District 113A to Discuss Impact of Moving Fifth-Graders Back to River Valley

The Lemont-Bromberek Combined School District 113A Board of Education will discuss the pros and cons of moving fifth-graders from Old Quarry Middle School back to River Valley.

The board is scheduled to hear a report from Superintendent Susan Birkenmaier on Wednesday night that reviews the location of fifth-grade classes and the impact on student learning.

All fifth-grade classes in District 113A were moved to Old Quarry in 2011, when the board voted to close Central School. The consolidation brought on many concerns about space issues at Old Quarry, as well as the students' transition to middle school.

"While initial concerns over the location of fifth grade have been overcome, the district continues to monitor student learning, staffing and space needs," Birkenmaier said in a report. "In addition to physical space and possible remodeling needs, the administration has reviewed continuity of curriculum and professional development, staffing needs and the impact on transportation."

The school board is expected to discuss the administration's analysis on Wednesday, but will not take any action.

The board will meet at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Old Quarry Middle School, 16100 W. 127th St.

Also on the agenda:

• Consideration of administrative and non-affiliated employee salary recommendations;
• Approval of an agreement between District 113A and the IEA-NEA;
• A report on the district's performance on the Illinois School Report Card;
• A discussion on the strategic plan adopted last spring;
• Consideration of a leader for an emergency communication system.