Des Plaines District 62’s Personnel Committee has recommended adding seven staffers before fall classes open to handle a growing enrollment and a number of program expansions.
The recommendation would cost at least $200,000 a year, which could strain a district that is struggling to protect shrinking reserves in its education fund.
At least one of the new positions will be created to satisfy a state requirement that drama classes be taught in public schools. Two more will be created to handle a larger special education population next year, and another will be created for multicultural education.
Separately, District 62 is moving all of its 6th graders out of the elementary buildings and into the middle schools next year. While freeing space to allow for further enrollment growth, the change could require the hiring of more staff to enhance such 6th-grade programs as physical education, music and art.
The district board has tentatively agreed to the additions but will not give its formal approval until this spring or summer.