On Aug. 26, 2024, all seven board members were present to begin the board meeting. Despite the extreme heat outside, the meeting started as planned at 6 p.m. and the agenda was approved as well.

An item of New Business that board members and district administrators talked about the most was the Kaneland referendum update. Future Superintendent Dr. Kurt Rohlwing led the discussion.

“[The students] really are the focus of what we’re trying to do,” Rohlwing said. “They have to be and live in [the school] every day.”

After discussion about what was needed for each of the school buildings, board member Jennifer Simmons brought up problems that many community members seem to have with the referendum.

“They either want there to be a new high school, or no referendum at all,” Simmons said.

Simmons went on to say how that is unrealistic and won’t happen due to projected expense and what is truly needed at the moment. Board members agreed that they need to watch out for the financial aspect of a new referendum, but they do wish to one day have another opportunity.

No action on the topic was taken.

Next on the agenda was the approval for one bilingual teacher at the high school, which was approved 7-0. There was also the approval of a change order for new doors in certain district buildings with a vote of 7-0.

Finally, Assistant Superintendent of Business Dr. Jackie Bogan provided an update on the track.

“The track looks great compared to how it looked last week,” Bogan said. “Thank you for supporting us and getting us a new track.” 

The next board meeting will be held Sept. 9, 2024.