Will County Gazette

A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the New Lenox School District 122 on January 28, 2025. The request, made by the Will County Gazette, sought copies of all emails and memos from the past year that contained specific keywords.

The keywords in question were "Lucy Calkins" and "Units of Study". The purpose of this request is to provide comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs. As a media organization, we believe it is our duty to hold public institutions accountable and provide transparency to the public.

The Illinois Freedom of Information Act, under which this request was made, allows for access to public records essential for professional responsibilities such as ours. Given our role in disseminating information, we requested a fee waiver as a media professional.

New Lenox School District 122 Principal Dr. Lori Motsch (2023) | New Lenox School District 122

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 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.

We will continue our efforts to ensure transparency and accountability within our local government institutions.