October 2026 Board of Education Report

BOARD REPORT A Board Report of the October 5, 2026 Board of Education meeting This Board of Education meeting was held in the boardroom at 2801 York Road, Oak Brook, Illinois 60523; the regular meeting place. The public can attend Board of Education meetings in person, access an audio livestream of the meeting on the District’s website, or listen to meeting recordings that are uploaded to the District’s website within the meeting week. District Updates Safety Bond and Public Hearing The Board of Education held a public hearing regarding its intent to sell up to $5 million in School Fire Prevention and Safety Bonds. The proposed bonds would support improvements to existing District facilities to ensure they conform with State of Illinois building code requirements, including facility alterations, reconstruction, and the purchase and installation of necessary equipment. The Board formally opened the public hearing, with the motion passing unanimously. The Board is expected to consider action on the proposed bond sale at its November 9 meeting. Spring 2026 Student Achievement and Data Review The Board of Education received an in-depth review of Spring 2026 NWEA MAP, Illinois Assessment of Readiness (IAR), and Illinois Science Assessment (ISA) results, along with the District’s action plan for continued improvement. Overall achievement remains strong. On the IAR, 94% of students were proficient in English Language Arts and 83% were proficient in math, while 87% of students were proficient on the ISA science assessment. Spring MAP results also showed 88.5% of students at or above the national average in reading and 93.1% in math. The review highlighted strong student growth in several areas as well as areas requiring additional attention. Districtwide MAP growth exceeded national growth expectations overall in both reading and math, with particularly strong reading growth in grades 5–7. At the same time, the District identified math growth, particularly at Butler Junior High, and outcomes for lower-achieving students as priorities for continued improvement. IAR results similarly showed gains in English Language Arts growth while identifying opportunities to strengthen math growth. The District outlined several strategies already underway in response to the data. These include using fall MAP results and common formative assessments to differentiate instruction, expanding specialist support within classrooms, strengthening co-teaching practices, and aligning professional development with identified student needs. Work is also underway to strengthen K–8 math instruction through the District’s partnership with the Metro Chicago Math Initiative and to continue refining advanced learning services. A central part of the action plan is strengthening Professional Learning Communities and creating a more consistent Districtwide approach to instructional planning. Teacher teams will use common assessment data to identify what students need to learn, determine whether they have mastered it, provide timely intervention when additional support is needed, and extend learning for students who are ready for more. The District will continue monitoring progress through its learning teams and plans to provide the Board with regular updates as this work moves forward. Class Size and Student Grouping The principals provided an overview of class sizes and how students are grouped for instruction at both schools. At Brook Forest, math offerings vary by grade and student readiness, with additional levels of instruction available as students progress through the elementary grades. In kindergarten through second grade, students receive ELA instruction from their homeroom teacher, allowing younger students to remain with the same teacher throughout the day. In grades 3–5, students have separate homerooms and ELA teachers. ELA classes are formed using the District's cluster grouping model, based on multiple measures including NWEA MAP and CogAT data, while homeroom placement considers a broader picture of each student, incorporating input from teachers, specialists, and administrators along with academic, social-emotional, and behavioral information. At Butler Junior High, each grade has multiple math sections designed to meet varying levels of student readiness, with seven students currently taking Algebra 2/Trigonometry at Hinsdale Central. ELA groupings similarly use multiple measures, including MAP, CogAT, and common formative assessment data. The Board also discussed the importance of helping families better understand how the District’s cluster grouping model works and how placement decisions are made. The Board reviewed class sizes across both buildings, with administrators noting that Butler’s classes remain smaller than the District’s largest classes in previous school years. The discussion also addressed science instruction at Butler, where four science sections are offered at each grade level and the STEM teacher co-teaches across grades 6–8. Science units incorporate hands-on STEM projects, including hydroponics, water filtration, and hydraulic arms, as the District continues working to strengthen experiential and lab-based science instruction. School and Department Updates Brook Forest Elementary Brook Forest is continuing to build on the start of the school year with a strong focus on student data and experiential learning. Grade-level teams completed an extended Fall Data Review using MAP Reading and Math, Benchmark Assess 360, and Illinois Assessment of Readiness results to identify strengths and areas for growth. Weekly meetings and professional development will continue to help teachers use assessment data to guide instruction and respond to student needs. Students are also extending their learning beyond the classroom through projects connected to the Benchmark Advance unit on life science and animals. Grade-level