Orland 135 Thanks Outgoing Board, Welcomes New Members

The Orland School District 135 community extends its heartfelt gratitude to three dedicated members of the Board of Education retiring this year: James Bax, Elizabeth Jobb, and Jennifer Tutor. Their years of service have left an indelible mark on the district, fostering growth, innovation, and stability for students and staff alike.

A proclamation issued on May 6, 2025, by Superintendent John Bryk highlighted the significant contributions of these outgoing board members. Their leadership was instrumental in several key achievements, including:

• Prioritizing Safety and Security: The Board consistently supported the implementation of innovative safety and security protocols across all schools, ensuring a secure learning environment for every student.
• Investing in Facilities: Through the District's 2030 Facility Plan, the Board oversaw the completion of five building additions and the remodeling of several schools. These improvements have provided essential curricular and extracurricular opportunities, enriching the educational experience for students and staff.
• Enhancing Community Engagement: The board members championed a collaborative culture through Board Advisory Committees, leading to increased community feedback and a significant rise in community engagement opportunities through various events.
• Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic: During an unprecedented time, their leadership provided crucial support for students and staff, ensuring the continuation of learning and extracurricular activities despite the challenges.
• Strategic Planning for the Future: The Board actively engaged with stakeholders to implement the District's Strategic Plan for 2024-2029, with a continued focus on ensuring each student's academic success.
• Fiscal Responsibility: As responsible stewards of taxpayer funds, the Board exercised fiscal responsibility by increasing the District's Fund Balance, saving the Community millions of dollars.

Superintendent Bryk expressed his deep appreciation for the retiring members, urging all to recognize their dedication and hard work in shaping an education system that meets the needs of the Orland 135 community.

As the district bids farewell to these accomplished leaders, it also warmly welcomes three new members to the Board of Education: Kelly Chmielewski, Ray Morandi, and Aisha Zayyad. The community looks forward to the fresh perspectives and continued commitment to excellence that these new individuals will bring. Their dedication will be crucial in building upon the strong foundation laid by their predecessors and ensuring a bright future for the students of Orland School District 135.