Dear D53 Families and Staff:
Students in grades 3-8 are currently undergoing and preparing for Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR) testing. The IAR evaluates students’ progress and provides information for teachers and parents to identify where students excel or may need support. The data the district garners from the IAR enables our teachers to further enhance instruction to meet individual student needs. We look forward to utilizing this data to further develop personalized learning plans for our students.
Additionally, Phase II of our Capital Improvements Vision project has begun. At Brook Forest, a temporary wall has been installed in the library. At Butler Junior High, the Buildings and Grounds team and school administrators are coordinating to begin construction with minimal disruption to the learning environment. Work will be done before and after school, on some Saturdays, and over the upcoming Spring Break when students won’t be in the building. For regular updates on the District’s construction, parents and community members can visit the ‘Construction Corner,’ a dedicated page with weekly updates on the Capital Improvements Vision.
The District 53 Board of Education held its regular monthly meeting on Monday, March 13, 2023. At the meeting, the Board approved to begin the process of renewing the D53 e-Learning Program in Lieu of Emergency Days set to expire at the end of 2023 school year. A Public Hearing and triennial renewal will take place during the April 10, 2023 Board of Education meeting. You can view a draft of the plan on the district website.
Looking ahead, Spring Break begins with an early dismissal on Friday, March 24th Students and staff return to school on Monday, April 3rd. I hope that you all enjoy a few days of rest and relaxation as we turn the corner to the final few months of the school year.
Stay well, be safe!
Dr. Paul O'Malley
Superintendent of Schools