teams will research animal-related topics and real-world issues, identify local organizations or community partners that could benefit from their findings, and collaborate on ideas for making a positive difference. Students will present their research and proposed causes to Principal Dr. Andrea Prola, building skills in research, communication, collaboration, and problem-solving along the way. Community engagement this month includes the fourth-grade Wax Museum, second-grade Ancestry Day, and the Halloween Parade, with Parent Teacher Conferences scheduled for November 2. Professional development will focus on strengthening Professional Learning Communities and using common team agendas to review assessment data and support consistent instructional planning. Butler Junior High Butler Junior High is expanding opportunities for students to connect classroom learning with experiences beyond the school. Eighth-grade Spanish students have begun their annual partnership with Harriet Beecher Stowe Elementary in Chicago, working with partner classrooms throughout the school year. The partnership will include opportunities to share student-created stories and is expected to culminate with visits between the two schools later this year. Students are also participating in several academic, athletic, and community experiences this month. Eighth graders will travel to Washington, D.C. over Columbus Day weekend to visit significant historical sites and connect their classroom learning to the nation’s capital. Seventh-grade Spanish students will visit the National Museum of Mexican Art for its annual Día de Muertos exhibition. Cross country continues with upcoming meets, while the annual Halloween Sock Hop will take place October 30. Butler’s House System also held its first House Competition, with students collaborating to create lantern displays representing their Houses, culminating in a Lantern Gallery Walk and Vaskr being named the competition’s champion. The Academic Resource Center will open the week of October 14, providing students with peer-guided study assistance while creating leadership and service opportunities for older students. Professional development will continue to focus on strengthening Professional Learning Communities and common team planning practices, helping staff assess student learning, provide additional support when needed, and extend learning for students who have already mastered the material. Student Services Department The Student Services Department is continuing its focus on meeting students’ individual academic, social-emotional, and behavioral needs. Instructional walkthroughs and special education program monitoring will take place across both schools to support consistent IEP implementation, appropriate accommodations, and collaboration among special education teachers and related-service providers. Students will also participate in social-emotional wellness screening this month, helping school teams identify strengths and areas where additional support may be beneficial. Student Services is also continuing its partnership with Elyssa’s Mission to provide the Signs of Suicide prevention program for students in grades 6–8. Programming will begin in November and will focus on recognizing warning signs, seeking help, connecting students with follow-up support when needed, and providing resources for families. Family partnership remains an important part of the department’s work. A Student Services Parent Meeting will be held during Parent-Teacher Conferences on November 2 to help families better understand the IEP process, including parent participation, goals and services, progress monitoring, and ways to partner with their child’s educational team. Professional learning will continue through Crisis Prevention Institute training, development for occupational and physical therapy staff, and targeted training for paraprofessionals focused on their roles in supporting students. Student Learning & Staff Innovation The Student Learning and Staff Innovation team is continuing to strengthen curriculum and differentiated instruction across the District. Grade-level and content-area teams are using fall MAP data to guide instructional planning and will begin updating curriculum maps later this fall. Advanced Learner Program ELA Differentiation Specialists continue to collaborate with teachers at both schools to develop lessons and learning opportunities that respond to student needs. Family communication also remains a focus, with grade levels and departments providing monthly updates highlighting student learning goals, experiential learning opportunities, and student celebrations. The District Leadership Team will continue its work this month, bringing administrators and staff together to support consistent teaching and learning practices across the District. Professional learning continues across both buildings, with K–8 math professional development planned for Brook Forest and Butler Junior High, along with additional ELA training for grades 6–8. Staff at both schools will also participate in state-required Racism-Free Anti-Discrimination School Training. PTO Updates Past Events: Brook Forest Book Fair  – The Book Fair brought together students, families, and teachers for a successful event. Thank you to the families who purchased books for teachers and to Eleni Demitriou and the team of volunteers who helped make the event possible. Father Son Bowling  – The event drew one of its largest crowds yet, giving students and families an opportunity to connect and enjoy an evening together. PTO Volunteers  – The PTO received a strong response from parents interested in volunteering this year. Waitlists have been filled, and the PTO continues working to rotate additional parents into volunteer opportunities. Upcoming Events: PTO-Sponsored Clubs –  After-school clubs are underway, with golf and choir among the programs experiencing strong demand. Mother Son Event – October 9 –  Students in kindergarten through eighth grade and their families are invited to an evening at Sky Zone. Trunk or Treat –  October 30 from 4:30–6:00 PM – Families can participate by decorating a trunk or volunteering during the event. Volunteer spots are already filling quickly. Membership & Get Involved: Become a PTO Member  –   Membership gives families access to DirectorySpot and PTO email communications. Volunteer with the PTO  – Families interested in getting involved or chairing an event are encouraged to connect with the PTO. Stay Connected DirectorySpot – The updated directory is now available and accessible to PTO members. Follow us on  Instagram   and  Facebook !  Upcoming Board of Education and Committee Meetings 9:00AM November 2, 2026 - Finance/Infrastructure Committee 6:00PM November  9, 2026 - Regular

