Board President Mike Borkowski reported that the board and administration have been reviewing the educational and financial priorities of the district.  Through a collaborative process, a plan was developed and vetted to accelerate progress towards achieving the District Vision. The initiatives outlined in the plan include additional personnel, renovation of the Haskins Center (DPM), classroom transformations, safety improvements to all school building vestibules, ADA compliance of DPM-E nurse’s station and office, Cherokee and Sheridan playground improvements, and development of a Future Spaces Plan. As part of this overall process, board members and administrators visited other school districts and their facilities.  The team observed projects that were deemed successful and ones that were not. Mike outlined the specifics, timelines, costs, etc. in his report.  View video for complete report. 

Superintendent Mike Simeck announced that the schools, in partnership with LEAD, will host a second community viewing of the movie Screenagers, Growing Up in a Digital Age on January 18, 7pm at LFHS East Campus. The district and LEAD are also planning a book discussion and movie in early 2017 ( Most Likely to Succeed by Tony Wagner) and next fall will be hosting Julie Lythcott-Haims, the author of How to Raise an Adult. Mike thanked LEAD for its support of these important school community conversations . Additionally, Mike announced that the Comprehensive School Climate Inventory (CSCI) will be administered to students, staff, and parents in February . View video for complete report.   

Susan Milsk, Director of Teaching and Learning, presented an overview of district assessment results and highlighted four key areas: Spring MAP, MAP Matched Cohorts, PARCC Assessment Status, and Assessment Growth using the District’s Local Growth Model. Susan indicated that the district will continue to analyze the data to target areas for improvement . View written report    View video. 

Board member Beth Clemmensen reported that a team of three students presented findings from a research project evaluating what it would take to install solar panels on both District 115 and District 67 buildings. Because of the design, position, and newness of the Deer Path Middle School roof, it is a strong candidate for effectively using solar panels. The students’ idea for funding the significant investment is to offer the community sponsorship opportunities and engage in a public-private partnership with local businesses.

Susan Milsk provided an update to the committee on the World Language program. Education goals and expectations have been determined for each stage of the program . View video for complete report.