CHS seniors Natibida Rubalcava-Carreno, Alexia Clover, Christianne Corzine, Paulina Lopez-Barajas, Julissa Arroyo, Jaylene Ortiz and Haley Fowler on the first day of student teaching

September 13, 2023 – Collinsville High School seniors enrolled in the Collinsville Area Vocational Center education practicum class began their first week of student teaching on September 11 at Collinsville Community Unit School District #10’s John A. Renfro Elementary and Kreitner Elementary schools. 

CHS Seniors Julissa Arroyo, Alexia Clover, Christianne Corzine, Haley Fowler, Paulina Lopez-Barajas, Jaylene Ortiz and Natibida Rubalcava-Carreno have the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom and observe firsthand what it’s like to be a professional educator. 

“These seniors will be spending approximately six hours weekly with teachers gracious enough to open up their classrooms for the experience,” said Shawn Geppert, the CAVC/CHS teacher responsible for the education program, “They will stay in those elementary classrooms through the end of October when they will switch to the preschool level, including placements at Webster Elementary until December. Second semester will be split between Dorris Intermediate School & Collinsville Middle School to have a wide range of experiences to incorporate into making the decision of what level they’d like to pursue in college.”

Participants perform tasks like creating bulletin boards, grading papers, working one-on-one with students who may be struggling with particular concepts, making copies, creating projects, and teaching/facilitating small group activities. At the completion of the course, they will have collected a portfolio of artifacts including behavior management ideas, lesson plans, reference letters and concepts to build their teaching philosophies. 

The education practicum course is the capstone of specialized CAVC courses that introduce future teachers to the profession through classwork and student teaching opportunities. Through Early Childhood, Teaching as a Profession and Teaching Practicum classes, high school students can earn dual credit through Southwestern Illinois College and gain experience in lesson planning, teaching strategies and classroom management.  

Because of their successful completion of the first year course, either Early Childhood Education or Teaching as a Profession, the practicum students have base knowledge of the education field and truly participate in an entry level student teaching experience.

“What makes this such a great opportunity for these seniors is not only learning to see things from a teacher’s perspective, but also experiencing various grade levels to help guide their career focus. Time in classrooms with children Pre-K to 8th grade, along with observations done in their high school classrooms, helps narrow what certification they want to pursue when enrolling in post secondary coursework,” said Geppert.

The proposal to expand CAVC education curriculum beyond early childhood and the in-house preschool they have operated for many years was approved by the Collinsville CUSD 10 board of education in 2021, and implemented in 2022-23 as part of the district’s Kahoks Teaching Kahok initiative.  

Kahoks Teaching Kahoks is designed to grow a future teacher workforce. The program encourages current high school students to become educators by exposing them to career pathways in education and providing scholarship opportunities for those interested in returning to the Collinsville school district to teach.

“Although we recently expanded this opportunity, we have been placing students in various elementary schools across the district for the last 25 years,” added Geppert, “Administration and teachers across the district have been supportive and excited to open their classrooms for this learning experience. Our course content alone couldn’t possibly cover the variety they are gaining from the teaching practicum. The support of the district staff is key in the success of bringing these students back to our community to teach future Kahoks!”

For more information about Kahoks Teaching Kahoks future teacher scholarships, and to make a donation,  please visit the Collinsville Area Community Foundation website.

The post CHS Future Educators Begin Practicum in CUSD 10 Schools appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Click to register

Summer School registration closes on Friday, May 13, 2022.
Only students who reside within the geographic boundaries of CUSD 10 can enroll in 2022 Summer School. 

FOR COMPLETE INFORMATION ON 2021 SUMMER SCHOOL:

Collinsville High School 2022 Summer School Program – REVISED Informational Packet OR
Programa de Escuela de Verano para la Preparatoria de Collinsville 2022 – Paquete de Información

Registration Information

Please note: Students who reside outside the boundaries of CUSD 10 will NOT be able  to enroll in 2022 Summer School.  

Collinsville High School accepts registration packets on a first-come, first-served basis and is complete only when all registration forms and payment have been received.  Only students with complete registrations will be added to a class roster. 