Wednesday, Oct 07 2026

September 2026 Board of Education Report

BOARD REPORT A Board Report of the September 14, 2026 Board of Education meeting This Board of Education meeting was held in the boardroom at 2801 York Road, Oak Brook, Illinois 60523; the regular meeting place. The public can attend Board of Education meetings in person, access an audio livestream of the meeting on the District’s website, or listen to meeting recordings that are uploaded to the District’s website within the meeting week. District Updates 2026–2027 District Budget The Board of Education approved and adopted Butler School District 53’s budget for the 2026–2027 fiscal year, providing the financial framework for District programs, staffing, operations, transportation, facilities, and other priorities through June 30, 2027. The adopted budget is balanced, and no Deficit Reduction Plan is required. Across the District’s operating funds, the budget projects approximately $15.17 million in direct revenues and $14.12 million in direct expenditures. Those funds are projected to close the fiscal year with a combined fund balance of approximately $8.8 million. Education continues to represent the District’s largest area of investment, with approximately $8.49 million budgeted for instruction. The budget also accounts for the District’s ongoing operational and facility needs, including expenditures for support services, transportation, debt service, and capital projects. Together, these investments allow the District to support day-to-day learning while planning for longer-term facility and infrastructure needs. Prior to adoption, the tentative budget was made available for public inspection for at least 30 days, and notice of the budget hearing was published in the Daily Herald on August 11. A public hearing was held as part of the September 14 Board meeting before the Board took final action to adopt the 2026–2027 budget. Health Life Safety Improvements The Board approved the release of Cordogan Clark to prepare bid documents for the District’s upcoming Health Life Safety improvements. This action moves the work forward from facility assessment and planning into the next stage of preparing identified projects for bidding and future construction. Health Life Safety work has been identified at both Brook Forest Elementary and Butler Junior High and approved by ISBE and the DuPage County Regional Office of Education as necessary health life safety projects. Planned improvements address building systems and conditions including roofing, exterior masonry, mechanical ventilation, plumbing, accessibility, and other required safety-related work. The projects are part of the District’s broader facilities planning process, which evaluates deferred maintenance, Health Life Safety requirements, and longer-term modernization needs across both schools. The District’s facilities assessment identified approximately $5,100,000 million in Health Life Safety and deferred maintenance needs across Brook Forest and Butler Junior High. By authorizing Cordogan Clark to prepare bid documents, the Board is taking the next step toward establishing project specifications, obtaining competitive bids, and advancing this work. This action is also connected to the District’s financing plan for these improvements. At the same meeting, the Board approved a resolution calling for an October 5 public hearing regarding its intent to sell School Fire Prevention and Safety Bonds to help fund the Health Life Safety work. Health Life Safety Funding The Board approved a resolution calling for a public hearing on October 5 regarding the District’s intent to sell up to $5 million in School Fire Prevention and Safety Bonds. The proposed bonds would provide funding for Health Life Safety improvements needed to ensure District facilities that house students meet State of Illinois building code requirements. The October public hearing will be the next step in the financing process. The current schedule anticipates additional Board action later this fall, with a potential bond sale in November to support Health Life Safety construction planned for 2027. School and Department Updates Brook Forest Elementary Brook Forest has begun the school year with the first month of District 53’s new English Language Arts model underway. Advanced Learner Program ELA Differentiation Specialists are meeting weekly with core teachers and administration, while student schedules now include reading small groups, writing, reading and vocabulary, enrichment, and read-aloud instruction. Students are also completing beginning-of-year NWEA MAP and Benchmark Assess 360 assessments. Grade-level teams are developing experiential learning projects tied to the first Benchmark unit, which focuses on life science and animals. The school welcomed families for Curriculum Night on September 10, giving parents and guardians an opportunity to meet teachers and learn more about English Language Arts, math, and specials. Earlier that day, students participated in a districtwide field trip to the