Fox Valley briefs

District 300 revamps gifted program:

Officials in Community Unit District 300 have started to reshape the district's gifted program. Earlier this year, a committee of board members and administrators recommended eliminating the district's existing program - unless educators and officials can come up with something better. The education committee has begun discussing how to open gifted education to more students and integrate the program more seamlessly into the school day. "We're trying to create the best program we can," education committee Chairman Dave Alessio said. "We'll definitely be able to improve on the current program."

Library hosts reading finale:

The Huntley Area Public Library, 11000 Ruth Road, is holding the grand finale of its summer reading program. An open house will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, Aug. 7. The event features snacks, activities, crafts and music. Call (847) 669-5386.

State hands District 47 a mixed bag:

Crystal Lake Elementary District 47 broke even in the education budget state policymakers passed this week, Chief Financial Officer Susan Shepard said. On the one hand, the district expects to receive an additional $350,000 in state aid. On the other, the state cut about $350,000 in grants to the district for reading, bilingual education and at-risk students. Shepard said the programs funded by the state grants are in no danger of being cut this year but that the school board will have to decide whether to continue the programs for next year. The district is facing a $2.1 million deficit this year.