South Cook News

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to Lansing School District 158 regarding emails and memos on January 28, 2025. The request was made by South Cook News, a media organization committed to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.

The FOIA request specifically asked for copies of all emails and memos from the past year that contain the keywords "Lucy Calkins" and "Units of Study". These records were requested under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act, 5 ILCS 140, preferably in electronic format.

As members of the media at South Cook News, 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.

Lansing School District 158 Principal Dr. Nathan Schilling (2023) | Lansing School District 158

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. Interestingly enough, 58% of teachers in Illinois have a master's degree or higher.

This data underscores the importance of transparency in our educational institutions. We look forward to receiving a response from Lansing School District 158 regarding our FOIA request.