Kendall County Times

Oswego Community Unit School District 308 Board of Education met Oct. 6.

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 (5:30 p.m.)

The meeting was called to order at 5:38 p.m. by President Dominick Cirone.

1.1 Roll Call:

Upon Roll Call the following members answered present:

Mr. Dominick Cirone, Dr. Heather Martin, Dr. Amy Murillo, Ms. Brandi Robinson, Ms. Erika Sieh, and Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

Members Absent (at roll call):

Dr. Rovel Pollock

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)(5): The purchase or lease of real property for the use of the public body, including meetings held for the purpose of discussing whether a particular parcel should be acquired; 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 Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth, second by Ms. Erika Sieh, 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)(5): The purchase or lease of real property for the use of the public body, including meetings held for the purpose of discussing whether a particular parcel should be acquired; 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 6-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Dr. Heather Martin, Dr. Amy Murillo, Ms. Brandi Robinson, Ms. Erika Sieh, and Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

The Board of Education entered closed session 5:40 p.m.

2.2 Return to Open Session

A motion was made by Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth, second by Ms. Erika Sieh, to return to Open session.

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 6-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Dr. Heather Martin, Dr. Amy Murillo, Ms. Brandi Robinson, Ms. Erika Sieh, and Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

The Board of Education returned to open session at 6:33 p.m.

3. Call to Order – Public Session (6:30 pm)

The meeting was called to order at 6:38 p.m. by President Dominick Cirone.

3.1 Roll Call:

Upon Roll Call the following members answered present:

Mr. Dominick Cirone, Dr. Heather Martin, Dr. Amy Murillo, Ms. Brandi Robinson, Ms. Erika Sieh, and Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

Student Board Members:

Khali Parnell (Absent)

Daiwik Muralidharan (Arrived at 6:51 p.m.)

Members Absent (at roll call):

Dr. Rovel Pollock

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 of HR, Dr. Markisha Mitchell

Assistant Superintendent of High Schools, Dr. Kristen Campbell

Assistant Superintendent of Schools – K-8, Dr. Jadon Waller

Director of Finances, Amanda Sitar

Others Present:

Employees of the District and members of the community.

RSP & Associates, Robert Schwarz

Recording Secretary:

Brynn Pattermann

3.2 Pledge of Allegiance

Pledge of Allegiance was led by Board President Cirone.

4. Staff / Student Recognition

4.1 Hispanic Heritage Month Showcase

Tonight, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by welcoming students and staff members who are here to showcase their heritage. Hispanic Heritage Month is observed from September 15 to October 15. Here in SD 308, this is a time for us to appreciate the diversity of our community, particularly when it comes to the Hispanic culture of many students, staff, and families.

Staff & Students present to showcase Hispanic Heritage Month:

Anna Salamanca – performed a dance

Alina Ochoa, Amaris Reyes, and Mila Ochoa – read and shared poems

Diana Calvillo and Carmen Toranzo

5. Presentations

5.1 RSP – Student Enrollment Projections and Building Capacity Analysis

Rob Schwarz of RSP & Associates, introduced by Dr. Kincaid, presented enrollment projections and building capacity data. While overall enrollment is slightly declining, demographic shifts and lower student yield rates are influencing trends. The district has enough space overall but faces imbalances, particularly at Southbury Elementary. A four-phase plan is underway to address this through program adjustments, administrative changes and potential boundary changes by 2027–28. Board members raised questions about demographics and planning. The district remains committed to a data-driven, community focused approach with no immediate need for new facilities. The audio for the complete presentation and discussion can be found at the following link: https://go.boarddocs.com/il/oswego308/Board.nsf/Public

6. Public Comment

6.1 Opportunity for the Public to address the Board of Education

Katrina Henderson (Quad County Urban League) – Shared parents’ concerns about a district employee’s comments suggesting reduced support for the dual language program and implying it removed a perceived advantage for Spanish-speaking students. She described the remarks as insensitive and divisive. While the employee apologized, Ms. Henderson noted ongoing mistrust among parents. Ms. Henderson urged the District 308 board and administration to acknowledge parent concerns, ensure transparency, improve communication, consider bias training, and implement accountability measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Board Secretary Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth – Shared that the board received four emails from students shortly before the meeting. She explained that while it was not their policy to read these comments aloud during the meeting, the board encouraged students to attend the next meeting to share their opinions in person. She confirmed that all board members would receive copies of the student comments.

