Meeting Summary and Briefs: Lincoln-Way Community High School District 210 Board of Education for September 18, 2025

The Lincoln-Way Community High School District 210 Board of Education on Thursday, September 18, 2025, formally adopted a $172.7 million budget for the 2025-2026 school year. The budget includes a planned operating deficit of $814,000, which officials attributed to a non-recurring project to purchase a new fleet of school buses rather than continue leasing them. Despite the deficit, the district maintains a healthy 34% fund balance. For more details on the budget, please see the full story.

The board also held a lengthy discussion on a proposal to join a community solar program. The 20-year agreement would allow the district to subscribe to a regional solar farm, potentially saving $155,000 annually through a 10% discount on electricity costs. Board members expressed interest but also caution, requesting more information on the new state program before making a commitment. A full story on the solar proposal is also available. Additionally, the board received strategic plan updates on human resources and curriculum initiatives.

Board Approves Over $7.7 Million in Invoices
The board approved the payment of invoices totaling $7,780,704.29 for the period from August 19 to September 17, 2025. In response to a board question, Assistant Superintendent Michael Duback confirmed that the district saw its highest health insurance claims bill to date in the last month but noted that a spike in claims over the summer is common. The administration is currently working with its insurance broker to explore cost-saving options.

Student Councils Report Strong Start to School Year
Student council presidents from all three high schools provided enthusiastic updates. Aiden Stockrahm of Lincoln-Way Central highlighted a 3-0 start for the football team and numerous club activities. Prachi Panchal reported that Lincoln-Way East raised $6,000 for pediatric cancer through “gold out” games and is preparing for its 25th-anniversary celebrations. Adyson Orasco of Lincoln-Way West shared the success of their “Westside Carnival” homecoming, which drew over 1,600 students to the dance.

Personnel Report Approved, Resignation Accepted
As part of the consent agenda, the board approved the monthly personnel report, which included various new hires, resignations, and retirements. Following a closed session, the board also formally accepted the resignation of Dawn Morsovillo.

District 843 Co-op Update
The board received a report on the August 26 meeting of the Lincoln-Way Area Special Education District 843 governing board. The update highlighted a focus on staff training to start the school year, including a partnership with Illinois State University for a regional summit. The Pioneer Grove location was approved for state “S Fund” reimbursement, with the district still awaiting a decision on the SELF program in Mokena.

Advisory Committee Meeting Dates Set
The board approved the meeting calendar for the 2025-2026 District 210 Advisory Committee. The committee, composed of parents and community members, will meet on six dates throughout the school year, beginning October 7. An initial topic for discussion will be artificial intelligence (AI) usage by students and staff, followed by a review of the student handbook. Committee members will be presented for board approval in October.