Sports Core Fields where a Healing Field was displayed; in observance of the 9/11 terrorist attack. Fifth-grade cross country is also underway, with practices beginning in late August. Professional learning this month is focused on strengthening collaboration among staff. Building-based professional development will center on Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and the use of common team meeting agendas to support consistent planning and collaboration. Butler Junior High Butler Junior High has begun the first month of its new English Language Arts model, with the Advanced Learner Program ELA Differentiation Specialist working closely with core ELA teachers to review grade-level data and plan responsive instruction. The team meets formally three times each week, with additional check-ins throughout the week. Initial ALP orientation meetings have been held with each class, weekly check-ins with ALP-designated students are underway, and advanced learning opportunities are being integrated into daily lessons. Students will also complete fall NWEA MAP testing September 15–16. Students have had several opportunities to connect beyond the classroom this month. The school participated in the districtwide Healing Field trip at the Sports Core Fields on September 10, while student athletes are competing in cross country and golf throughout September. Families will also be welcomed to Curriculum Night on September 17. Professional development at Butler Junior High is focused on strengthening Professional Learning Communities and creating greater consistency in team planning. Staff will use common meeting agendas centered on four key questions: what students should learn, how teachers will know they have learned it, how to respond when students need additional support, and how to extend learning for students who have already mastered the material. Student Services Department The Student Services Department begins the 2026–2027 school year with a comprehensive continuum of supports designed to meet students’ individual needs. Services include full inclusion and resource support, Instructional Learning Classrooms, counseling and social work, speech-language services, occupational and physical therapy, MTSS interventions, English Learner services, and Child Find and Early Intervention. Special education and Section 504 services are also underway, with case managers and related service providers introduced to families, accommodations communicated to staff, and IEP and 504 meetings being scheduled throughout the year. Family partnership continues to be an important part of the department’s work. Families can provide feedback following IEP and 504 meetings and share ideas throughout the year through the Student Services Feedback and Suggestions Box. The District also continues to offer ReferralGPS, a confidential, no-cost resource that connects students, staff, and families with community-based mental health services and support. Student and staff safety remains another area of focus. The District is collaborating with Oak Brook Police and Village officials to support safe arrival and dismissal procedures, while monthly Crisis Management Team walkthroughs help monitor building safety and supervision. AM/PM Auxiliary Officers also conduct daily walkthroughs to support arrival, dismissal, and overall campus safety. Student Learning & Staff Innovation The Student Learning and Staff Innovation team is continuing to strengthen curriculum and differentiated instruction across the District. Grade-level and content-area teams will begin updating curriculum maps later this fall, using fall MAP data to help plan instruction based on student needs. Advanced Learner Program ELA Differentiation Specialists at both schools are collaborating daily with teachers to develop differentiated lessons and learning opportunities informed by assessment data. Specialists have also connected with families and will provide monthly updates throughout the school year. Communication with families is expanding this year as grade levels and departments begin sending monthly updates highlighting student learning goals, experiential learning opportunities, and student celebrations. The District Leadership Team will also hold its first meeting of the school year in September. Professional learning continues across both buildings, with K–8 math professional development planned for Brook Forest and Butler Junior High and additional ELA training for grades 6–8. Staff at both schools will also participate in the state-required Racism-Free Anti-Discrimination School Training. PTO Updates Past Events: Butler Kona Ice & Welcome Back Social  – Students and families kicked off the school year with Kona Ice and an opportunity for parents to connect. PTO General Meeting  – The first general meeting of the school year had a strong turnout from parents. Brook Forest Curriculum Night  – The PTO connected with families at its table during Curriculum Night. Upcoming Events: Brook Forest Book Fair  – September 24 – Families can visit the teacher wish list table to purchase books selected by teachers for their classroom libraries. PTO-Sponsored Clubs  – Registration is underway for after-school activities, including Spanish, Improv, Choir, Chess, and Golf. Father Son Bowling  – September 25 – Students in kindergarten through eighth grade are invited to Father Son Bowling at Suburbanite Bowl from 6:30–8:30 PM. Registration is open. Mother Son Events  – October 9 – Events are planned for students in kindergarten through eighth grade, with additional details coming soon. Membership & Get Involved: Become a PTO Member  – Membership provides families with access to Directory Spot and PTO email communications. Directory Spot  – The updated directory is now available to PTO members. Stay Connected Follow us on  Instagram   and  Facebook !  Upcoming Board of Education and Committee Meetings 6:00PM October 5, 2026 - Regular: Focus Education 

