Regular Meeting - Sep 22 2026

The Oak Park Elementary School District 97 held a regular board meeting on September 22, 2026, focusing primarily on the adoption of the FY27 budget and related financial planning. The board discussed updates to the tentative budget, including a $350,000 capital expenditure for transportation safety improvements and increased out-of-district tuition costs. The superintendent and business officials emphasized the need to monitor staffing costs, curriculum investments, and grant utilization to maintain a balanced budget amid rising expenses such as employee benefits and special education transportation. The board approved the FY27 budget and a $10,000 donation for auditorium audio upgrades. Additionally, the meeting included extensive public comments on student recess policies and technology use in classrooms, with discussions on digital device management, instructional balance, and future policy development. The board also reviewed draft policies on accommodations and early school entrance, and discussed upcoming retreat planning and committee reports related to facilities and negotiations. No new contracts or procurement awards were reported, but capital project funding and budget allocations were key topics.