When weather conditions make travel hazardous, CUSD 10 will declare an E-Learning Day, meaning students will learn remotely from home based on expectations determined by their schools/teachers. 

PLEASE NOTE: A complete school closure could still be issued if power outages or other circumstances make remote learning difficult or impossible. 

E-Learning Days are important because students do not lose instruction due to inclement weather, so learning continues and there are no missed days to make-up at the end of the school year. If school is “Closed” – those emergency days are added to the school calendar.  If no emergency days are used, the school year ends on the designated day.

The Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 Board of Education approved a plan to allow Snow/Emergency Weather Days to become E-Learning Days beginning in winter 2020-21.  The change was approved on December 21, 2020.  Since that time, CUSD 10 has had the option to designate an E-Learning Day when weather forecasts or events deem road conditions too dangerous for students to travel to and from school.  

The 2023-24 E-Learning Plan was approved by the Board of Education on July 17, 2023

2023-24 E-Learning Plan

Click HERE to read the E-Learning plan in Spanish

What is an E-Learning Day?

E-Learning Days are designed to serve as official attendance days of school when the students and teachers stay at home due to emergency situations, yet learning continues as students remotely leverage digital tools and engage in teacher-prepared lessons. The Collinsville School District E-Learning Plan also includes teachers available remotely to assist students by email with their assignments during the hours of the E-Learning school day.

Issuing an E-Learning Day

In the event conditions are such that school must be canceled, administration will do its best to make that determination by 6:00am. Sometimes this is not possible, as conditions can change rather quickly in Southern Illinois, but the goal will be to make the determination by 6:00 am.

Once the decision is made, students, staff, and parents will be notified:

• through our District call system
• through our website, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
• through local tv and radio stations, as well as newspaper websites

If an E-Learning Day is implemented, everyone will be notified in the same manner as when school is canceled. Students will be expected to utilize the day to meet with their teachers virtually and work on their required assignments/activities as described below in the Student Assignments/Activities section.

Teacher Availability 

All teachers are required to offer live video conferencing sessions on an e-learning day. Teachers are also expected to be available to students/parents during their work hours to answer questions.  For many teachers, other systems may work better than email (Telephone, ClassDojo, Google Classroom, etc.) and staff are encouraged to utilize these other communication tools as the situation dictates. However, all teachers will check their email regularly and provide feedback and guidance to students/parents on an as needed basis.

The District understands that many teachers have their own responsibilities that may arise with these days (supervising their own children, shoveling snow, etc.). The District also understands that there will be time spent in follow up activities after the e-learning day (reviewing completed assignments, providing support for students without internet access, encouraging students to complete assignments, etc.). Staff will respond to all communication requests in a timely manner (within 24 hours) during scheduled hours. Teachers may communicate outside of office hours as needed.

Live Video Conferencing Sessions

Google Meet will be one of the primary video conferencing tools used to host live class sessions in communication with students during E-Learning Days for online learners. If your child is unable to attend a live session, the classroom teachers may provide either notes or a recorded version of the session. Elementary teachers with students in grade PreK-6 will include in their morning announcement the times students are to log in for live instruction. At grade levels 7-12, staff will use the abbreviated class times when scheduling synchronous (live) sessions.

Student Assignments/Activities

It is important to remember that activities, especially at the primary grade levels where students are not issued a Chromebook to take home, should be about reinforcement and review of already learned material. In the event of a long-term closure, materials will build upon already learned material and introduce new concepts. Learning materials will be offered in a variety of ways either to be returned to the teacher or materials to be signed off by a parent, guardian or caregiver (digital assignments, projects, print material, sign-off Choice Boards of activities, etc.). It is also important to realize that many students may have other responsibilities (shoveling snow, watching siblings, etc.) or be in a different environment (at a grandparent’s house, in daycare, at work with a parent, etc.). For those students with multiple classes, remember that they will have work from each teacher.

• PreK – K: Teachers will provide students with a “choice board” that will be sent home and/or electronically available to students/parents as soon as possible. It is important that the choice board not be solely dependent on the use of technology, as many grade school students may not have access to a device/internet during an E-Learning Day. Depending on student access to technology, it may be possible to add a “choice” to the choice board involving teacher communicated assignment. Teachers will provide students with an announcement on Google Classroom or other class communication programs announcing their assignment(s) by 8:00 am on the morning the E-Learning Day is initiated.
• 1st – 12th Grade: Teachers will provide students with a Google Classroom announcement announcing their assignment(s) by the school start time on the morning the E-Learning Day is initiated. For students who may not have access to the internet, it is recommended that teachers have “alternative” assignments/activities that students may work on that are not dependent on technology. These alternative assignments/activities should be communicated to students/parents prior to the possibility of an E-Learning Day…for example, sending a packet home with the student(s) that is kept at home and ready to be completed if an E-Learning Day is initiated or providing an E-Learning assignment on Google Classroom. The district will make every attempt to provide technology to students/learning materials prior to an E-Learning Day.
• Special Education and Related Services: Special education personnel will be available to students through electronic sources as applicable, based on student need and IEP goals. Modifications and adaptations will also be included in all assignments, based on the needs of the student and IEP goals. Individual goals and objectives will be addressed through assignments and activities provided by case managers.
• Most teachers will be utilizing Class dojo and/or Google Classroom as their online Learning Management System.