Registration is open now and closes Friday, May 13, 2022. In case of cancellation, registration fees will be returned.  Those students who register for a class that is cancelled may choose to be reimbursed or to enroll in another class after the registration deadline, if space is still available.  There will be no cost for classes taken for credit recovery. Classes taken for reasons other than credit recovery will be $100.00 per .5 credit session.  Students may take a maximum of two .5 credit courses ($200.00 total).  

There are NO refunds of summer school fees! (Except as noted above.)

In-person/remote instruction

Summer school is scheduled to be in-person. However, CHS administration reserves the right to change that to hybrid/remote at any time based on the safety of the students and staff. Students will not have the option to choose to be remote.

Completed online registration and full payment must be completed by the end of the day on Friday, May 13, 2022. 

Please direct any questions to the CHS Counseling Department.  Office hours are 7:15 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. or call (618) 346-6320 ext. 1129.

Summer School Attendance Policies

Attendance is essential during the Summer School Program as these are concentrated programs of 50+ class hours per session.  

• Students are allowed one absence during a session in Summer School.  A student will be dropped from class on the second absence of the session, with no refund. 
• No partial absences are allowed
• Students will not be excused from summer school for vacation/camps/work, etc.
• No early dismissals will be allowed.  If a student needs to leave early for any reason, s/he will receive an absence
• No student is allowed to go to his/her car or to the parking lot during sessions.  If a student does, s/he will be considered absent for the session.

Attempts may be made to contact the parent/guardian upon the second absence.  This may be done as a courtesy to remind families of a possible drop in the event of a third absence.  Parents are strongly encouraged to monitor tardies, attendance, and grades on Skyward Parent Portal.

• Tardiness is defined as reporting up to 5 minutes late at the beginning of the class or returning late from break.  
• Reporting to class or returning from break in excess of (over) 5 minutes late is considered an absence.  
• Two tardies to class is considered one absence
• No early dismissals will be allowed.  If a student needs to leave early for any reason, s/he will receive an absence

Rules & Regulations

Schedule Changes:

The last day to drop a class and not receive a grade of F is May 24, 2022.  No other schedule changes are permitted.

Discipline:

• Any disciplinary referrals could result in dismissal from the Summer School Program
• All rules in place for the 2021-2022 school year, reflected in the student handbook, are in effect for Summer School
• Any student caught smoking, using, or possessing tobacco/substances/look-alikes will dropped from the program
• Students may not use lockers during summer school.
• Some sections of the building will be closed to students during the summer.  These sections of the building will not be used for summer school and are being cleaned and prepared for the opening of school in the fall.  Students who are in these sections without proper authorization will be dropped from the program.  This includes the parking lot.

Transportation & Lunch

• Students are responsible for providing their own transportation to and from summer school
• Any student possessing a valid driver’s license may drive to school for summer school.  There is no cost.  Please be advised that all school policies regarding search of vehicles on school property will apply to any student who drives to school.
• Lunch will not be offered during summer school.  A soda machine will be available to students.  Students planning to attend the full day should bring lunch to school.  Students are allowed to leave during their lunch break, but the tardy policy applies if the student returns late from lunch

Schedule

Student schedules and room assignments will be accessible on Skyward.  Additionally, room/teacher assignments will be posted on door number 33 of the main building on the first day of summer school.

Course Offerings, Dates & Times

The attendance dates are:
May 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 31
June 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14

The daily schedule is:
Session 1 – 7:30-11:00 a.m.
Session 2 – 11:30 a.m. – 3:00 pm

Final exams will be taken on June 14, 2022.  No final can be taken early or late; no exceptions.
Session 1 Final = 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Session 2 Final = 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.  

Courses Offered*        

*Math, English, Science and U.S. History courses may be taken only as make-up courses resulting from a failure during the regular school year.  Math, English, Science and U.S. History cannot be taken for advancement purposes.

Driver Education

Private and parochial school students who reside within the geographic boundaries of Collinsville CUSD 10 and CHS students also have the opportunity to take Driver’s Education.  This class costs $250.  IF you are interested, please contact Mrs. Gresh at 618-346-6320 ext. 1117 or cgresh@cusd.kahoks.org.

