Resident urges board to reject ‘Vision 30’ and cautions about federal order on critical race theory

During the board’s community input period on March 11, resident Sam Pappas addressed the board on two topics: the Illinois Vision 30 proposal and a recent executive order concerning critical race theory (CRT).

Pappas urged the board not to implement Vision 30’s recommendations, arguing the initiative would “lower proficiency benchmarks for students” rather than invest in literacy interventions. He cited statewide third‑grade reading proficiency data and local 2024 IAR results, saying the Vision 30 approach would “muddle the understanding of students’ progress.”

On the CRT matter Pappas told the board he was concerned about recent federal action. He said the president had signed an executive order “banning the teaching of critical race theory in K through 12 schools” and warned that schools that continued CRT‑related lessons could “risk losing federal aid.” He urged the board to consider the potential fiscal risks to District 25.

Why it matters: Public comment raised policy themes that board members may weigh when considering curricula and district policy. The board did not take action in response that evening; the speaker’s remarks were advisory.

What the board heard: The board listened but did not comment substantively during the meeting. Superintendent and staff did not present a corresponding recommendation or action based on the public comment during the March 11 meeting.

Note on attribution: Remarks are summarized from a community‑member presentation during the public comment period; the board did not take action on the topics at the March 11 meeting.