The Summit Hill School District 161 Board of Education made several major decisions at its June 11 meeting, including the hiring of a School Resource Officer for two schools after a divided vote. The board also took the rare step of reversing a previous decision to not renew a principal’s contract. In a separate split vote, the board approved purchasing new IT help desk software.

In a strong showing of community support, the board also formally accepted over $52,000 in gifts from various school-affiliated organizations to fund programs and resources.

Here are other actions taken at the meeting:

Community Groups Donate Over $52,000: The board accepted a total of $52,527.97 in donations from parent-teacher organizations, booster clubs, and the Summit Hill Educational Foundation (SHEF). The largest gifts included $19,015 from the Hilda Walker School SCO and a $10,000 grant from SHEF. The funds support everything from classroom supplies to athletic programs and fine arts across the district.

New IT Software Approved in Split Vote: In a 4-3 decision, the board approved licensing new “Frontline Help Desk and Asset Inventory” software. The technology costs $6,912.50 annually, plus a one-time implementation fee of $2,500. Board members Joy Murphy, Adrian Chavez, Amy Berk, and Melissa Ryan voted in favor, while Patrick Oliphant, Ronnie Petrey, and John Winter voted against the purchase.

Elevator Repair Contract Awarded: The board unanimously approved a $24,915 contract with Urban Elevator to replace the submersible power unit in the elevator at Hilda Walker Intermediate School. The cost includes a one-year warranty on parts and labor.

Cybersecurity Insurance Increased: To protect against digital threats, the board approved adding $3 million in additional cybersecurity insurance coverage. The new coverage comes at an annual premium of $25,480.

Staffing Changes Approved: The board approved a lengthy list of personnel moves, including the resignations of five staff members and the hiring of 16 new employees. New hires include reading specialists, social workers, paraprofessionals, and numerous day and night custodians across multiple schools.

Eighth-Grade D.C. Trip Gets Go-Ahead: The annual eighth-grade trip to Washington D.C. was unanimously approved for the 2025-2026 school year. The trip is scheduled for April 23, 2026, for all eighth-grade students who elect to attend.

New Board Goals Presented: Superintendent Dr. Paul McDermott presented an infographic detailing the board’s “Future-Focused” goals for the 2024-2025 school year. The three main goals are focused on Student Learning, Technology and Communications, and Human and Fiscal Resources.