How to Register

1. Use the purple button at the top of this page or click HERE.
2. You will be directed to the Summer School Information Page which will include links to the Summer School Information Packet and Online Registration.  For directions to select and pay for your summer school courses, you can access a CHS Summer School Registration Guide at the bottom of the page.

COVID-19  Mitigations

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 found on page 14 of the 2021-22 Return to Learn Plan.

The post Information for 2022 CHS Summer School appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Español

Kahok Families,  

Positive COVID-19 cases have declined among our students and staff to numbers we have not seen since early October.  Madison County youth cases have steadily declined and the district continues to partner with health departments to host vaccine clinics for ages five and up.  The current health of our students and staff is the best we have seen since early fall.  Throughout the pandemic, we have closely monitored  the health of our students and staff, the district will continue to make decisions using this data moving forward.  

Recently, the Governor announced the statewide indoor mask mandate will be lifted for indoor venues on February 28th.  The district pushed for local control in the summer of 2021 and in order to take another step towards normalcy, the Board of Education approved an updated Return to Learn Plan tonight adopting the Center for Disease Control (CDC) guideline that the wearing of masks be strongly recommended, effective tomorrow Tuesday, February 15, 2022. 

While the district is strongly recommending masks, special considerations will be given to staff and students who have underlying health conditions.  District personnel will be in contact with impacted families to discuss varied mitigation strategies that may be used in these situations.    

It is important to note, masks are still required on school buses as public transportation guidelines are governed by Federal Regulations, therefore we ask students to carry a mask with them daily.

While we all want to put the pandemic in our rearview mirror, we have learned the past few years that a COVID surge may occur and there may be a time when the district, building, or specific classes may require masks for a short period of time. 

While the district‘s mask policy is transitioning to strongly recommended, our other mitigation strategies will remain consistent and in place:

• Cleaning protocols 
• Social distancing to the greatest extent possible
• Frequent hand washing and proper hygiene
• Students or staff with symptoms or not feeling well should remain home until a minimum of five days has passed since symptoms first appeared; asymptomatic; at least 24 hours with no fever without fever-reducing medication; diarrhea/vomiting have ceased for 24 hours and symptoms have improved; OR a documented alternative diagnosis.
• Positive COVID-19 students and staff will be excluded for a minimum of five (5) days and up to ten (10) days and may return once their symptoms have subsided.
• School health care professionals will continue to collaborate with area health department officials to confidentially provide information about people diagnosed with or suspected to have or exposed to COVID-19, including making notifications to staff and parents as soon as possible  

The school district’s focus throughout the school year has been to provide a safe environment for students and staff, and maintain a consistent schedule allowing our students to interact with their peers and teachers academically and socially.  We recognize there will be different views regarding whether or not to wear masks at school, however, bullying or inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated.  Regardless of an individual’s choice whether or not to wear a mask, they should be treated with respect.

Last, I want to remind our communities and families that our district employees pride themselves in working with families and our communities to see students grow, mature and develop into young adults throughout their time attending Collinsville CUSD 10.   As we move forward in these challenging times, I ask everyone to remember, the strength of our school district is the pride and support our communities, families and staff show our students by working together.  This quality is one of our district’s greatest assets and should be everyone’s focus in the days, weeks and months ahead!  #thekahokway

Sincerely, 

Mark B. Skertich, Ed.D.
Superintendent

The post BOE Votes to Update Return to Learn Plan: Masks Highly Recommended appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

español

Kahok Families, 

The effort put forth this week navigating the latest COVID-19 surge has been tremendous.  The actions by our teachers, support staff, administrators, families, and partners First Student and Sodexo, were tremendous to meet our students’ academic, social and nutritional needs.  It was no easy task changing course in the middle of the school year, and I am grateful for the collective response to make this work.  

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) have reduced quarantines and exclusions for students and staff members who test positive for COVID-19, or are considered a close contact to a positive case, to five days.  This guidance aligns with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).      

