Schools hire group to grade district

Through the work of its citizen action committee Lincolnshire-Prairie View District 103 has sought to develop and foster communication between the district and residents it serves.

Now, to evaluate how effective the district is and what can improve, the district has hired Chicago based Jasculca-Terman and Associates to conduct a communications audit.

"This is the best way to find out if we are reaching the right audience and if it's effective," said Katrina Bruley, assistant superintendent of curriculum.

After reviewing eight proposals, Bruley said Jasculca-Terman best researched the district including the online registration system and school Web sites to articulate what they could offer.

"In whatever time they had, they dove into the research," board president David Panitch said.

They also shared what the district can accomplish within budget constraints, Bruley added.

"They understand we are working within a limited budget," she said. "Anything they do has to seek our approval."

The cost to conduct the communications audit will not exceed $35,000. That will include professional fees and methods to evaluate public opinion such as phone and Web surveys.

Bruley said the goal is to begin the progress when this school year starts and will be completed within a 12-week time frame.

Superintendent Larry Fleming said recommendations given by the company will not sit on a shelf but will be budgeted as they can toward the district's future.

"The goal is to help us move forward as a district," he said.