HC Weekly E-Blast October 1, 2026

Weekly E-Blast   |  October 1, 2026 National Merit Semifinalists and Commended Students Hinsdale Central is pleased to announce that the following 26 students have been named 2027  National Merit Semifinalists : Syed Ali Jason Liu Ishaan Tanneeru Tejas Arjun Connor Mason Olivia Tobolski Arav Arvind Atharva Naik Kevin Xue John Gallagher Kaia Patel Alexander Zhang Theodore Han Jack Rachford Richard Zhang Alexander Jiang Sachin Rao Steven Zhao Sajan Komanduri Ketan Shah Max Zheng Kaelyn Krause Max Sun Sarah Zuo Vincent Lan Owen Sunderson These academically talented seniors will have the opportunity to continue in the competition for some 6930 National Merit Scholarships that will be announced in the spring. Additional information about the National Merit Scholarship Program can be found at  NMSQT . Additionally, Hinsdale Central is pleased to recognize the following 48 students as Commended Students in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program. Commended Students are recognized for the exceptional academic promise demonstrated by their outstanding performance on the PSAT/NMSQT. Kareem Ahmed Ethan Cunningham Laura Huber Kendall Krause Nikhil Rajagopalan Devin Tingler Clare Augustyn Anika Danda Isa Ibrahim Benjamin Laud Laila Razi Leonardo Vilone Advaith Balakrishnan Jaelyn Doshi Sana Irshad Harish Mekla Sulaiman Samee Katherine Weil Anthony Barakat Aarush Goel Venkatesh Iyer Rohin Mendi Naiyomi Shah Vedh White Mia Barakat Kaixi Gu Amira Jazayerli Maryam Mohammed Naya Shirsat Raymond Whittingham Blaze Burt Arya Gupta Zackery Khalil Taylor Muehlhauser Evelyn Skay Lucas Will Kalila Chen Sara Han Brandon Kim Anish Neerukonda Quentin Sweeney Henry Wong Liam Crotty Adib Hashem Bailey Knoll Krish Patel Zachary Tallard Annika Zhang Dear Hinsdale Central Families: Out of an abundance of caution, we want to share important information with families following recent incidents at area schools involving a growing problem known as swatting. Just this week, four area high schools were targeted by false emergency calls reporting serious threats, such as active shooters or bombs. At these 4 schools, the hoaxes lead to instructional environments being disrupted, social and emotional anxiety for students, and a large police response. Because it can be difficult to tell whether a threat is real or fake, Hinsdale Central and local police departments take every reported threat seriously. Depending on the situation, we may need to begin our school safety procedures (ALICE). We take every threat seriously and will work closely with law enforcement to investigate these incidents and identify those who may have been involved. In the event of a threat or an emergency, we will keep families informed as quickly as possible. Please remember to follow these important guidelines: Do not report to Hinsdale Central High School. During an emergency, only police and emergency personnel may be allowed to enter the building. Check your email and text messages. Depending on the situation, students may be moved to another location where families can safely pick them up. We will share the location and instructions if needed. Please make sure your data is up to date in Infinite Campus. Bring a photo ID if directed to a reunification site. Students will only be released to parents, legal guardians, or emergency contacts listed for your child. Make sure your data is up to date in Infinite Campus. Be patient during the pickup process. Because Hinsdale Central has a large enrollment, safely returning students to their families may take time. Thank you for your patience and understanding. We understand that these situations can be frightening for students, families, and staff. The safety of our school community remains our highest priority. We will continue working closely with local police and first responders to prepare for and respond to possible threats. For more information about our safety procedures, please visit our  School Safety webpage .   Thank you for your continued partnership and trust as we work together to keep our students, staff, and school community safe. Sincerely, William Walsh, Principal Hinsdale Central High School One Million Minutes Reading Challenge Hinsdale Central has launched a year-long reading program called “Red Devils Red One Million Minutes” which runs from 9/1/26 - 5/14/27. During that time, our goal is to cumulatively read one million minutes as a school community of students, teachers, administrators and staff members. All reading counts including novels, graphic novels and audio books.  