During a recent meeting, Dr. Lisa Caprelli Ruff, the newly sworn-in Will County Regional Superintendent of Schools, introduced her leadership team and outlined the office's priorities and initiatives aimed at enhancing educational excellence and safety in the region.

Dr. Ruff emphasized the importance of safe schools, stating that it remains the top priority for the Will County Regional Office of Education (ROE). She highlighted a successful partnership with DuPage County that led to a Safe School Summit, which attracted over 350 attendees, including experts in mental health and law enforcement. The summit featured discussions on identifying potential school shooters and strategies for improving school safety.

In preparation for upcoming mandates, the ROE has procured Narcan and \"Stop the Bleed\" kits for all schools, ensuring compliance by the January 1, 2024 deadline. Dr. Ruff acknowledged the support from the Will County Health Department in training school administrators on the proper use of Narcan.

The meeting also showcased the ROE's commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable student populations, particularly those experiencing homelessness. The office holds a grant from McKinney Vento, which aims to provide equal educational opportunities for homeless students.

Dr. Ruff shared updates on Lincoln School, a safe school for students facing truancy or expulsion. She noted improvements made at the school, including the establishment of a state-of-the-art kitchen and partnerships with local colleges to offer dual credit programs. The ROE has also secured a $75,000 grant for after-school programs focused on tutoring and career pathways.

The meeting concluded with a call for community engagement, inviting attendees to tour Lincoln School and witness the positive changes firsthand. Dr. Ruff's leadership appears focused on fostering a supportive educational environment while addressing critical safety and accessibility issues within Will County schools.