Edgewood school improvement update

Interim Principal Alisa Zawodny shared progress on Edgewood Elementary School's school improvement plan, focused on collective teacher efficacy and social-emotional learning. A key priority is the use of structured student dialogue practices to increase engagement, accountability, and meaningful classroom discussion. Teachers and students also shared their personal experiences and its positive impact on learning.

Staff are collaborating through Impact Teams and professional learning to implement consistent instructional strategies, supported by common language and Kagan Cooperative Learning principles. Edgewood also continues to build a positive school culture through monthly Eagles’ Nest sessions that promote student leadership and community.

Early data shows positive impacts on student engagement and growth, reflecting the school’s continued commitment to high-quality instruction and a supportive learning environment.

Resolution in recognition of teaching excellence

The week of May 4, 2026 has been declared National Teacher Appreciation Week by the National PTA and National Education Association. To honor the outstanding job done by Woodridge School District 68 teachers to inspire education and innovation, the Board adopted the Special Resolution in Recognition of Teaching Excellence and declared the week of May 4-8, 2026 as “Woodridge Schools’ Teacher Appreciation Week.”.

2026-27 district goals

The Academic Transformation Plan was developed as a model of continuous improvement, driving all decisions around district programs and policies in the areas of teaching & learning, human resources, financial responsibility and community engagement. This model allows for complete alignment of the strategic goals and ongoing objectives throughout our district and schools.

The Board of Education approved the 2026-27 district goals as presented.

75th Street TIF intergovernmental agreement

The Board of Education approved an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) between Woodridge School District 68 and the Village of Woodridge related to the proposed 75th Street Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District, as previously discussed on March 16, 2026.

The agreement outlines how the district will receive a portion of future property tax growth within the TIF area. Under the approved terms, the district will receive 25% of the increased equalized assessed value (EAV) from select commercial properties along the 75th Street and Janes Avenue corridor, as well as 100% of the increase from the Citgo property’s new car wash development. In addition, the district will receive 8% of EAV growth across all Woodridge 68 properties within the TIF, with a potential increase to 26% if residential development occurs.

This agreement helps protect the district’s financial interests while supporting redevelopment efforts within the community.

Junior high science and social studies

Following the comprehensive gifted audit and two months of extensive stakeholder input, including public comments and work sessions held throughout February and March 2026, the Board of Education approved the implementation of an honors science program and the continuation of the gifted social studies program at Jefferson Junior High.

This recommendation is driven by the need to align our junior high curriculum with the "open access" honors model at the high school level. The goal is to ensure that the ability to select an honors course as a freshman is matched by the academic preparation required to succeed in it.

Non-union non-contract salaries and wages

The Board of Education approved non-union wages as presented. A summary of the recommendations includes base salary increases of 3.7%, which is the same as those recommended for administrative staff next year and in line with the existing increases in the WESS contract (adhering to the CPI + 1% formula). Some exceptions are noted due to changes in position or to equalize salary.

Administration contracts approved

After review and discussion in closed session at the March 16, 2026 meeting, the Board of Education approved all administrators' contracts for the 2026-27 school year.

Employee benefits renewal

The School Board approved the Insurance Committee’s recommendation for the 2026-27 employee benefits renewal package through the Employee Benefit Cooperative (EBC), administered by Arthur J. Gallagher & Associates.

The approved plan includes health insurance premium increases ranging from approximately 15% to 18% across plan options, as well as a 3.9% increase for dental insurance through MetLife. Life and vision insurance rates will remain unchanged, as both are locked in through June 2027.

The Board also approved the addition of a Money Line Financial Wellness Program and new voluntary supplemental benefit options through MetLife, including legal services, and home, auto, and pet insurance.

In addition, the district will maintain current supplemental benefits and continue the High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) seed contributions at $2,100 for single coverage and $3,700 for family coverage. These contributions, along with lower premium costs, provide a cost-saving option for employees who choose the HDHP.

This approved plan ensures continued access to comprehensive benefits while addressing the rising cost of healthcare.

Board expenses from COSSBA national conference

The Board of Education approved the Board member expense reimbursement requests resulting from the Consortium of State School Boards Associations (COSSBA) National Conference as presented. This is in accordance with Board Policy 7180, which requires that all Board member expense reimbursement requests for travel, meals, and/or lodging must be approved by roll call vote at an open meeting of the Board.

Discussion items

The following topics were discussed by the Board of Education. Any action has not yet been taken.

• Superintendent search
• Budget update - fund & interest transfers
• Finalized tax levy and extension report
• Treasurer appointment and surety bond
• Quest contract extension for 2026-27 school year
• Jefferson Junior High and Murphy Elementary energy management system conversion project

Next meeting

The next Woodridge School District 68 board of education regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 18, 2026 at 7:30pm at the District Administrative Center. All regular Board meetings are also streamed live on the Zoom platform; links to the livestream will be posted on the district calendar. A schedule of upcoming meetings, notices and agendas are posted in accordance with the Open Meetings Act (5 ILCS 120/) on the district website through BoardBook.