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Safety, Support, Success Annual Report 2026

“Rooted in Purpose, Growing Together” wasn’t just our theme this past year, it was our promise. And because we stayed rooted in a common purpose, we grew together, creating real opportunities for students, educators, and schools across our region. - Lorie LeQuatte

Regional Superintendent of Schools

A MESSAGE FROM THE REGIONAL SUPERINTENDENT When I look back on this past year, one word comes to mind: Purpose. Last year, we challenged ourselves to make FY26 a year defined by our theme, Rooted in Purpose, Growing Together. This became a guide for the decisions we made, the partnerships we strengthened, and the opportunities we pursued across our region. As I reflect on everything we’ve accomplished together, I believe that theme captured this year perfectly. Growth doesn’t happen overnight. It happens when people are willing to listen, collaborate, and stay focused on what matters most. Throughout this year, that’s exactly what I saw from our school districts, our educators, our community partners, and our ROE #21 team. We continued asking ourselves an important question: How can we better support the schools and communities we serve? The answer was to become more intentional about how we work together. Over the past several years, we’ve invested in strengthening leadership, expanding student supports, growing professional learning opportunities, and building partnerships that help schools meet the evolving needs of students. This year, those efforts became more connected than ever before. As our programs continue to align with one another, we’re creating stronger systems that help schools respond more effectively while allowing educators to stay focused on teaching and learning. Our theme for FY27 is Aligned for Impact, and I believe it reflects where we’re headed as an organization. When we’re aligned, our impact grows. This annual report highlights many of the accomplishments that made this year so meaningful, but behind every number is something even more important: people working together on behalf of students. To our superintendents, administrators, teachers, school boards, staff, community partners, and families, thank you for your trust, your collaboration, and your commitment to public education. It is a privilege to serve alongside you. The foundation we’ve built together is strong. I’m excited to see what we’ll accomplish next.

Lorie LeQuatte

Lorie LeQuatte, Regional Superintendent

TABL EOFC ONTE NTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS 6 12 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 34 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54

So Fresh & So Now About Us Our Programs & Services ROE #21 Alternative Learning Opportunities Program (ALOP) S.T.A.R. Quest Academy | ECHO Alternative School High School Equivalency | Partners Against Chronic Truancy (P.A.C.T.) McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Program The K.I.D.S. Foundation | Coats for Kids Career & Technical Education (CTE) Community Prevention Resources (CPR) Professional Learning Comprehensive Educational Support Services Licensure Bus Driver Training | Fingerprinting Health Life & Safety | Compliance Review Community Partnerships | Professional Associations It’s All Fun & Games High School Career Fair | Brain Games | Spelling Bee Contact Us 5

SOFR ESH& SON OW

BUILDING STRONGER SCHOOLS TOGETHER Every student has a story, and every school faces unique challenges. Some students struggle with attendance. Others face academic, social-emotional, or family challenges that create barriers to learning. Rarely is there just one obstacle, and no school should have to face those challenges alone. At ROE #21, we believe the best solutions come through partnership. Over the past several years, we have intentionally brought together people, expertise, and resources to create a more connected system of support for the schools and communities we serve. By working alongside educators and listening to the needs of our districts, we are building stronger schools, expanding opportunities for students, and creating lasting impact—together. 8

We're focused on what matters most - students. The ROE #21 is connecting programs, people, and expertise so that districts can access the right support. more easily.

LOOKING AT THE WHOLE PICTURE

LEADERSHIP COACHING

ATTENDANCE SUPPORT

No challenge exists in isolation.

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING

Attendance affects achievement. Student well-being influences learning. Strong instruction depends on strong leadership. Lasting improvement happens when every piece works together.

ONE

That’s why ROE #21 has intentionally built a connected system of support.

PARTNERSHIP

By bringing together student services, professional learning, leadership development, and school improvement, we help districts address challenges from every angle—not as separate initiatives, but as one coordinated effort.

MCKINNEY-VENTO SERVICES

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT

STUDENT SUPPORT

For our schools, that means one trusted partner, one shared purpose, and stronger outcomes for the schools and communities we serve.

None of our efforts stand alone. Schools experience them as part of one partnership.

