In the cozy confines of the Elwood Union Free School District Board of Education meeting, held on November 21, 2024, a spirit of gratitude and community support filled the air. As the evening progressed, board members expressed their appreciation for a series of generous donations aimed at enhancing educational experiences for students across the district.

The meeting kicked off with a heartfelt acknowledgment of contributions from various local organizations. Notably, the Elwood Athletic Club donated $2,500 for a permanent basketball hoop at Elwood Middle School, while SEPTA (Special Education Parent-Teacher Association) provided multiple donations totaling $6,000 to support special education initiatives and events, including guest speakers and a STEAM Night scheduled for January. The Elwood Booster Club also stepped up, contributing $3,000 for the "Names Not Numbers" program at John Glenn High School and funding after-school clubs at Boyd and Harley schools.

Board members unanimously approved these donations, recognizing their potential to positively impact students' lives. "Thank you to everyone for your generous donations, which will have very positive effects on all of our students," said a board member, encapsulating the collective sentiment of gratitude.

Following the donation approvals, the board moved on to the consent agenda, which included the approval of the Smart Schools Bond plan discussed earlier in the evening. This plan aims to enhance technology and infrastructure within the district, ensuring that students have access to modern educational tools.

The meeting also featured a second reading and adoption of several important policies, including those related to internet safety and student data privacy. Board members commended the policy committee for their diligent work in keeping the district aligned with state regulations.

As the meeting drew to a close, residents were invited to share their thoughts. One parent, Melissa Janowski, expressed her appreciation for a recent presentation on the iReady program, highlighting the importance of community engagement in educational discussions.

The evening underscored a commitment to fostering a supportive educational environment, with board members and community members alike working together to enhance the learning experience for all students in the Elwood district. As the meeting concluded, the sense of collaboration and shared purpose lingered, promising a bright future for the district's educational initiatives.