Highlights from the November 6, 2017
Lake Forest High School District 115 Board of Education Meeting
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Board President's Report
Reese Marcusson commented that, collectively, we are here to create and maintain a world-class high school. By design, that is a very high standard. Reese noted that we must remember that we do not simply perform a service; we are educating kids. It is easy to get caught up in curriculum, systems, contracts, budgets and tax levies, because they are all important parts of educating students. We are developing courageous, passionate, insightful young adults to make a difference in their world. Reese commented that as the world feels a little crazy sometimes, strong educational systems are going to be more important than ever.
School should be the time and place to feel comfortable in not having it all figured out. Our educational systems should be designed to challenge our belief systems. That is how you develop courage, insight and passion, and maybe, change the world.
View video for complete report.
Superintendent's Report
Principal Chala Holland introduced Student Council leaders Trisha Bhagat and Drew Arnson who
provided an update on student activities. Chala welcomed Dan Lambert, the new food service director. She commented that Parent/Teacher Conferences were a success. Parents who were unable to attend, or need more time for discussion, may contact their teacher. Chala congratulated the Field Hockey Team who, once again, took first place at state. The team will be recognized this week. She noted that the Illinois State Report Cards were recently released and now include the state assessment data from the SAT. A comprehensive assessment report is scheduled for the December board meeting, but she encouraged anyone with questions to contact her.
Chala noted the following upcoming events: Veterans Day Program (November 10), Executive Functioning and the Teenage Brain (November 20) and announced that it is Foundation Month. She thanked Foundation leaders, volunteers, and donors who are making an investment in educational excellence.
In recognition of School Board Appreciation Month, Superintendent Mike Simeck thanked the board members for their service to our students, school and community. He recognized their dedication to our students and their focus on being good stewards of the community's finances.
Mike encouraged all to attend the How To Raise an Adult panel discussion on November 7 and the author presentation on December 4. He thanked LEAD for their partnership and support of these events.
Mike introduced new media teacher Steve Douglass and two senior students.
Mr. Douglass and eight seniors recently visited six colleges on the West Coast and met with LFHS alumni in the Los Angeles area who are involved in film schools or in the film industry. The students reported that it was a very worthwhile experience that opened their eyes to new possibilities and helped them define their future direction. View video for complete report.
Education Committee
Lise Eliot reported that Jeff Giannelli resigned from the committee and thanked him for his service. Dr. Holland presented an overview of AP participation to the committee and reported that AP participation is on the rise. The committee discussed Dual Credit (DC) coursework and the district's efforts to increase offerings that would present another pathway to high school and post-secondary credits, ultimately giving students exposure to college credit coursework and supporting college readiness. View video for complete report.
Finance & Operations Committee
The Finance & Operations Committee took a comprehensive look at the 5-year forecast. They also discussed the tax levy. The tentative approval of the levy is on this meeting's agenda as an action item. View video for complete report.
Legislative Liaison
Sally Davis reported that the Illinois General Assembly convened this week for the
fall Veto Session. The Assembly will take action on bills that were vetoed by the Governor over the summer. It is common for lawmakers to consider leftover bills from the spring and new ideas that emerged over the past months.
View video for complete report.
NSSED
Ted Moorman reported that NSSED had extended the lease on the Rubloff building and is currently in negotiations to purchase this building. Ted noted that Lake Forest High School is becoming one of the smallest users of NSSED services as more students are staying in our home district. He commented that LFHS has enhanced its services and is doing what is best for students by returning them to our school. View video for complete report.
Booster Report
Diana Kreiling reported that fall sports are wrapping up and commented that it was a successful season. The Booster Bash is scheduled for March 10 and will once again feature Second City.
View video for complete report.
Foundation Report
Diana Kreiling reported that November is Foundation Month and a mailing was sent to the community. April 15 is the Spring Luncheon and the Foundation is currently partnering with a variety of local businesses to support its fundraising efforts.
View video for complete report.
APT Report
Diana Kreiling noted that the APT directory is now available online. The APT sponsored Open Doors Program was a great success. Diana also highlighted the Chill Scout Day activities and reported the Talent Show is scheduled for February 21- 24 this year. View video for complete report.
The Board Highlights are not the official minutes of the Board of Education. Minutes, once approved, all board agendas, packets, and videos can be found here.
Upcoming Meetings
Tuesday, December 5, 2017 - Board of Education Meeting 7:00pm, LFHS West Campus Board Room.
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