December 4, 2020
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Kahok Families,
The school year has been anything but conventional since August as our students have transitioned in and out of various learning settings. While we prepared for this throughout the summer internally, and continually shared information with families regarding what to expect, it doesn’t become reality until each change occurs. At that point, regardless whether the shift is to something we’ve already experienced or to something new, the change adds additional stress to our families, students and staff.
Everyone’s efforts have collectively allowed our students to receive face to face, live or recorded instruction, as well as social emotional support, as we navigate this pandemic. We are beyond grateful for the passion and dedication demonstrated for our students, and never take these efforts for granted.
We will transition to Full Remote learning beginning Monday, December 7 until our scheduled Winter Break begins on December 23rd. Over the next few weeks, the district will evaluate the learning setting most appropriate for the start of 2nd semester in January. The impact of family gatherings that occur over Winter Break, and how they may impact the health of our staff and students, will factor into the district’s next steps. A plan will be finalized and provided to families the week of December 21st.
Although we will not have students in our buildings the last 12 school days this semester, we are still asking families to communicate with your child(ren)’s respective school(s) if they test positive, are symptomatic, or considered a close contact with a positive COVID-19 case. This information will allow the district to continually monitor the health of our students and staff and drive district and building-specific learning setting decisions for the second semester. Please visit the district’s COVID-19 Dashboard that will be updated on our website each Friday.
Nothing about this situation has been easy, but our Kahok family of Educators has – and continues to – come up with incredible ways to help educate our students during a pandemic. Please check out the resources shared on our Learning Resources/Help website page. You will find links to resources recommended or created by CUSD 10 staff to provide you and your child(ren) with additional support and ideas for creative online learning.
While you’re there, take a few minutes to visit the district’s virtual STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Room. The site provides countless activities children can do at home individually or with their entire family. Move your cursor throughout the page and over each item, you will be amazed at what is available. As a side note, make sure you find the “StoryBots” musical take on the sun, moon, earth and solar system. It is equally enjoyable, as it is educational for all ages!
Finally, you should have received information regarding the Rapid Point-of-Care Antigen Testing program we will begin administering in the second semester to students and staff who exhibit COVID-19 symptoms. There is complete information about the program, including the parent/guardian prior consent form, on our COVID-19 Health page. The page also covers important COVID-19 information, the daily student health certification checklist and Illinois Department of Health exclusion chart.
Please be safe, wear a mask, wash your hands, and social distance. Don’t forget to wear your purple and show your Kahok Pride. Please be safe!
Sincerely,
Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent