August 2012
Dear Staff and Parents/Guardians,
This summer has proven to be the busiest in recent memory. I know many of you have experienced a summer similar to this. I hope you were able to enjoy family time and possibly some time away from normal commitments and routines.
Administrators have been busy working on new evaluation certification requirements; summer cleaning and maintenance staff has several summer projects in addition to normal summer cleaning; and finally, budget planning continues as District 41 tries to address ongoing financial challenges, diminishing resources, and uncertainties. As of July 16, the State of Illinois owed the District $602,300. This is actually an improvement from a year ago! The challenge for District 41 is to maintain educational quality with fewer resources to accomplish what is really needed.
District 41 has demonstrated annual increases in student achievement the past several years. At times, every grade demonstrated achievement increases in all areas. However, in 2012, overall ISAT results were stagnant, and, in a few instances, actually showed a significant decline. This is not an acceptable outcome for District 41 students, staff, parents, and community. The staff will work diligently together and with students throughout the 2012-2013 school year to address this.
The District still maintains the Illinois State Board of Education highest financial rating. The District 41 Board of Education was recognized by the Illinois Association of School Boards for School Board Excellence. The District was awarded the SchoolSearch™ 2011 Bright Award for high academic performance and sound financial management. Finally, the District was recognized as one of five nationally by the Center on Educational Outcomes for continuous improvements in achievement for all students (e.g. students with disabilities).
As we move into August, the new school year holds the promise of renewal and hope. Thank you in advance for your hard work and dedication to making District 41 a special place for students. Have a great school year.
Sincerely yours,
Dr. John Van Pelt,
Superintendent of Schools
Lake Villa School District #41
JVP/aev