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Board discusses moving Early Learning Program and interim supports for behavior and staffing
Summary
Administrators described escalating disruptive behavior in the Early Learning Program (ELP) and discussed interim solutions — additional office hours at the annex, a makeshift office, and the possibility of relocating the program to the main building's computer lab while exploring partial-day models and daycare partnerships.
Board members and administrators reviewed challenges in the Early Learning Program, citing recurring disruptive student behavior and difficulties responding in real time because the ELP classroom is in a separate building.
Principal Tim (speaker 1) said staff and volunteers helped provide holiday support for families and described how the distance between buildings affects real-time response: "I have to walk down the street to talk to a kid." Board members proposed measures including establishing scheduled administrative office hours at the annex, creating a makeshift office near the ELP to enable early interventions, and sending clearer midyear communications to families about expectations. Early Learning staff said they are willing to be flexible but emphasized the need for supports and better staff coverage.
The group also discussed moving the ELP into the underused computer lab in the main building or repurposing other annex space, noting benefits and tradeoffs such as space constraints, existing equipment and the potential to use that facility for career and technical education or daycare leases. The state Office of Public Instruction (OPI) was cited for examples of partial-day program models (Joliet school was mentioned) that could preserve student-count requirements while offering aftercare options. No formal motion was made; the board directed staff to craft accurate parent-facing information about next-year program options and to explore facility and scheduling options ahead of specified planning milestones.