Wednesday, Sep 16 2026

August 2026 Board of Education Report

BOARD REPORT A Board Report of the August 10, 2026 Board of Education meeting This Board of Education meeting was held in the boardroom at 2801 York Road, Oak Brook, Illinois 60523; the regular meeting place. The public can attend Board of Education meetings in person, access an audio livestream of the meeting on the District’s website, or listen to meeting recordings that are uploaded to the District’s website within the meeting week. District Updates Policy: Committee of the Whole The Board of Education held its  Policy: Committee of the Whole  meeting to review updates to District policies. Families, and staff are encouraged to review the full policy updates and additional information from the meeting. While the majority of the revisions focused on minor updates to legal references, some policies in general, relevant to students and families, are worth noting. Policy 6:70 Teaching About Religions Policy 6:80 Teaching About Controversial Issues While the revisions primarily involved legal references, these policies provide an opportunity to remind families as stated in our Handbooks that parents/guardians  may contact their building principal and request that their child be exempt from using a particular instructional material or program by completing a Curriculum Objection Form ( Policy 6:260 ). Policy 6:190 Extracurricular and Co-Curricular Activities This policy addresses criteria for participation. For students in kindergarten through eighth grade, the selection of members or participants is at the discretion of teachers, sponsors, or coaches, provided the selection criteria conform to District policies. Students must satisfy all academic standards and must comply with the activities rules and the Student Conduct Code. This is not a new policy, it was reworded for clarity. Policy 7:240 Conduct Code for Participants in Extracurricular Activities Although the update was also related to legal references, this is an opportunity to highlight expectations regarding extracurricular conduct for participants. e-Learning Program Renewal The Board renewed District 53’s e-Learning Program in Lieu of Emergency Days, as required every three years. The plan provides the District with the option to use e-Learning during inclement weather and also serves as a remote learning plan in the event of an unforeseen or extended emergency. The District continues to have five emergency days built into the end of the traditional school calendar. For brief closures when e-Learning is not used, those emergency days may be utilized as needed. Safety and Security Partnership The Board approved the renewal of the District’s Intergovernmental Agreement with the Village of Oak Brook for safety and security services. With the District’s obligation to reimburse the Police Department for squad vehicles now fulfilled, the District anticipates approximately $20,000 in annual savings moving forward. Board Meeting Platform Transition District 53 will transition from BoardDocs to  Community by Diligent  following Diligent’s decision to discontinue support for the current BoardDocs platform. After reviewing available options, the District identified  Community  as the best fit for maintaining accessible and transparent Board agendas and materials for families, community members, administrators, and Board members. The District anticipates completing the transition in time for the December Board of Education meeting, with additional information to be shared with the community ahead of the change. Health Life Safety and 2026–2027 Budget Planning The Board continued its discussion of Health Life Safety needs and potential funding options, building on conversations that began during the previous school year. The Board is expected to make a decision regarding funding in the coming months. The District is also preparing for the 2026–2027 budget hearing, which will take place during the September 14 Board of Education meeting. The Board is scheduled to take action on the budget at that meeting. Additional Board Approvals The Board approved updated student and employee handbooks for the 2026–2027 school year, along with the Paul Butler Cultural Arts Program activities for the year. School and Department Updates Brook Forest Elementary Brook Forest is preparing for the start of the 2026–2027 school year with several new learning opportunities and upcoming events for students and families. The school will launch District 53’s new advanced learning model for English Language Arts, supported by K-5 Advanced Learner Program Teachers/Differentiation Specialists Christine Denari, Gail Scimeca, and Tyara Morales. Specialists will work directly with students and teachers across grades K–5, while all students will participate in a daily intervention and enrichment block. Student progress will be monitored throughout the year using assessments including Assess 360, Benchmark end-of-unit assessments, and NWEA MAP. The school will also continue building on its Beyond the Bell initiative, connecting classroom learning with hands-on experiences and community partnerships. As part of this work, Brook Forest’s professional learning teams will develop experiential learning projects tied to core instruction and Benchmark Advance. Families can look forward to several opportunities to kick off the new school year. New Family Orientation and the Curriculum Overview will take place August 17 at 4:00 PM , followed by a special Kindergarten Clap-In on the first day of school, August 20. Brook Forest will also hold its first Safety Day on August 26, giving students and staff hands-on practice with fire, severe weather, bus evacuation, and lockdown procedures. Fall MAP testing begins in September, and families are invited back for Curriculum Night on September 10. Butler Junior High Butler Junior High is