Round Lake Area Schools Board swears in new members during special meeting

Under the bright lights of the Round Lake High School media center, the Round Lake Community Unit School District 116 Board of Education convened for a special meeting on May 5, 2025. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as board members gathered to address key organizational matters, including the election of new leadership and the swearing-in of newly elected members.

The meeting commenced with a roll call, confirming the presence of all board members. Following this, the board swiftly moved to nominate Annette Negrete Maginley as President Pro Tem, a decision that set the tone for the proceedings. The focus then shifted to the official election results from April 1, 2025, which brought new faces to the board.

In a significant moment, Michael Francisco, Margaret Peg Larson, and Julie Lee were called forward to take their oaths of office. Each member solemnly pledged to uphold their responsibilities, emphasizing their commitment to the equitable education of every student in the district. Their oaths highlighted the importance of respecting taxpayer interests and fostering community participation in the educational process.

As the new members took their oaths, they acknowledged their roles as advocates for students and the community, vowing to work collaboratively with the district superintendent to achieve the board's vision. This commitment to excellence in education resonated throughout the room, marking a hopeful beginning for the newly constituted board.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism, as the board members prepared to embark on their journey of leadership, dedicated to enhancing the educational landscape for the students of Round Lake. With their oaths taken and responsibilities defined, the board is poised to make impactful decisions that will shape the future of the district.