During a recent school board meeting, concerns were raised regarding transparency in the School District 204's handling of safety evaluations and transportation policies. Alicia Smith, a district alumna and former teacher, highlighted that the timeline for the IDAT safety hazard evaluations extends beyond the upcoming referendum vote. She emphasized that parents may face unexpected changes in bus eligibility, particularly for those living within 1.5 miles of schools, which could lead to confusion and safety concerns for students.

Smith urged the board to complete and publicly share all safety evaluations before the referendum, stressing the importance of clarity for parents regarding potential changes in transportation policies. She pointed out that if the referendum is intended to enhance safety, it should address these issues proactively.

In contrast, Superintendent Donahue provided an optimistic update on the district's preparations for the new school year, noting the return of teachers and support staff, as well as the successful hiring of bus drivers, which has improved transportation coverage. He also mentioned the completion of summer construction projects and the ongoing need for teaching assistants to support student learning.

The board proceeded to approve several consent agenda items and discussed the upcoming fiscal year 2025 budget, clarifying that the forthcoming referendum will focus solely on capital improvements and not on staffing or mental health services. The meeting concluded with a commitment to ensure that all preparations are in place for the students' return to school.