7. Comments/Reports

7.1 Superintendent’s Report

Good evening, Board,

We are proud of our students, families, and staff, and our community leadership, and for their support of our Hispanic Heritage month, and of course Dual Language.

What a privilege it was to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with some of our students and staff members! We are proud of the heritage of all here in SD 308, so we are grateful for opportunities like this where we can recognize the diversity of our district. Thank you to our talented performers and all others who shared about their Hispanic heritage this evening!

This afternoon, I was joined by several district leaders and community stakeholders at our Municipal Meeting. This was a great opportunity for us to connect and share updates. We are proud of our community partnerships and appreciate their continued support of our district.

As many of you know, last week was Homecoming Week for our high school students! I hope everyone at OHS and OEHS had fun showing their school spirit! Homecoming is such a special time of year.

I would also like to remind everyone of the annual Food Drive that is currently underway and encourage all who are able to donate to the cause. The Kendall County Community Food Pantry is a special place, and we’re proud to provide them with their largest donation of the year through this food drive. Please consider supporting your neighbors by making a donation today!

Now, I’d like to ask Mr. Bell to provide a follow-up on a serious incident that occurred on Friday, including the planning and response efforts. It is important that we ensure all of our families feel safe, supported, and a sense of belonging in our school community.

Mr. Bell’s Report

On a very serious note, right now our world is experiencing very troubling and polarizing times. We know that there are families in our community who are feeling nervous and uneasy about immigration enforcement activity close to home. We want to offer reassurance to all families that we have provided clear guidance to all of our school leaders which directs them on what to do in the unlikely event ICE agents were to present themselves at a school.

We:

● DO NOT ask for our families' immigration status

● ARE NOT coordinating with federal representatives, including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

● DO NOT share student records with federal representatives, except in the case where there is a court order or consent from the parent/guardian

● WILL NOT allow federal representatives access to our schools or facilities unless they produce a criminal judicial warrant signed by a federal judge

Working with our legal counsel, we will continue to prioritize the safety and well-being of our students and work collaboratively with our legal counsel to avoid any disruption for our students and staff. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your school’s principal- they are here to offer support.

Secondly, Mr. Bell reported on a "swatting" incident (false threat designed to trigger emergency response) that occurred at Murphy Junior High on Friday. He commended the school leadership and district team for their quick response in securing both Murphy Junior High and the neighboring Grand Park school. The district worked with law enforcement to ensure safe dismissal, though some after-school activities were canceled while police investigated. Mr. Bell mentioned that the investigation remains active, and the administration conducted an after-action review to improve future response techniques.

Dr. Khelghati concluded by thanking Mr. Bell and his team for their leadership during the incident and assured that the district thoroughly investigates all harmful incidents according to board policy. He then invited board members to share updates on positive developments in the community.

BOE Shout-Outs

Dr. Murillo: The Oswego East Boys Golf team placed 2nd at Regionals with a team score of 298! The guys had an incredible day on the course. Highlights include Zach Johnson with three under for a 2nd place overall finish and Casey Wiencek with one over to finish 4th overall. Congratulations!

Ms. Sieh: The Oswego Girls Golf Co-Op won the Regional Championship! This is the second year in a row that they have captured the Regional title. Alli Wiertel earned first place individually with her impressive Regional-best score of 65! My dad is an avid golfer and he is extremely impressed! Congratulations to the team!

President Cirone: A number of our elementary students recently participated in the Oswegoland Park District’s Kids Triathlon. We are so proud of the perseverance and sportsmanship displayed by these students!

Dr. Martin: Ethan Vahl of Oswego High School has been ranked as one of ESPN’s top 25 sophomore point guards in the nation! Congratulations on this incredible accomplishment, Ethan.

