Kendall County Times

Oswego Community Unit School District 308 Board of Education met March 17.

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 (5:45 p.m.)

The meeting was called to order at 5:46 p.m. by President LaTonya Simelton

1.1 Roll Call:

Upon Roll Call the following members answered present:

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

Members Absent (at roll call):

Dominick Cirone, 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; 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(9) Student disciplinary cases; 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(11) Litigation, when an action against, affecting or on behalf of the particular public body has been filed and is pending before a court or administrative tribunal, or when the public body finds that an action is probable or imminent, in which case the basis for the finding shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the closed meeting

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth, 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; 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(9) Student disciplinary cases; 5 ILCS 120/2(c)(11) Litigation, when an action against, affecting or on behalf of the particular public body has been filed and is pending before a court or administrative tribunal, or when the public body finds that an action is probable or imminent, in which case the basis for the finding shall be recorded and entered into the minutes of the closed meeting

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 5-0

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

The Board of Education entered closed session 5:48 p.m.

2.2 Return to Open Session

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, 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. Jared Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

The Board of Education returned to open session at 6:47 p.m.

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

The meeting was called to order at 7:04 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 Board Members:

Hope Rie

Khali Parnell

Members Absent (at roll call):

None

Administration Present:

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Andalib Khelghati

Deputy Superintendent, Dr. Heather Kincaid

CFO/CSBO, Raphael Obafemi

Assistant Superintendent for Student Services, Jeremy Bell

Assistant Superintendent for Diverse Learners, Dr. Ivette Dubiel

Assistant Superintendent for Learning & Innovation, Dr. Kristen Paul

Assistant Superintendent for Equity & Engagement, Dr. Jadon Waller

Assistant Superintendent of HR, Dr. Bryan Zwemke

Executive Director of Communications, Theresa Komitas

Director of Operations, William Queen

Director of Finances, Amanda Sitar

Others Present:

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. Recognitions

4.1 PRIDE Recognition

Executive Director of Schools, Mr. Francis, presented Pride awards (Proudly Recognizing Individuals Demonstrating Excellence) to staff from Thompson Junior High, Traughber Junior High, Bednarcik Junior High, and the GOAL program. Multiple teachers and staff members were recognized for their outstanding contributions to student success and school community.

THOMPSON

Certified: Purim Barnes - Spanish Teacher

Certified: Nicholas Buono - Social Studies Teacher

Certified: Kelli Springsteen - Social Studies Teacher

Non-Certified: Josefina Garcia - Custodian

Non-Certified: Lorraine Zwiezen - Secretary

TRAUGHBER

Certified: Marcia Carino - 8th Grade ELA Teacher

Certified: Tracie Schwertley - ELA Teacher

Certified: Shana Zimmerman - School Councelor

Non-Certified: Venita Parsons - Full-time Sub

Non-Certified: Bridget Zalewski - Sign Language

BEDNARCIK

Certified: Joshua Brooks - Choral/Music Director

Certified: Lisa Heemstra - Band Director

Certified: Julie Velasco - SPED Teacher

Non-Certified: Erica Deren - Principal Secretary

Non-Certified: Kimberly Richmiller-Zinn - Assistive

Technology

GOAL

Certified: Nicole Perry - Counselor

Certified: Shane Smart- JH Teacher

Non-Certified: Kim Redfield - Teacher Assistant-SPED

5. Public Comment

5.1 Opportunity for the Public to address the Board of Education

Chad Rapper – discussed the changes in Special Ed with some programs moving location. The decisions are being made without taking into consideration how difficult it is for some kids to move schools, care teams, friends etc. It takes my daughter a very long time to be comfortable with people.

Chloe Sanchez – shared that her daughter is in the Deaf and Hard of Hearing program. Ms. Sanchez has recently learned that the DHH program will change it’s location to a different school. She believes it will hinder the students development to be uprooted and placed into a different school.

Faith Camardo – Vice President of BPAC. Ms. Camardo shared that her 7 year old son has autism and spends a good part of his day in the STARS classroom. In the last couple of years, there has been significant growth. Moving him to a different school would be cruel. The students especially need consistency.

Sheryl Flynn – President of EPEC. Ms. Flynn voiced her frustration regarding the communication from the special education department. Decisions are being made without fully considering how these changes affect the individual students involved. If we as parents have concerns, we need the opportunity to discuss those with the appropriate administrators and find alternative solutions.

David Baker – has been part of the Superintendent Advisory Group. He voiced his support from a parent perspective regarding the strategic plan that the Board is in the process of considering. Dr. Khelghati and his team have poured so much into this, not out of obligation but a genuine desire to improve outcomes for the kids and the community.

Elizabeth Baker – commented regarding the new backpack rule and the short passing periods. Depending how far away the pod is from the elective classes, 3 minutes is not enough time. Carrying everything from class to class without a backpack is cumbersome and items are bound to be dropped. Ms. Baker proposed to have a designated area in the classroom where backpacks could be stored during class time.

