Submitted Content

Community leaders discuss District 21's plans to meet students' needs

Posted October 10, 2021 11:00 pm

Submitted by Community Consolidated School District 21

Sen. Ann Gillespie talks with London Middle School students in Wheeling. Courtesy of District 21

Community Consolidated School District 21 hosted federal, state and local elected officials, as well as community leaders, Saturday, Sept. 25, to highlight its Strategic Plan, Equity Action Plan and Learning Recovery Plan.

Participants engaged in dialogue on issues facing public education coming out of the pandemic and School District 21's plan to address learning loss and support holistic student and family needs.

"We were honored to host Congressman Schneider, Sen. Gillespie, Rep. Mussman on behalf of Speaker Welch, Rep. Walker, Mayor Hayes and village Presidents Horcher and Sussman, and engage in this critical conversation about the future of School District 21," said Phil Pritzker, president of the District 21 Board of Education.

"The path ahead, outlined in the district's Strategic Plan, Equity Action Plan and Learning Recovery Plan, ensures we are empowering every student, every day."

Administrators presented on the district's guiding plans and shared crucial initiatives aimed at supporting all facets of student development.

Efforts are, in part, supported by District 21's federal American Rescue Plan allocation, allowing for the investment in math and literacy interventionists, districtwide before- and after-school tutoring and homework help, family liaisons, and District 21-owned shuttle buses.

Central to District 21's forward-thinking plan to support the needs of the community - beyond the student and family population - is upcoming construction of the Community Service Center. The center will serve as a consolidated access point to meet a variety of community needs.

"We have an opportunity to bring physical and mental health professionals, nonprofits and community organizations, social supports, and open meeting space under one roof to efficiently and effectively meet the diverse needs of our community," said Dr. Michael Connolly, District 21 superintendent.

"We are excited to make this years-long dream a reality for our community."

District 21 Superintendent Michael Connolly speaks at the Community Leadership Breakfast on Sept. 25 at London Middle School in Wheeling. Courtesy of District 21

Arlington Heights Mayor Tom Hayes, left, and Congressman Brad Schneider listen to the presentation at the District 21 Community Leadership Breakfast held Saturday, Sept. 25, at London Middle School, in Wheeling. Courtesy of District 21

Interior floor plan for District 21's Community Service and Administrative Center. Courtesy of District 21

District 21 Board of Education President Phil Pritzker speaks with community and elected officials at the District 21 Community Leadership Breakfast on Saturday, Sept. 25, at London Middle School, in Wheeling. Courtesy of District 21

Exterior renderings for District 21's Community Service and Administrative Center. Courtesy of District 21

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