Allen and Oak Park schools unveil improvement plans at curriculum committee meeting

The Aurora East School District 131 Board of Education meeting on May 5, 2025, highlighted significant advancements in school improvement plans and educational resources aimed at enhancing student performance and engagement across the district.

During the meeting, Principal Jonathan Dumpston Simpson and Assistant Principal Tanita Ramey from Allen Elementary presented their school improvement plan, reporting that 48% of students met or exceeded growth in reading, while 56% achieved similar results in math. The school aims to reduce office discipline referrals (ODRs) by 10% and maintain a 95% attendance rate, with a goal for 60% of K-5 students to meet expected growth in reading and math by winter 2024.

Oak Park Elementary also shared its improvement plan, with 47% of students meeting growth expectations in reading and 58% in math. Their goals mirror those of Allen Elementary, focusing on reducing ODRs and maintaining high attendance rates, while aiming for 80% of preschool students to show improvement in writing skills by spring 2025.

Dr. Engel introduced a new course proposal for East Aurora High School, which includes skills for success courses for grades 9 through 11. Additionally, updates on resource pilots for social studies and high school math were discussed, emphasizing engagement and compliance with Illinois standards.

The meeting also addressed the establishment of an International Newcomer Center, designed to support students new to the U.S. with non-English or Spanish home languages. The board approved funding for two teacher assistants and one facilitator to support this initiative.

Other key decisions included the approval of student planners for grades 5-12 at a cost of $24,896, and a professional development program for administrators costing $50,900, both funded by grants. The board also endorsed a proposal for summer learning resources, providing high-interest books to K-4 students to combat summer learning loss.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to improving educational outcomes and supporting diverse student needs, aligning with broader community goals of fostering academic success and inclusivity. The board's actions reflect a proactive approach to enhancing the educational landscape for all students in Aurora East USD 131.