State group recognizes CCSD21 school board for exceptional governance

September 10, 2024

Topic: Updates

 

The Illinois Association of School Boards formally recognized Community Consolidated School District 21’s Board of Education for its exceptional governance practices, one of 46 school district boards out of 850 in the state to receive this designation.

IASB’s School Board Governance Recognition program acknowledges local boards of education that practice good governance behaviors as outlined by the association’s Foundational Principles of Effective Governance. Boards meeting the necessary requirements are recognized for the two-year honorary distinction.

“Receiving this prestigious recognition from the IASB is a testament to the dedication, vision and collaboration of our board,” said Dr. Michael Connolly, superintendent of CCSD21. “To be one of only 46 school districts in the state to earn this distinction reflects our unwavering commitment to exceptional governance and our shared goal of ensuring the best possible outcomes for all our students. I am incredibly proud of the hard work and leadership our board demonstrates in serving our community with excellence.”

The board was recognized for empowering the district’s administration and staff to ensure its mission, vision and goals are well communicated; for its ability to connect with the community on issues of importance to the district; for conducting regular policy reviews and maintaining a current, updated policy manual; and for monitoring progress toward the district’s mission, vision and goals with the use of a comprehensive review, among other criteria.

The recognition program aims to showcase how good governance creates a positive impact for students, staff and the entire district community. It offers a chance for districts to tell their story about programs and projects that are improving outcomes in their local school districts and gives board members the opportunity to highlight how continuous learning, both by individual board members and the collective board, results in improved governance for the Board of Education and positive outcomes for the district.

“This recognition is an incredible honor for our district and a reflection of our commitment to strong, effective governance,” added Debbi McAtee, president of the Board of Education. “Our board works tirelessly to ensure that we are making thoughtful, student-centered decisions, and it’s gratifying to see that work acknowledged on a statewide level.”

The board will be formally acknowledged during the IASB’s Fall Division Meeting and in the IASB Info Center during the joint annual conference in November in Chicago.