Assistant Editor Jerry Lindsey wrote this report.
For the second month in a row, the Board room of the River Bend School District had to be relocated to accommodate a larger number of guests. The March Board meeting visitors had focused their comments and concerns on the selection of books, that were being offered for students to read. The topic of concern returned on Wednesday, April 20, 2022, with added emotion from the 30+ parents and supportive friends who attended. Concerned guests were informed of the selection process and assured that their concerns would not be ignored in future curriculum planning.
Prior to commencing of the Agenda items, Joey Huizenga was awarded the Student of the Month recognition for his performance both academically and athletically.
Middle School Teachers presented a new curriculum published by McGraw-Hill, named “Inspire Science 6-8 Integrated.” It will be implemented in the 2022-2023 school year. Presenting teachers were united in the importance of offering a curriculum that blends well with the curriculum that students will embrace, upon advancing to High School. The proposed curriculum was approved by a unanimous vote following Board member questions and challenges. Inspire Science was priced at a six-year commitment for $31,561.16.
A math curriculum that would be taught for the next six years was presented for approval. “Bridges in Mathematics,” published by Math Learning Center (K-5), and “Amplify Math,” published by Amplify (6-12), received Board scrutiny prior to voting a unanimous approval. The Amplify curriculum was approved with a six-year usage commitment for $128,062.
In additional Action items, the Board approved: A) prices for 2022-2023 registration, extra-curricular, meals, and, fees; B) 2022-2023 membership renewal in the Illinois High School Association (IHSA); C) 2022-2023 membership renewal for Golf, Wrestling, and Track in the Illinois Elementary School Association (IESA); D) Treasurer’s Bond, Activity Fund bond, and Surety Bond; E) lawn care bid from Spring Green.