A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to Albers School District 63 on January 28, 2025. The request, sent by South Central Reporter, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, seeks copies of all emails and memos from the past year that contain the keywords "Lucy Calkins" and "Units of Study."
The Illinois Freedom of Information Act, under which this request was made, is a law that grants the public access to records from any public body in the state. It emphasizes transparency in government operations and encourages accountability.
South Central Reporter has requested these documents in an electronic format. As a media organization involved in gathering and reporting news to the public, they argue that access to public records is essential for them to fulfill their professional responsibilities. These include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. Given their role in disseminating information, they believe they are eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional.
According to the Illinois Report Card, the average state teacher salary in 2023 was $73,916, and the state average Administrative Salary was $116,908. The average student-to-administrative ratio is 141:1, and the average student-to-teacher ratio is 17:1. Interestingly enough, 58% of teachers in Illinois have a master's degree or higher.
It remains unclear why South Central Reporter is specifically interested in communications containing "Lucy Calkins" and "Units of Study." However, it is clear that this FOIA request could potentially shed light on important aspects of education policy or practice within Albers School District 63.
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