The district is adopting the new guidance immediately.  As a result, all students and staff who were positive on or before Wednesday, January 12th may return on Tuesday, January 18th if they are fever free for 24 hours, have improved symptoms, and remain masked at school.  Close contacts on or before Wednesday, January 12th may return on Tuesday, January 18th if they remain asymptomatic.  The shortened quarantine and exclusion will assist in making sure we have the staff to manage classrooms and decrease the length of student absences that are COVID-related.  The district’s Return to Learn Plan will be updated and released to families early next week.   

After careful consideration, we have decided to continue in-person instruction on Tuesday, January 18th by incorporating a shortened school day.  Schools will dismiss ½ hour early every day.  The shortened day will give our certified and non-certified staff additional time to balance combined in-person and live instruction for COVID-19 related absences; and allow our district to meet our students’ academic, social and nutritional needs.  The district will maintain this schedule from January 18th through February 4th.  At this time, it is anticipated the district will return to our normal schedule on Monday, February 7th.   

This bus and school schedule is currently used on Wednesdays throughout the school year and is familiar to our staff, students and families.  A change of this nature is not welcome at any point in the school year, but it is necessary at this time.  Please review the student dismissal times below and adjust your daily routine for the next three weeks.  We understand this may cause an additional burden on families and we apologize in advance.  This change is designed to be temporary.    

½ Hour Early Dismissal Schedule

Cleaning protocols outlined in the district’s Return to Learn Plan and social distancing to the greatest extent possible will remain in place to provide a safe environment for our students and staff.  

Due to the volume of rapid antigen tests our health staff is administering to symptomatic students, the district is going to suspend the “test-to-stay” option for students who are a close contact to a positive case at school.  Once the surge subsides, we will revisit offering the test-to-stay option to all students exposed to a positive case. Thank you to our health staff for their amazing efforts every day.

What happens outside of school in the community and your home has an impact on our ability to keep kids in school.  During this surge in COVID-19 cases, we need your help. Please review the information and protocols below to help us provide a safe environment for our students and staff:

• Complete the daily COVID-19 checklist: Parents are reminded to review the COVID-19 symptom checklist each day before children leave for school. The checklist is posted on the district website (use this link) and the CUSD Connect district app. The app is free and is available on your phone’s app store.  
• Symptomatic People Stay Home: Anyone feeling sick or experiencing symptoms outlined in the COVID-19 checklist, should STAY HOME.  If a child begins to feel sick at school, they should report their symptoms to the teacher or school nurse immediately.

• Proper Masking:  Students and staff are required to properly wear a face covering (mask) over their nose and mouth while indoors and on bus transportation.  The full Face Coverings and PPE policy is on pages 6-7 of the district’s Return to Learn Plan. 

• Family Responsibility:  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is imperative for families to practice disease prevention outside of school, too.  This includes simple actions like proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, face coverings and avoiding attending/hosting crowded gatherings. Use these links to see CDC recommendations to protect yourself and others from COVID-19: English or Spanish

• Alternative Diagnosis: Depending on symptoms, even with a negative COVID test, documentation of an alternative medical diagnosis may be required for a child to return to school. This request is consistent with our district’s Exclusion for Communicable Disease policy. (Review the policy in English or Spanish.)

• Proof of Vaccination: Children 5-years and older are eligible for COVID-19 vaccination.  If your child’s vaccination status has changed – by becoming vaccinated or boosted – please make sure their school has the most up-to-date information by providing a copy of their vaccination card. 

• Vaccine Clinic Information:  Our district has partnered with the Madison County Health Department and IDPH to host vaccination clinics after hours at several of our schools for the convenience of families and community members who want to get vaccinated.  The next clinic is Monday, January 31 at Webster Elementary from 3-8 p.m.  Appointments are strongly encouraged, but walk-ins are welcome.  To schedule an appointment, click HERE.  Additional vaccination opportunities in our community are found HERE. 

As we experienced last year, the situation regarding the COVID-19 pandemic is constantly changing.  Updates will be provided to families with as much advance notice as possible.  Thank you for your continued patience and your constant dedication to our students.  Don’t forget to wear your purple and show your Kahok Pride!  

Sincerely,

Mark B. Skertich, Ed.D.
Superintendent

The post January 13, 2022 Announcement of Return to In-person Learning appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Español

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.

