During a recent government meeting, community members voiced their concerns regarding the ongoing challenges within the local school system, particularly focusing on the high school and the Black Male Achievement initiative.

One speaker criticized the leadership instability at the high school, highlighting that the school has undergone numerous changes over the past eight years under the current superintendent. This speaker pointed out that some board members have chosen to send their own children to other schools, questioning their commitment to the district's educational quality. The speaker urged these members to lead by example and reconsider their positions if they do not believe in the school's potential.

In a subsequent address, Aurora Flores Gaetan, a resident and product of the Waukegan public school system, emphasized the need for enhanced community engagement regarding the Black Male Achievement initiative. She reiterated four critical demands made by previous speakers:

1. **Increased Community Engagement**: Flores called for more frequent and meaningful community thinking sessions to better capture the needs and definitions of success for Black families in Waukegan.

2. **Detailed Program Plans**: She requested a comprehensive and clear plan for the Black Male Achievement initiative, including measurable goals and timelines, to ensure accountability and transparency.

3. **Focused Inclusion**: Flores stressed the importance of including Black males in the planning and goal-setting processes, rather than generalizing to all males of color, to effectively address the specific challenges faced by Black students.

4. **Improved Communication**: She highlighted the need for a robust communication strategy that reaches out to all parents, especially those who may face barriers to engagement, ensuring they are informed and involved in their children's education.

The discussions underscored a community's desire for accountability and a more inclusive approach to education, particularly for marginalized groups. The meeting reflected a growing demand for transparency and active participation from both school officials and parents in shaping educational outcomes.