Evanston Skokie School District 65

In support of our students, we are firmly committed to fiscal stewardship

Dear District 65 Community -


On Monday night, our School Board unanimously approved our Phase II Structural Deficit Reduction Plan. We were able to exceed our target with reductions totaling approximately $13.3 million. I remain confident that our students will continue to receive the well-rounded, joyous, and high quality educational experience that they truly deserve.


We set out to develop a plan rooted in stakeholder voice to ultimately preserve the investments deemed most critical for the academic and social emotional growth for ALL students. We know that this level of transparency and engagement is critical to rebuilding trust within our community. 


And, while I am proud of what was accomplished, I am very mindful of the impact this reduction plan will have on our dedicated team members. Reducing positions is always painful, and the impact on people who we deeply rely on and care for is even harder.


Below are high-level components of the approved Structural Deficit Reduction Plan:


  • Eliminating a “top down” approach at central office with a reduction of 26 full-time positions
  • Consolidation of bus routes and elimination of bus aides (with the exception of those required for student IEPs)
  • Reduction of 18 classroom sections to better align to student enrollment and class size guidelines (K-2=23 students; 3-5=25 students; 6-8= 28 students / view recent report)
  • Elimination of Academic Skills Centers with an emphasis on school-based intervention services
  • Reduced Summer Learning Programs (no impact to students with IEPs or English Learners)
  • Reduction in purchased services and supplies, including contracts and software
  • In accordance with State of Illinois guidelines, implementation of a school-based staffing model aligned to enrollment/student need (reduction of 29 positions that do not directly deliver student instruction)


I encourage you to watch the board meeting for additional details. I do want to specifically note that we heard stakeholder feedback and there will be NO reduction to preschool transportation services. Additionally, we heard the importance of retaining small class sizes and recommended 18 section reductions (from the original 22). I hope that you feel heard and your perspectives valued. Thank you for your continued partnership and support.

Dr. Angel Turner (she/her)

Superintendent


(847) 859-8010

turnera2@district65.net

Dr. Turner Superintendent