Jen Cruz-Merton – reported that he son was pushed down the stairs by another student. Ms. Cruz did not like the way the situation was handled by the school. This was an intentional act that could have had serious consequences. The schools response was extremely inadequate.

6. Action Item

6.1 Approval of SD308 Strategic Plan

Tonight marks an exciting milestone as we present the final Strategic Plan for approval. This plan reflects a shared vision shaped by extensive input from our students, staff, families, and community members. It’s a forward-thinking guide - responsive to our current needs and focused on our future.

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve the SD308 Strategic Plan as presented

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 6-1

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

7. Comments/Reports

7.1 Superintendent Report

First, congratulations again to our PRIDE recipients! It’s always a joy to recognize the outstanding work happening across our schools.

We’re coming off an exciting week! We welcomed the Class of 2038 and their families at Kinder-Quest last Tuesday, and on Thursday, our students shared powerful stories at AMPLIFY. Both events showcased the heart and spirit of our district—thank you to everyone who made them possible! IAR testing is well underway. Last week, our students completed the first round of Math testing and navigated the new ADAM platform smoothly. ELA testing continues this week. A big thank you to our staff for their hard work preparing students—let’s finish strong!

Our long range Facility Plan continues as we engage our leaders and staff to understand how our spaces are being used and what’s needed in the future. This study will guide us as we invest in student-centered improvements. We’re excited by the progress so far and look forward to what’s ahead. Over the last couple weeks we have heard from parents regarding the program moves for some of our special education students. With any change that requires engagements and communication I would encourage families to reach out to their program administrators. We recognize the significant challenges involved and truly appreciate families, the discussion and collaborations involved with schools to make any transition as smooth as possible, doing what is best for our students.

As we embrace the season of spring, a few special recognitions:

• Ramadan: Warm wishes to our students, staff, and families observing this sacred time of reflection and community.

• St. Patrick’s Day: Happy St. Patrick’s Day to those celebrating this holiday of Irish culture and heritage.

• Nowruz (Persian and Baha’i New Year): Wishing happiness, health, and renewal to all celebrating this Thursday.

• World Down Syndrome Day (This Friday- March 21st): Let’s show our support by wearing mismatched socks in honor of the incredible contributions of individuals with Down Syndrome. The 21st chromosome is triplicated in those with Down Syndrome. This important day promotes inclusion, understanding, and advocacy.

Looking ahead:

• Spring Break is next week! We hope everyone takes time to rest and recharge as we gear up to finish the school year strong.

• The 5Essentials Survey is open through the end of the month. We need at least 20% parent participation per school to receive valuable feedback—thank you for sharing your insights!

Mrs. Wenmouth: The Oswego Swimming and Diving team recently earned ninth place at the IHSA Boys State Championships! Chase Maier took home individual state titles in both the 200 and 500 Free. Owen Lippoldt placed sixth in the 50 Free and 15th in the 100 Free. Ethan Schrader placed eighth in the 200 Free and 10th in the 500 Free. Congratulations!

Mr. Ploger: Kiyah Chavez of Oswego High School placed second in her weight class at the IHSA Girls Wrestling State Final Tournament. Congratulations, Kiyah!

President Simelton: Mckenzie Mann of Oswego East High School was named the Regional Student of the Year in Graphics at the 2025 Valley Education for Employment System competition on Friday. Congratulations, Mckenzie!

Ms. Johnson: The Bednarcik Science Olympiad Team took sixth place at the College of DuPage Regional Tournament, earning a bid to the Illinois State Tournament in April. Congratulations to these students from Bednarcik Junior High School, and best of luck at the state tournament!

Mr. Gatewood: Our Special Olympics basketball teams had a successful run at State! The Wildcats Junior Team earned silver and the Wildcats Silver Team placed fourth. As individuals, Andrew Bjes won gold and Emmet Hulak received a participation award in Skills. Congratulations, Wildcats!

Dr. Murillo: Thompson Junior High School had a successful 10th annual Hoops for Heart Week led by their PE teachers! The school collected a total of $2,850 to be donated to the American Heart Association. Our district has cumulatively raised over one million dollars to benefit the research of heart disease and stroke and local services to our community through the American Heart Association.

Mr. Cirone: In March, we celebrate our school social workers and athletic trainers. We are so appreciative of all they contribute to our buildings. Thank you to these special staff members!

7.2 Board Committee Reports

Equity and Learning & Innovations Committee

Policy & Legislative Committee

7.3 Student Board Member Reports

The student Board members shared 2 recent events that truly showcased the power of student voice, the student Board forum and AMPLIFY.

Items that were discussed:

o Respect and communication

o Attendance

o Censorship

o Academics

o Mental Health

o Homework

Students were engaged, honest and willing to share their thoughts and concerns. It reinforced the idea of our school. of our voice matters and the need to continue creating opportunities like this for students to be heard. Another important theme throughout the day was personal presence. The idea that every student belongs, that their identity and experiences should be recognized and loved in every space they enter. It's not just about being physically present in a classroom, it's about being seen, heard, and respected. The discussions we had at Amplify really highlighted the importance of creating environments where all students feel like they truly belong, whether that's in a classroom, in leadership, or in a broader school community.

