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Cicero School District 99

We Move Forward Together!

Board Of Education

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Board Of Education

Cicero District 99 is governed by a Board of Education consisting of seven members. Official action by the Board may only occur at a duly called and legally conducted meeting at which a quorum is physically present. As stated in the board member oath of office prescribed by the School Code, a board member has no legal authority as an individual. The Board of Education’s mission is to support every student in reaching their full potential by prioritizing: Academic Excellence: Ensuring every student has access to high-quality instruction and resources. Equity & Inclusion: Addressing disparities and fostering a diverse, supportive learning environment. Student Safety & Well-Being: Providing a secure and healthy atmosphere for all students. We invite parents, educators, and community members to participate in our meetings, share feedback, and collaborate as we work together to build a thriving educational system.

Read Superintendent's Board Briefs

Powers & Duties Of The Board

The Board of Education is dedicated to fostering a high-achieving, equitable, and safe learning environment for all students. As elected representatives of the community, the Board is entrusted with strategic oversight, policy development, and fiscal responsibility to ensure the district's long-term success.

    • Organizing the Board after each consolidated election, electing officers, and establishing a regular meeting schedule.
    • Formulating, adopting, and modifying policies to uphold academic excellence, equity, and student well-being while complying with state and federal laws.
    • Directing the Superintendent through clear policies and ensuring accountability in district administration.
    • Establishing and enforcing student discipline policies that maintain a positive and safe learning environment.
    • Hiring, evaluating, and dismissing the Superintendent and other key personnel to ensure high-quality leadership.
    • Implementing an equal employment opportunity policy that prohibits unlawful discrimination in hiring and employment practices.
    • Supporting professional development initiatives for educators and staff to enhance teaching effectiveness.
    • Approving the annual budget, tax levies, and major expenditures to maximize resources for student success.
    • Conducting an annual audit and ensuring financial transparency through a publicly available statement of financial affairs.
    • Entering contracts through competitive public bidding procedures when required to ensure fiscal responsibility.
    • Indemnifying, protecting, and insuring against potential liabilities affecting the District, Board members, employees, and agents.
    • Approving curricula, textbooks, and educational programs that meet diverse student needs and prepare them for future success.
    • Evaluating and enhancing the district’s School Improvement and District Improvement Plans to maintain high academic standards.
    • Presenting District and school report cards to parents and the community, ensuring transparency in academic performance.
    • Expanding STEM, arts, and career-readiness programs to equip students with critical 21st-century skills.
    • Overseeing the construction, maintenance, and modernization of school facilities to provide a safe and effective learning environment.
    • Establishing resource conservation policies to promote sustainability and efficiency in school operations.
    • Enhancing school safety measures, including emergency preparedness and student well-being initiatives.
    • Providing student transportation services in compliance with state law.
    • Encouraging active participation from parents, students, teachers, and community members in shaping the district’s future.
    • Communicating the schools’ activities, successes, and operations through public engagement efforts.
    • Ensuring equal educational opportunities by addressing achievement gaps and fostering an inclusive learning environment.
    • Partnering with local organizations to provide mental health support, after-school programs, and workforce development opportunities for students.
    • Complying with state and federal laws, including the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act, ensuring proper reporting of any suspected child abuse.
    • Maintaining policies that uphold student rights and privacy, including compliance with FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act).
    • Assigning students to schools, determining school attendance boundaries, and setting the official school year calendar.
    • Observing a moment of silence for veterans during any school event held on November 11 in recognition of their service.
    • Entering into joint agreements with other school boards to establish cooperative educational programs.
    • Supporting innovative partnerships that enhance educational opportunities, including dual-enrollment and vocational training programs.

Upcoming Board Meetings

Meet the Board Members

All members have completed required training through the Illinois Association of School Boards (IASB).

President Tom Tomschin

Tom Tomschin, President

Completed OMA Training on 1/22/12

Completed PDLT/PERA Training on 1/30/14

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A man with a beard and a gold chain smiles at the camera.

Derek Dominick, Vice President

Completed OMA Training on 12/26/12

Completed PDLT/PERA Training on 3/25/14

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A woman with long brown hair smiles at the camera, wearing a rust-colored sweater.

Malika Manouzi, Secretary

Completed OMA Training on 5/6/21

Completed PDLT/PERA Training on 5/10/21

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Member James Terracino

James E. Terracino, Member

Completed OMA Training on 10/27/12

Completed PDLT/PERA Training on 1/30/14

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Member Maria Moreno

Maria Moreno, Member

Completed OMA Training on 6/18/21

Completed PDLT/PERA Training on 7/5/21

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Member Alice Couch

Alice Couch, Member

Completed OMA Training on 12/19/12

Completed PDLT/PERA Training on 1/30/14

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A woman with long brown hair, wearing glasses and a black blazer, looks directly at the camera.

Lisa Barrera, Member

Completed OMA Training on 7/7/25

Completed PDLT/PERA Training on 7/2/25

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