South Central Reporter

On January 28, 2025, a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the Gillespie Community Unit School District 7. The request, sent by South Central Reporter, sought copies of all emails and memos from the past year containing specific keywords.

The two keywords in question were "Lucy Calkins" and "Units of Study". The request was made under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, with a preference for receiving the information in an electronic format.

South Central Reporter justified their request by stating their role as a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs. As part of their professional responsibilities, they emphasized the importance of access to public records for holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public. They also indicated their eligibility for a fee waiver as a media professional.

Gillespie Community Unit School District 7 Principal Mr. Shane Owsley (2023) | Gillespie Community Unit School District 7

In relation to this story, it's worth noting some data about education in Illinois. According to the Illinois Report Card, the average state teacher salary in 2023 was $73,916, while 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. Furthermore, 58% of teachers in Illinois have earned a master's degree or higher.

As we continue our reporting on this issue, we will strive to ensure that our coverage provides transparency and holds public institutions accountable. We believe that such requests are crucial tools for journalists seeking to provide comprehensive coverage on matters related to local government affairs.