The Elmbrook School District Board of Education meeting on October 29, 2024, focused on the future of the Hillside property and the importance of community representation in decision-making. Board members emphasized their responsibility to represent all taxpayers, including those who do not have children in the public school system.
During the meeting, board member Kathy highlighted the need for transparency and community involvement, urging her colleagues to remember the diverse perspectives of the district's electors. Linda echoed this sentiment, stressing that decisions made by the board should consider the interests of all taxpayers, including those who choose private education for their children.
A significant motion to postpone a decision regarding the sale of the Hillside property was made and passed. This postponement was described as a necessary step to allow for further community input and discussion. Board member Sam expressed concerns about the lack of transparency in previous discussions and advocated for a more thorough engagement with the community before moving forward.
Following the postponement, a motion was introduced to direct the administration to organize a well-noticed community meeting to gather input on the future of the Hillside property. This motion was supported by several board members who recognized the need for broader community feedback. The board discussed the importance of effective communication methods to ensure that all community members are informed and can participate in the decision-making process.
Ultimately, the board agreed to prioritize transparency and community engagement, with plans to establish a meeting to discuss the future of the Hillside property. The administration will work on ensuring that the meeting is well-publicized to encourage maximum participation from the community. The board's commitment to involving the community in these discussions reflects a growing recognition of the importance of inclusive decision-making in educational governance.