Chambana Sun

On January 28, 2025, we at Chambana Sun sent a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the Monticello Community Unit School District 25. The request pertains to copies of all emails and memos from the past year that contain specific keywords.

The keywords in question are "Lucy Calkins" and "Units of Study". As a media organization committed to comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we believe access to these records is essential for our professional responsibilities. These include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.

We have requested these documents preferably in an electronic format. Given our role in disseminating information, we also believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals.

Monticello Community Unit School District 25 Principal Adam Clapp (2023) | Monticello Community Unit School District 25

According to the Illinois Report Card, the average state teacher salary in 2023 was $73,916, while the state average administrative salary was $116,908. The average student-to-administrative ratio stands at 141:1, with a student-to-teacher ratio of 17:1. It's noteworthy that 58% of teachers in Illinois hold a master's degree or higher.

Our aim is to ensure that our readers are well-informed about matters affecting their local communities. We will continue pursuing this FOIA request until we can provide complete transparency regarding this matter.