Board approves EL teacher position, expands SRO coverage and renews food service with price increase

At its June meeting the O'Fallon Township High School District 203 board approved several operational items affecting staffing, school safety and food service.

English‑learner teacher: The board approved adding a 3/5 full‑time equivalent English‑language teacher for 2025–26 to provide in‑house services for the district’s growing EL population. Superintendent staff noted the EL population rose from three students in 2021 to 13 in the current year and that hiring in‑house should improve service delivery and be cost‑effective; if the district cannot fill the part‑time position it will continue to use the regional office of education. The motion passed by roll call.

School‑resource officer: The board approved an intergovernmental agreement with the City of O'Fallon to add a second school resource officer (SRO) who would be primarily housed at the Milburn campus. District staff told the board the arrangement would also allow the officer to assist feeder districts as needed; the additional SRO adds approximately $10,000 annually to the district’s contractual obligations. The board approved the agreement by roll call.

Food service and lunch pricing: The board renewed its food service contract with Chartwells. The administration recommended a 20¢ increase in paid student lunch prices for 2025–26 — above the 10¢ state minimum — to keep the district’s lunch account solvent; the “paid lunch equity” tool recommended a 45¢ increase but staff said 20¢ is sufficient for the coming year. The board approved the renewal and the 20¢ increase. The board tabled action on a separate a‑la‑carte pricing schedule pending further negotiation with the vendor to hold certain staple items at stable prices.

All items were approved by roll‑call votes recorded in the meeting minutes; motions and votes are reflected in the official board record.