SCHOOL IMPROVEMENT DOESN'T HAPPEN IN ONE OFFICE Continuous improvement happens when principals have strong leadership support and teachers have access to meaningful professional learning. Change happens when students receive the academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support they need. Each piece matters because every piece affects student success. That belief has guided much of our work this year.

S.P.A.R.K. Collaborative and school leadership teams are working together to better understand Illinois’ accountability system, interpret student data, strengthen MTSS, and develop practical strategies they can take back to their buildings.

The ROE LEAD Hub is helping prepare the next generation of principals for schools across Southern Illinois.

Our ALOP team continues to grow as more districts seek additional support for students facing academic, attendance, and behavioral challenges.

PACT is working with more schools than ever before to improve attendance before problems become more serious.

McKinney-Vento staff remain an important resource for students experiencing homelessness and the educators working to support them.

School improvement thrives on a shared commitment. At ROE 21, we build capacity in our schools, empower educators, and strengthen programs to guarantee student success. - Mandy Horn 10

Assistant Regional Superintendent of Schools

GROWING WITH OUR SCHOOLS One of the most encouraging signs this year has been the growth we’ve seen. More Schools Are Participating in ALOP More students supported than ever before More PACT Referrals As districts reach out sooner Nearly 150 Leadership Teams Participated in the first SPARK Collaborative

A NEW HOME FOR STUDENT PROGRAMS This year, ROE #21 purchased a new facility that will become the future home of our student programs. Renovations are planned over the next year, with students expected to begin learning in the new space during the 2027 school year. The building represents another step forward in creating an environment where students and staff have the resources they need to succeed.

And yet, growth brings responsibility. As more districts place their trust in ROE #21, we continue looking for ways to serve them well, whether that’s through new professional learning opportunities, expanded student services, or investments that prepare us for the future.

As you turn the page, you’ll see the numbers behind each of our programs. More importantly, you’ll see how those programs are helping schools across Southern Illinois build stronger systems, support more students, and prepare for whatever comes next.

50 12

THIS ISWH OWE ARE

ABOUT US The Regional Office of Education #21 exists to strengthen public education across Franklin, Johnson, Massac, and Williamson counties by supporting the people who make learning possible every day. As the link between the Illinois State Board of Education and our local school districts, we provide the leadership, services, and resources schools need to meet today’s challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities. Our work reaches far beyond compliance. We partner with educators, administrators, school boards, families, and community organizations to help schools build capacity, support students, and create learning environments where everyone can succeed. Whether we’re providing professional learning, developing school leaders, supporting student attendance, coordinating state programs, or helping districts navigate complex issues, our focus remains the same: Helping schools spend more time doing what they do best...educating students.

Our Mission To support and strengthen our districts’ students, families, educators, and communities through programs and services that ensure safer schools, well-trained educators, and opportunities for all.

Our Vision As the educational leadership hub for Southern Illinois, ROE #21 builds the capacity of learners to grow, educators to teach, leaders to lead, and districts to improve.

We handle the details that help schools run smoothly - so teachers can focus on teaching and students can stay on track. 13 51

OUR STRATEGIC GOALS

OUR SELECT GRANT PROGRAMS

Increase Awareness Of ROE #21 And Its Programs And Services

Career and Technical Education (CTE)

Expand Professional Learning Opportunities And District Continuous Improvement Processes

District Literacy Plan

Community Prevention Resources (CPR) Computer Science Equity Grant

Franklin County Regional Delivery System of Support - CTE | Perkins Grants Illinois Elevating Special Educators (IESE)

Become A Leading Voice And Advocate For Southern Illinois Schools Develop Systems And Processes For Evaluating Programs And Services

LEAD | Ed Project Grants - Supporting All Principals McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Program New Principal Mentoring Grant - Supporting New Principals Partners Against Chronic Truancy (PACT) Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and Trauma Response Grant S.T.A.R. Quest Academy Regional Safe School Program

WHO WE SERVE 25

1,300

2,024

18,750+

School Districts & Cooperatives

Private School Buildings

Active Teachers

126

School Administrators

1,410

Service Area Square Mileage

Public School Buildings

Professional Educators

Enrolled Students

ROE #21 Employees

130,382

Franklin County Population: Enrollment:

