Evergreen Park superintendent urges upgrades, proposes building bond to address aging schools

Dr. Tetiana Vidlín, superintendent of Evergreen Park ESD 124, told the meeting that district school buildings are aging and in need of upgrades to ensure safety, accessibility and improved learning spaces.

Vidlín said the district faces a range of infrastructure problems, including deteriorating roofing, electrical and heating systems, limited accessibility and circulation that make lockdown procedures and emergency management more difficult. "Students with mobility needs encounter daily barriers navigating the building," Vidlín said.

She described the consequences for learning and safety: outdated systems limit programs for students with disabilities, constrain early‑learning and special‑education spaces, and reduce indoor air quality and visibility in classrooms and common areas. Vidlín said consolidating some elementary schools into modern, accessible facilities would support expanded early‑learning hubs and dedicated special‑education programming.

On operations and safety, Vidlín argued that short‑term repairs are insufficient. "Temporary patches are merely waste and continue to pose risks to our students and staff," she said, urging investment that would improve emergency readiness, secure entry points, lighting and pickup/drop‑off zones.

She said a district community task force has proposed a building bond referendum as the mechanism to finance construction and renovation that would meet modern safety standards, provide energy‑efficient systems, and create spaces for arts, music and STEM instruction. Vidlín also called for community engagement through information sessions and virtual building tours to explain proposed changes and costs.

No formal vote or decision on a bond measure was recorded during this meeting. The comments were delivered as public testimony about the district's facilities needs and planning work.