Superintendent highlights Brothers and Sisters for Change event that drew 2,700 families to Auburn

Superintendent Jarrett turned the podium over to Dr. Antoine Reed to describe a community engagement event led by Brothers and Sisters for Change that district leaders said drew about 2,700 families to Auburn High School. Dr. Reed said the event involved outreach into several neighborhoods the week before the event and provided services at Auburn including approximately 200 haircuts, information from ComEd on utility assistance, thousands of books (which the event ran out of), and spaces for families to set goals for the school year. "To see 2,700 people in Auburn High School, not for a basketball game, not for a football game, but to set goals about coming to school, about passing classes," Dr. Reed said. He described the event as restorative engagement that helped rebuild trust with families. Dr. Reed said the district and community partners gave away supplies and services and committed to monthly follow-ups with a new focus each month; he cited board members who participated and thanked communications staff for livestreaming and support. The superintendent and Dr. Reed framed the event as an example of active listening and community partnership rather than a one-time outreach, and pledged continued monthly in-community engagements.