Board to add hazardous routes after traffic study; charter school bus service will be billed to charter

Daniel Sutherland presented the district’s annual hazardous routes review under the Illinois School Code and asked the board to approve additions triggered by recent traffic studies and changing housing patterns. He said the February 2026 traffic study of Galligan Road and growth near Freeman Road concluded that transportation should be provided to students residing west of Galligan Road who will attend Gilbert's Elementary.

Sutherland also said ISBE confirmed Cambridge Lakes Charter School (CLCS) must be included in district transportation planning next school year. CLCS will pay for the service, which will be run through the district’s vendor Durham using the district’s contract terms. "They're making the payments. We are not making any payments on their behalf," Sutherland said, adding the district may include those students on its claim because ISBE recognizes them as the district’s students.

Board members asked about the one‑and‑a‑half‑mile rule and alternate stop configurations; staff confirmed the district does not bus within 1.5 miles by default but explained the hazardous‑route process and eligibility exceptions, and noted possible future county work (e.g., a roundabout) that could affect traffic patterns. Sutherland said staff will provide specific student counts and additional details following the meeting.