November 14, 2023 – Collinsville CUSD 10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich and Collinsville High School social studies teacher Dakota Tostado were among the panelists invited by Advance Illinois to discuss “The State of Our Educator Pipeline” during an event hosted at the Gateway Center in Collinsville.

Advance Illinois is a Chicago-based “… independent policy and advocacy organization working towards a healthy public education system that prepares students to achieve success in college, career, and civic life.”  The November 14 panel members were invited by Advance Illinois to discuss how teacher supply is impacting schools in southwestern Illinois communities.

The panel participants  were:

• Robin Steans, President, Advance Illinois
• Dr. Jill Griffin, Superintendent, Bethalto CUSD 8
• Dr. Nate Williams, Associate Professor of Education, SIUE
• Dr. Mark B. Skertich, Superintendent, Collinsville CUSD 10
• Dakota Tostado, Teacher, Collinsville High School, Collinsville CUSD 10

Dr. Skertich and Dr. Williams are members of the Advance Illinois Advisory Group.

Steans opened the presentation by summarizing her organization’s recent report “The State of Our Educator Pipeline 2023: Strengths, Opportunities, and the Early Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic.”  She highlighted specific data points and trends in the supply, recruitment and retention of both certified teachers and paraprofessional staff.

During the discussion, superintendents Dr. Skertich and Dr. Griffin talked about challenges their district’s face and what they are doing to address those challenges.  Dr. Williams provided insight about teacher preparation programs, and how they are evolving to support teachers and meet the needs of today’s schools.  Tostado, a second-year teacher, recounted his experiences as a student of color and how that impacted his decision to become an educator.

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Individuals are nominated by district colleagues, and recipients are chosen by Dr. Skertich.  Criteria for the Superintendent’s Quality & Excellence award include:  rapport with students; relationship with peers; professionalism; classroom activities and use of content knowledge (certified staff); going above and beyond in their profession; and community involvement.

Mark Schusky/Collinsville High School Social Studies Teacher (Certified Staff)

Schusky was nominated by fellow CHS teacher Kyle Gordon, who wrote:

Teaching both ELL Government and Current Events is not an easy task. Every morning he arrives to create materials for his Current Events class at 6:30 a.m. based on the daily newspaper. He works tirelessly to develop lessons in his ELL Government Class that all learners can understand and relate to. He is dedicated to teaching all kids that walk through his door. Mark has a loving, fatherly rapport with students both in and out of his classroom. They are always in his classroom chatting about their day and lives. He is open, honest and supportive of every child he comes in contact with.

Very few have the professionalism that Mr. Schusky demonstrates. He is a role model for others to emulate. He is a constant professional in the classroom, in this building and in his role as a building rep when needed. Mark is a leader in this building. He may be a union official, but that is not what makes him a leader. He is a leader because of the time and effort he puts into each and every faculty member he comes in contact with. He is kind, patient, understanding, knowledgeable and supportive of everyone at CHS.

Each and every year Mark donates his time to read names at the annual Honors Convocation and Graduation. He spends hours practicing this craft to ensure every child’s name is read correctly. This is an unpaid labor of love.

Mark Schusky can be described as “Mr. Collinsville.” From his service on the Library Board, to service on the Gateway Center Board to community service throughout the area, Mark is a pillar of this community.

Claudia Gramaglia/District Translator (Non-Certified Staff)

Gramaglia was nominated by Special Education Director Alison Underwood & Public Relations Liaison Kimberly Collins

Claudia has been observed during DIAL Screenings to be very interactive and kind with the little ones. She is warm and makes the children feel at ease. She also works Summer School at our elementary schools and she does a great job working with the students in that setting.

Claudia is a team player. She gets along well with her peers. She is collaborative with staff to ensure that she is explaining everything correctly during IEP meetings. She covers others’ IEP meetings when the other translators are absent. She is always willing to help a teacher or other staff member make a phone call to parents when there needs to be a translator involved.

Claudia’s work translating communications for the district office is often a last minute assignment.  She NEVER hesitates or complains.  She steps up and ALWAYS finds a way to get it done on top of her already busy schedule. Knowing she can always be reached and is ready to help, are qualities that make her a valued and respected member of the team.

Claudia may be one of the most professional staff members in CUSD 10. She handles herself with grace at all times even in some very challenging situations. She is always polite and respectful to all parties involved and makes sure that parents feel heard and valued during IEP meetings.

In her role translating district communications to Spanish-speaking families, Claudia has access to proprietary information before it is public. She protects that information and does not engage in gossip or banter about content. She works tirelessly to make sure her translation communicates the English version of messages in the best way possible to ensure Spanish-speaking families receive accurate and comprehensible communication of complex issues.

Claudia always makes sure to meet deadlines with IEP translations and get general district information translated quickly for communication with families. She works well outside of her hours and beyond her responsibilities. This includes evenings, weekends, holidays and on her own vacation time.

There are numerous examples of Claudia going above and beyond to support the district’s communication efforts. When an urgent need arose in the summer of 2020, she was out of town without reliable internet access. She found a restaurant where she could sit and translate a letter families needed to receive that afternoon. When she has a day off and gets a text message about an urgent document that needs to be translated, she communicates her availability and gets to it as soon as possible. Recently, following the Uvalde, TX school shooting, Claudia anticipated a message might be going out from Dr. Skertich, so she contacted the district office to offer her services on stand-by – undeterred by the fact that school was already out for summer break and she was not working that day.