Student Attendance

During E- Learning, attendance will be taken. The preferred method of collecting attendance is always a one-to-one daily connection between the teacher and the student. However, we recognize that this method is not available or practical for all student scenarios under an

E-Learning situation. We encourage and suggest several ideas for how classroom teachers can collect and count a student as present during an E-Learning Day.

• Video conference “check-ins.”
• Wellness checks coupled with a question on student engagement/participation in lessons.
• Phone calls coupled with a question on student engagement/participation in lessons.
• Text messages or email communications coupled with a question on student engagement/participation in lessons.
• Packet collections by school personnel.

Grading

Students will be accountable for completing the assigned tasks either online or by printed materials in the same manner as any other school day. Incomplete work will be considered incomplete. Teachers are encouraged to hold students accountable for completing work as they would with any missing assignments. Completed work can either be turned in online or on an upcoming school day.

Technology

Between Thanksgiving and the end of February, the possibility of inclement weather will be monitored and allow teachers to send devices home with students. In the event, unexpected inclement weather arrives, an alternate option will be available for students and families to allow students an alternative to complete their work should a device not be in their possession. These alternative assignments will be in the form of choice boards, projects, reading and writing

assignments, etc. Teachers will also prepare E-Learning packets that can be sent home with students prior to the start of the bad weather. 

Student/Parent Technical Support:

In the event of an issue with a student’s District assigned device, please call or email the technology support person at your child’s school. For a list of contact information, please use THIS LINK.

Teacher Technical Support:

Support for Instructional Programs – Mike Kunz
Phone: 618-343-2740 x3030
Email:  mkunz@cusd.kahoks.org

* Approved by the Board of Education 7/17/23, Updated 08/01/23

The post E-Learning Plan appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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November 24, 2021

Kahok Family, 

The 2021-22 school year has brought highs and lows throughout the first four months.  There is one constant:  We have been fortunate to have students at school, growing academically and socially as they interact with their peers and teachers.  

Now that students are back in school full-time, however, we have encountered academic and social gaps; the direct result of “normal” being halted for such an extended time. While we are facing new challenges, we are fortunate to have dedicated staff, families, and community members willing to help meet our students’ needs.  As we approach Thanksgiving, I would be remiss, if I did not express how thankful I am for the support that is provided to our students and school district on a regular basis.

Please click on THIS LINK to access the latest version of the district’s Return to Learn Plan.  The most recent update includes guidelines for school-sponsored, off-site, overnight events, competitions and trips.  Outside of academic and athletic competition, student travel has been limited throughout the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years.  However, as we begin to look at the upcoming second semester, our hope is to allow school groups to resume field trips that enhance the educational experience.  

After communication with legal counsel and the health department, new guidelines have been created that incorporate masks, permission slips, symptom checks, consent forms, and safety plans. Additionally, for overnight events, proof of full COVID-19 vaccination, or a negative PCR or Antigen Test within 72 hours of the event, will be required.  The district continues to monitor the health of our students and staff with regards to COVID-19, and all field trips will be considered on a case by case basis.  

The holiday season kicks off this week and from now through January 1st, there is a full agenda for schools and families.  Please make note of these important dates and school events:

• November 24th – November 28th Thanksgiving Break

• December 9th CHS Winter Band Concert – 7:00 PM

• December 10th CMS Winter Band Concert – 7:00 PM

• December 23rd to January 2nd Winter Break

THANK YOU for your constant dedication to our students and don’t forget to wear your purple and show your Kahok Pride.  On behalf of our entire school district, Happy Thanksgiving!

Sincerely, 

Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent

The post November 23, 2021 Update from Dr. Skertich appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Comments regarding the plan (posted below) are welcomed through noon on Monday, July 26 using THIS LINK.  A public hearing on the plan will be held at 6:00 pm on Monday, July 26 in the Administrative Annex, 123 W. Clay Street.

Read the Proposed 2021-22 Return to Learn Plan in English
Read the Proposed 2021-22 Return to Learn Plan in Spanish

Here is Dr. Skertich’s video message announcing the 2021-22 Return to Learn Plan:

Read the written announcement of  the proposed 2021-22 Return to Learn Plan (English)
Read the written announcement of the proposed 2021-22 Return to Learn Plan (Spanish)

The post 2021-22 Return to Learn Plan Announced appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

While our plan specifies guidelines for our staff, students and buildings to follow, everyone’s health and safety is dependent on each individual. To review the complete Wellness Plan for Return to Learn in the 2021-22 school year, see the district’s full Return to Learn document.  For information and resources pertaining to COVID-19, click HERE.

Health Certification

Up-to-date COVID-19 requirements and policies are outlined in the latest issue of the CUSD 10 2021-22 Return to Learn Plan.  Click here to read the complete plan. 

Please note the following:

Masks are recommended to be worn indoors by all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to Pre-K-12 schools who are two years of age or older and medically able to tolerate a mask, regardless of vaccination status.

