The Peotone school board on Monday, September 22, 2025, rejected the district’s 2025-2026 budget, which carried a $4.2 million deficit, setting off an urgent scramble to find significant cuts before a state deadline. The 4-3 vote against the budget came as the district faces a severe financial crisis, having exhausted its borrowing capacity. The administration must now present options for deep cuts before an emergency meeting to pass a revised budget. For complete details, see the main story.

The board also addressed the district’s financial challenges by rejecting a proposal to create new paid athletic supervisor positions. In other business, officials approved ten-year safety surveys that revealed over $570,000 in needed repairs across four schools, discussed a new plan to collect $372,000 in unpaid student fees, and introduced a new community engagement program called “Peotone PRIDE.”

District Forgoes Safe Routes to School Grant
The board committee discussed applying for a Safe Routes to School matching grant, which could provide up to $250,000 for projects like new sidewalks and crosswalks. The administration presented potential projects at Peotone High School and Peotone Elementary School. However, given the district’s current financial constraints and questions about the necessity of a proposed sidewalk at the high school, the consensus among board members was to forgo applying during this grant cycle.

Parent Raises Concerns Over Teacher’s Social Media Posts
During the public comment portion of the meeting, parent Katherine Man formally expressed concern about a district teacher posting “politically oriented material” on Facebook. Man requested the board review its social media and professional conduct policies to ensure clear guidelines for staff. She noted that while the teacher was spoken to, no further action was taken. Public commenter Mr. Maxedon later echoed these concerns, reading from district policies on employee ethics and conduct.

Public Criticizes Business Manager Amid Financial Woes
The district’s financial state drew sharp criticism from the public, with much of it directed at Business Manager Adrian Fulgencio. During public comment, Mr. Maxedon questioned Fulgencio’s salary of over $156,000, stating it was “unacceptable” to not have answers to board questions and to oversee budgets that require multiple revisions. Board member Ashley Stachniak also questioned discrepancies in financial reports during the consent agenda discussion.

New ‘Blue Crew’ Spirit Club Approved at High School
The board approved the formation of a new student pep club at Peotone High School called the “Blue Crew.” The club aims to grow community involvement and increase student engagement at school-wide events. The board approved the club and its new activity fund account, though members Tim Stoub and Jodi Becker voted against the proposals, reflecting fiscal caution expressed throughout the night.

Donations Accepted for ‘Go Big Blue’ Initiative
The Board of Education formally accepted over $5,000 in donations from numerous local businesses and individuals for the district’s “Go Big Blue” initiative. The funds will be used to purchase t-shirts for every student in the district. Assistant Superintendent Carole Zurales reported that the fundraising goal had been met and any additional funds will go toward staff recognition.