A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Kinnikinnick Community Consolidated School District 131 on January 28, 2025. The request was made by a news reporter from Rockford Sun, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The request specifically sought copies of all emails and memos from the past year that contain the keywords "Lucy Calkins" and "Units of Study". As members of the media, we at Rockford Sun are involved in gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is essential for us to fulfill our professional responsibilities, which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals. We will continue our efforts to ensure transparency and accountability within our local institutions.
In related news, 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 stands at 141:1, with an average student-to-teacher ratio of 17:1. Notably, over half - 58% - of teachers in Illinois hold a master's degree or higher.