Welcome to our Board Meeting Bulletin series, where we highlight key takeaways from each board meeting to keep our community informed and engaged with the latest developments in our school district.

2025-26 Budget and Tax Hearing Approved: The Board approved the district's 2025-26 budget with a general fund increase of 2.6%, bringing total budget authority to $169,816,374. The district is requesting a 4.2% overall tax revenue increase across three funds (general, bond, and special building). Despite property valuation increases of 7.6%, the district's tax levy continues trending downward at $1.96547, demonstrating fiscal responsibility while maintaining educational excellence. State aid increased by 2.75% this year, helping offset previous funding challenges.

Elementary Schools Showcase Family Engagement Excellence: Principals from the Kind Array (Tara Heights, Anderson Grove, Walnut Creek, Trumble Park, and Hickory Hill) presented innovative family engagement initiatives. Highlights included curriculum nights where students teach parents what they've learned, the nationally-recognized Watch D.O.G.S. program bringing father figures into schools as role models, and new parent advisory committees providing direct input on school operations. These programs demonstrate the district's commitment to strengthening the home-school partnership that drives student success.

Superintendent Performance Goals Set for 2025-26: The Board approved Dr. Rikli's performance goals focusing on five strategic areas: district strategic planning implementation, enhanced communication and engagement strategies, curriculum and technology advancement, staff recruitment and retention initiatives, and bond project oversight. These comprehensive goals align with the district's mission and strategic plan while addressing key operational priorities for the coming year.

Custodial Staff Contract Agreement Reached: Following negotiations that began in June, the district reached a two-year tentative agreement with custodial and warehouse staff. The agreement includes wage increases of 3.94% in year one and 3.8% in year two, increased uniform allowances, and additional personal leave days. Starting wages for new employees range from $18.40 to $19.30 per hour, positioning the district competitively for recruitment while recognizing the valuable contributions of our support staff.

Option Enrollment Resolution Updated: The Board discussed the annual option enrollment resolution, with recommendations to declare Ashbury Elementary, the new Lincoln View Elementary, and Prairie Queen Elementary at capacity for the 2026-27 school year due to neighborhood growth and enrollment projections. This proactive planning helps maintain appropriate class sizes while still welcoming option students at schools with available space, ensuring quality education for all students.

These are just a few of the topics discussed during our recent board meeting. For full access to agendas and minutes, please visit our website. Broadcast recordings of the meetings are also available on our YouTube channel.