Barry Reilly

After more than 30 years at District 87 schools, superintendent Barry Reilly can see the finish line.

About half of District 87 students plan to stay in remote learning when the district resumes in-person instruction next week.

With District 87 planning a return to in-person learning for elementary students, some parents think keeping the remote learning option isn't enough. They say the hybrid format doesn't sufficiently reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection and stunts progress kids are finally starting to make with virtual learning.

District 87 parents have said the remote learning experience has generally been good, except for those with young children.

Educators in Bloomington-Normal public schools say they support the goals of racial justice and equality that embody the Black Lives Matter movement, but they are not on board with all of the group's demands.

District 87 Superintendent Barry Reilly said he understands the hesitation teachers have about returning to the classroom next month in the midst of a pandemic.

District 87 Superintendent Barry Reilly said the Illinois State Board of Education made a political, knee jerk reaction when it banned isolated seclusion for disruptive students.

District 87 plans to use cash reserves to help fill a projected $2 million deficit. The school board approved the $65.6 million spending plan Wednesday night.

District 87 Superintendent Barry Reilly said it was eye-opening to see how bad Illinois' teacher shortage is and could become.