7.4 Board Member Comments

Mary Jo Wenmouth shared that AMPLIFY was an amazing event. It was great to see the amazing talent, especially with the middle school students. She reminded the community of the importance to vote and not blindly believe everything that is posted on social media.

Dr. Amy Murillo congratulated everyone for having the Strategic Plan in place. It’s a great guiding document for the next several years. She shared her appreciation for the members of the community and the staff. This is a living document.

Dominick Cirone attended the Grande Park Diversity Fair and the Pathways Spring Craft Show. Mr. Cirone attended AMPLIFY and STEAM night.

President Simelton shared that she feels that the Strategic Plan finally captured what is important to the community, with many different voices reflected.

8. Consent Agenda

8.1 Approval of Minutes from previous Meetings

8.2 Acknowledgement of Freedom of Information (FOIA) Requests

8.3 Approval of Field Trips Overnight and/or over 200 Miles

8.4 Acknowledgment of 2026 Prom Vendor for Oswego East High School

8.5 Illinois High School Association Membership Renewal for 2025-26 for Oswego and Oswego East High School

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve all items under consent, including 8.1 Minutes from the Board of Education meeting on February 24, 2025 open and closed session and from the Student-Led Public Forum on March 3, 2025, 8.2 to acknowledge the FOIA requests received by the District, 8.3 to approve the Field Trip for overnight and/or over 200 Miles, 8.4 to acknowledge the 2026 Prom Vendor for OEHS and 8.5 to approve the 2025-26 Membership to the Illinois High School Association for both, Oswego and Oswego East High School

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

Ms. Johnson asked for a motion to remove her name from the March 3, 2025 meeting minutes since she was absent.

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to amend the March 3, 2025 meeting minutes as discussed

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. Information

9.1 Renewal of State Waiver for Show Choir

9.2 Junior High School Novel Selection

Dr. Paul and the committee presented their recommendation for junior high novels, incorporating board and student feedback. The team emphasized the importance of student involvement in the selection process and discussed implementation plans for educators starting in April and May.

9.3 High School African American Studies Textbook Selection

The committee presented a recommendation for AP African-American Studies textbook selection. Dr. Kincaid and team selected 'Freedom on My Mind' from three options, noting it was written by teachers who developed the AP course. The text provides a comprehensive studies approach, not just history.

9.4 Chromebooks and Personal Computers RFP

9.5 Financial Information

9.6 Vending Machine Services RFP

A new vending machine contract was discussed, with the winning bidder agreeing to share 30% of revenue with the district, plus offering scholarships and staff appreciation benefits.

9.7 Vision 2030 Board Resolution

9.8 Policies for First Read: Section 7: Students (7:150) and Section 8: Community Relations (8:35)

10. Action Items

10.1 Approval of 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-nine thousand, eight hundred twenty-seven dollars and twelve cents ($4,379,827.12) 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

10.2 Approval of Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve the Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook 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

10.3 Approval of Resolution Authorizing Dismissal and Non-Reemployment of Probationary Part-Time Teachers and Teachers Hired on a Temporary Contract

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve the Resolution Authorizing Dismissal and Non-Reemployment of Probationary Part-Time Teachers and Teachers Hired on a Temporary Contract

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

10.4 Approval of Resolution Authorizing Dismissal and Non-Reemployment of First and Second Year Probationary Teachers

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve a Resolution Authorizing Dismissal and Non-Reemployment of First and Second Year Probationary Teachers

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

10.5 Approval of Resolution Authorizing Non-Renewal of a Non-Tenured Teacher

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve a Resolution Authorizing Non-Renewal of a Non-Tenured Teacher

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

10.6 Approval of Resolution Authorizing Non-Renewal of Administrative Contracts and Non- Reemployment of Administrators

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve a Resolution Authorizing Non-Renewal of Administrative Contracts and Non-Reemployment of Administrators

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

10.7 Approval of Resolution Authorizing a Notice to Remedy

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve the Resolution to adopt the Notice to Remedy against tenured teacher Nicole Pansey

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

10.8 Approval of Resignation of Licensed Personnel

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve the Release and Separation Agreement with Probationary Teacher Ken Keiner

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

10.9 Student Disciplinary Case 2025-1

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to transfer Student 2025-1 to an alternative Regional Safe School selected by the Administration, in lieu of expulsion, pursuant to the Board's written findings and decision.

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

10.10 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. Ploger, Ms. LaTonya Simelton, Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

10.11 Approval of Personnel Report

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, to approve the Personnel report 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

11. Adjournment

11.1 Adjourn

A motion was made by Mr. Jared Ploger, second by Mr. Dominick Cirone, 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 9:21 p.m.

https://go.boarddocs.com/il/oswego308/Board.nsf/files/DFHKCN50F5B0/$file/03.17.25%20Draft%20Board%20Meeting%20Minutes.pdf