A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to the upcoming technology levy election scheduled for November 4. This levy, initially approved in 2015, has been pivotal in supporting the district’s one-to-one technology program. Bruce Miller presented an in-depth report on how technology has transformed educational practices, emphasizing the necessity of technological proficiency for future careers. Miller highlighted how technology is integrated across all content areas, equipping students with essential skills for the modern workforce. He stressed the importance of the levy in maintaining and expanding technological resources within the district. Examples of technology use include aviation courses with flight simulators, science classes using real-time data tools, and graphic arts students employing industry-standard software. These initiatives aim to prepare students for a rapidly evolving job market.

Miller underscored that the levy is important for continuing to provide students with hands-on experiences that align with real-world applications, fostering innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Ed Hire, the district’s coordinator of technology, further elaborated on the levy, explaining that it funds instructional technology, including student devices, classroom hardware, and network infrastructure. He detailed the district’s focus on cyber security, emphasizing the increase in phishing attacks and the necessity for robust security measures. Hire noted that the district’s spam filter had blocked over 700,000 messages in the past month, a portion of which were malicious.

Janet Switchikowski, director of communications, encouraged community engagement with the levy proposal, noting that the increase would raise the tax rate slightly to generate $15.5 million annually for technology funding. She explained that the current spending on digital resources exceeds the funding provided by the levy, and failure to pass the referendum could lead to a budget shortfall impacting classroom technology.

The board also tackled recruitment strategies, with Joel Miltier, director of human resources, outlining the district’s staffing initiatives. The district aims to diversify its workforce and enhance educational experiences for all students. Miltier reported an increase in staff of color and detailed efforts to recruit high-quality candidates through job fairs and partnerships with educational institutions.

The district’s “grow your own” program has been instrumental, with grants supporting employees and community members in obtaining teaching degrees. Miltier highlighted the success of this program, which has produced graduates now teaching within the district. However, challenges remain in filling specific roles, such as special education teachers and paraprofessionals, due to high demand and a limited candidate pool.

The meeting also addressed the integration of artificial intelligence in education, with the formation of a district-wide AI committee exploring its applications and establishing guidelines to maintain academic integrity. Safety measures in student iPads and updates on construction projects funded by the bond referendum were discussed.

Significant construction projects were highlighted, including the opening of Emerald Trail Elementary and the progress of the new Rosemont Middle School, both aimed at reducing overcrowding and enhancing security. Upgrades include entrance security enhancements, the addition of secure vestibules, and the implementation of key card access and Halo detectors to address vaping issues.

The board was presented with the proposed property tax levy for 2025, payable in 2026, which is integral to funding district activities. Christopher Anyango Robsha outlined the components of the revenue and the necessity of the levy for initiating the district’s budget cycle. The board approved the proposed maximum levy limit of $153 million.