In order to attend school, all students must be screened by their parents for symptoms of COVID-19 and other criteria.  All staff must also screen themselves for this criteria prior to reporting to work.  By attending school, all students and staff are certifying that they meet the following criteria:

1. They do not have a temperature 100.4℉ or higher.
2. They are not taking fever-reducing medicines, such as those that contain aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen, in order to reduce his/her fever.
3. They have not been directed to self-quarantine by a healthcare provider.
4. They have not been directed to self-quarantine by the County or State Department of Public Health.
5. They do not have any of the following symptoms:

Students and staff who tested positive for COVID-19 or have COVID-19 symptoms are to follow the CDC guidelines to determine when they can return to school. Please see the COVID-19 Return to School Flowchart below. (Click HERE for flowchart in Spanish)

At-School Point-of-Care Rapid COVID-19 Antigen Testing for Students & Staff

For more information and a link to parent consent form,  please see “Rapid Point-of-Care Antigen Testing” on page 12 of the district’s Return to Learn Plan. (English) OR (Spanish) 

Click the image below to see information and step-by-step videos produced by CUSD 10 Health Staff:

IDPH Guidance

Use THIS LINK for Illinois Department of Health COVID-19 guidance for schools.

COVID-19 Training for Students

Physical Distancing

CUSD #10 students and staff are expected to maintain physical distancing to the greatest extent possible keeping in mind the recommendation of 6 feet apart  throughout the school day. Signage reminding staff, visitors and students to maintain physical distancing is placed at all entrances, in classrooms and throughout other common areas.

Face Coverings

CUSD #10 understands that physical distancing will not be possible for all circumstances. Students and staff are required to properly wear masks.  A student’s refusal or repeated failure to wear a face covering will result in the student being placed on 100% Remote Learning.  Please note:  Some public health studies have determined a “gator” style face scarf is NOT as effective as a mask.  Students and staff will not be permitted to wear a gator unless a mask is worn beneath it.  

Hand Hygiene

Frequent hand washing and hand sanitizing is key to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.  Students and staff will be instructed in the proper hand-washing technique.  Everyone must avoid touching their mouth, eyes or nose as much as possible. Staff and students are required to use hand sanitizer upon entering the classroom each time. Hand sanitizer is provided by the District. Each building has signage reminding everyone of the need for proper hand hygiene.

The post COVID-19 Health appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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Hello Kahok Nation,

As we put the month of February in our rear view mirrors this weekend, I hope we can also say
goodbye to snow and subzero temperatures. This may be overly optimistic, but after the past few
weeks, I think we are more than ready for spring temperatures.

On Tuesday, March 2, our elementary schools welcome back kindergarten through 4th grade
students to school four days-a-week. We are excited to expand the number of student attendance
days. Dorris Intermediate students are on track to return four days-a-week March 9, and
CMS/CHS students are scheduled to follow on March 16.

Please complete the “Change in Learning Plan Selection Request” information from the District by
March 1st. This form should be completed for any parent/guardian who wishes to change from a
Full Remote Learning Plan to a Hybrid/In-person Learning Plan OR from a Hybrid/In-Person
Learning Plan to a Full Remote Learning Plan. If you are not changing your current learning plan,
you do not need to complete a form. This information is important as our schools expand to four
days-a-week of in-person student attendance during the 4th academic quarter.

While we are excited about changes to our learning setting throughout the district, educating
students during a pandemic has not been easy on students, staff or families. Additionally, the
altered setting has impacted each student differently, so the district will be implementing
programs to better meet students’ academic and social emotional needs for the foreseeable
future. The first of four summer programs were approved by the Board of Education at the
regular meeting this past Monday.

2020-21 summer programs include:

● Summer School for grades K-12
Summer school will be expanded this year to meet the needs of all students experiencing
learning loss due to the pandemic. The summer session will also include a no cost credit
recovery program for high school students. Eligible participants will be notified when
applications are available.

● Extended School Year for grades K-12
Extended School Year (ESY) is specifically designed for students with IEPs to address
targeted IEP Goal and Objectives. Participation in ESY is determined during your child’s
IEP Meeting.

● Jump Start for grades K-12
This program will allow for an early return to school. The goal is to foster relationships,
get students back into the routine of school, practice grade level academic skills and
increase social interaction with peers. Applications for this program will be available in
early summer for those eligible to participate.

● EPIC Summer Camps for grade K-4
Emergent bilingual students will have an opportunity to improve their English
proficiency while receiving social emotional and culturally appropriate support as they
transition to a new school environment. Students eligible to participate will be contacted
by the building principal.

While each initiative varies based on student age and needs, the programs will focus on learning
loss, individualized instruction, social interaction and hands-on activities in small groups.
Information will be distributed in the future to families regarding eligibility and transportation.
In the months ahead, the district will consider additional programs that could include curriculum
changes, English Language supports, tutoring, increased support staff, additional teachers, at-risk
programming and professional development for staff.

After a year in an altered setting, closing the learning gap and addressing students’ social
emotional needs will be our primary focus. These efforts will take time, and we look forward to
a continued partnership between home and school.

On Monday, March 1st the district will be closed in observance of Casimir Pulaski Day. Please
be safe, wear a mask, wash your hands, and social distance. Don’t forget to wear your purple
and show your Kahok Pride.

Have a great three-day weekend.

Sincerely,
Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent

The post February 26, 2021 Update from Dr. Skertich appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

In this message, Dr. Skertich asks parents to read a letter (also released today) about planned changes to the district’s Return to Learning plan; gives an update on COVID-19 vaccinations for district staff; and promotes the CHS Bands Annual Spaghetti Dinner. (See information below video.)

