Glenbrook superintendent outlines four-goal strategic plan, teases master facility plan

Superintendent RJ Gravel told the Glenview Board of Trustees on Oct. 7 that Glenbrook High School District serves more than 5,100 students and is pursuing a four-goal strategic plan focused on individualized pathways, safety and supports, evolving instruction, and leadership development.

Gravel said the district enrolls “over 5,100 students, of which approximately 3,100 are enrolled and attending each day over at Glenbrook South High School,” and emphasized the need to start planning with students and families from day one so course selection and postsecondary direction can be tailored to varied career and education outcomes.

The superintendent described Goal 1 as recognizing that students “no longer follow just 1 pathway through high school,” citing accelerated coursework, early high-school classes for some students and multiple postsecondary options such as career and trade pathways. Goal 2 centers on student well-being: Gravel said students “perform better when they feel safe, when their basic needs are met,” and that the district actively solicits feedback and makes incremental adjustments in response.

Goal 3 covers instructional change and technology. Gravel noted rapid changes in instructional practice and said the district is working to integrate new approaches—including considerations about artificial intelligence—while preserving academic rigor. Goal 4 addresses staffing and leadership: Gravel warned the board that “over the last few years and for another 3 years, nearly 40% of our faculty will retire,” and emphasized recruiting and training to sustain specialized courses and programs.

Gravel also announced that the district will release a master facility plan in about three weeks, listing likely priorities such as roofs, sidewalks, parking and improvements to stadiums and other school facilities. He said the district plans robust stakeholder engagement as that plan is developed.

During board questions Trustee Bland asked whether the district’s single shared school resource officer was sufficient and whether the district would exercise an option to add a second officer. Gravel said Officer Yusecki is currently assigned and that the district can add a secondary SRO under the intergovernmental agreement; staff expect to complete a staffing evaluation and be in a position to answer the question in roughly a month and a half.

The presentation concluded with Gravel thanking village staff and public-safety partners for ongoing coordination on safety, traffic and grant efforts, and with trustees praising the district’s accomplishments. The district said it will return to present the master facility plan to stakeholders when it is released.