37,061 5,570

1 2 3

Williamson County Population: Enrollment:

66,868 9,829

Johnson County

3 Population:

Enrollment:

13,261 1,136

Massac County Population: Enrollment:

13,495 2,083

Total Population

Area VI Covered for Grants Elevating Special EducatorsGrant (ROEs 45 & 50)

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PROG RAMS &SERV ICES

MEETING STUDENTS WHERE THEY ARE

No two students arrive at school carrying the same burdens. Some are struggling academically. Others are facing anxiety, unstable housing, family hardships, or challenges that make it difficult to stay engaged in the classroom. Many have begun to believe that school simply isn’t a place where they can succeed. That’s where ALOP begins. The Alternative Learning Opportunities Program places Student Advocates directly in schools, providing another trusted adult who works alongside students, families, teachers, counselors, and administrators to remove barriers that stand in the way of learning. Each advocate builds relationships with students while helping them develop the confidence, skills, and support systems needed to move forward. 18

This program has infused our building with hope, proving to both staff and students that every individual can succeed with the right support. - Brad Heuring

Principal, Herrin Junior High School

WHAT MAKES ALOP UNIQUE

What makes ALOP unique is the belief that every student deserves someone who refuses to give up on them. Today, ALOP serves students in grades 4 through 12 across schools throughout Southern Illinois, providing individualized support that strengthens attendance, improves behavior, increases family engagement, and helps students reconnect with their education. Student Advocates don’t replace the work already happening within schools. They become part of the team, working side-byside with educators to ensure students receive the support they need both inside and outside the classroom. Throughout the year, advocates collaborated closely with PACT, McKinney-Vento, ECHO Alternative School, STAR Quest Academy, school social workers, and community agencies, creating a network of support that allows schools to respond more effectively when students face complex challenges.

ALOP allows us to meet students where they are academically, behaviorally, and emotionally. - District Superintendent

BY THE NUMBERS 18

666

Grades 4-12

Partner Schools

Students Served

Student Advocates

Supporting Southern Illinois Students

EVERY STUDENT HAS A DIFFERENT STORY

One middle school student entered ALOP convinced she had fallen too far behind to catch up. After failing every class earlier in the year, she quietly accepted that graduating with her classmates was no longer possible. With consistent support from her Student Advocate, she began setting small, achievable goals. By the end of the school year, she had raised her grades into the B and C range and proudly crossed the graduation stage alongside her classmates. Sometimes success means earning a diploma. Sometimes it means attending school consistently for the first time in months. Sometimes it’s believing that tomorrow can look different than yesterday.

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BY THE NUMBERS 11

Districts Served

CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENT SUCCESS

Every student deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and build a positive future. S.T.A.R. Quest Academy, the Regional Safe School Program for ROE #21, provides a supportive educational setting for students in grades 6-12 who need an alternative pathway to remain engaged in school. Rather than allowing disciplinary challenges to end a student’s educational journey, the program provides the structure, guidance, and individualized support needed to help students make positive choices and continue working toward graduation. With two program locations serving the region, S.T.A.R. Quest Academy combines rigorous academics with behavioral support, goal setting, and relationship-building in an environment designed to help students regain confidence and prepare for a successful transition back to their home schools or towards graduation.

Guided by the belief that every student can grow when given the right support, S.T.A.R. Quest Academy helps students develop the responsibility, resilience, and life skills needed to succeed both in school and beyond.

Students Enrolled

Students Promoted

Credits Attempted & Earned

100% Students Graduated

We believe in second chances, fresh starts, and brighter futures.

BY THE NUMBERS 118

Students Served

A PLACE WHERE STUDENTS MOVE FORWARD

Every student arrives at ECHO with a different story. Some have fallen behind academically. Others are navigating challenges outside the classroom that have made school feel overwhelming. Whatever brought them here, our mission is the same: provide the support, structure, and encouragement students need to move forward with confidence.