Along the way, participants will earn individual badges and prizes as they participate in our monthly and year-long challenges. From snacks, candy and food coupons to gift certificates and HCHS swag, we've got prizes galore to reward reading milestones. And, we've got drawings for much larger prizes including a JBL Speaker, a wireless Apple iPhone Charger, an Ivy Mini Photo Printer and a Kindle. There will be competitions between classes as well as grade level competitions too. If we achieve the one million minute goal, there will be an all-school celebration! We have currently reached 5% of our 1,000,000 minute goal! Yearbook Photo Retakes If you are unhappy with the yearbook pictures that were taken or missed our photo days, there will be photo retakes on Friday, October 23rd in room 2536 (art hallway) during all lunch periods.  For more information about yearbook photos please use this  link .   For more information about senior photos, please use this  link .  For information on ordering a yearbook and a senior tribute for the year or to see if you have already ordered a yearbook or senior tribute, please use this  link . Q1 Make a Difference Award Nominations At Hinsdale Central, many teachers and staff members go above and beyond to engage students or provide extra support to others in our Red Devil community. They teach classes, advise clubs, coach teams, and provide services that “make a difference” at our school. If you know of a teacher or staff member whose dedication or kindness has had a positive and lasting impact on you or a student, we invite you to nominate them.  When describing why this individual deserves the award, BE AS SPECIFIC AS POSSIBLE. Although applications must be signed, those who submit nominations will remain anonymous.   Please nominate them for a Make A Difference Award by scanning the QR code below Anyone can make a nomination! The PTO presents six recipients with Make A Difference Awards each quarter. The awards include our appreciation with a personalized certificate and $100 gift card. Nominations received by Friday, October 2nd, will be considered for the FIRST quarter awards.  Those nominated who have not received an award within the past 8 quarters are eligible for this current quarter.  You can view a list of past Make A Difference recipients HERE.   If you have any questions, please contact co-chairs Denys Kang and Grace Shin at makeadifference@hcpto.org Fall Practice ACT Testing Information On Friday, October 9, 2026, students in grades 9-11 will take the Pre-ACT.  Grade 12 students will not be in attendance unless they elect to take the Seal of Biliteracy.      Students will receive an email from Ms. Jennifer Reginer with their testing location.  Grade Friday, October 9, 2026 9th  PreACT 8/9 10th PreACT  11th ACT  12th Not in attendance unless elected to take the Seal of Biliteracy.  Students need to sign up in order to test . Two-Day Testers:  Students who have an approved double (2.0) or triple (3.0) time will need to test over two days.  Students will begin on Thursday, October 8, 2026.  Two-day testers who do not attend/begin on Thursday the 8th will not be permitted to begin testing on Friday the 9th. Here is important information regarding the testing: Dismissal & Transportation: Student parking is open and any student with a license can park in the student parking lot. Dismissal times vary based on the exam.  Here are approximate times for dismissal: Standard Time (no accommodations)  approx: 11:10 am 1.5 Time Accommodations : approx 12:15 pm 2.0/Double Time Accommodations : approx 11:10 am 3.0/Triple Time Accommodations : approx: 12:10 pm  Bus Transportation Buses will run at  11:20 am (all routes)  & 12:30 (a north and a south bus) Cafe & Meal Information: Breakfast:  Will be available from 7:00-7:50.  Cafeteria will close at 7:50 to move students to their testing location. Snacks:  Cafe & Devil’s Roast is CLOSED during testing.   Students should not be in the cafe/commons. Lunch : Quest will have “grab & go” options for students as they finish between 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Boosters Volunteers Needed The Boosters are looking for enthusiastic parent volunteers to help run our spirit wear booth on Friday, October 5. Please consider signing up for a short shift to support our students and showcase our school spirit in one of the last home games this season. Thank you! Shoe Drive Hinsdale Central Student Council is excited to launch a School Shoe Drive Fundraiser to support the 2027 Prom—and we need your help! Our goal is to collect 2,000 pairs of shoes. Every pair collected helps raise funds for prom, and all shoes will be donated to organizations that provide footwear to people in need. What can be donated? Any size, any style, as long as the shoes are in good, wearable condition: Baby & toddler shoes Children's shoes Athletic shoes & gym shoes Cleats Sandals Boots Dress shoes Heels and flats Where do I drop them off? Donation boxes are located at Door 1 and Door 5 (main entrances). Please help us spread the word to your students and consider cleaning out your own closets at home. Every pair brings us one step closer to our goal of 2,000! Thank you for supporting our students and making a difference in our community. PSAT/NMSQT Registration Information for Juniors D86 will be giving the PSAT/NMSQT on Wednesday, October 21, 2026 during the school day for any junior student. The cost of the exam is $20. Students wanting to register should complete  the registration form . The form will close on Friday, Oct. 2 at 3:00 PM. After registration closes, the $20 charge will be added to the student's Infinite Campus account for payment.  