Multilingual program changes and proposed paraprofessional reductions draw union concern in Skokie SD 69

Steffi Kanzok, president of the district PSRP unit, used public comment time to raise alarm about planned changes to the English Learner support model and the potential elimination of EL paraprofessional roles, which she said would affect classroom supports for multilingual students. Assistant Superintendent Megan Aseltine later described a phased program update intended to emphasize students' multilingual assets while complying with state requirements for bilingual endorsements.

"Updating the program name to Multilingual Program reflects a broader scope of services, aligns with state and national policy and emphasizes multilingualism as an asset," Aseltine said during her presentation. She told the Board that District 69 currently serves 825 multilingual learners — about 43.2% of its PreK–8 population — with noted concentrations at Madison (277), Edison (253) and Lincoln (187). The district is adjusting staffing models because ISBE now requires bilingual instruction to be delivered by teachers holding bilingual endorsements, and the administration described a phased implementation tied to certification and available personnel. The administration also told the Board that, because of School Code timelines, Reduction in Force notices may be presented at the April 14 meeting if vacancies and attrition do not absorb the planned changes.