Curriculum and special education staff updated trustees at the Aug. 7 Committee of the Whole on summer work to prepare for the school year.

Curriculum and instruction: Dr. McBurnell described work on a secondary English curriculum (StudySync alignment), pacing and assessment adjustments in math and social studies, and steps to standardize an instructional‑coaching framework across elementary, middle and high school levels. She said more than 75 staff participated in curriculum work and over 100 staff completed district “Huntley University” courses created by in‑district teachers and coaches.

Special education and ESY: Special education staff reported 160 students participated in Extended School Year (ESY) programming. The district partnered with Easterseals to set up 28 self‑contained classrooms and to provide visual supports and coaching. The district will continue implementing the Unique Learning System (year 2), focusing on math and literacy, and is building a Circle of Courage framework for SES and instructional programming.

Career and technical education: District leaders said they are exploring a CNA (Certified Nursing Assistant) program for high‑school students and are reviewing partnerships and staffing alignment before proposing a course through the district’s course proposal process.

Quotes and attributions: Dr. McBurnell said, “We did a lot of work within the curriculum and instruction…we have had over 75 staff members participate in that work this summer.” Special education lead Miss Gill said, “We had 28 classrooms across our district that were supported with the Easterseals setup.”

Next steps: Trustees asked clarifying questions about materials and coaching models; staff said they would report back with course proposals for CNA and with updates on self‑contained programs at a future meeting.

Ending: The board thanked staff for summer work and staffing preparations ahead of the new school year.