408

As a fully accredited alternative education program, ECHO helps junior high and high school students stay on track academically while surrounding them with caring adults who believe in their potential. Students earn the credits they need toward graduation while also developing the skills they’ll carry with them long after they leave our classrooms. Throughout the year, students celebrate milestones both large and small. Whether it’s improved attendance, positive behavior, academic growth, or earning a diploma, every success is recognized because every step forward matters. At ECHO, we believe students should never be defined by where they’ve been. They should be known for where they’re capable of going.

School Districts Represented

Credits Completed

Students Promoted

93%

Graduation Rate

78%

Avg. High School Attendance 21 9

HIGH SCHOOL EQUIVALENCY OPENING DOORS TO NEW OPPORTUNITIES

Earning a high school equivalency certification can be the first step toward a new career, higher education, military service, or achieving a personal goal that once felt out of reach. ROE #21 provides guidance and support throughout the process, helping individuals navigate registration, access study resources, and prepare for testing with confidence. Our staff works one-on-one with adult learners to answer questions, connect them with available resources, and help remove barriers that can stand in the way of earning a high school equivalency credential. Every certification earned represents new opportunities for individuals, stronger families, and a more prepared workforce throughout our region. ROE #21 is proud to support adult learners as they take the next step toward their educational and career goals.

171 22

School Transcripts

Equivalency Certificates

132

3rd Party Verifications

Every High School Equivalency Certificate earned represents new opportunities for individuals, stronger families, and a more prepared workforce throughout our region.

BY THE NUMBERS

1,058

1,544

5,867

97%

Students Referred

Student & Family Outreach Contacts

Targeted Interventions

Attendance Issues Resolved without Court Involvement

EVERY STUDENT. EVERY DAY. EVERY OPPORTUNITY. Every absence tells a story. For some students, it’s anxiety or mental health challenges. For others, it’s transportation, housing instability, family circumstances, or barriers that make getting to school difficult. What may appear to be an attendance issue is often the result of something much bigger. The Partners Against Chronic Truancy (PACT) Team works alongside schools, families, and community partners to identify those barriers early and connect students with the support they need to stay engaged in their education. Through student meetings, family conferences, home visits, attendance planning, and ongoing collaboration with school staff and local agencies, PACT helps students reconnect with school before attendance concerns become long-term challenges. No two students need the same support, which is why every intervention is built around the individual. Whether helping a family navigate a housing crisis, supporting a student struggling with anxiety, or connecting a young person with additional educational resources, the goal remains the same: keeping students connected to learning and creating opportunities for long-term success. PACT’s success is built on partnership. Working closely with school districts, ALOP Student Advocates, McKinney-Vento services, mental health providers, State’s Attorneys, law enforcement, and community organizations, the team creates a network of support that helps students overcome barriers and stay on track.

23 9

REMOVING BARRIERS. RESTORING STABILITY.

For a child experiencing homelessness, the biggest challenge is maintaining a sense of normalcy when nearly everything else feel uncertain. The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Program helps ensure that housing instability does not interrupt a student’s education. Whether a family is living temporarily with relatives, staying in a shelter, residing in a motel, or facing another form of housing insecurity, the program works alongside schools to remove barriers that could prevent students from attending and succeeding in school. ROE #21 partners closely with district homeless liaisons, school staff, and community organizations to identify eligible students and connect families with the resources they need. Support may include school enrollment assistance, transportation coordination, school supplies, referrals to community services, academic support, and access to programs that help students remain engaged in learning. Just as importantly, the program helps schools navigate the requirements of the McKinney-Vento Act while ensuring students receive the stability, consistency, and opportunities they deserve. Every student deserves the chance to remain connected to school, even when life outside the classroom becomes uncertain. 24

EVERY STUDENT ALSO DESERVES STABILITY

When students experience homelessness or housing instability, the law provides important protections that help keep their education on track. Students served through McKinney-Vento may receive: Immediate school enrollment, even when records are incomplete

BY THE NUMBERS 1,738

Students Supported (ROE #21)

6,745

Students Supported (ROE 12,13,20,21,30)

The opportunity to remain in their school of origin when appropriate

Transportation assistance when eligible

Access to school supplies, academic support, and community resources

McKinney-Vento helps ensure that temporary housing challenges do not - District Superintendent become permanent educational setbacks.

