gets better!

7.4 Board Policy First Read: Section 2 (2:20) Section 5 (5:30, 5:250, 5:330) Section 6 (6:15, 6:30, 6:50, 6:60) Section 7 (7:70, 7:160, 7:190, 7:270, 7:285, 7:290)

Dr. Kincaid highlighted some of the changes for the Policies before the Board for a first read. These will be brought back for approval at the next Board meeting.

8. Action Items

8.1 Bills for Payment

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to authorize the payment of bills in the amount of four million, three hundred seventy-three thousand, one hundred seven dollars and thirty-three cents ($4,373,107.33) as presented.

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 7-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Ms. Jennifer Johnson, Dr. Amy Murillo, Mr. Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

8.2 Approval of Labor Management Partnership Contract

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve the Labor Management Partnership Contract with ACB for a cost of $64,800

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 6-1

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Dr. Amy Murillo, Mr. Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

Nay: Ms. Jennifer Johnson

8.3 Approval of RSP Enrollment Analysis Contract

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve the RSP Enrollment Analysis 2-year contract for a total of $44,000

Ms. Johnson asked if this Enrollment report is provided every year. Dr. Kincaid confirmed that the analysis was conducted for the last few years. Our enrollment has changed by close to 1,000 students in the past three years and over the last two years there has been growth in certain sectors. It gives us the changes by level and by school, not just total enrollment. This information is important for us to have when placing our special programs into certain schools.

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 7-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Ms. Jennifer Johnson, Dr. Amy Murillo, Mr. Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

8.4 Approval of Junior High School English Learner Support

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Eugene Gatewood, to approve the Junior High School English Learner support provided by Paridad Educational Consulting for a cost of $39,000

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 7-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Ms. Jennifer Johnson, Dr. Amy Murillo, Mr. Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

8.5 Approval of Contract for CSMI Organizational & Curricular Audit

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Eugene Gatewood, to approve the contract for the CSMI Organizational and Curricular Audit for a total of $96,500

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 7-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Ms. Jennifer Johnson, Dr. Amy Murillo Mr. Jared Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

8.6 Board Policies Second Read and Approval – Section 2: School Board (2:110, 2:120, 2:200, 2:220) Section 4 Operational Services (4:10, 4:30, 4:60, 4:90, 4:130, 4:160, 4:170) Section 7: Students (7:345) Section 8: Community Relations (8:30)

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve the following Policy Changes - Section 2: School Board (2:110, 2:120, 2:200, 2:220) Section 4 Operational Services (4:10, 4:30, 4:60, 4:90, 4:130, 4:160, 4:170) Section 7: Students (7:345) Section 8: Community Relations (8:30)

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 7-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Ms. Jennifer Johnson, Dr. Amy Murillo, Mr. Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

8.7 Approval of Separation Agreement and General Release – Erik Weidner

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Eugene Gatewood, to approve the Separation Agreement and General Release for Erik Weidner

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 6-0-1

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Dr. Amy Murillo, Mr. Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

Abstain: Ms. Jennifer Johnson

8.8 Approval of Separation Agreement and General Release – Garrett Lefferson

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve the Separation Agreement and General Release for Garrett Lefferson

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 6-0-1

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Dr. Amy Murillo, Mr. Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

Abstain: Ms. Jennifer Johnson

8.9 Approval of District Administrator Contracts

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve the District Administrator contracts as discussed and presented

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 7-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Ms. Jennifer Johnson, Dr. Amy Murillo Mr. Jared Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

8.10 Approval of Building Administrator Contracts

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve the Building Administrator contracts as discussed and presented

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 7-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Ms. Jennifer Johnson, Dr. Amy Murillo Mr. Jared Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

8.11 Approval of Personnel Report

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Eugene Gatewood, to approve the Personnel report as presented

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 7-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Ms. Jennifer Johnson, Dr. Amy Murillo, Mr. Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

9. Adjournment

9.1 Adjourn

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Eugene Gatewood, to adjourn. All were in favor unanimously to adjourn.

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 7-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Mr. Eugene Gatewood, Ms. Jennifer Johnson, Dr. Amy Murillo, Mr. Jared Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

Meeting Adjourned at 8:50 p.m.

https://go.boarddocs.com/il/oswego308/Board.nsf/files/CZM2VY03D191/$file/01.08.24%20Draft%20Board%20Meeting%20Minutes.pdf