The District 150 School board got nothing short of a tongue–lashing from parents, teachers and concerned community members. People are angry about the board's decision to shorten the school day in Peoria primary schools by 45 minutes. Superintendent Ken Hinton recommended the move to give teachers more professional development or common time.

Those who addressed the District 150 school board on the shorter school days chose direct and at times harsh words to express themselves.

Diane Vespa said, "In a district that is already struggling in terms of academics, you have taken away one tool for sparing it.– student–teacher time –and that is almost akin to throwing the baby out with the bath water."

Mimi McDonald said, "Because you all spent irresponsibly now you're going to steal education from primary school students and I just want you to know that is unacceptable to me."

Wendy Weddle, "If you want common prep time Mr. Hinton show them how to get it with what they already have, but don't keep taking away from my children. I don't want to move."

Parents say they have complained to state officials and the Regional Superintendent about the decision. Former teacher's union president, Terry Knapp, warned the board of legal repercussions. "You are opening yourself to lawsuits. I'm going to tell you this right now. It's already being discussed in the district about lawsuits."

Superintendent Ken Hinton did not respond to the comments, but he did announce he was meeting with several parents' groups about the shortened school day. "I am going to listen to what people have to say about that. If there is a way we can get where we need to go and keep the time and have the professional development time, I am open, I am more than open."

Parents groups had circulated an email encouraging people to attend tonight's meeting in opposition to the issue.