A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Arthur Community Unified School District 305 regarding copies of all emails and memos from the past year that contain specific keywords. The request was made on January 28, 2025.
The East Central Reporter, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs, requested this information under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140. The request specifically asked for any emails or memos containing the terms “Lucy Calkins” and “Units of Study.”
As members of the media, 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. Notably, 58% of teachers in Illinois have a master's degree or higher.
This FOIA request is part of our ongoing commitment to provide comprehensive coverage on educational matters within Illinois. We will continue to seek out information that promotes transparency and accountability within our local school districts.
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