Click HERE to read a transcript of the video in English.
Click HERE to read a transcript of the video in Spanish.

February 12, 2021 Communication to Parents Regarding Anticipated Shift in the District’s Learning Plan (English)
February 12, 2021 Communication to Parents Regarding Anticipated Shift in the District’s Learning Plan (Spanish)

Information for CHS Bands Spaghetti Dinner (Click HERE for Spanish )

The post February 12, 2021 Video Message from Dr. Skertich appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

January 8, 2021

Kahok Families, 

This Monday, January 11th the district will transition K-12 students back to a 2-days-a-week Hybrid/Blended Learning Setting.  Students with last names beginning A-L will attend in-person on Tuesdays/Thursdays and students with last names beginning M-Z will attend in-person on Wednesdays/Fridays.  Mondays will continue to be Remote Learning Days.  CAVC, Pre-K and specific, identified IEP, EL and at-risk students will attend school each day, Tuesday through Friday.  We are excited to return to in-person instruction. 

The district will continue to monitor the health of our staff and students during the 2nd semester. Please keep in mind, a surge in positive cases could result in a change to our current learning plan.  We continue to advise families to have alternate plans in case a shift to Remote learning would be necessary.  

Additionally, January and February will surely bring inclement weather. In December, the Board of Education approved E-learning Days in lieu of canceling school during inclement weather, if appropriate.  Information for E-Learning Days will be provided to families in the near future by your child’s respective building.  E-Learning Days will mirror what has occurred during Remote Learning and the District will use email, telephone and social media to notify parents as quickly as possible. 

We have been notified by the Madison County Health Department that our Health Staff are eligible to be vaccinated in the days ahead along with Healthcare Personnel, Long-Term Care residents and staff commonly referred to as Phase 1a.  Furthermore, the health department anticipates the remaining education sector consisting of certified staff and support staff, (commonly referred to as Phase 1b) will be eligible to be vaccinated once Phase 1a has been substantially completed.  Despite being several weeks out and a month-long process, this is a positive!

With the new semester underway, district health staff will initiate the district’s Rapid Point-of-Care Antigen Testing Program to students and staff who exhibit COVID-19 symptoms at school throughout the second semester.  This will be instrumental in our efforts to determine if children or adults exhibiting symptoms have a COVID-related or seasonal illness.  However, in order for this additional safety measure to be beneficial, we need families to complete the online permission slip or send a paper copy back to your child’s respective school as soon as possible.  We need your help! 

In the weeks ahead, the health of our staff and students, the timeline for vaccinating educators and the district’s safety measures will determine our learning setting.  We are optimistic Antigen Testing and vaccinations will allow the district to expand the number of days students attend in-person second semester. 

Since March of 2020 our Kahok Families have and continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic that has impacted each of our lives in various manners.  Recent events at the nation’s Capitol will add additional stress to our lives and certainly raise questions from our students.  As educators, we cannot take a political stance with our students, however, it is important that we listen to our students’ questions and have conversations about current events.  During these conversations we encourage our teachers and staff to show compassion and empathy while reinforcing appropriate behavior and communication for students and adults.  We want students to feel safe and take advantage of age appropriate “teachable moments” in the days and weeks ahead. 

If you have questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your child’s teacher or building principal. We cannot say thank you enough to our communities, families and staff for your patience and support to educate our students…together! 

Please be safe, wear a mask, wash your hands, and social distance.  Don’t forget to wear your purple and show your Kahok Pride. 

Sincerely,

Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent

Click HERE to complete Parent/Guardian Authorization and Consent for COVID-19 Testing (English)
Click HERE to complete Parent/Guardian Authorization and Consent for COVID-19 Testing (Spanish)

Click HERE for a printable Parent/Guardian Authorization and Consent for COVID-19 Testing (English)
Click HERE for a printable Parent/Guardian Authorization and Consent for COVID-19 Testing (Spanish)

The post January 8, 2021 Message from Dr. Skertich appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

During remote learning the first week of January, FREE meal distribution locations and schedule will be the same as December 2020 prior to Winter Break.

The post January 2021 Return to Learning Calendar appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Dr. Skertich tells CUSD 10 families and the community about the success of the DIS Christmas gift program, the district’s Return to Learning plans for January 2021 and the district’s COVID-19 Rapid Point of Care Antigen Testing program.

Click to read a transcript of the video in English
Click to read a transcript of the video in Spanish

The post December 18, 2020 Video Message from Dr. Skertich appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Click HERE for complete information on the CUSD 10 Meal Distribution Plan that began December 7, 2020 and will continue during remote learning in January 2021 (English & Spanish)

Bagged meals will be available via curbside pickup M-F from 7:00 am -12 p.m. at:

• Collinsville High School
• Dorris Intermediate School
• Kreitner Elementary School
• Webster Elementary School

Bagged meal service M-F via drive-thru pick at selected locations:

The post Meal Distribution During Remote Learning December & January appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Español

Dear Kahok Family:

As we wind down the first semester for the 2020-2021 school year, we want to provide a quick reminder regarding the option families have to change their child(ren)’s instructional learning plan from Remote/Exclusive Online (i.e. at home Remote/Online instruction provided by CUSD10 Staff) to Hybrid/Blended (i.e. some days each week at school for in-person instruction, some days each week at home for Remote/Online instruction) OR from Hybrid/Blended to Remote/Exclusive Online.

