A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was sent to the Geneseo Community Unit School District 228 on January 28, 2025. The request was made by Rock Island Today, a media organization dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate news coverage on local governmental affairs.
The FOIA request specifically asked for copies of all emails and memos from the past year that contain the keywords “Lucy Calkins” and “Units of Study”. As a media organization, Rock Island Today is involved in gathering and reporting news to the public. Access to public records is essential for fulfilling professional responsibilities, which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
Rock Island Today believes it is eligible for a fee waiver as a media professional due to its role in disseminating information. The organization has expressed its commitment to maintaining open communication lines with Geneseo Community Unit School District 228 throughout this process.
According to the Illinois Report Card, the average state teacher salary in 2023 was $73,916, and the state average Administrative Salary was $116,908. The average student-to-administrative ratio is 141:1, and the average student-to-teacher ratio is 17:1. Interestingly, 58% of teachers in Illinois have a master’s degree or higher.
This FOIA request aligns with Rock Island Today’s mission of providing comprehensive coverage of local government affairs. By seeking access to these records, we aim to further our understanding of educational trends within our community while promoting transparency in our local institutions.
