The board scrutinized a new resolution that would formalize the process of sharing student information and video footage with law enforcement in emergency situations. The resolution’s broad language sparked debate among board members, who called for more specific parameters to ensure the safety and privacy of students.

Another discussion involved the introduction of the Edify pilot program, an AI and neuroscience-based chatbot designed to augment the school counselors’ ability to provide personalized support for students. Concerns were raised about the protection of student data and the chatbot’s role, prompting the board to table the program’s approval for further consideration.

The board also focused on the budget for the upcoming school year, noting a 2.78% increase in the general tax levy, driven by additional enrollment adjustments, and a 4.24% decrease in state aid. Despite this, the district anticipates extraordinary aid amounting to one million dollars. The budget includes funds from various sources, such as federal aid and capital reserve withdrawals, aimed at supporting facility maintenance and security upgrades. Projected expenditures cover a range of educational programs and services, with an emphasis on maintaining interventionists in younger grades and transitioning from the state health benefit plan to a private one.

With the change in school start times, the majority of caregivers reported a neutral or positive impact. However, a thorough analysis of the relationship between school times and student tardiness was deemed necessary, along with the incorporation of community feedback in future evaluations.

To support student academics and wellness, the board expressed appreciation for the budget’s alignment with district values. The budget’s transparency and the board’s involvement in the process received particular praise, emphasizing the discussions and consultations with staff responsible for different budget areas. Public comments were sought on the 2024-2025 budget, and the board also approved various field trips.

The meeting included an update on discipline and attendance data at one of the schools, showing a reduction in absenteeism but an increase in disciplinary incidents. The need for a more detailed breakdown of data by demographics was discussed, along with the evaluation of the Rise program, which serves as an alternative to in-school suspension.

Another major discussion revolved around the proposal to hire an evaluator for the current program focusing on reducing discipline incidents among historically marginalized students, aligning evaluations with program goals and existing data. Post-COVID behavioral impact on student conduct and potential revisions to the code of conduct were also considered.

Further topics covered in the meeting included updates on the daycare and after-school program, budget changes, compliance with state regulations, a collapsed area outside a school building, insurance, funding for infrastructure needs, and the review of proposals for a new food service management company. The board also approved the placement of students in and out of the district, addressed a received safety grant, and approved the temporary enrollment of a nonresident student.

Personnel matters were also a significant agenda item, with the board accepting several resignations and approving new hires. The hiring of Dana Kessle as the supervisor of funded programs and Susan Shaunessy as a human resources health benefits and payroll specialist were among the approved positions. Professional development approvals, AP exam coverage, a reduction in force, and a sidebar agreement between the Highland Park Board of Education and the Highland Park administrators Association were all discussed.

The board tackled various policy discussions, including guidance counseling, bilingual and ESL education, and emergency cell phone use by staff. They also addressed transportation by private vehicles, reviewed policy processes, and considered the vandalism and honoring student achievement policies.

During the public comment section, Abby Stern Cardell raised concerns about security camera fund allocation, prek program expansion, and the approval of job descriptions post-hire. Cardell also questioned the increase in aftercare costs, requesting a public presentation on the Aftercare budget.