Full participation in school activities alongside their peers

K.I.D.S. FOUNDATION

Because ROE #21 covers all administrative expenses, every dollar donated to the foundation goes directly toward supporting local children.

HELPING CHILDREN WHEN THEY NEED IT MOST

For more than two decades, the K.I.D.S. (Kids In Difficult Situations) Foundation has provided a helping hand to students and families facing unexpected challenges in Franklin and Williamson counties. Supported through the generosity of school employees, local businesses, and community fundraising efforts, the foundation assists with needs that can make a meaningful difference in a child’s life, including school supplies, clothing, emergency healthcare, educational experiences, and scholarships. Because ROE #21 covers all administrative expenses, every dollar donated goes directly toward supporting local children. When unexpected hardships arise, the K.I.D.S. Foundation helps ensure students have the resources they need to stay focused on learning and continue moving forward.

46 Children Supported

COATS FOR KIDS COMMUNITIES COMING TOGETHER FOR STUDENTS

A warm coat can make all the difference during a Southern Illinois winter. Through the Coats for Kids program, ROE 20, ROE 21, ROE 30, Egyptian Building Trades, and community partners work together to provide coats and other winter clothing to students across a 17-county region. Funded primarily through the generosity of Egyptian Building Trades and the annual Coats for Kids Golf Scramble, the program reflects what can happen when schools, businesses, and community organizations unite around a common purpose. Together, these partnerships help ensure students arrive at school warm, comfortable, and ready to learn.

Students Served

$4,505.32 Funds Distributed

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Hands-on learning that builds college, career, and life readiness.

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR COLLEGE & BEYOND The Franklin County Regional Delivery System (FCRDS), facilitated through ROE #21, continues to expand access to high-quality Career and Technical Education (CTE) opportunities for students across Benton, Christopher, Frankfort Community, Sesser-Valier, Thompsonville, and Zeigler-Royalton High Schools. The consortium offers 61 CTE programs designed to provide hands-on, career-focused learning aligned with local workforce needs and pathways leading to high-skill, high-wage, and high-demand occupations.

8 28

STUDENT-BUILT, FUTURE READY All six participating high schools also provide access to dual credit coursework, strengthening postsecondary readiness and allowing students to earn college credit while still in high school. In addition, the system supports four regional programsthat enhance specialized training opportunities across districts.

During the reporting period, approximately 1,871 CTE enrollments were recorded across the consortium, reflecting total course registrations, including students enrolled in multiple classes. Collectively, these programs strengthen career path ways, increase student engagement, and prepare graduates with the academic, technical, and employability skills needed for success beyond high school and into postsecondary education or careers.

BY THE NUMBERS 61

CTE Programs

Participating High Schools

Regional Programs

1,871

CTE Enrollments

Dual Credit at All 6 High Schools

PARTICIPATING DISTRICTS: Benton, Christopher, Frankfort Community, Sesser-Valier, Thompsonville, Zeigler-Royalton. 29 9

BY THE NUMBERS 23,000+

Prevention Materials Distributed

PREVENTION THAT CONNECTS WITH STUDENTS

7,791

Classroom Teaching Minutes

Helping young people make smart choices starts long before a difficult decision ever presents itself. It begins by building trust, creating meaningful conversations, and giving students the confidence to choose a healthy path. That’s the focus of Community Prevention Resources (CPR). Working with schools across Franklin and Saline counties, CPR delivers evidence-based substance use prevention while creating original campaigns and interactive learning experiences designed specifically for local students. Every lesson, activity, and resource is built around one simple belief: Students are more likely to remember prevention when they’re actively engaged in it. This year, the team continued to strengthen partnerships with schools, families, and community organizations while developing new ways to make prevention education relevant, memorable, and accessible. 8 30

3,000

Student Touchpoints

PREVENTION THAT PRODUCES RESULTS*

71%

Decrease in past 30-day use of tobacco and vaping products since 2018.

45%

Decrease in past 30-day alcohol use since 2018.

*IYS 2026 data is still being processed.

