On January 28, 2025, we at Chambana Sun submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to the Rossville-Alvin Community Unit School District 7. The request was specifically for copies of all emails and memos from the past year that contain the keywords "Lucy Calkins" and "Units of Study."
As a media organization dedicated to comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we believe access to public records is crucial in fulfilling our professional responsibilities. These include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
In light of our role in disseminating information, we requested a fee waiver as media professionals under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140.
The purpose behind this specific request is to gather more information about potential discussions or decisions made within the school district related to these keywords. "Lucy Calkins" refers to an influential figure in literacy education whose methods have been widely adopted but also criticized. "Units of Study" likely refers to specific educational programs or curricula.
According to the Illinois Report Card, the average state teacher salary in 2023 was $73,916, and the state average Administrative Salary was $116,908. The average student-to-administrative ratio is 141:1, and the average student-to-teacher ratio is 17:1. Interestingly, 58% of teachers in Illinois have a master's degree or higher.
We at Chambana Sun will continue our efforts to provide transparent reporting on local government affairs and hold public institutions accountable for their actions.
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