The PSAT/NMSQT is the qualifying exam for the National Merit Scholarship Competition. Students with a previous PSAT score in the 1400 range or a Pre-ACT score in the 30 range should consider taking the exam to enter the National Merit competition. This exam is also a practice SAT and any student who would like the opportunity to practice is welcome to register.  Please reach out to your counselor with any questions. Technology Center of DuPage – Explore Day Field Trip Attention Sophomores and Juniors, you are invited to the TCD Explore Day on October 22nd. Spend half a day at the Technology Center of DuPage and discover your passion in Career and Technical Trades. Experience the benefits of a career in Automotive Technology, Construction, Cosmetology, Nursing, or one of 13 other programs to explore. College Credit, internships, and employment opportunities are available. See your school counselor for the field trip form and to sign up today!  The deadline for Registration is Friday, October 9th. Operation Snowball Operation Snowball registration is open! Students can join us November 12-14 at camp to enjoy speakers, time with friends from Hinsdale South, and time to gain leadership skills. Attached is a digital copy of the registration packet. Pick up paper packets and return complete packets at the front desk of Counseling.  See Ms. Bruckner or Ms. Thielmann with questions! Yearbook Photo and Ordering Information Senior Photo info : Hinsdale Central High School Class of 2027 Senior Portrait & Yearbook Photo InformationVisual Image Photography (VIP) is the official photographer of Hinsdale Central High School and is honored to be a part of your senior experience! In order to appear in the yearbook, all seniors must have their photo taken by VIP. Photographs submitted from other studios will NOT be accepted into the yearbook. Your yearbook photo selection must be submitted to VIP by December 13, 2026 in order to appear in your school’s yearbook. If you do not select an image, one will be selected for you by VIP. This date cannot be extended. If you do not have a yearbook image taken by VIP, you will not appear in the yearbook. SENIOR PORTRAITS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY: Please make an appointment online at www.vipis.com or you can contact VIP directly at  support@vipis.com . Walk ins will not be accepted.  Yearbooks! Order your 2027 Yearbook NOW! Yearbooks can be purchased here for $55 until 12/1/2026 when prices will increase. Don't miss out and order NOW!!!  Seal of Biliteracy Testing Attention Seniors Eligible for the Seal of Biliteracy-Please mark your calendars for Friday, October 9th for the Fall Seal of Biliteracy Testing date (this is a non-attendance day for seniors due to lower classmen testing). This is the only date offered in the Fall so please plan accordingly. For more information please visit our website . Registration closes October 2nd. Upcoming Dates Bandamonium - October 2 Novice Play "Almost Maine" - October 15 -17 Yearbook Picture Retakes - October 23 Garba - November 6 Snowball Retreat November 13-15 National Kindness Day - November 13 

Thursday, Oct 01 2026

Hinsdale South Weekly Newsletter - October 1, 2026

Weekly Newsletter October 1, 2026 Academic Committee Community Representatives - Applicaton Due Today! District 86 is seeking additional Hinsdale South community members to support the Academic Committee. This is a great opportunity to get involved, provide valuable community input and participate in conversations surrounding academics and student success. If you are interested in supporting the committee, please apply here by October 1. Thursday, October 8 - Early Dismissal 12:35 PM 1:30 - 4:30 PM Virtual Parent Teacher Conferences 5:30 - 8:30 PM In-Person Parent Teacher Conferences Friday, October 9 - Fall Testing Grades 9 - 11 (No School - Grade 12) 11:40 AM - Bus departure #1 1:00 PM - Bus departure #2 Monday, October 12 - NO SCHOOL/Columbus Day/Indigenous Peoples' Day Wednesdays, October 14, 21 & 28 - Early Release Parent Teacher Conferences Fall Parent Teacher Conferences will be held on Thursday, October 8. Conferences will be conducted via Google Meet from 1:30 to 4:30 PM and in person from 5:30 to 8:30 PM. Registration ends on Sunday, October 4 at 11:59 PM. If you have any