We ask that ONLY parents wishing to change their current selection (chosen for quarter 2) do so by putting their request in writing to their school principal for each child OR complete the Google Form below.

Written requests to the building principal or the completion of the Google Form must be submitted by a parent or guardian by December 15, 2020 at 4:00PM for each student requesting a change to their Quarter 2 plan selection.

Written requests should include the learning plan choice, student’s name (first and last), the student’s grade level, the parent/guardian name (first and last) and parent/guardian contact information. Please understand this selection will be in effect from Monday, January 4, 2021 through Friday, March 12.

For families wishing to CHANGE their current learning environment selection (chosen for Quarter 2), please forward your written request as outlined above OR click the following link to complete the form by December 15 (4:00PM).

Please note that this form should only be completed if you are requesting a change from your choice selection made for the previous academic quarter. (For example: If your child was on the Hybrid/Blended plan during quarter 2 and you wish to continue the Hybrid/Blended plan for quarter 3, you DO NOT need to complete a change form).

CHANGE IN LEARNING PLAN CHOICE REQUEST (for Quarter 3)

Parents/guardians should understand that students will be expected to follow the remote learning expectations set by the District/State in order to be counted as present and earn grades during an exclusive Remote Learning Plan or on days of Remote Learning during the Hybrid/Blended Learning Plan. In order to access the instruction and curriculum via Remote Learning through the school district, the student must attend scheduled Google Meets sessions, participate in Google Classroom assignments and schedule individual meetings and conferences with their teacher(s).

Families are reminded that in accordance with the Illinois Department of Public Health and Illinois State Board of Education requirements, students must be screened each day for COVID-19 symptoms and other criteria prior to entering a school building or entering a school bus.

• Parents must screen their child each day prior to sending their child to school. If your child does not meet all the following criteria as outlined on the COVID-19 Daily Student Certification Checklist, you must keep your child at home and notify the school of your child’s absence.
• Your child will not be permitted to return to school until he/she meets all return-to school criteria or your child’s physician has released your child to return to school, whichever is applicable. If your child is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, you should consult your health care provider for a diagnosis and treatment

Thank you for your continued cooperation and support during the first academic semester of the 2020-2021 school year.  As always, if you have any questions regarding your child(ren)’s education, please reach out to your child(ren)’s teacher(s) and/or school principal.

Sincerely,

Bradley Hyre
Assistant Superintendent
Collinsville Community Unit School District No. 10

The post Learning Plan Changes for Third Quarter 2020-21 Due by December 15 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

In this message, he discusses the Board of Education’s approval of modifications to the district’s Return to Learning plan, including the possibility of K-6 students attending school in-person four days/week; and the status of the 2021 school basketball season.

Please remember: At this time, we are planning to increase in-person attendance days for K-4 and 5-6 students in the coming weeks, however, dates are subject to change based on the current evolving public health situation. 

Transcript of November 6, 2020 Video Message (English)
Transcript of November 6, 2020 Video Message (Spanish)

The post November 6, 2020 Video Message from Dr. Skertich appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

The post Teachers Recognized with 2021 ISBE Those Who Excel Awards appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Español

Dear Kahok Family:

As we wind down the first academic quarter for the 2020-2021 school year, we want to provide a quick reminder regarding the option families have to change their child(ren)’s instructional learning plan from Remote/Exclusive Online (i.e. at home Remote/Online instruction provided by CUSD10 Staff) to Hybrid/Blended (i.e. some days each week at school for in-person instruction, some days each week at home for Remote/Online instruction) OR from Hybrid/Blended to Remote/Exclusive Online.

We ask that only parents wishing to change do so by putting their request in writing to their school principal for EACH CHILD or complete the Google Form below for EACH CHILD.

• Written requests to the building principal or the completion of the Google Form must be submitted by a parent or guardian by October 6, 2020 at 4:00PM for each student requesting a change.
• Written requests should include the learning plan choice, student’s name (first and last), the student’s grade level, the parent/guardian name (first and last) and parent/guardian contact information.
• Please understand this selection will be in effect for students in grades K-12 from Monday, October 19 through Tuesday, December 22.

For families wishing to CHANGE their current learning environment, please forward your written request as outlined above OR click the following link to complete the form by October 6 (4:00PM).

Google Form to Request Change to Hybrid/Blended at End of 1st Quarter 2020-21

Parents/guardians should understand that students will be expected to follow the remote learning expectations set by the District/State in order to be counted as present and earn grades during an exclusive Remote Learning Plan or on days of Remote Learning during the Hybrid/Blended Learning Plan. In order to access the instruction and curriculum via Remote Learning through the school district, the student must attend scheduled Google Meets sessions, participate in Google Classroom assignments and schedule individual meetings and conferences with their teacher(s).

Families are reminded that in accordance with the Illinois Department of Public Health and Illinois State Board of Education requirements, parents/guardians must screen their child(ren) each day for COVID-19 symptoms and other criteria prior to entering a school building or entering a school bus. If your child does not meet all the following criteria as outlined on the COVID-19 Daily Student Certification Checklist, you must keep your child at home and notify the school of your child’s absence. Your child will not be permitted to return to school until he/she meets all return-to school criteria or your child’s physician has released your child to return to school, whichever is applicable. If your child is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, you should consult your health care provider for a diagnosis and treatment.

