Dupage Policy Journal

On January 28, 2025, we at the DuPage Policy Journal submitted a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request to Downers Grove Grade School District 58. The request sought copies of all emails and memos from the past year that contained specific keywords.

The two key phrases in question were "Lucy Calkins" and "Units of Study". As a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive news coverage on local governmental affairs, it is our duty to hold public institutions accountable and provide transparency to the public. Access to these records will aid us in fulfilling our professional responsibilities.

We believe we are eligible for a fee waiver as media professionals given our role in disseminating information. We await the response from Downers Grove Grade School District 58 regarding this matter.

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 stood at $116,908. The average student-to-administrative ratio is noted as being 141:1, with an average student-to-teacher ratio of 17:1. Interestingly, over half of teachers in Illinois - about 58% - have earned a master's degree or higher.

These statistics highlight the commitment and dedication of educational professionals in Illinois. However, they also underscore the importance of transparency and accountability within our educational institutions – principles that can be upheld through actions such as FOIA requests.