questions, contact Diane Corson at DCorson@hinsdale86.org or call (630)468-4216. Fall Testing Information As we settle into the school year, we are sharing key information about the standardized tests students will be completing this year. While we have the upcoming testing below, you can find the complete letter here and more information on the D86 Testing Information and Resources webpage. PreACT - October 9, 2026 On Friday, October 9, students in grades 9, 10, and 11 will participate in fall standardized testing. Grade 9 students will take the PreACT 9, Grade 10 students will take the PreACT and Grade 11 students will take the practice ACT. Grade 12 students will not be in attendance on this day unless they choose to take a previously scheduled Seal of Biliteracy test. The purpose of these tests is to provide students with the opportunity to practice the ACT and to provide data for teachers and teacher teams to inform instruction. Optional PSAT/NMSQT - October 21, 2026 Grade 11 students will have the option to take the PSAT/NMSQT on Wednesday, October. 21. This exam is the official qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship competition. Registration information was emailed to grade 11 students and parents. Families must register and opt in via Google Form to take the exam. Scores will be delivered to families by the College Board in November. Grades 9, 10, and 12 will have school that day. The D86 assessment program is an important component of our comprehensive academic approach and post-secondary planning for our students. Families are encouraged to reach out to their school counselor with any questions. Optional PSAT/NMSQT for Juniors - Deadline October 2 District 86 will offer an optional PSAT/NMSQT for junior students on Wednesday, October 21, during the school day. The PSAT/NMSQT serves as the qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Junior students who wish to participate must register by October 2 using the registration form below. The cost is $20, which will be added to the student’s Infinite Campus account after registration closes. Students will return to their regular classes after testing is complete. The testing location will be shared with registered students after the registration period closes. Register for the Optional PSAT/NMSQT Operation Snowball DO YOU LIKE TO…meet new people, listen to music, dance, talk, play football or Frisbee, finger paint, get away from responsibilities for a few days, eat, laugh, meet people from other schools and other “cliques”? Then you should seriously consider attending the Hinsdale Township High School District 86 OPERATION SNOWBALL retreat on November 12-14, 2026. OPERATION SNOWBALL is a year-long program that kicks off with a three-day retreat held at Camp Manitoqua in Frankfort, IL. It is a program planned by teens that gives you a chance to learn about yourself, your peers, and a wide variety of topics. Snowball is a way to boost your self-esteem by being accepted for who you are, not what others want you to be, and to have a lot of fun doing it. Students from both Hinsdale Central and Hinsdale South have the opportunity to attend the weekend and are given the chance to get to know each other, despite what group they are a part of in school. E-learning Days & Preparedness Counseling News College Campus Visits We encourage you to schedule college campus visits on non-attendance days to avoid missing valuable class time. Here are upcoming opportunities: October 9: District Testing Day (Non-attendance day for Seniors) October 12: Indigenous Peoples' Day/Columbus Day (No School) November 3: Election Day (No School) Note: Many colleges offer special events on October 12, recognizing that students often have this day off. By planning your visits on these dates, you can experience campuses during regular session without compromising your Hinsdale South education. Plan ahead and make the most of these opportunities! College Representative Visits Students wishing to visit with a college representative should sign up on SchooLinks and then come to the Counseling Office to get a pass for the visit from Mrs. Alvarez. Passes need to be signed by the teacher whose class the student will be missing. Students must have this pass in order to attend the college visit. Without it, they will not be admitted to the meeting. The College Rep Visit will usually last about 30- 45 minutes. Friday, October 2 9:50 AM - Indiana University-Bloomington 10:45 AM - Loras College 1:30 PM - Saint Norbert College Monday, October 5 9:50 AM - Eastern Illinois University 10:45 AM - University of Florida 11:40 AM - University of Scranton 12:35 PM - Lewis University 1:30 PM - Northern Illinois University Tuesday, October 6 9:50 AM - Northwestern University 10:45 AM - University of Kentucky 11:40 AM - Benedictine University 12:35 PM - Bradley University