Thank you for your continued cooperation and support during the first academic quarter/trimester of the 2020-2021 school year.

As always, if you have any questions regarding your child(ren)’s education, please reach out to your child(ren)’s teacher(s) and/or school principal.

Sincerely,

Bradley Hyre
Assistant Superintendent
Collinsville Community Unit School District No. 10

The post Switch from Remote to Hybrid/Blended by October 6, 2020 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

To show Collinsville High School students what they can expect when they return to campus, teacher Mark Schusky prepared a walking-tour video for his classes.  His video is being shared with ALL students at CHS to demonstrate arrival procedures in the parking lot,  one-way hallways and stairs, cleaning protocols, and mask/social distancing/hand hygiene expectations.

The post CHS Students See What to Expect When They Return to Campus appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Dear CHS Students, Parents, and Guardians,

Collinsville High School has been operating under our Remote Learning Model since Tuesday, August 18th. Dr. Skertich announced this morning we will be implementing our Hybrid/Blended Learning Model beginning on Tuesday, September 8th. I am excited to have students returning to CHS in-person on their designated days. We will continue to provide instruction and educational opportunities daily for remote learner students.

Students last name A-L will attend school in person on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Health screenings must be done at home before students come to school. Do not send your child to school if you answer yes to anything on the COVID-19 Daily Self Checklist. Notify the CHS Attendance Office as per our handbook if your child will be absent.

Students last name M-Z will attend school in person on Wednesdays and Fridays.  Health screenings must be done at home before students come to school. Do not send your child to school if you answer yes to anything on the COVID-19 Daily Self Checklist. Notify the CHS Attendance Office as per our handbook if your child will not be absent.

All students work remotely on Mondays, as well as the other days throughout the school week when they are not scheduled for in-person learning.

Remote Learners are expected to be engaged in assigned learning activities on a daily basis. Faculty and staff will not be following the Remote 2.0 Learning Schedule for Google Meet sessions while we are implementing the Blended Learning Model.

Do not send your student to school on days in which they are not scheduled to be present in-person. Students will be sent home if they come to school when they are not scheduled for in-person attendance.

Please remind your student to regularly check their Google Classroom and email daily for pertinent information from CHS faculty and staff. Parents are reminded to monitor the school website and check their email for messages from the school.

Students may enter the building starting at 7:30 a.m. and classes begin at 7:55 a.m. Students may pick up breakfast on their way to 1st period class. Lunches may be picked up as students leave school for the day at 12:55 p.m. Remote learners may pick up meals behind the cafeteria from 7:00-11:00 a.m.

It is highly recommended you allow for adequate travel time as traffic may be very busy in the morning. Car traffic should not go through the bus lane in order to drop off students.

Students should bring a paper copy of their schedule when they attend school in-person or access their schedule via Skyward. Bring your Chromebook charged and ready!

Parents are encouraged to monitor their child’s grades and attendance via Skyward. Contact your child’s teachers regarding any classroom questions. Please make sure your contact information (i.e. phone number) is correct in case we need to reach you.

Safety is of the utmost importance at CHS. We are working within guidelines established by the Illinois State Board of Education and the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). You may call the IDPH COVID-19 Hotline at 1-800-889-3931 with any questions. We communicate frequently with the Madison County Department of Public Health. Our Unit #10 website has some helpful information concerning COVID-19. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/) is an excellent resource. Please encourage your student to wear his/her mask appropriately (nose and mouth covered). A mask is required of students, staff, and visitors. “Neck Gaiters” are not allowed in lieu of a mask. Individuals should not remove their mask in order to speak. Social distancing is expected and deeply appreciated. Everyone is encouraged to wash their hands before and after eating, restroom use, etc.

Students should bring their own water bottle to school to use at water filling stations. Water fountains will not be used.

In closing, we all continue to learn together. The CHS faculty and staff remain committed to serving our students and families. While everything has not and will not be perfect in this challenging environment, I promise you we will strive to do our best, be flexible, be safe, and provide educational opportunities for students. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or concerns. Go Kahoks!

Sincerely,

David Snider, CHS Principal

The post Letter from CHS Principal David Snider 9/3/20 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Watch the video announcement:

Click HERE to view/download the letter to families in English.

Click HERE  to view/download the letter to families in Spanish.

View the FAQ for Families (English)

View the FAQ for Families (Spanish)

For Hybrid/Blended In-person Schedule Information (English/Spanish), click HERE.

The post September 3, 2020 Learning Plan Announcement appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

These plans were developed by staff in accordance with the CUSD 10 District Return to Learning Plan.  They have been reviewed by Regional Office of Education 41 for compliance with Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and Illinois State Board of Education(ISBE) guidance.