Click HERE to give through the Collinsville Area Community Foundation
OR Click HERE for a downloadable donation form.

Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 (CUSD 10) has launched a “Grow Our Own” Future Teacher Program to encourage current high school students to become educators in the district.  

“Our goal is to encourage, recruit and foster future Kahoks to not only pursue education as a career, but return to Collinsville to work and raise their families,” said CUSD 10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich.  

The aptly named “Kahoks Teaching Kahoks” program includes specialized courses available to students in grades 9-12 and a scholarship program for graduating seniors who will be education majors. There are plans to provide additional money for loan repayment if a program participant becomes a teacher within CUSD 10 once acquiring their appropriate teaching licensure.  

Ameren Illinois announced they will support the scholarship program with $25,000 to empower CHS seniors to become future Kahok educators. The grant funds were made available through the Ameren Cares program, which connects Ameren Illinois with the communities it serves through charitable giving and volunteering.

 “As a former educator myself, I’ve seen first-hand the difference that can be made in the lives of young people when they see teachers who look like them, come from similar backgrounds, and understand the unique socio-economic needs of the local community,” Mark said. “Ameren Illinois is proud to support this important initiative and help Collinsville Community School District prepare their students for careers as future Kahok teachers.”

FUTURE TEACHER COURSES

The courses are an expansion of curriculum offered through Collinsville High School (CHS) and the Collinsville Area Vocational Center (CAVC) – some offering dual credit through Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC). The new courses were approved by the CUSD 10 Board of Education September 20, 2021. 

“For the 22/23 school year, the Collinsville Area Vocational Center will be rolling out our revamped education program. This will consist of 3 classes: Early Childhood Education, Teaching as a Profession, and Teaching Practicum. These classes will allow us to continue running our own preschool, while also introducing future teachers to the profession through classwork and student teaching opportunities within the district,’ said CAVC Director Joe McGinnis. 

Collinsville High School students can take a new one-hour elective titled “Child Development & Instruction” as early as their freshman or sophomore year.  Content includes projects to develop an understanding of the learner and the learning process, instructional planning, the learning environment, instructional strategies, and career opportunities in the field of education. 

Courses offered to students through CAVC include:

• Early Childhood – 2.5 hour dual credit – Prepares students to work with young children (PreK-K) through classroom and job shadowing experiences, as well as an on-site preschool center. 
• Teaching as a Profession – 2.5 hour dual credit – Provides an opportunity for students to develop skills in areas such as lesson plans, teaching strategies, learning styles, diversity in education, and classroom management.  
• Education Practicum – 2.5 hour dual credit – Provides workplace experience to students in fields related to education. Students will be placed in district buildings at various grade levels based on career pathways in education. 

SCHOLARSHIPS 

When the districtwide Kahok Diversity & Equity Committee was formed in 2019, their initial task was to discuss ways to recruit more minority teachers.  This led to the district’s concerted effort to “grow” teachers by encouraging current students to pursue careers in education.    

The Kahok Diversity & Equity Committee has established the Future Teachers Scholarship program for Collinsville High School seniors.  Upon selection, scholarship recipients will be awarded $1,000 per year toward their college expenses for four years.  Committee members have finalized the selection rubric and will release the application in time for the Class of 2022 to apply in the spring.  

The Kahoks Teaching Kahoks scholarships are among a number of new scholarship opportunities that will be announced by CAVC Director Joe McGinnis in coming weeks.  

“We have worked hard over the past year to develop a vehicle that will allow us to initially offer a few scholarships to encourage students to pursue their desired career whether it be in Education or the Industrial Trades. Looking toward the future we hope to expand our scholarship offerings in number and the amount awarded to students,” he explained.

SCHOLARSHIP FUNDING

Funding for the scholarship program will come from personal and corporate donations, as well as a payroll deduction program for CUSD 10 employees. Donations are tax deductible and will be accepted through the existing Collinsville Education Scholarship Foundation 501c3. The initial number of scholarships presented will be based on the amount of money raised during the current fundraising effort.  

