By Adam Studzinski

NORMAL – Unit 5 held its first strategic planning meeting with the public Tuesday night.

This initial meeting was went to inform the public on various issues the district is facing, specifically in six different areas: Transportation, facilities, special education services, curriculum, co-curricular, and community partnerships. Citizens were asked how they feel Unit 5 currently handles those areas, and if they want to serve on a team which will help improve them.

Superintendent Mark Daniel said transportation is on a “tight timeline.”

“We have to have some decisions by the end of February and to the board in March,” said Daniel. “Again, wanting input in regards to start times, end times. What about two-tier, three-tier?”

Daniel said when it comes to something like facilities, they would like input on how to prioritize different needs.

“Let’s just pick a parking lot. Well, here are X amount of dollars, help us prioritize those dollars. Also, confirm and reaffirm what we’re doing,” he said.

Anyone who wants to continue in helping the district will be brought back for another meeting in November, when they will begin to dive into the issue further.

Adam Studzinski can be reached at [email protected].