Collinsville CUSD 10 Building Logistics Plans by School

Collinsville High School

Collinsville High School 2020-21 Building Plan for Logistics and Safety during In-Person Learning 

Collinsville Middle School

Collinsville Middle School Hybrid/In-Person Back to School Plan August 2020

Dorris Intermediate School

Charles Dorris Intermediate School 2020/21 Hybrid Return to Learn Plan & 2020/21 Full Return to Lean Plan
Charles Dorris Intermediate School 2020/21 Hybrid Return to Learn Plan & 2020/21 Full Return to Learn Plan (Spanish)
DIS Full Remote Learning Plan
DIS Full Remote Learning Plan (Spanish)

Caseyville Elementary School

Caseyville Elementary Return to Learn Plan – Madison County Health Department
Caseyville Elementary Return to Learn Plan – St. Clair County Health Department
Caseyville Elementary Return to Learn Plan (Spanish)

Hollywood Heights School

Hollywood Heights Return to Learn Plan

Jefferson Elementary School

Jefferson Elementary Return to Learn Plan
Jefferson Elementary Return to Learn Plan (Spanish)

Kreitner Elementary School

Kreitner Elementary Return to Learn & Remote Learning Plans

Maryville Elementary School

Maryville Elementary Return to Learn Plan for Instruction

Summit Elementary School

Summit Elementary Return to Learn Plan
Summit Elementary Return to Learn Plan (Spanish)

Twin Echo Elementary School

Twin Echo Return to Learn Instructional Plan (English)
Twin Echo Return to Learn Instructional Plan (Spanish)

Webster Elementary School

Webster Elementary School Return to Learn Plan (English)
Webster Elementary School Return to Learn Plan (Spanish)

The post 2020-21 Building Logistics Plans by School appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Click HERE for the updated FAQ in English.

Click HERE for the updated FAQ in Spanish.

or visit the FAQ page.

The post Updated Return to Learning FAQ (8/7/20) appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

español

Kahok Families, 

Over the past few months, the Board of Education and district faculty and staff have been preparing for the 20-21 school year.  The process to date has been cumbersome, as we do not know all the answers and there is no road map.  Throughout the planning process we have maintained a constant focus on student and staff safety, meeting students academic and social emotional needs, and providing timely and accurate information.  We fully recognize the unknown has been challenging for families and appreciate your patience.  

Over the past few weeks, we have been actively watching the COVID-19 positive cases in our communities, county and region.  The district also has a duty to provide a safe environment for students and staff, while we educate our students.  Managing these expectations in a normal year is challenging, managing these expectations during a pandemic is nearly impossible with all students attending five days a week based on local COVID-19 data.  Therefore, the district has determined, at this time, the safest way to educate our students and provide a safe and healthy environment for students and staff is by beginning the school year in a Hybrid/Blended learning setting.  

This decision has not been made in haste, but after great deliberation and placing an emphasis on  student and staff safety.  We are hopeful positive COVID-19 cases will decline and we can return to a traditional setting, but at this time, that is not realistic.  Collinsville CUSD #10 is once again asking families to partner with our faculty and staff to meet your child(ren)’s educational needs.  

Principals will release building specific information to families on a regular basis.  Please prepare for a switch to Traditional learning or 100% Remote at any time.  The pandemic has proven one thing the last few months, things can change very quickly and we want to be upfront with families.  The school year is still a few weeks away and today’s announcement could change prior to August 18th.

To meet instructional needs this year, we must alter the school day schedule.  Two major factors played a part in the district’s decision to adjust the beginning and end of the school day.  First, meeting the needs of our face to face learners and remote learners in the same calendar day.  Second, complying with ISBE and IDPH health and safety guidance (50 person max) in a gym, cafeteria, classroom, etc. 

These two factors seem simple on the surface, but in order to comply with safety measures alone, entry and exit into our facilities, breakfast and lunch and social distancing throughout the day, the following school times have been established for the 20-21 school year regardless if the district is conducting classes in a Traditional setting (all kids 5 days a week) or a Hybrid/Blended setting (Monday-Remote; T/R or W/F):

School Day Times 2020-21

Elementary Schools:  8:00AM – 1:00PM

Dorris Intermediate:  8:50AM – 1:50PM

Collinsville Middle School:  8:35AM – 1:35PM

Collinsville High School: 7:55AM – 12:55PM

Hollywood Heights:  7:30AM – 1:00PM

Pre-K 8:00-10:00 and 11:00-1:00 (AM/PM Programs) 

Pre-K All Day 8:00 to 1:00 (Full Day)

   *Breakfast and lunch will still be offered to students during the school day

We understand this presents childcare challenges and are partnering with the Collinsville, Maryville and Troy YMCA to offer parents the opportunity for onsite daycare at our facilities for grades K-6, as well as offsite to ensure students have structure and supervision while parents work.  The YMCA will discuss financial concerns and attempt to assist all families.  

Transportation times for a Traditional setting or a Hybrid/Blended  setting will be consistent for families and will be announced by First Student as we get closer to the start of the school year.  Pick up and drop off times at each building will be distributed to families by the respective building principal in the days ahead. 

As we endure unprecedented times, we want to take some time to clarify the options as we approach the start of the school year.  The district is actively watching positive COVID-19 cases in our region and local communities.  This information will determine under which plan the district is currently operating (Traditional, Hybrid/Blended or 100% Remote). 

I want to clarify something:  Parents have the option to choose whether or not their child(ren) will attend school for in-person learning.  This means, if the district is operating in a Traditional (five days/week) in-person setting, the other option for parents is 100% Remote.  If the district is in a Hybrid/Blended setting, the other option for families is 100% Remote.  There is no scenario where some students will be in a Traditional setting and a Hybrid/Blended setting in the same building, at the same time during a school day. 

