The Model UN team’s recent trip to Mexico City was a highlight of the Highland Park School Board meeting. Students from the team recounted their experiences, which included attending a Model UN conference where they interacted with peers from private schools in Mexico and engaged in debates on global issues. The team’s efforts were met with success, as they took home 25 individual awards and the coveted best delegation award. Their visit wasn’t solely about competition; they also visited two schools in Mexico City to foster connections and assist in reinvigorating a Model UN club.

The students described their cultural immersion, which included visits to significant landmarks such as the Museo de Antropología, the Teotihuacan pyramids, and attendance at a Lucha Libre match. They also explored various neighborhoods in the city, like Kondesa and Cooa Kan, indulging in the local cuisine and practicing their Spanish language skills. The board acknowledged the value of these experiences and the hard work of both the students and their advisor, Mr. Gold. Recognition was given to the challenges of funding such educational trips and gratitude was expressed for the support that made the journey possible.

Beyond the Model UN discussion, student representatives reported on a variety of upcoming activities within the schools, including a school movie night, a visit from a former Harlem Globetrotter, and a community meeting hosted by the Highland Park Educational Foundation. Project Graduation and the Teen Center were also mentioned for their upcoming events. The drama club and high school classes were organizing fundraisers, and a teen pep night was being planned to promote open discussion on sexual health and gender.

Further, the superintendent took the opportunity to express appreciation for the parents involved in the school community and encouraged support for the various school organizations. There was also mention of a Secret Santa activity that contributed to the cultural exchange program’s success.

The Curriculum Committee discussed new initiatives like upcoming field trips, a nursing plan, and a peer mediation program. While the Finance and Facilities Committee had yet to convene, their agenda was set to include matters such as travel expense reimbursement, non-public school security, and acquiring a new mail center mailing system. Meanwhile, the Personnel and Communication Committee reported on staff movements including resignations and leave requests, and also approved a summer band camp. The Policy Committee was engaged in readings of policies concerning protected classes, affirmative action, and concussion protocols. The President’s report briefly touched upon the turnover in parent leadership groups and flagged the forthcoming discussions regarding school start times.

The meeting concluded with the board moving to an executive session to discuss negotiations, a customary procedure for matters requiring confidentiality.