preparing for the 2026–2027 school year with several curriculum enhancements designed to expand learning opportunities for students. The school’s 6-8 Advanced Learner Program Teacher/Differentiation Specialist, Vanessa Dotson, will work alongside ELA teachers to provide advanced instruction, monitor student progress, and adjust learning opportunities based on ongoing assessment data. Professional Learning Community teams will also meet regularly to review student progress and use data to guide instruction, support, and enrichment throughout the year. Science and STEM teachers are continuing to strengthen the curriculum as the school enters its second year using Savvas Elevate Science. This year will bring greater integration between science and STEM, along with a year-long enrichment experience that allows students to explore science concepts in greater depth. Eighth graders will also have a new Financial Literacy exploratory course, Game of Life, featuring real-world experiences related to employment, major purchases, career planning, financial goals, and personal budgeting. Butler Junior High will continue its second year of Beyond the Bell, expanding partnerships with community organizations and connecting classroom learning with hands-on, real-world experiences.  As students return, families are invited to the School and Curriculum Orientation and PTO Ice Cream Social on August 18 at 4:00 PM.  Cross country practices begin on the first day of school, August 20, and the school will hold its first Safety Day on August 26. Fall MAP testing will take place September 15–16, followed by Curriculum Night on September 18, which will also include an internet safety presentation for families. Student Services Department The Student Services Department remained active throughout the summer preparing students, families, and staff for the 2026–2027 school year. The team completed special education eligibility meetings, annual reviews, and reevaluations, finalized staffing assignments, and reviewed individual student needs and IEP requirements to ensure appropriate services are in place for the start of school. Section 504 plans for returning students were also reviewed and updated, with procedures established to support consistent implementation across both schools. The department continued strengthening the District’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), including procedures, forms, and intervention documentation designed to improve consistency and accountability. English Learner records and service plans were also updated, with staff coordinating student placement, scheduling, and language support for the coming year and preparing for annual language proficiency screening and ACCESS testing. Student Services also focused on safety and family engagement. Emergency response resources and crisis response training materials were updated to strengthen districtwide preparedness. Looking ahead, the District is planning its annual in-person IEP Parent Bootcamps, which will provide families with information and resources to better understand the special education process and strengthen collaboration between families and schools. The first session is planned for September. Student Learning & Staff Innovation Professional learning remained an important focus over the summer as District 53 prepared staff for the new school year. Districtwide training and development opportunities are being prepared in areas including differentiated instruction, co-teaching, MTSS processes, special education and 504 practices, Crisis Prevention Institute training, and crisis response procedures. This work builds on the District’s continued emphasis on collaboration and consistent instructional and student-support practices across both schools. Through professional development and shared processes, staff will begin the 2026–2027 school year with additional tools and training to support a wide range of student learning needs. PTO Updates Upcoming Events: Brook Forest Welcome Back Parent Social – August 20  – The PTO will welcome parents back for the new school year with coffee and treats during first-day drop-off, providing an opportunity to reconnect and welcome new families to the Brook Forest community. Butler Junior High Ice Cream Social – August 18  – The PTO will welcome students and families back to school with Kona Ice following the School and Curriculum Orientation. Membership & Get Involved: Become a PTO Member  – Families are encouraged to join the PTO for access to volunteer opportunities and the online school directory while supporting programs and activities throughout the District. Volunteer Opportunities  – Families can get involved by attending quarterly PTO General Meetings or volunteering as event leads, committee members, and Brook Forest classroom parents. Additional volunteer sign-ups and information will be shared with families. Spiritwear: Dolphins & Vikings Spiritwear  – Spiritwear is available for students, parents, and staff. Families can watch weekly school communications for links to the online stores. Stay Connected Follow us on  Instagram   and  Facebook !  Upcoming Board of Education and Committee Meetings 6:00PM September 14, 2026 - Regular: Focus Education including Beyond the Bell

Wednesday, Aug 12 2026

Notice: Public Hearing - E-Learning Program Renewal

DISTRICT UPDATE This communication serves as notice that on Monday, August 10, at 6:00PM immediately prior to the Regular Board of Education Meeting, the District will conduct a public hearing regarding the renewal of its e-Learning Program, which allows the use of approved e-Learning Days in place of emergency school closure days. State law requires Districts to renew this program every three years. A draft of the plan can be found in the District’s BoardDocs Library . The Board is expected to consider action on the renewal later that evening during the Regular Board Meeting.

