Regular Meeting - Apr 14 2026

The Oak Park Elementary School District 97 held a regular board meeting on April 14, 2026, focusing extensively on procurement and budgetary matters related to capital improvements and operational expenses. The board discussed a comprehensive 10-year master facilities plan with a recommended budget of approximately $92 million, including priority projects such as LED lighting upgrades, elevator installations, and health and safety code compliance. Various bond issuance options were reviewed to finance these projects, with detailed analysis of debt service schedules, interest costs, and tax impacts. The board also addressed insurance rate increases for the 2026-2027 school year, approving the proposed rates while planning to review potential plan changes and cost-saving measures in the fall. Additionally, bids for roof repairs were evaluated, with three vendors submitting proposals and recommendations to proceed with selected base and alternate bids. The meeting included updates on contracts exceeding $25,000, notably for professional development in social-emotional learning, and discussed future agenda items such as solar contracts, food service contracts, and student registration fees. Public comments raised concerns about excessive screen time in classrooms and equitable access to educational trips, but no direct procurement actions were taken on these topics during the meeting.