Lake County Gazette

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Round Lake Community Unit School District 116 regarding copies of all emails and memos from the past year containing specific keywords. The request, dated January 28, 2025, was made by us at the Lake County Gazette.

The requested documents are expected to contain the keywords “Lucy Calkins” and “Units of Study”. As a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, we believe access to these public records is essential for our work. These records will help us in fulfilling our professional responsibilities which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.

We have also requested a fee waiver as a media professional due to our role in disseminating information to the public.

Round Lake Community Unit School District 116 Principal Dr. Donn Mendoza (2023) | Round Lake Community Unit School District 116

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.

As we continue with our commitment towards transparency and accountability in local government affairs, we await a positive response from Round Lake Community Unit School District 116 regarding this FOIA request.