Wednesday, Jul 29 2026

March 2026 Board of Education Report

BOARD REPORT A Board Report of the March 9, 2026 Board of Education meeting This Board of Education meeting was held in the boardroom at 2801 York Road, Oak Brook, Illinois 60523; the regular meeting place. The public can attend Board of Education meetings in person, access an audio livestream of the meeting on the District’s website, or listen to meeting recordings that are uploaded to the District’s website within the meeting week. District Updates New "Push-In" Model for Advanced Learning Most significantly, the Board approved the Administrative Team Action Plan recommendation for the Push-In Model for the Advanced Learning Plan after a year of preparation and refinement. The Board’s approval of the new Push-In instructional model marks a major step forward in expanding access to advanced learning for all students. Under the Illinois Accelerated Placement Act, the district must ensure that students who demonstrate high ability have meaningful access to accelerated coursework. A recent data audit showed that 80% of our students meet the criteria for advanced instruction, but our existing pull-out structure limits access due to rigid schedules and staffing constraints. Expanding the current model would require a major operational overhaul and significant staffing increases. The Push-In model, on the other hand, solves that challenge by making advanced rigor the norm in every classroom while specialists provide in-class support. This approach delivers universal access to high-level learning without adding staff and creates a system that’s both efficient and sustainable. This shift is significant because it changes how opportunity is delivered. Instead of separating students into tracks, the Push-In model raises the level of instruction for everyone. Advanced standards become the baseline rather than the exception. Classroom teachers work alongside specialists in a collaborative, co-teaching structure that strengthens instruction in real time and builds staff expertise across the district. Significant grant funding supports this transition, including specialized training through Northwestern’s Center for Talent Development so teachers have the tools to challenge every learner. The model also creates stronger consistency for students, more flexible instructional support, and faster response when needs arise through aligned MTSS systems and targeted coaching. At its core, this is a significant change to the status quo. It's a move away from sorting students and toward building capacity among teachers and learners alike. It creates equitable access to advanced learning, strengthens classroom instruction district-wide, and establishes a long-term framework that supports both student growth and professional excellence. Planning for 2026-2027 Underway We recognize that the Board’s generous investments in Elevate Science and Benchmark Advance have required a tremendous amount of dedication and professional learning from our staff this year. As we look to the future, our upcoming curriculum milestones include: Grades 6-8 ELA: Curriculum review. Grades 6-8 Social Studies: Resource adoption. K-8 Math: Curriculum review. In addition to these curriculum goals, our Strategic Plan continues to emphasize personalized learning and cutting-edge technology in every classroom. To ensure our teachers have the dedicated time needed to develop curriculum and work toward these district goals, Dr. Z. will be sending a Summer Professional Development and Curriculum Planning Interest Form to all staff this week. While staff participation is entirely optional, we look forward to providing these opportunities for our team to learn, grow, and collaborate over the summer months. Furthermore, Dr. Z. will provide a detailed update on our professional learning initiatives and summer planning during the April Board of Education meeting to showcase the ongoing progress and expertise of our staff. Policy Meeting & Decennial Survey Additionally, there was a Policy: Committee of the Whole meeting, which covered student behavior, prevention and response to bullying, depression awareness and prevention, equal educational opportunities, and much more. You can view the  full agenda and updates here . Lastly, the Board acknowledged and approved a Decennial Survey performed by Cordogan Clark. This is a mandated 10-year life safety survey that is submitted to the Illinois State Board of Education. School and Department Updates Brook Forest Elementary Brook Forest Elementary is making strong progress toward district goals focused on staff development and collaboration. As part of ongoing efforts to strengthen teacher support, Brook Forest mentors will meet with administrators to reflect on the mentoring program and highlight what’s working well while identifying opportunities for growth as planning begins for the 2026–2027 school year.  The school is also working to enhance staff culture and collaboration. Recently, Grade 5 teachers shared engaging technology, reading, and writing activities that can be used across grade levels and subject areas. The presentation sparked great discussion among staff, and the positive feedback has led to plans for additional modeling and hands-on practice during upcoming faculty meetings. Curriculum work is also moving forward as K–5 English Language Arts teachers continue collaborating with administrators to implement Benchmark resources. Teams are aligning formative and unit assessments to strengthen data conversations and PLC work, while also reviewing whether additional resources may be needed for next school year. The administrative team is also exploring draft scheduling options for 2026–2027 with OBEA officers, focusing on ways to support consistent routines, social-emotional learning, and common planning time for teachers.  