Phase 3

Below is a list of meetings that featured updates, conversations and presentations on Phase 3 and the dual language program, with English recordings and AI-generated Spanish translations available.

On Tuesday, October 8, Dr. Mike Lubelfeld and Dr. Monica Schroeder delivered a comprehensive presentation to the board of education, outlining potential ideas for Phase 3. The meeting also included an opportunity for community members to address the board about Phase 3.

On Tuesday, October 22, the Dr. Lubelfeld and Dr. Schroeder provided an update to the Board regarding Phase 3. This was part of a regular board of education meeting. In addition to the presentation, the meeting also featured a lengthy discuss by the board, as well as three opportunities for community members to address the board.

On Tuesday, December 17, Dr. Lubelfeld shared an update on the analysis of the dual language program. He introduced Dr. Sonia Soltero, a professor at DePaul University and a recognized expert in bilingual education, who has been hired to conduct the independent review. You can watch Dr. Lubelfeld’s presentation starting at 2:02:30 in the video below.

Additionally, several members of the public addressed the board regarding the potential closure of Red Oak. Their comments begin at 2:42:23 in the video below.

The review of the dual language program will play a crucial role in determining whether the program continues at two schools or is consolidated into a single location. Regardless of the outcome, the district remains fully committed to the dual language program.

On May 13, 2025, North Shore School District 112 held a special Board of Education meeting to hear a presentation from Dr. Sonia Soltero on her targeted analysis of the district’s dual language program. Dr. Soltero shared her findings and recommendations, followed by questions from the board and public comment from members of the community.

At the June 10, 2025, Board of Education meeting, Dr. Lubelfeld and Dr. Schroeder presented their recommendation to consolidate the K-5 dual language program at Oak Terrace and close Red Oak. They shared detailed background and outlined plans to form a Superintendent’s Task Force that will help guide the transition to a single-site program.

At the June 26, 2025, special meeting, the Board approved the administration’s recommendation to consolidate the K-5 dual language program at Oak Terrace Elementary School beginning in the 2027-2028 school year. As part of this action, Red Oak Elementary School will close following the 2026-2027 school year. The decision marked a major milestone in Phase 3 of the Long-Range Facilities Plan and initiated a two-year transition process guided by a Superintendent’s Task Force.