“Our current goal is to award $12,000 – $16,000 in Kahoks Teaching Kahoks scholarships annually,” said Superintendent Dr. Skertich.  “We are fortunate to partner with the Collinsville Education Scholarship Foundation to receive and administer the funds.  Donations are tax deductible and eligible for corporate matching. We also want to encourage donations in honor or memory of individuals – especially current and former educators.”

“Having the ability to assist students in their future education and careers is extremely important for the students, our school district, and our community. We are taking a grassroots approach, to build our students into the future workforce of Unit 10 and the community as a whole,” said McGinnis.

“The district is fortunate to have unwavering support from our families, communities and businesses.  Ameren Illinois is a perfect example, and we want to thank Collinsville alumni and Ameren Illinois President Richard Mark for the support shown to Kahoks Teaching Kahoks. Their generosity will help Collinsville create its own pipeline of educators for years to come from within our school district,” said Skertich.

For further information, please contact Dr. Brad Skertich at bskertich@cusd.kahoks.org or Mr. Joe McGinnis at jmcginni@cusd.kahoks.org.

The Belleville News-Democrat Featured Kahoks Teaching Kahoks on October 14, 2021.  Click HERE to watch an interview with CAVC Director Joe McGinnis.

The post Kahoks Teaching Kahoks appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Read the transcript in English
Read the transcript in Spanish

October 8, 2021 Video Message

USE LINKS BELOW TO READ THE 2021-22 RETURN TO LEARN PLAN

Return to Learn Plan Submitted to BOE for October 18, 2021 (English)
Return to Learn Plan Submitted to BOE for October 18, 2021 (Spanish)

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

September 28, 2021 – Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 (CUSD 10) has launched a “Grow Our Own” Future Teacher Program to encourage current high school students to become educators in the district.  

“Our goal is to encourage, recruit and foster future Kahoks to not only pursue education as a career, but return to Collinsville to work and raise their families,” said CUSD 10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich.  

The aptly named “Kahoks Teaching Kahoks” program includes specialized courses available to students in grades 9-12 and a scholarship program for graduating seniors who will be education majors. There are plans to provide additional money for loan repayment if a program participant becomes a teacher within CUSD 10 once acquiring their appropriate teaching licensure.  

Ameren Illinois announced they will support the scholarship program with $25,000 to empower CHS seniors to become future Kahok educators. The grant funds were made available through the Ameren Cares program, which connects Ameren Illinois with the communities it serves through charitable giving and volunteering.

 “As a former educator myself, I’ve seen first-hand the difference that can be made in the lives of young people when they see teachers who look like them, come from similar backgrounds, and understand the unique socio-economic needs of the local community,” Mark said. “Ameren Illinois is proud to support this important initiative and help Collinsville Community School District prepare their students for careers as future Kahok teachers.”

Future Teacher Courses

The courses are an expansion of curriculum offered through Collinsville High School (CHS) and the Collinsville Area Vocational Center (CAVC) – some offering dual credit through Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC). The new courses were approved by the CUSD 10 Board of Education September 20, 2021. 

“For the 22/23 school year, the Collinsville Area Vocational Center will be rolling out our revamped education program. This will consist of 3 classes: Early Childhood Education, Teaching as a Profession, and Teaching Practicum. These classes will allow us to continue running our own preschool, while also introducing future teachers to the profession through classwork and student teaching opportunities within the district,’ said CAVC Director Joe McGinnis. 

Collinsville High School students can take a new one-hour elective titled “Child Development & Instruction” as early as their freshman or sophomore year.  Content includes projects to develop an understanding of the learner and the learning process, instructional planning, the learning environment, instructional strategies, and career opportunities in the field of education. 

Courses offered to students through CAVC include:

• Early Childhood – 2.5 hour dual credit – Prepares students to work with young children (PreK-K) through classroom and job shadowing experiences, as well as an on-site preschool center. 
• Teaching as a Profession – 2.5 hour dual credit – Provides an opportunity for students to develop skills in areas such as lesson plans, teaching strategies, learning styles, diversity in education, and classroom management.  
• Education Practicum – 2.5 hour dual credit – Provides workplace experience to students in fields related to education. Students will be placed in district buildings at various grade levels based on career pathways in education. 

