A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the East Peoria School District 86 in Illinois on January 28, 2025. The request was made by the Peoria Standard, a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The request specifically asked for copies of all emails and memos from the past year that contain the keywords "Lucy Calkins" and "Units of Study". As a news organization, we are involved in gathering and reporting news to the public. 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. Given our role in disseminating information, we believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals.
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.
The requested documents could shed light on internal communications within East Peoria School District 86 regarding educational programs or initiatives related to Lucy Calkins or Units of Study. This request is part of our ongoing commitment at Peoria Standard to ensure transparency and accountability within local government institutions.