During the recent Board of Education meeting held on September 23, 2025, Elmhurst School District 205 addressed significant changes to its dental insurance plan, reflecting a proactive approach to managing rising costs while ensuring quality benefits for staff.

The board discussed a two-year strategy initiated last year to address underfunding in the dental plan, which was found to be approximately 23% below necessary levels. As part of this strategy, dental premium rates will see an increase of 11.5% for the upcoming plan year, following a 12% rise the previous year. This adjustment aims to align the plan with industry trends, which are currently averaging an 11% increase.

Board members expressed appreciation for the efforts of the insurance committee, which has been tasked with balancing escalating insurance costs while maintaining an attractive benefits package for employees. The committee's work is crucial in ensuring that the district can attract and retain high-quality staff, a priority for the school district.

The discussions highlighted the challenges of managing insurance costs without compromising the quality of benefits provided to employees and their families. Board members thanked committee members for their creativity and collaboration in navigating these complex issues, emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong support for staff.

As the district moves forward, it remains committed to monitoring insurance trends and exploring solutions that will sustain high-quality benefits while being mindful of budget constraints. The board's focus on these issues underscores its dedication to supporting the well-being of its employees, which ultimately benefits the entire school community.