TCD Explore Day Attention Sophomores and Juniors: You are invited to TCD Explore Day on October 22. Spend half a day at the Technology Center of DuPage and discover your passion in Career and Technical Trades. Experience the benefits of a career in Automotive Technology, Construction, Cosmetology, Nursing, or one of 13 other programs to explore. College Credit, internships, and employment opportunities are available. Stop by the counseling office to sign up today! The registration deadline is Friday, October 9. Dean's Office Attendance Expectations Letter Football Game Expectations Student & Attendance Handbook Student News Vespa Yearbook Earns First Class Rating Congratulations to the Vespa yearbook staff. Their 2026 yearbook, “Sincerely, US” earned a First Class Rating from the National Scholastic Press Association (NSPA) with 2 Marks of Distinction. Each year, Vespa submits its finished product to NSPA and the book is critiqued by an out-of-state judge on many elements, including writing, photography, design and coverage. Each element the judge deemed worthy of a Mark of Distinction. The 2026 book, “Sincerely, US,” is a 245 page book led by alumni Editors-in-Chief Katryna Melstrad and Karina Uscinvicius. Outdoor Club The Outdoor Club enjoyed a picture perfect day at Starved Rock State Park! This group takes adventure all around the area enjoying all things nature. Stinger Student-Run Newspaper Athletics Boys Soccer The boys soccer team claimed a thrilling 1–0 victory over Downers Grove South to retain the "Bell" trophy for the second straight year! Girls Athlete of the Week Congratulations to our Athlete of the Week Ivanna Cabello. Ivanna has stepped up as our #1 Singles Player this year, with an overall record of 12-7 and a conference record of 4-1 so far. She finished 1st place at the Jacobs Tournament- her first 1st place in her Hornet History! She took down all of opponents in straight sets, confidently adjusting her game to ensure her success. As one of senior captains, she has shown true Hornet Spirit and what it means to become a new leader. Congrats Ivanna! Boys Athlete of the Week - Diego Canas Congratulations to our Athlete of the Week Diego Canas. Diego has helped lead the Hornets to five straight wins. Our senior team captain scored twice in our 3–1 win over Sycamore and added a goal in our 3–2 win over Glenbard South. He has 5 goals and 3 assists this season. Diego has been a great leader and a key part of our attack. He brings energy and confidence to the field, creates opportunities for his teammates, and has stepped up in big moments during this winning streak. His leadership and consistent effort have made a difference for our team all season. Congratulations, Diego, on a well-deserved Athlete of the Week honor! Girls Tennis Congratulations to Sophia Chen and Anya Linson on advancing to the IHSA Girls Golf Sectional, best of luck in the next round! Boys Golf Congratulations to Sahil Patel, Armaan Tvelil, William Steckel, and Kaelen Tanaka on advancing to the IHSA Boys Golf Sectional, best of luck in the next round! (picture attached). Catch the P.A.S.S.! How We Can Help You: Weekly Tutoring Sessions: Get personalized, one-on-one assistance from peer tutors and teachers across various subjects. Homework & Test Prep: Bring your assignments, study guides, or questions, and work through them with dedicated support. Flexible Learning: Work at your own pace in a welcoming and supportive environment. Peer Mentorship: Earn volunteer hours and strengthen your own subject mastery by becoming a tutor. Don't wait until exam time to get involved—start the year strong! Click here to sign up for a tutoring session! Click here to become a TUTOR! Yearbook Yearbook Photo Selection & Final Retakes Yearbook Photo Selection & Final Retakes Pose Selection: Check your email for a message from Visual Image Photography (VIP) to select your yearbook photo pose. Missing Email / Questions? Contact VIP directly at support@vipis.com. Final Retakes: Tuesday, October 20. Yearbook Orders - Deadline is TODAY! Order your yearbook by October 1 for $60 — a savings of over 25%! You can order your yearbook in one of two ways: Through your Infinite Campus Student Store Through our publisher at this ordering link Pricing: The final price of the book is $80, but you can secure your copy now for $60. You may also purchase a personalized nameplate for an additional $10. Booster Clubs Spirit Night at Chick-fil-A Attending parent-teacher conferences? Looking for an easy dinner? Join us at Chick-fil-A on Thursday, October 8 from 4-7 PM and support the Music Boosters. Community Events Attendance Survey Parents, we need your input! Help us better support our students and families by completing a short attendance survey. Your feedback will help us identify ideas, resources and incentives to improve student attendance.