Scholarships 

When the districtwide Kahok Diversity & Equity Committee was formed in 2019, their initial task was to discuss ways to recruit more minority teachers.  This led to the district’s concerted effort to “grow” teachers by encouraging current students to pursue careers in education.    

The Kahok Diversity & Equity Committee has established the Future Teachers Scholarship program for Collinsville High School seniors.  Upon selection, scholarship recipients will be awarded $1,000 per year toward their college expenses for four years.  Committee members have finalized the selection rubric and will release the application in time for the Class of 2022 to apply in the spring.  

The Kahoks Teaching Kahoks scholarships are among a number of new scholarship opportunities that will be announced by CAVC Director Joe McGinnis in coming weeks.  

“We have worked hard over the past year to develop a vehicle that will allow us to initially offer a few scholarships to encourage students to pursue their desired career whether it be in Education or the Industrial Trades. Looking toward the future we hope to expand our scholarship offerings in number and the amount awarded to students,” he explained.

Scholarship Funding

Funding for the scholarship program will come from personal and corporate donations, as well as a payroll deduction program for CUSD 10 employees. Donations are tax deductible and will be accepted through the existing Collinsville Education Scholarship Foundation 501c3. The initial number of scholarships presented will be based on the amount of money raised during the current fundraising effort.  

“Our current goal is to award $12,000 – $16,000 in Kahoks Teaching Kahoks scholarships annually,” said Superintendent Dr. Skertich.  “We are fortunate to partner with the Collinsville Education Scholarship Foundation to receive and administer the funds.  Donations are tax deductible and eligible for corporate matching. We also want to encourage donations in honor or memory of individuals – especially current and former educators.”

Click HERE for a downloadable donation form.

“Having the ability to assist students in their future education and careers is extremely important for the students, our school district, and our community. We are taking a grassroots approach, to build our students into the future workforce of Unit 10 and the community as a whole,” said McGinnis.

“The district is fortunate to have unwavering support from our families, communities and businesses.  Ameren Illinois is a perfect example, and we want to thank Collinsville alumni and Ameren Illinois President Richard Mark for the support shown to Kahoks Teaching Kahoks. Their generosity will help Collinsville create its own pipeline of educators for years to come from within our school district,” said Skertich.

For further information, please contact Dr. Brad Skertich at bskertich@cusd.kahoks.org or Mr. Joe McGinnis at jmcginni@cusd.kahoks.org.

The Belleville News-Democrat Featured Kahoks Teaching Kahoks on October 14, 2021.  Click HERE to watch an interview with CAVC Director Joe McGinnis.

The post CUSD 10 Announces “Kahoks Teaching Kahoks” Future Teacher Initiative appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

September 10, 2021 – Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich released an update to families and the community today.

Español

Kahok Families, 

This Friday marks the conclusion of our fourth week of the 21-22 school year.  We are grateful to be in attendance five days-a-week along with a full-day schedule.  The district has enjoyed a good start to the school year, despite the challenges related to COVID-19, adapting to students’ academic and social emotional needs, and the reality, as much as we long for normal, we aren’t quite back to normal yet.  I appreciate the efforts made by our staff, families and community!  

Since the school year began, our practice has been that unvaccinated “close contacts to a positive case” were excluded from school for 14 days or opted to participate in the test-to-stay option.  After conversations with the local health department and looking at data, we determined we can lessen exclusion time to 10 days out of school. This lesser amount of time, along with the test-to-stay option for close contacts, will minimize students’ time away from their peers and teachers in a face-to-face setting.   In the weeks ahead, additional changes are likely for the district’s Return to Learn Plan and we will continue to provide transparent communication when changes occur. 

This Saturday marks the 20th anniversary of the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Center, Pentagon and United Airlines Flight 93.  After twenty years, those of us who are old enough, remember exactly where we were that day, like it was yesterday.  Below you will find a poem by Sue Ellen Silva entitled, “September 11, 2001:  A Day of Remembrance.”  Please take a moment this weekend to remember and never forget those who lost their lives two decades ago.