MORE THAN A CURRICULUM

Many schools teache substance use prevention. CPR believes students should experience it. Instead of relying solely on presentations and printed materials, the team creates interactive campaigns, games, and activities that encourage students to think, participate, and continue conversations long after the lesson ends. That creative approach has become a hallmark of the program and has earned statewide recognition.

INSPIRED BY OUR STUDENTS, CREATED BY OUR TEAM

The Scoop Created with input from middle school students, this original board game helps incoming students navigate the transition to middle school while reinforcing healthy decision-making and positive peer relationships.

A Couple Truths & A Lie An interactive trivia game that challenges high school students to separate myths from facts about vaping through friendly competition and classroom discussion.

Treasure or Trash

Developed for National Prevention Week with guidance from the Youth Advisory Council, this fast-paced game helps students recognize the risks of alcohol, vaping, opioids, and prescription drug misuse while reinforcing healthy alternatives.

Marketing Campaigns

Our campaigns are locally designed to help prevent middle school students from using alcohol underage. Use Your Cube is focused on students and The Elephant is in the Room is focused on supporting their parents. Our overall approach is to inspire and engage. 31

PREVENTION THAT MAKES AN IMPACT Local Initiatives, Statewide Impact. This year, CPR staff were invited to share their innovative prevention approach on, ‘Voices in Prevention’, continued to serve on the Illinois Substance Use Prevention Advisory Board, and helped advise another Regional Office of Education to help strengthen their prevention program. Prevention that Students Actually Want to Participate In Interactive games and locally developed campaigns helped create nearly 3,000 student touchpoints, turning prevention education into something students looked forward to instead of simply sitting through. Listening Before Leading Student focus groups along with the Youth Advisory Council continues to shape many of CPR’s campaigns, ensuring prevention messages reflect the voices, language, and experiences of the students they’re designed to reach.

Measuring What Matters Every campaign is backed by data. Through classroom instruction, community partnerships, and the Illinois Youth Survey, CPR continually evaluates outcomes to ensure its work is making a measurable difference for students. In turn, CPR is continually evaluated through IDHS and the Center for Prevention Research and Development.

INTERACTIVE. LOCAL. IMPACTFUL. 800

1,600

6,700+

1,144

86%

Students Reached

Illinois Youth Surveys Completed

Parents Reached

Participation in the Illinois Youth Survey

When students help design the message, they help deliver the change.

Miles Traveled

Original Game Designs

33 9

TAKE FLIGH T&SO AR

GROWING EDUCATORS, STRENGTHENING SCHOOLS The strongest schools never stop learning. That belief continues to guide Professional Learning at ROE #21. Every workshop, coaching session, leadership cohort, and collaborative is designed with one goal in mind: helping educators build the knowledge, confidence, and skills they need to improve outcomes for students. Professional learning has grown considerably in recent years. Today, our team includes two Professional Learning Specialists, a Professional Learning Director, a Professional Learning Coordinator, instructional coaches, and regional partners who work alongside schools throughout Southern Illinois.

When educators grow, students achieve more.

PROFESSIONAL LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS What makes this work different is its responsiveness. Rather than offering the same trainings year after year, every opportunity is shaped by district needs, educator feedback, and emerging priorities across Illinois education. Whether schools are navigating literacy initiatives, implementing artificial intelligence, strengthening MTSS, or preparing future leaders, ROE #21 provides learning experiences that are timely, practical, and immediately applicable.

BY THE NUMBERS

235

Professional Learning Events

6,086 17

Educators & School Personnel Served

School Districts Engaged in SPARK

150

OUR TEAM

Professional Learning Specialists

Professional Learning Director

Professional Learning Coordinator

School Leadership Team Members

BUILDING CAPACITY AT EVERY LEVEL This year also marked an important milestone with the launch of the S.P.A.R.K. (Schools Pursuing Achievement, Results, and Knowledge) Collaborative. School leadership teams from across the region came together to analyze data, strengthen continuous improvement efforts, and learn from one another. S.P.A.R.K. has quickly become more than a professional learning series. It has become a network of educators committed to helping every school grow. Professional learning looks different for every educator. Throughout the year, ROE #21 offered opportunities that supported teachers, principals, instructional coaches, counselors, technology leaders, and aspiring administrators. S.P.A.R.K. Collaborative Leadership teams work together to analyze data, strengthen continuous improvement, and learn from each other.

