Lake County Gazette

North Shore School District 112 held its regular Board of Education meeting on September 16 at Northwood Middle School, with a livestream available for the public. A Spanish-translated video will be posted online in the coming days.

During the meeting, Dr. Michael Rodrigo, assistant superintendent for teaching and learning, introduced a new district-wide “Wildly Important Goal” (WIG) focused on literacy. The initiative aims to improve student achievement in reading and writing across all grades through measurable growth. Resources and professional development will support this goal as part of the district’s Strategic Change Agenda approved by the Board earlier this year.

Dr. Monica Schroeder, deputy superintendent, discussed progress on consolidating K-5 dual language programs at Oak Terrace Elementary by 2027. She noted that a Superintendent’s Task Force for Dual Language Consolidation is being formed with input from families, staff, and community members to guide the transition over two years. Applications to join the task force are open until September 19.

Dr. Schroeder also updated the Board about changes proposed by TrueNorth Education Cooperative 804’s Reorganization Committee to strengthen regional special education services and make membership more appealing to area districts. North Shore School District 112 is a member of TrueNorth, which serves students from several neighboring districts.

Superintendent Dr. Mike Lubelfeld recognized crossing guard Louis Rivera for his actions during a recent car accident near a school campus: "His quick thinking and calm response reflect the care and commitment crossing guards bring to the community every day, and the district and Board proudly honored him for his bravery and service."

Rachel Filippi, executive director of personnel services, reported results from an August Humanex organizational culture survey among staff: "The survey showed that 84% of employees are highly engaged and motivated." This marks eight consecutive years of measuring organizational culture within District 112.

Dr. Holly Colin, assistant superintendent for student services, shared enrollment figures showing that on day six of classes—the official count reported to state authorities—3,623 students were enrolled for 2025-2026. This is a decrease of about 1.7% compared to last year.

The Board also approved several new policies after review by its Policy Committee in July.

Future meetings include an October 7 Facilities Committee session; an October 14 Committee of the Whole meeting; and another regular board meeting on October 21.

North Shore School District 112 represents multiple schools in Lake County including Braeside Elementary School, Edgewood Middle School, Elm Place School, Green Bay School, Indian Trail Elementary School, Northwood Junior High School, Oak Terrace Elementary School, Ravinia Elementary School, Red Oak Elementary School, Sherwood Elementary School, and Wayne Thomas Elementary School (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/).

According to state data (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/), there are approximately 325 teachers in North Shore District 112 earning an average salary of $79,315 before pension contributions; most are women (80.7%), with no teacher reporting more than ten absences per year.

Demographically (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/), North Shore District 112’s student body is about 63.9 percent White; Hispanic students make up nearly one quarter at roughly 26.9 percent; Black students account for just under two percent; Asian students represent about three percent.

District spending per pupil was $27,611 in fiscal year 2020—totaling over $107 million according to state records (https://www.illinoisreportcard.com/).

For more information or to contact board members directly: boardmembers@nssd112.org.