In the public comment section of the meeting, Lake County Board Member Julie Simpson (District 18) thanked the Board of Education members for everything they do. She also noted that she and other community members have formed a group that is concerned about the financial incentives that the Village of Vernon Hills may offer to a developer for the redevelopment of the Hawthorn Mall, that could impact local schools and the library.
The Board honored the 48 teachers and staff who are receiving tenure. Interim Superintendent Mark Friedman said that the school district retained 80 to 90 percent of this group of teachers, whereas the standard attrition rate for new teachers in their first five years is about 50 percent.
During his superintendent’s report, Dr. Friedman encouraged the community to attend a forum to provide input for the development of expansion/renovation plans for Middle School North. The meeting will take place on July 2 at 5 p.m. at Middle School North. He also reported that a local economic development organization contacted the District to see if the District would consider supporting the possible abatement of property taxes for a pharmaceutical company that is considering moving into the area. Concerns were expressed.
Abe Singh, Director of Finance and Business Operations, reported that the construction of the kindergarten building, which is now officially called Hawthorn School for Young Learners, is on time and under budget. The construction company is working through a few site issues.
During the action items section of the meeting, the Board approved Legat Architects’ proposal to provide professional architectural services to the District for the Middle School North additions and renovations project.
