A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Lawrence County Community Unit District 20 on January 28, 2025. The request was made by East Central Reporter, a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The request specifically sought copies of all emails and memos from the past year that contain the keywords “Lucy Calkins” and “Units of Study”. As a media organization, East Central Reporter has expressed its role in gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is crucial for fulfilling professional responsibilities, which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
East Central Reporter has also requested a fee waiver as a media professional under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140. This law allows for certain fees associated with FOIA requests to be waived for members of the media.
In related news, 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 reported at 141:1, with an average student-to-teacher ratio of 17:1. Interestingly enough, it's noted that 58% of teachers in Illinois have earned a master's degree or higher.
As we continue our mission at East Central Reporter to provide comprehensive coverage on local governmental affairs, we believe that access to these records will shed light on important matters concerning our education system.
Alerts Sign-up