Highland Park Students Suspended After Protesting ICE; Community Reacts to School Board’s Response

Overview: The Highland Park School Board meeting focused heavily on the recent student walkout at Highland Park High School, where approximately 150 students protested against the Department of Homeland Security’s immigration enforcement efforts. The event has sparked community dialogue, particularly concerning the disciplinary actions taken against the students who participated. The board and superintendent expressed pride in the students’ civic engagement while acknowledging the complexities involved in managing the aftermath.

Highland Park School Board Grapples with Chromebook Content Filtering and Aftercare Program Feedback

Overview: During the recent Highland Park School Board meeting, members engaged in discussions on the challenges of managing technology use in schools and evaluating the effectiveness of the Champions aftercare program. Concerns were raised about the content filtering systems on Chromebooks and the need for improved communication and responsiveness within the aftercare program. The meeting also covered planned school trips, budgeting concerns, and various administrative approvals.

Highland Park School Board Special Education Evaluation Raises Questions on Parental Involvement

Overview: At the Highland Park School Board meeting on January 5, 2026, attention was given to concerns about parental involvement in the ongoing special education program evaluation by Kamango. The board also conducted its reorganization, electing a new president and vice president and confirming various committee appointments.

Highland Park School Board Grapples with Low Math Scores and Curriculum Challenges

Overview: During the latest Highland Park School Board meeting, discussions were dominated by concerning trends in student math performance, particularly at the middle school level, and the district’s response through new curriculum pilots. The board focused on the stark decline in math scores, notably among middle school students, where only 7% to 20% met a 60% benchmark, a significant drop from the previous year’s 28% to 61%. Board members and community participants speculated on potential causes, including previous teacher turnover and a need for curriculum reassessment.

Highland Park School Board Faces Concerns Over Special Education Parent Advisory Group Decisions

Overview: The recent Highland Park School Board meeting was dominated by discussions about the district’s handling of the Special Education Parent Advisory Group (CPAG), sparking concerns among parents and highlighting issues of trust and communication between the administration and families of children with disabilities. Additional topics included the district’s sustainability efforts, facilities updates, and disciplinary policies.