Dear D53 Families and Staff:
I presented the Annual Student Achievement and Performance Report at the Committee of the Whole Education meeting. The district has outperformed all the historically designated comparable schools considering ELA and Math comprehensively. The data convincingly substantiates the academic health of the district. The 2022 School Report Cards have been posted and are accessible through the district's website.
The Superintendent's Advisory Committee related to Transportation met to review and discuss the district's current transportation services, ridership data, and costs incurred. Thank you to the parents who participated on this advisory committee and shared their perspectives and feedback. The data was presented to the Board of Education who voted to approve an additional bus route at Brook Forest Elementary without additional family fees for this school year. The Board will examine a more comprehensive study, and long-term solution at upcoming meetings that would project the next several years, in district costs, and family fees.
Additionally, the Board of Education awarded all bid packages as recommended and presented by the district's architect, Cordogan Clark. These bid packages are for Phase II of the district's three year capital improvements and vision project. Phase II projects include updates to the primary wing at Brook Forest Elementary, enhanced spaces for art, ALP, MRC, and STEM, as well as an additional corridor to improve school flow connecting the primary and 4th/5th grade wings. At Butler Junior High School, Phase II projects reimagine learning spaces for Art, Music, Band, Library, and STEM as well as a fitness room. We are excited for these changes to learning spaces and creating learning environments for today and future learners.
Furthermore, at the start of the December 12, 2022 Board of Education meeting, there will be a public hearing regarding the proposed property tax levy.
At District 53, we are truly grateful for the continued partnership with our families, wonderful students, and committed faculty, staff, and administrators. Thank you for all that you do to make District 53 a collaborative, award-winning school district community. I wish you and your families a wondrous Thanksgiving holiday.
Stay well, be safe!
Dr. Paul O'Malley
Superintendent of Schools