A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to Pinckneyville Community High School District 101 regarding copies of all emails and memos from the past 12 months that contain specific keywords. The request was made by us at the Lake County Gazette on January 28, 2025.
The sought-after records are any communications that include the terms “Lucy Calkins” and “Units of Study”. These keywords are likely in reference to Lucy Calkins, a well-known literacy educator, and her comprehensive curriculum program for reading and writing workshops titled "Units of Study".
As members of the media, we are committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs. 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.
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, with an average student-to-teacher ratio of 17:1. It's worth noting that 58% of teachers in Illinois have a master's degree or higher.
Given our role in disseminating information to the public, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. We eagerly await a response from Pinckneyville Community High School District 101 regarding our request.
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