Thursday, Oct 01 2026

Board Briefs: September 29, 2026

D86 Board Briefs Highlights From Meeting On September 29, 2026 REMINDER: Please SUBSCRIBE to receive alerts when Board of Education and Committee meeting agendas are posted. Good News Hinsdale South Principal Dr. Kari Peronto highlighted the school’s participation in the West Suburban Conference Superfan Workshop, where 15 student leaders learned about student section engagement, sportsmanship and school spirit. She also shared highlights from South’s 9/11 Remembrance Assembly, which featured World Trade Center survivor Stuart Breslow, student performances and recognition of local first responders. Hinsdale South Student Board Liaison Yacine Ouchen delivered the Hinsdale South Student Board Liaison Report, highlighting athletics, activities, Homecoming and student life. The report featured several new clubs at South, including the East Asian Student Union, Careers in the Age of AI Club and D&D Club, as well as South’s 9/11 remembrance activities. Hinsdale Central Assistant Principal Dr. Chris Cirrincione highlighted several recent accomplishments that reflect the school’s commitment to excellence in academics, athletics and student leadership. These included the school’s NIAAA Quality Assessment Program Exemplary Level recognition, 10 students earning perfect ACT scores and 15 students receiving AP Capstone Diplomas. He also recognized Isa Ibraham, who was among just 30 students nationwide selected to serve as a U.S. Senate Page, and Myra Dhillon, who was named a state finalist and Top 5 finisher in Illinois’ Distinguished Young Women program. Hinsdale Central Student Board Liaison Chiara Jovic delivered the Hinsdale Central Student Board Liaison Report, highlighting Homecoming activities, student service initiatives, athletics and upcoming events. Among the updates were more than 200 thank-you letters written by freshmen for local first responders and the girls golf team’s canned-goods fundraiser, which collected more than 40 crates of donations for the People’s Resource Center. Superintendent's Report In the Superintendent’s Report, Dr. Chip Pettit provided an update/highlighted the following: District administration met with College of DuPage officials on September 28 to explore expanding dual credit opportunities, including additional coursework in core academic areas. These opportunities can help students explore postsecondary pathways while earning credits that may be applied toward future college coursework. Strategic Plan: The Board met ahead of the September 29 regular meeting with an Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB) facilitator, Perry Hill, IV, to discuss vision, mission, and goals. This work will be formalized at the October board meeting, followed by a call for 50–60 volunteers to participate in the strategic planning process. Recruitment will include students, teachers, parents/guardians, staff, Board members, and K–8 partners for meetings this fall and winter. Discussion Items and Public Hearings Public Hearing: FY2027 Budget The Board held a public hearing on the proposed FY2027 Budget which outlines anticipated revenues and expenditures and provides the financial framework for district operations, programs and services throughout the fiscal year. The Board also provided an opportunity for public comment. Public Hearing: Interfund Transfer The Board held a public hearing on the proposed $1.5 million transfer from the Education Fund to the Transportation Fund to address a recurring shortfall related to transportation cost increases and reduced state funding for special education transportation. The district plans to adjust its 2026 tax levy allocation to avoid a similar transfer in the FY2028 budget. The Board also provided an opportunity for public comment. Public Hearing: Waiver of Limitation of Administrative Costs The Board held a public hearing on the proposed waiver of the administrative cost limitation for FY2026 required after administrative expenditures increased 7% over FY2025, exceeding the 5% limit established by Illinois School Code. The driving factors in the increase were a mismatch in the general ledger accounts for benefits between the actual and the budget and some unutilized funds in purchased services and supplies creating a variance compared to the budget. District 86 is eligible to waive the limitation by Board resolution because its administrative costs remain among the lowest 25% compared to other Illinois high school districts. The Board also provided an opportunity for public comment. Discussion & Public Hearing: Intent to Sell Bonds The Board held a public hearing on its intent to issue $46 million in Working Cash Fund Bonds and $36 million in Life Safety Bonds to support the district’s capital improvement and Health Life Safety needs. D86 Superintendent, Dr. Chip Pettit and Brad Paulsen, Wight & Company Executive Vice President, presented on the district’s capital improvement needs. PTMA Financial Advisor, Bob Lewis and D86 Assistant Superintendent & Chief Financial Officer, Josh Stephenson outlined a financing strategy to fund the improvements. The Board provided opportunities for public comment on both proposed bond issuances. FOIA Management Practices - FOIA Log Lauren DaValle of OMFM presented an overview of FOIA compliance, privacy concerns with emerging AI, evolving legal requirements, liabilities, and the demands of maintaining a FOIA log. She noted District 86 already shares extensive records on its website, and is her only client hosting a public-facing FOIA log. The Board evaluated whether a separate FOIA log is necessary given that the monthly public FOIA report exceeds statutory requirements. 