President Cirone: The 12th annual Food Drive kicked off last Wednesday and will continue until noon on October 15! Join us in supporting the Kendall County Community Food Pantry’s mission by donating at www.kccfoodpantry.org/sd308. Thank you in advance for your contributions!

Ms. Robinson: The Crosstown Classic is just around the corner! Mark your calendars for Friday, October 17. This year, the Panthers are hosting the Wolves! The football festivities will commence at 4:30 pm with the sophomore game. The varsity game will follow at 7 pm.

Ms. Wenmouth: As a reminder, this Friday, October 10 is a School Improvement Day, and there will be no student attendance. Additionally, there will be no school and the district will be closed for the holiday on Monday, October 13. Please visit the calendar on the district website for more information.

Dr. Khelghati: We received an invitation from Speaker of the House Welch, who visited along with Mr. Obafemi and Dr. Kincaid to discuss the priorities of our community. They joined other members of the local government to speak on our behalf. Thank you to everyone involved for representing us and advocating for our needs!

7.2 Student Board Member Reports

7.3 Board Member Comments

Erika Sieh – Attended the Girls Flag Football Cross Town Classic, where OE won. Registration for Special Olympics is now open for children in the district between ages 8 and 22, with information available on the website for both individual and team competitions.

Dr. Murillo - Acknowledged the beginning of Banned Books Week, an annual event highlighting the importance of intellectual freedom and the dangers of censorship. She encouraged everyone to visit local libraries or bookstores to read books that have been challenged or banned, noting that book banning attempts are increasing in society. Additionally, Dr. Murillo shared comments in both Spanish and English for Hispanic Heritage Month, expressing pride in being part of a diverse community and acknowledging that the Latino community is currently experiencing various emotions including fear and worry. She emphasized that celebrating culture is a form of resistance and thanked Mr. Bell for providing information about district responses to ensure students feel safe at schools.

Brandi Robinson - Attended the girls flag football game at Oswego High School, praising the school spirit and community support. Suggested having more food vendors at future events given the attendance and mentioned the potential benefits of corporate sponsorship for various programs.

Dr. Martin - Wished good luck to junior high cross-country students competing in a conference the following day at OE.

Mary Jo Wenmouth – Recognized Banned Books Week, emphasizing the importance of free speech and reminding parents of their ability to opt students out of specific books. Congratulated the girls’ flag football teams as regionals begin and wished them luck. Acknowledged the Superintendent Student Advisory Committee (SSAC), expressing gratitude for attending the first meeting and confidence in the students’ potential. Thanked Mr. Arntzen and Mr. Grays for the honor of being named honorary captain at the Panthers game against Joliet and recognized the Panther Marching Band, along with the dedication of students and parent volunteers. Lastly, she gave a shout-out to the upcoming football game between Yorkville and Oswego East—both undefeated—and wished Oswego East good luck.

Mr. Cirone – Appreciated the opportunity to attend a Hispanic Heritage celebration at Plank where teachers organized the event.

8. Consent Agenda

8.1 Approval of Minutes from previous Meeting

8.2 Acknowledgement of Freedom of Information (FOIA) Requests

8.3 Field Trips for Overnight and/or more than 200 miles

8.4 ISBE Audit Results

A motion was made by Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth, second by Ms. Erika Sieh, to approve all items under consent, including 8.1 minutes from the Board of Education Meeting on September 22, 2025 open and closed sessions; 8.2 to acknowledge the FOIA requests received by the District;8.3 to approve Field Trips for Overnight and/or more than 200 miles; 8.4 to approve and acknowledge the ISBE Audit Results corrective action plan.

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 6-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Dr. Heather Martin, Dr. Amy Murillo, Ms. Brandi Robinson, Ms. Erika Sieh, and Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

9. Information

9.1 Board Member Travel Expenses Triple I Conference

Board members discussed expenses related to travel for the Triple I Conference in Chicago, including hotel, transportation, and registration fees for all seven members. It was noted that one board member received a scholarship this year to help cover some of the costs.