It is safe to assume the district could start in a Hybrid/Blended setting and transition to 100% Remote if positive COVID-19 cases spike.  However, after a surge in cases occurs and numbers drop, the district could return to a Hybrid/Blended setting.  This is just one example, but we are urging parents to prepare for all three options at any given time as health data will drive the district’s decision on which setting faculty and staff will provide students an education this school year.  

As we approach the start of the school year, face coverings (masks) are required for students and district employees at all times during the school day unless they are eating or outside at recess.  In order to help students prepare for this requirement, please begin having your child(ren) practice wearing a mask at home.  This will aid in their transition back to school.  

On behalf of Collinsville CUSD #10, we realize this is not an easy time for our communities, our families, our students and district employees.  I do ask that we work together for the sake of our students and make the most of a difficult situation.  #THEKAHOKWAY

Sincerely, 

Mark B. Skertich, Ed. D.
Superintendent

The post Plan Announced for Start of 2020-21 School Year appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

español

Kahok Families,

Over the past few months, district faculty and staff have worked diligently to digest guidance from the State of Illinois and create a plan to educate our students for the coming school year. Throughout the planning process, it became clear the district needed multiple options to ensure faculty and staff are prepared for whatever scenario arises. Not all of the options are ideal for educators or families but I am proud of the effort being put forth by district employees. The #KAHOKWAY has and continues to be evident throughout our school district and communities.

Yes, we are flying the plane while we build it, no one can deny that during unprecedented times. However, Collinsville CUSD #10 is prepared for what may arise in the months to come and a spike in positive COVID-19 cases in our region, reinforces that all families prepare for each option listed below. On July 20th, the Board of Education approved the district’s Return to Learning

Plan for the 20-21 school year:  The plan outlines health and safety measures being put in place for the coming school year and a detailed explanation regarding each learning setting is included in the plan. The three options for the coming school year are as follows and can be found on the district website at www.kahoks.org:

• Return to Learn at 100% Capacity – Traditional Setting
• Return to Learn Blended Remote at approximately 50% Capacity*
• Return to Learn Remote Only

Enclosed in this communication is an updated calendar for the coming school year. I would like to highlight a few changes for the coming school year. Faculty and staff will now begin on the August 13th. This will allow additional time for meetings, training and planning for the changes that will be implemented this school year. September 18th and October 9th, are now going to be Remote Planning Days, students will not attend to allow faculty and staff to attend trainings and prepare for the remainder of the first semester. The Columbus Day Holiday is being waived. The State of Illinois designated November 3rd a state holiday for the general election. This calendar change ensures we do not lose an additional day of instruction. Last, Parent/Teacher Conferences are being moved to October 30th and November 2nd. This aligns with the November 3rd holiday and provides consistency for parents.

District staff, building principals and building committees have been working on times for the beginning and end of the school day. This information will be released to parents the week of July 27th. We want to ensure each plan complies with state and IDPH guidance, considers student and staff safety, is manageable within each building, and ensure the information we provide families is accurate.

On behalf of Collinsville CUSD #10, thank you to our families and district employees! The past few months have not been easy, the months ahead and foreseeable future appear to be taking a similar course. Let’s continue to work together for the sake of our students and make the most of a difficult situation. #KAHOKWAY

Sincerely,
Mark B. Skertich, Ed. D
Superintendent

Updated 2020-21 School Calendar (English)
Updated 2020-21 School Calendar (Spanish)

The post July 21, 2020 Update Concerning School Calendar appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

The announcement was made in a special video message:

Click for SUMMARY of the 2020-21 Return to Learning plan.

Click for RESUMEN de Regreso al Plan de Aprendizaje 2020-21.

The post Announcement of 2020-21 Return to Learning Plan appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

On June 23, 2020, the Illinois State Board of Education released guidance for schools on the 2020-21 school year.  This document is long overdue and will assist in answering critical questions regarding what the coming school year will look like in terms of in-person learning, scheduling, transportation, wearing masks, social distancing and other measures intended to keep everyone safe and healthy.  

This guidance allows our district to finalize plans for the 2020-21 school year that includes In-Person Learning, Remote Learning and Blended-Remote Learning Plans.  We don’t have all the answers, so keep in mind, changes may be necessary as the situation has and continues to evolve. Therefore, I ask your patience as our staff thoroughly reviews this detailed guidance and implements the suggestions into our district’s transition plan.  Once presented to our Board of Education and Madison County Health Department, information will be released to families.  

In order to ensure we meet the needs of our families and utilize current information when finalizing our plans, I am asking each family to complete a survey regarding the 2020-2021 school year:   

Return to Learning Family Survey (English)

Return to Learning Family Survey (Spanish)

In the days ahead, there will be accelerated concerns, conversations and curiosity about the upcoming school year.   I’m confident our district can put forth a plan that prioritizes the health and safety of our students while meeting their academic and social-emotional needs.

Thank you again for your patience, understanding and flexibility as we continue to navigate uncharted waters!  

Mark B. Skertich, Ed. D.
Superintendent

The post 2020-21 Return to Learning Family Survey appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.