On January 28, 2025, a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Niles Township High School District 219. The request was made by North Cook News, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The FOIA request seeks copies of all emails and memos from the past year that contain the keywords "Lucy Calkins" and "Units of Study". The intention behind this request is to provide transparency to the public and hold public institutions accountable for their actions. As a media organization, North Cook News plays a crucial role in gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to these records is vital for them to fulfill their professional responsibilities.
In addition, North Cook News believes they are eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140. This act allows for certain exemptions from fees when information is being sought in the public interest.
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, 58% of teachers in Illinois have a master's degree or higher.
North Cook News continues its commitment towards holding public institutions accountable while providing transparency to its readership. They remain steadfast in their mission of disseminating information that promotes civic engagement and informed decision-making among citizens.