9.2 New IASB Resolutions

9.3 SY27 New High School Courses and Title Changes

Dr. Kristen Campbell, Assistant Superintendent of High Schools, led a presentation with her team (Dr. Jennifer Cooper-Wells, Dan Arntzen and Ben Owen) on proposed changes to the high school course catalog for the 2027 school year. The team outlined recommendations including updates to course titles and descriptions, curriculum structure changes, new course proposals, courses to be sunset, and online learning offerings. The audio for the complete presentation and discussion can be found at the following link: https://go.boarddocs.com/il/oswego308/Board.nsf/Public

9.4 English 1 Novels

Dr. Jennifer Cooper-Wells presented a proposal to add two new teacher choice novels to the English I and Honors English I curricula, selected by committees from both high schools and the junior high for their literary quality, cultural relevance, and standards alignment. She reviewed the estimated cost and outlined implementation plans following teacher professional development. Both novels will be available for a 30- day public review period per board policy before board action.

10. Action Items

10.1 Bills for Payment

A motion was made by Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth, second by Ms. Erika Sieh, to authorize the payment of bills in the amount of five million, two hundred five thousand, forty-one dollars and fifty cents ($5,205,041.50) as presented.

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 6-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Dr. Heather Martin, Dr. Amy Murillo, Ms. Brandi Robinson, Ms. Erika Sieh, and Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

10.2 Board Policies for Second Read and Approval - Section 1: School District Organization (1:10, 1:20) Section 2: School Board (2:10, 2:80, 2:130, 2:240) Section 3: General School Administration (3:30) Section 4: Operational Services (4:50, 4:55, 4:180) Section 7: Students (7:40, 7:90, 7:130, 7:140, 7:300, 7:325) Section 8: Community Relations (8:80, 8:110)

It was confirmed that previously pulled policies were part of the five-year review, and the current approval addressed only PRESS-recommended updates, with content reviews planned for future committee meetings in the next review cycle.

A motion was made by Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth, second by Ms. Erika Sieh, to approve Board Policies: Section 1: School District Organization (1:10, 1:20) Section 2: School Board (2:10, 2:80, 2:130, 2:240) Section 3: General School Administration (3:30) Section 4: Operational Services (4:50, 4:55, 4:180) Section 7: Students (7:40, 7:90, 7:130, 7:140, 7:300, 7:325) Section 8: Community Relations (8:80, 8:110).

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 6-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Dr. Heather Martin, Dr. Amy Murillo, Ms. Brandi Robinson, Ms. Erika Sieh, and Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

10.3 Resolution Approving Emergency Expenditure of Funds for Repairs to Oswego East High School Performing Arts Auditorium with Performance Services Inc.

A motion was made by Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth, second by Ms. Erika Sieh, to approve a Resolution Approving Emergency Expenditure of Funds for Repairs to Oswego East High School Performing Arts Auditorium with Performance Services Inc in the amount of $494,621 as discussed and presented.

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 6-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Dr. Heather Martin, Dr. Amy Murillo, Ms. Brandi Robinson, Ms. Erika Sieh, and Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

10.4 Resolution Authorizing Notice of Dismissal of Education Support Staff Employee

A motion was made by Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth, second by Ms. Erika Sieh, to approve the to approve the Resolution Authorizing Notice of Dismissal of Educational Support Staff Employee Derek Jones.

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 6-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Dr. Heather Martin, Dr. Amy Murillo, Ms. Brandi Robinson, Ms. Erika Sieh, and Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

10.5 Approval of Personnel Report

A motion was made by Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth, second by Ms. Erika Sieh, to approve the Personnel Report as discussed and presented.

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 6-0

Aye: Mr. Dominick Cirone, Dr. Heather Martin, Dr. Amy Murillo, Ms. Brandi Robinson, Ms. Erika Sieh, and Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth

11. Adjournment

11.1 Adjourn

A motion was made by Ms. Mary Jo Wenmouth, second by Ms. Erika Sieh, to adjourn. All were in favor unanimously to adjourn.

Final Resolution: Motion Carried 6-0

https://go.boarddocs.com/il/oswego308/Board.nsf/files/DMBRLM6E88BB/$file/10.06.25%20Draft%20Board%20Meeting%20Minutes.pdf