The fourth phase of locker room renovations at the high school was a major focal point of the meeting, featuring improvements to the swimming and lower level men’s locker rooms. These upgrades include new epoxy flooring, painting, and energy-efficient plumbing fixtures. The renovation is part of a long-term effort to modernize school facilities using allocated funds from the 2024-2027 budget pools. The board emphasized the importance of these improvements to enhance the functionality and safety of the facilities for students and staff.

Attention was also directed to necessary upgrades at the Lincoln facility, where abatement of the original gym floor tiles, suspected of containing asbestos, is planned. This will be followed by the installation of new epoxy flooring. Additional projects include ceiling replacements in the Lakeside School’s hallways and kitchen, along with addressing drainage issues to prevent water pooling in play areas. The board expressed urgency in addressing these issues, particularly concerning student safety.

The meeting also included a discussion on the school district’s enrollment strategies, particularly in relation to incoming kindergarteners. A member highlighted the changing demographics within the Glencoe-Silver Lake community, noting a shift towards more permanent residents. This demographic change is relevant for planning school resources and programs. The current kindergarten enrollment stands at 67 solid registrations with 22 verbal commitments. The board acknowledged the need to convert these commitments into formal registrations to facilitate accurate planning.

The conversation touched on differing perspectives regarding the timing of kindergarten roundups, with some families noting that early registration could be a deterrent. Despite this, there was a shared objective among board members to increase solid registrations for effective planning. Discussions included the possibility of adding another section of kindergarten if enrollment approached or exceeded 90 students. Historical context was provided, noting previous instances where additional sections were added late in the summer due to fluctuating enrollment.

In a separate report, updates on state testing were provided, detailing that the testing schedule opened on March 3 and would conclude on May 9. An initial testing day proceeded smoothly despite several unwarranted fire alarms. Upcoming testing days are scheduled for grades seven through ten. The administration expressed gratitude for the board’s support for the new testing structure. Additionally, a recent ACT testing event saw participation from 61 juniors.

An upcoming mock crash event was announced, scheduled for April 24, aimed at educating students about the consequences of impaired driving. This event, part of a three-year cycle, will involve student actors and include an impact speaker sharing personal experiences related to drunk driving. The administration expressed hope that the event would positively influence student decision-making, especially with prom scheduled shortly thereafter.

Prom logistics were discussed, with special gratitude extended to individuals organizing the Grand March, dinner, and after-prom activities. The board acknowledged their efforts in alleviating some responsibilities from school staff. Plans for summer programming were outlined, with letters sent to qualifying students for junior high and senior high summer school, focusing on enrichment and credit recovery, respectively.

Superintendent Sonju reported on challenges faced due to water issues at Silver Lake, thanking staff for their efforts in accommodating students during this situation. School was set to resume the following day. Upcoming community events were also mentioned, including a senior sponsorship initiative aimed at providing scholarships. The need for clear communication regarding school schedules was reiterated, particularly in light of an early dismissal and rescheduling of classes due to a previous closure.

Board discussions also covered ongoing and upcoming maintenance projects, such as tennis court resurfacing, gym floor refinishing, and hot water line replacements in the high school. The board emphasized the necessity of these improvements, despite their lack of glamour, to maintain functional and safe school facilities.

The board approved a consent agenda and accepted donations from local organizations, supporting various district initiatives. A request for the 2025-2026 close-up trip to Washington DC was introduced, with costs covered through private funds, fundraisers, or donations. The trip was approved without objections.