Crucial Conversations Building skills for effective dialogue, trust, and solutions to tackle tough conversations.

Literacy Leaders Building instructional expertise in literacy to drive reading achievement across all grade levels.

Technology Learning Providing practical tools and strategies to integrate technology that enhances teaching and learning.

LEAD | Ed Preparing and supporting the next generation of leaders through mentorship, learning, and leadership development.

Professional Learning Communities

Essential Facilitation Equipping educators to lead engaging meetings, professional learning, and collaborative conversations. 38

Creating time and structure for educators to collaborate, share strategies, and improve practice.

ADDITIONAL IMPACT Instructional Coaching Our instructional coaches partner with educators through job-embedded coaching, data analysis, curriculum alignment, collaboration, and continuous improvement - supporting high-quality instruction that leads to stronger student outcomes. Career Exploration Through the annual Career Fair, Brain Games, and Regional Spelling Bee, we inspire students to explore their interests, build confidence, and discover pathways that extend learning beyond the classroom.

ROE #21 remains focused on providing professional learning that doesn’t end when the workshop does. It continues through coaching, collaboration, and lasting partnerships with our schools. 39 9

EDSU PPOR TSERV ICES

LICENSURE SERVICES HELPING EDUCATORS NAVIGATE EVERY STEP

Behind every successful classroom is a qualified educator, and ROE #21 is committed to helping teachers, substitutes, and school leaders navigate the licensure process with confidence. Our Licensure Department serves as a trusted resource for educators throughout the region, providing guidance on initial licensure, endorsements, renewals, and registration requirements. Whether someone is entering the profession or advancing their career, our team helps ensure applications are completed accurately and efficiently. ROE #21 also offers training for individuals seeking a Short-Term Substitute (STS) License. These workshops prepare future substitute teachers with practical instruction in classroom management, school safety, and the expectations of today’s learning environment. By providing local expertise and responsive support, ROE #21 helps districts maintain a strong pipeline of qualified educators while making the licensure process more accessible for those who answer the call to teach. 42

Behind every successful classroom is a qualified educator.

BY THE NUMBERS

1,540

1,269

350

Licenses Registered

Substitute Teacher Licenses Registered

Licenses Issued

Sub for Subs Trainings (Subs Donated by Marion Subway)

THANK YOU!

BUS DRIVER TRAINING

The ROE #21 remains committed to supporting safe, reliable transportation across our region.

KEEPING SAFETY AT THE CENTER OF EVERY ROUTE

Every school day begins and ends with thousands of students traveling safely to and from school. ROE #21 helps make that possible by providing the state-required training bus drivers need to transport students with confidence and care. Through Initial and Refresher Bus Driver Training, drivers receive up-to-date instruction on Illinois safety requirements, student management, emergency procedures, and best practices behind the wheel. Courses are updated annually to reflect current regulations and ensure drivers are prepared for the responsibilities they carry each day. As districts continue to welcome new drivers and invest in ongoing professional development, ROE #21 remains committed to supporting safe, reliable transportation for students across our region.

BY THE NUMBERS

Bus Driver Trainings

401

Total Trainees

FINGERPRINTING SERVICES

HELPING SCHOOLS HIRE SAFELY & EFFICIENTLY

Creating safe learning environments starts long before a new employee enters the classroom. ROE #21 provides electronic fingerprinting services for new public school employees, helping districts meet Illinois School Code requirements for state and FBI criminal background checks. Fast, accurate processing allows school districts to complete hiring requirements efficiently while maintaining the highest standards for student safety. By providing this service locally, we help districts streamline the hiring process so qualified educators and staff can begin serving students as quickly as possible.

1,594

Fingerprint & Background Checks Conducted

45 9

HEALTH LIFE SAFETY

BY THE NUMBERS 58

District Buildings Inspected

HELPING CHILDREN WHEN THEY NEED IT MOST

Building Permits Issued

Occupancy Permits Issued

Safe learning environments begin with safe facilities.

