District 200's strengths threatened by SB16

As of early October, I have visited all 23 Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200 schools and buildings since beginning on Sept. 2. Over the past several weeks, I have had the opportunity to meet hundreds of students, staff, parents and community members. During all of my conversations and classroom visits, several key themes emerged.

First, there is a strong appreciation for people. Each time I meet someone new, I ask them what they are most proud of. Time and time again I hear of pride for the quality staff and students that work hard in our classrooms each day. People make the difference.

Second, there is a genuine focus on doing what is best for kids. We either have strategies in place or are developing strategies to meet the needs of all learners.

Third, we have a clear desire to look at ways to meaningfully integrate technology in the classroom and in our communications. In fact, on my first day in the district, a broadcast media class at Wheaton Warrenville South High School interviewed me and put together an introductory video that you can find by visiting cusd200.org/superintendent. I have witnessed classes across our district take advantage of teachable moments and find creative ways to engage our students through technology.

However, everything we have worked so hard to achieve in District 200 is at risk if Senate Bill 16 passes the House. If enacted into law, SB16 will make sweeping changes in how the state funds education and those changes will have a severe, negative impact on District 200 — our state revenue allocation will be reduced by 81 percent, or $9.8 million. We need your support to make sure this doesn't happen.

Community members are encouraged to attend an informational session about SB16 at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 29, at Monroe Middle School or at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 13, at Hubble Middle School. You can also visit our website, cusd200.org, for full details.

Thank you for allowing me the honor of serving this community.

• Jeff Schuler is superintendent of Wheaton Warrenville Unit District 200. His column appears monthly in Neighbor during the school year.