Curriculum Review Is A Complex, Multi-Year Process

The core work of a school district is the review, development and implementation of curriculum. 

Assistant Superintendent Dr. Kris Raitzer and Director of Learning Michelle Jackson provided an update on the content areas currently in the review cycle: Science, World Language, English Language Arts, Visual Arts, and Physical Education/Health. 

“It’s not simply about choosing a program or resources. It’s truly about the collaboration, with representation from all levels including high school, to consider how we each play a part in growing student learning that is cohesive and coherent,” she said. “This is the research and development of our organization.”

Each content area follows a similar timeline of review: 

• Year 1 & 2 – A curriculum review committee – including representatives from each grade level and school as well as a representative from Glenbrook North – embark on a comprehensive look at current research and trends in the field, achievement data and survey data to identify strengths and consider goals for improvement. In year two, the committee determines curriculum updates and/or selects new curriculum. 

• Year 3 - New curriculum is implemented alongside professional development. Each school’s leadership team monitors implementation and student progress. 

• Years 4-7 - The curriculum is monitored and adjusted as necessary. The curricular areas are planned out in staggered multi-year cycles.

The Science Committee and Physical Education/Health Committee are completing year 2, and will make curriculum recommendations to the board in May. World Language, English Language Arts and Visual Arts reviews are completing year 1.

The Board of Education revised the district’s fund balance policy to require a year-end fund-balance-to-revenue ratio of 40 to 60 percent. After comparing the policies of peer districts, the policy was revised to be in the same range, which maintains fiscal responsibility while also allowing flexibility. The ratio had previously been 50 to 75 percent.

Districts with a fund-balance-to-revenue ratio of 25% or higher receive the highest financial profile score for that category by the Illinois State Board of Education. The district typically funds building improvements and maintenance with reserve funds and also needs to have funds on hand for unforeseen expenses or revenue shortfalls.

An intergovernmental agreement between District 28 and Northbrook Police Department formalizes a partnership to promote safety for students, parents and staff. 

The department has an established practice of assigning police liaison officers to each school. The agreement follows Illinois School Code requirements that outline reciprocal reporting procedures and the types of information that will be shared such as alleged or suspected criminal acts of students which occurred on school grounds, off school grounds at a school-sponsored activity or against school personnel. The school district continues to maintain discretion to determine when police get involved in school incidents that are not required to be reported by law. 

 “We enjoy a strong partnership with the Village of Northbrook and the Northbrook Police Department.  This agreement strengthens our ability to work together in the best interest of our students, staff and community,”  Superintendent Dr. Jason Pearson said.

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