ROE #21 works closely with school districts, architects, and contractors throughout every stage of school construction and renovation projects to ensure compliance with Illinois Health Life Safety requirements. From reviewing building plans to issuing permits and monitoring required documentation, our team helps districts navigate the process with confidence while protecting the safety of students and staff.

Completion Permits Issued

10-Year Surveys Processed

Whether supporting a classroom renovation or a major capital improvement project, ROE #21 provides guidance that helps schools maintain facilities that are safe, functional, and ready to support learning for years to come.

22 46

Maintenance Grants Approved

COMPLIANCE REVIEW

Together, we help ensure schools remain wellprepared to serve students while meeting state expectations with confidence.

COMMUNITIES COMING TOGETHER FOR STUDENTS Every school district works hard to meet the many state requirements that support high-quality education. ROE #21 helps make that process more manageable through regular compliance reviews conducted in each district across Franklin, Williamson, Johnson, and Massac counties. On a rotating schedule, the Regional Superintendent and Assistant Regional Superintendent work alongside district leaders to review operational requirements, personnel credentials, board policies, financial records, curriculum, and other areas required by the Illinois School Code. More than a compliance check, these visits provide an opportunity to answer questions, share resources, and strengthen partnerships with local districts. Together, we help ensure schools remain well-prepared to serve students while meeting state expectations with confidence. SCHOOL COMPLIANCE RECOGNITION APPROVALS

School Districts

Special Education Co-Op

Private School 47

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS CARE A VAN Resilient Southern Illinois

Together, we’re building stronger schools and brighter futures for our communities.

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

THANK YOU!

OUR SPONSOR

This report was made possible with generous support from our partners at Farmers State Bank.

Your commitment and support helps us create lasting impact for schools, and the communities we serve. 49 9

ITSAL LFUN &GA MES

LEARNING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM Some of the most meaningful moments of the school year happen outside the classroom. Throughout the year, ROE #21 brings together students, educators, families, and community partners through events that spark curiosity, celebrate achievement, and strengthen connections across our region. Because sometimes learning looks like solving a challenge with your teammates. Sometimes it means meeting a future employer. And sometimes it’s simply seeing a child smile because they know someone is cheering them on.

A small act of kindness today can create a brighter tomorrow. 52

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE YEAR

Family & Community Events ROE #21 staff partnered with local schools throughout the year for family engagement nights, community fairs, reading events, and back-to-school celebrations. Student Advocates, McKinney-Vento staff, PACT, and ALOP teams connected with families, shared resources, and strengthened relationships that support student success beyond the classroom. 4th Annual Career Fair Students explored career pathways, connected with local employers, and learned firsthand about opportunities available after graduation through hands-on conversations with business and industry leaders. 3rd Annual Brain Games Students from across Southern Illinois put their teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills to the test in one of the region’s favorite academic competitions. 2nd Annual Regional Spelling Bee Outstanding student spellers from schools across the region came together to celebrate academic excellence, perseverance, and friendly competition.

BY THE NUMBERS CAREER FAIR

90 Participating Vendors 25 Participating Schools 630+ Student Attendees BRAIN GAMES

75 Competing Teams 300 Student Competitors 121 Regional Teams VI 484 Area Participants REGIONAL SPELLING BEE

35 Student Competitors 18 Participating Schools

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CONT ACT& CONN ECT

Safety, Support, Success FRANKLIN COUNTY

WILLIAMSON COUNTY

JOHNSON COUNTY

901 Public Square Benton, IL 62812

502 West Jackson Marion, IL 62959

111 S. 5th, PO Box 96 Vienna, IL 62995

109 East 5th Street Metropolis, IL 62960

618-438-9711

618-998-1283

618-800-3350

618-524-3736

618-435-2861

618-998-9226

By Appt. Only

618-524-7784

Monday-Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

By Appt. Only

Tuesday-Thursday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

VISIT US ONLINE To learn more about the Regional Office of Education #21 and the services we provide, scan the code with your mobile device or visit us online at: www.roe21.org

MASSAC COUNTY

LET'S GET SOCIAL Friend Us: RegionalOfficeofEducation21 Follow Us: ROE21_FJMW Find Us: _ROE21 55