Looking ahead, students in Grades 3–5 will take the IAR assessment March 17–19, and the school community is preparing for Spring Break from March 27–April 6, with classes resuming April 7. Butler Junior High Butler Junior High has had a lot of great momentum this month. Teachers are deep in the work of improving student learning, teaming up in PLCs to dig into MAP and IAR data and compare it with real-time classroom performance so instruction stays sharp and targeted. One highlight: our Spanish team is closely tracking 6th graders’ progress toward mastering question words and subject-verb agreement; small skills that make a big difference in language confidence. Activities are in full swing across campus. Girls volleyball is underway, with JV and Varsity heading into a busy week of matchups before the conference tournament. Huge thanks to Coaches Milligan and Shum for leading the charge!  Spring sports are ramping up too: soccer tryouts kick off in mid-March (weather permitting) with daily practices through May, and track and field is expanding this year with more practices and four meets on the schedule. Students interested in participating need to have a current health physical on file with the school nurse's office and contact Mrs. Revord or Mrs. Goodell for more information. Our fine arts students are making memories beyond the classroom! Band members recently visited the University of Illinois Bands, and band and choir students will perform at the Wolves game on March 11, continuing a favorite annual tradition.  Academically, students are gearing up for key milestones as well, with the National Spanish Exam and IAR testing right around the corner. It’s a busy season, and our students and staff are rising to it.  Student Services Department Student Services has been moving full speed this month, with a strong focus on making sure every support system is consistent, compliant, and genuinely helping students thrive. A full audit of the 504 process is underway, and the team has maintained 100% timeline compliance. Enrollment trends are being closely tracked and district data shows a really encouraging pattern: more students who previously needed IEPs in elementary school are transitioning to 504 Plans by junior high. That’s a strong sign that early intervention and targeted support are working, skills are sticking, and services are being right-sized as students grow. Decisions continue to be grounded in solid data, team collaboration, and a commitment to the least restrictive environment. A Family and Staff 504 Satisfaction Survey will roll out in May to keep that feedback loop strong. The same level of care is happening across special education and multilingual services. IEP processes remain fully compliant, with annual reviews and reevaluations completed on time and goals tightly aligned to grade-level standards. Data systems have been strengthened so instruction is measurable, responsive, and clearly documented, while audits ensure eligibility, service minutes, accommodations, and placements are accurate and student-centered.  Staff development continues to be a priority, with paraprofessionals receiving targeted training this month in executive functioning strategies, behavior supports, and assistive technology. Meanwhile, ELL teachers are teaming up with classroom staff to build language support into everyday instruction, helping multilingual learners succeed across subjects. ACCESS testing has been successfully completed, with results arriving in May to guide next steps. It’s thoughtful, coordinated work that keeps student growth front and center. Student Learning & Staff Innovation The District has been sharpening instruction and giving teachers better tools to help students thrive. Curriculum reviews are moving forward across key subjects, with junior high math teachers taking a close look at additional materials before making a final recommendation and the Grades 6–8 social studies team actively reviewing new resources. At the elementary level, K–5 teachers continue building momentum with Benchmark Advance, most recently diving into professional learning focused on strengthening writing instruction. Instructional growth is just as active in our classrooms. Butler Junior High teachers recently partnered with Northwestern’s Center for Talent Development for hands-on training focused on differentiated learning. This gives teachers new ways to increase student choice, elevate questioning strategies, tailor learning activities, and extend learning opportunities. Brook Forest teachers will participate in the same training this month, keeping instructional practices aligned across buildings.  On the professional learning front, even more opportunities are on the way, with district-wide summer and 2026–27 professional development plans coming soon. It’s focused, practical work that keeps teaching fresh and student learning moving forward. PTO Updates Upcoming Events: PTO General Meeting:  Thursday March 12th @7pm via Zoom Wolves Games:  All D53 families welcome to buy tickets to fundraise and show support for the BJH band/choir performance at the Wolves game  3/11  PTO Sponsored Clubs (after school):  Sign up for the new PTO 2nd and 3rd grade Choir; Brook Forest Young Voices was a success. All slots were filled up in a weekend.   Mother Daughter Event:  Friday Evening, April 24th, 2026 Past Events: National Cereal Day:  The PTO treated the teachers and staff to cereal for National Cereal day. Thank you to the Duggal-Stephens family and Nature’s Path Foods for their amazing generosity! Thank you Hala Souman for arranging!  Valentine’s Day sale and Valentine’s Day flower sale:  The PTO had so much fun handing out flowers and helping students shop the Valentine’s day sale. Thank you to Karuna Dhar, Krista Best, and Jamie Lock for all their incredible hard work  BJH Sports  boosters:  continuing to support thru Carabiners and tags for each sport  BJH Music Booster:  We are working with the music department to fund bussing for the multiple new field trips.   INK Gallery:  Another month of art and writing submissions will be posted on the website. Thank you to our group of young artists and writers!   Get Involved! How? Become a PTO member to receive access to  Directory Spot  and PTO email communications. Next PTO General Meeting is on March 12 @7PM via Zoom Stay Connected Follow us on  Instagram   and  Facebook !  Upcoming Board of Education and Committee Meetings April 13 -  Regular Board of Education; Education Focus May 5 - 9:00AM  - Finance/Infrastructure Committee May 11 -  Regular Board of Education June 8 -  Regular Board of Education

Wednesday, Mar 11 2026