LM June-July 2022_hi

Education Elevat g Heinz ... cont’d. “We started doing research on how we could create our own micro-grid and be part of a virtual power plant that aggregates energy and supplies it to the grid when most in need,” Farquer said. “All of that helps generate savings for our district and potentially creates revenue, Farquer ... cont’d.

at student data, it was clear that certain student groups were not achieving grade-level learning standards. We simply could not continue to instruct utilizing dated instructional approaches and expect to close achievement gaps. Our instruction framework is much more responsive to a diverse cultural and academic student body. Beyond our instructional framework, we have worked hard to revamp its curriculum in key areas such as math, literacy and science. Next up, an overhaul of the social studies curriculum.” With federal COVID-relief dollars, Palatine CCSD #15 hired for the first time math interventionists—a move that is already helping produce better outcomes for our students. Palatine CCSD #15 also launched its Culturally and Linguistically Responsive (CLR) Teaching initiative to better serve a diverse population of students where validating and affirming home culture plays a central role. “It really was foundational,” Dr. Heinz said. “All of our classrooms use this mindset and methodologies to make sure that we are providing rigorous instruction to make sure all kids learn, regardless of income and race.” However, one of the biggest initiatives underway is Moving Forward 15—a holistic plan that will focus on three key areas of improvement: 1. Repair and restoration of facilities. 2. Updating learning spaces and libraries. 3. Improving feeder patterns so students attend a neighborhood or near neighborhood school. Palatine CCSD #15’s Board of Education will vote in August whether or not to put the question to voters in the November election. “It is our belief that this plan will boldly move the district forward. We are committed to the needs of all of our learners and providing staff with modern teaching environments to do so,” Dr. Heinz said. “We’ve been busy in D15, but the work is important, and this staff is dedicated to doing what’s right for our students and for the communities in which we serve.”

which ultimately benefits our local taxpayers.” Farquer helped launch the Bus 2 Grid Initiative, which later partnered with the Future Green Energy Consortium. Electrifying bus fleets can save districts money long term, cut down on emissions from diesel engines and create an electrical charging infrastructure in the community. “We estimate we can save $90,000 in fuel alone,” Farquer said. “We’re also eliminating all the emissions and providing a healthier ride for kids. It’s just a win-win.” As part of the pursuit of green energy, Williamsfield Schools has also created numerous learning opportunities for students in a burgeoning industry. In addition, Farquer was at the forefront in the transition to Open Education Resources (OER)—any type of educational materials that are in the public domain. Beginning in 2013, Williamsfield worked to replace a set of traditional textbooks by adapting and localizing OER, creating a more engaging classroom experience for students and generating savings that the schools reinvested to develop a cutting edge STEM program that would have otherwise been impossible with traditional materials. In 2015, former Education Sec. Arne Duncan traveled to Williamsfield Schools to announce the hiring of the first ever open education adviser in K-12 schools. “It’s about expanding availability. Our kids should have access to the same materials and advanced technology as kids in Chicago, Peoria, Schaumburg or wherever,” Farquer said.

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23 LM Summer 2022