How can I submit a FOIA request? 

Freedom of Information Act requests can be submitted to the district in multiple ways. Fax requests to 815-516-0836 or  electronic requests to: FOIA Officer or mailed to: Hiawatha CUSD #426 410 South First St Kirkland IL 60146 Attn: Freedom of Information Act Officer.

For Fax and Mail requests, please download the district FOIA Request Form and fill out all information before sending request. If there are any questions, you can email the FOIA Officer or call the District Office at 815-522-6676. 

What happens after I submit a request? 

The Illinois Freedom of Information Act requires agencies to respond within five working days of receipt of a request. A five-day extension is allowed with written notification to the requester. If the requested records are 50 pages, or less, in length, the pages will be copied and mailed to the requester. If the records exceed 50 pages, the requester will be informed of the duplication cost. What are the costs for duplication? The cost is $.15 per sheet above fifty sheets. 

If you have questions about filing a FOIA request, please contact the District Office at 815-522-6676 and ask for a Freedom of Information Officer, Holly Way. 

What are examples of records that can be requested? 

Generally, the most common requests would be for copies of the following: District 426 financial records, budget, audit, board policies, collective bargaining agreement, employee handbooks, etc. Other allowable records may be requested and inspected. 

Many generally requested items such as board policies, board minutes, and collective bargaining agreements may be found on the District 426 website. 

Does the Act require the production of new documents? 

As a general principle, public bodies are not required to create new records to respond to requests for information, if the body does not ordinarily maintain the requested information in record form. 

Fee Schedule for Duplication of Public Records

Paper copy from paper or electronic source, 50 pages or less: No charge 

Paper copy from paper or electronic source, additional pages: $0.15 / page