Board Highlights

District 97 is redesigning the middle school schedule to better support students, staff, and families. This project is guided by feedback from our community and the collaborative work of the redesign team, made up of middle school staff and administrators.

Why Redesign?

In District 97, our goal is for every student to succeed. This redesign supports that vision by creating consistent structures across both middle schools, ensuring all students have equitable access to a culturally responsive, standards-based curriculum. We believe that by empowering students with voice and choice, we’re setting them on a path to lead with confidence as they progress toward graduation.

What We’ve Learned

We’re grateful to have heard from hundreds of students, staff, and family members through surveys and focus groups conducted in December 2024. Here are some key takeaways:

• Students want shorter, more engaging classes and more elective options.

• Staff see daily schedules as key to building consistency and stronger relationships.

• Families value better transitions between schools, lunch improvements, and expanded electives.

Next Steps

The team is using this feedback to develop sample schedules for the 2025-26 school year, with the goal of sharing a final schedule with the community in February 2025.

You can view the full presentation by clicking the following links: Recording I Slides

Thank you for your partnership as we work together to create a better experience for all middle-schoolers in District 97!

District 97 is dedicated to fostering inclusive and engaging learning environments where all students can succeed. Each year, our schools develop detailed plans to guide and evaluate their improvement efforts.

Throughout the 2024-25 school year, all 10 schools will share their improvement plans at board meetings. This week, Julian Middle School presented its plan, highlighting strategies to enhance student experiences and outcomes.

Boosting Sense of Belonging and Engagement

Julian is working to ensure every student feels welcome and supported. Key strategies include setting clear behavioral expectations, positive recognition (Jay Bucks!), student-led initiatives, monthly cultural celebrations, and restorative practices. To keep learning exciting, our teachers are designing lessons for all learners and incorporating student voices.

The school’s goal is to see improvements in both “Sense of Belonging” and “Student Engagement” on our Panorama Survey. We’re encouraged that student survey data from Fall 2024 shows that we are making progress in both areas.

Improving Academic Proficiency (Math and ELA)

Julian’s goal is to help more students excel in both Math and ELA, with targets of 45% proficiency in Math and 56% proficiency in ELA by spring. Key strategies include:

• Real-world connections in math problems to deepen understanding;

• Data-driven instruction, where teachers analyze student performance to tailor lessons;

• Professional development to ensure effective teaching practices in both subjects.
  
  

The district uses section projection methodology, factoring in enrollment and individual student needs. Staffing allocations also adhere to mandates for special education and bilingual programs.

Based on current factors, there will be no reduction in force. However, the district projects needing nine fewer full-time positions due to enrollment changes. Teachers will receive assignment notices in April, and para-educators will receive theirs in May.

You can view the full presentation by clicking the following links: Recording I Slides