District 113 Superintendant Reaches Out to Referendum Opponents

As you are aware, the for facility and technology upgrades at both Deerfield and . Since that vote, the Board of Education has discussed lessons learned, next steps and plans for moving forward which will address the District’s facility and technology needs.

Our first action is to engage professional representatives (, engineers and construction specialists) from , the group that the referendum, in order to hear their opinions and concerns as well as to identify areas of agreement. Following this discussion, we will reach out more broadly to the entire community in an effort to promote discussion (which includes listening), understanding and the building of consensus regarding a revised facility and technology plan.

One immediate action (and request) is the identification of community members with expertise in market research. I would like to convene a group of such professionals to discuss how we might gather specific feedback from the community. Ways of gathering this information could include surveys, focus groups and/or other processes. If you have expertise in market research and would be interested in participating in this short-term project, please contact me by May 20 at gfornero@dist113.org or at 224-765-1001.

Another project is the creation of study groups focused on specific aspects of the facility and technology plan. I am extending an invitation to the entire community for volunteers to serve on these study groups. While the specific study group topics have not been formalized, I anticipate a group focusing on the classroom/learning environment (which would also include instructional technology & the DHS Library). One group may focus on building systems which would include HVAC, mechanical infrastructure, electrical and plumbing. A group may focus on the Physical Education and Athletics studying the pool, gymnasiums, indoor tracks and outdoor playing fields. Another group will focus on finances, cost estimating, cost analysis and budget development.

Each of these study groups will report to a Leadership Advisory Committee again comprised of community volunteers along with 1-2 school board members and district staff members. This Leadership Advisory Committee will make a recommendation to the Board of Education on how we should address our facility and technology needs. 

If you are interested in participating on a study group or the Leadership Advisory Committee, I ask that you complete an application form which is available on the district’s website or by contacting my administrative assistant, Ms. Sandra Jasso, at sjasso@dist113.org or by calling 224-765-1002. Application forms are also available from the receptionist at the District Office. Please return your completed application form by Tuesday, May 31. 

Thank you in advance for considering active participation in the processes I have outlined. Addressing the District’s facility and technology needs will impact our students and our community both now and for decades to come. This is significant work requiring vision, strong collaboration and careful financial stewardship. I look forward to engaging with the community to identify priorities and build consensus.

And as always, thank you for your ongoing support of District 113 and our wonderful students. It truly is appreciated!

George V. Fornero
Superintendent