2026-2027 NVIDIA Artificial Intelligence Pilot Update The Board discussed an update on the proposed NVIDIA, Honen Deep Learning Institute Artificial Intelligence (AI) Program Pilot, which would provide select District 86 students with access to AI, accelerated computing and data science learning opportunities through NVIDIA’s Deep Learning Institute curriculum and StudyFetch’s Honen platform. An FAQ was also developed to provide additional information about the proposed pilot. The discussion addressed the development and scope of the pilot, participating students and staff, potential benefits and drawbacks, student data privacy and ownership, contract terms and costs. The pilot would be offered at no cost to the district, with its success evaluated using student and teacher feedback, participation and credentials earned, pedagogical effectiveness, cognitive appropriateness, and future cost and scalability. Action Items APPROVED: Adopt FY2027 Budget and Supplementary Detail The Board approved the FY2027 Budget and Supplementary Detail following the public hearing. APPROVED: Resolution Authorizing $1.5M Interfund Transfer – Education Fund to Transportation Fund The Board approved Resolution #27.04 authorizing a $1.5 million interfund transfer from the Education Fund to the Transportation Fund as part of the FY2027 budget. APPROVED: Resolution Authorizing Waiver of the Limitation of Administrative Cost for FY2026 The Board approved Resolution #27.03, waiving the administrative cost limitation for FY2026. APPROVED: Forecast Assumptions for Updated Five-Year Forecast The Board approved the assumptions that will be used to develop District 86’s updated Five-Year Financial Forecast, which projects revenues, expenditures and fund balances and helps identify potential financial risks. Key assumptions include property tax and funding projections, flat staffing levels, projected salary and benefit costs, transportation expenses, and continued funding for renovation/construction projects and capital equipment. The updated Five-Year Financial Forecast will be presented to the Board in October. APPROVED: Resolution Declaring the Intention to Issue $46M Working Cash Fund Bonds for the Purpose of Increasing the District’s Working Cash Fund, and Directing that Notice of Such Intention be Published in the Manner Provided by Law The Board approved Resolution #27.05, declaring its intent to issue $46 million in Working Cash Fund Bonds to support the district's capital improvement and Health Life Safety needs. The Board also directed the district to publish notice of its intent as required by law. Following publication, a 30-day petition period will take place before the Board considers authorizing the bond sale in November. APPROVED: Award Bid 27-006 Elevator Maintenance, Repair & Inspection Services The Board awarded Bid 27-006 to Chicago Elevator Company for a three-year contract totaling $64,440 to provide maintenance, repair and inspection services for the district’s elevators after it was identified as the lowest bidder through a competitive bidding process and received positive reference checks. APPROVED: Policies on Second Read The Board approved updates to Policy 6:40 Curriculum Development, Policy 6:190 Extracurricular and Co-Curricular Activities, and Policy 7:330 Student Use of Buildings - Equal Access on second read. The updates revise the district’s curriculum adoption process and clarify requirements for student-led groups using school facilities under the Equal Access Act, including conditions for district oversight. APPROVED: Contract Extensions through June 2028 for Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Assistant Superintendent of Student Services The Board approved one-year contract extensions through June 30, 2028, for Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Jodi Bryant and Assistant Superintendent of Student Services Dr. Kari Smith. APPROVED: NVIDIA - Honen - Deep Learning Institute Artificial Intelligence (AI) Pilot Program The Board approved the NVIDIA, Honen and Deep Learning Institute Artificial Intelligence (AI) Pilot Program for District 86 students interested in AI careers. Future Board Meetings Tuesday, October 27 (Regular) Tuesday, November 17 (Regular) Tuesday, December 15 (Regular) Tuesday, January 26 (Regular) Board Briefs are meant to provide highlights of each Board of Education meeting, and are not intended to be an all-inclusive recap. Please use the following link to View a Complete Recording of the Meeting

Wednesday, Sep 30 2026