It’s a day we will always remember.
It’s a day we will never forget.
It’s a day of our country’s vulnerability in a world of the unknown.
The unknown hit our country fast and with vengeance,
We, as a people, stood tall and proud, fighting for our freedom; our way of life.
In the midst of many ashes of innocence and sorrow;
We, America, will always remain forever.
-Sue Ellen Silva 

Finally, I want to remind everyone, on Friday, September 17th, students will only be in attendance for a half-day followed by a Teacher In-Service in the afternoon.  That Friday also kicks off the Italian Fest and the opportunity to celebrate Collinsville’s Italian Heritage and indulge in some local favorites!  

I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable weekend. Good luck to Kahoks Football tonight against Alton. Don’t forget to wear your purple and show your Kahok Pride!

Sincerely,
Mark B. Skertich, Ed.D.
Superintendent

The post September 10, 2021 Update from Dr. Skertich appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Read the August 11, 2021 Letter to Families and the Community (English)
Read the August 11, 2021 Letter to Families and the Community (Spanish)

Watch a video summary of Dr. Skertich’s August 11, 2021 message:

The post 21-22 Back-to-School Message & Learning Plan Update appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – based on questions and input received from public comments received online July 23-26 and during the July 26 public hearing – have been published on the district website: FAQ for Families.

Read Dr. Skertich’s July 30, 2021 Letter (English)
Read Dr. Skertich’s July 30, 2021 Letter (Spanish)

Click HERE to read the latest version of the district’s 2021-22 Return to Learn Plan.

The post First Update & FAQ for 21-22 Return to Learn Plan 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.

The hearing will be followed by the July Regular Monthly meeting of the Board of Education beginning at 6:30 pm.

Click HERE to view the July 19, 2021 BOE hearing and meeting agendas.

July 26 Meeting Regarding 2021-22 Return to Learning Plan

The CUSD #10 Board of Education will hold a public hearing on Monday, July 26, 2021 at 6:00 pm regarding the district’s proposed 2021-22 Return to Learn plan.  The hearing will be held in the Administrative Annex, 123 W. Clay Street, Collinsville, IL.

Click here to view the agenda for the July 26, 2021 public hearing.

The post BOE Public Hearings & July 19 2021 Regular Meeting appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

June 30, 2021

Kahok Families, 

I hope everyone is enjoying summer break.  It’s hard to believe July is right around the corner and the start of the new school year is less than 7 weeks away. We are excited about welcoming everyone back.

The end of the 2019-20 and entire 2020-21 school years were challenging for students, staff and families.  However, despite struggles, I am proud of the collective efforts to adapt and meet the academic and social- emotional needs of our students.  Now our  district’s focus is on a Return to Learn Plan for the 2021-22 school year.  It is currently a work in progress, but here are few priorities:  

1. Return to a five (5) day-a-week schedule
2. Prepare for a full-day schedule
3. Provide a safe environment for our students and staff, while social distancing to the greatest extent possible

A key component of our Return to Learn Plan that has received inquiries in recent days is whether face coverings will be required.  We are planning for multiple scenarios, but please know, our goal is to start the 2021-22 school year in a “normal” environment.  At this time, our district and others around the state have asked for guidance from Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) that provides local control and flexibility; i.e. the autonomy to make decisions based on the health of OUR students and staff as we implement necessary mitigations throughout the school year.  Until additional guidance is given, we will not be able to announce a decision on masks.

Additionally, the plan will include programs, curriculum, and services funded by federal stimulus monies to assist students’ academic and social emotional needs after living through a pandemic.  Children are resilient, but we will have to adapt some of our practices to assist in their transition back to a new normal.  I expect the new Return to Learn plan to be presented to the Board of Education and to our Kahok families towards the end of July.  The delay is not ideal, however, the ISBE and IDPH have yet to provide updated guidance for schools.  This delay is equally as frustrating for families and district staff! 

I appreciate the concern expressed by many regarding the upcoming school year.  We ask for your patience a little longer as the district works with health officials, our legal counsel and insurance carrier to finalize our 2021-22 Return to Learn Plan in the weeks ahead.   

Last and certainly not least, Happy Fourth of July!  Please be safe and don’t forget to wear your purple and show your Kahok Pride!  

Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent

The post June 30, 2021 Letter 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 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.