She takes very seriously the need for all CUSD 10 families to have timely communication. When the Illinois Department of Public Health released a complex COVID-19 flowchart that was not available in Spanish, Claudia painstakingly recreated it so our families could have access to that important information.

Claudia is involved with the Diversity & Equity committee. Her input and contributions are a valued part of the group’s efforts.

She is a dedicated partner in making sure the Spanish-speaking members of our Kahok community are valued and respected. She works hard to lead and support efforts to translate materials – such as subtitles for Dr. Skertich’s video messages, the district’s lengthy Return to Learn Plans, as well as letters and announcements – so all people in our community have access to information.

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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.

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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

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Kahok Families, 

Winter weather has arrived!  Only in the Midwest can we hit fifty-degree temperatures one day and see ice and snow accumulation less than twenty-four hours later.  Please be safe in the days ahead as we endure February weather.

The health of our staff and students has improved drastically following three weeks of ½ hour early dismissal to accommodate the post-holiday COVID-19 surge.  As a result, the district plans to return to our normal school day schedule on Monday, February 7th.  Recent weeks have not been easy for our families, students and staff.  We are grateful for the flexibility shown by everyone to adapt.  

Beginning Monday, February 7th, following current public health guidelines, the district will resume optional Test to Stay for students who are close contacts to a positive case at school.  Updated guidance from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) regarding Test to Stay protocols says:

ISBE and IDPH now allow a strategy for close contacts to remain in school following exposure to COVID-19 through a Test to Stay protocol. Following an exposure occurring in the school setting that occurs during the school day (excludes extracurricular activities), close contacts are permitted to remain in the classroom as long as close contacts are tested twice during the period between close contact notification and day 7 after exposure.  The last test occurring 5-7 days after last close contact from the date of exposure and all results are negative.

Families whose children are determined to be close contacts will be notified by their child’s school and may choose to participate in the Test to Stay program by scheduling an appointment using THIS LINK.  (Please note: the calendar uses Google. If you do not have or want to create a Google account, please call 618-343-2740 x3006 to make an appointment).

February is Black History Month. The CHS Black Student Union created this slide presentation to be shared across the district for all of our schools to use. The interactive presentation includes the “why” behind Black History Month.  This year the students focused the month-long celebration around prominent figures in history, including royalty, inventors, pioneers, cowboys, the Tuskegee Airmen, the Negro Leagues, Hollywood celebrities and the Civil Rights Movement.  The BSU’s leadership of our Black History Month celebration is an example of the outstanding work our student body produces throughout the school year.  

In another example of Kahoks working together to benefit our schools, the CHS Band’s “Stuffed Shells” fundraiser is underway.  You can place an order through any CHS band member or by using the email address and payment option listed on the flyer included with this letter.  Orders are being taken through Monday, February 7.  Don’t miss a great opportunity to purchase stuffed shells, red and/or white sauce – all made with the Vivano family recipes that are famous in our community.  The food is amazing and will benefit our tremendous band program district wide.

Don’t let the often gloomy February weather get you down.  Activities are plentiful throughout the district right now.  Basketball, cheer, dance, bowling, wrestling and pep band are in full swing each week.  A great way to break up the winter months is to come out and watch our students compete and perform.  Don’t forget to wear your purple and show your Kahok Pride!

Sincerely,

Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent

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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

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Kahok Families,

We understand the stress an adaptive pause to in-person learning puts on everyone.  Our district appreciates the flexibility of community partners and families as we move to remote learning for the next three days.  

Attached is a summary of policies, expectations and resources applicable during the adaptive pause occurring this week on Tuesday (January 11), Wednesday (January 12) and Thursday (January 13).  Remember, Friday (January 14) is a Teacher Institute and Monday, (January 17) is the Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday, so there are no classes on those days. 

This information is also posted on www.kahoks.org.  You should hear from your child(ren)’s teacher(s) and/or school with class- and building-specific instructions.  Please reach out to them if you have any questions.

The new year may have started with uphill challenges, however, I am confident if we keep our focus on our students, we will get through the current trials thanks to the support of our families and the dedication of our staff. Stay healthy. 

Sincerely,

Mark B. Skertich, Ed.D.
Superintendent

Remote Learning during Adaptive Pause

Students will engage in learning activities facilitated by their teachers. The lessons will focus on essential course skills and content appropriate for an abbreviated day of remote learning.  School buildings will be open daily and teachers and staff will be in attendance to prepare and deliver lessons using available classroom technology equipment. 

Teacher Availability

Teachers will periodically monitor their email and respond to questions during their school hours.  Teachers will be available outside of these hours by appt. only. If you need an appointment please reach out to your teacher.  Teachers will use various means to stay connected with students, including: webpage updates, Google Classroom updates, ClassDojo, emails, phone calls, Remind updates, etc., to help the instructor connect with, reassure, and provide students with feedback and encouragement. 

Student Attendance

Attendance will be taken daily using methods designated by the teacher or school.  

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 Remote Learning Days. If a student is unable to attend a live session, the classroom teachers may provide either notes or a recorded version of the session. 

• Elementary students (Grades K-6):  will include in their morning announcement the times students are to log in for live instruction.
• Middle and high school students (Grades 7-12): staff will use the abbreviated class times when scheduling synchronous (live) sessions. The following schedule will apply:

CMS and CHS Daily Schedule

Students with Special Education Services

• Students receiving special education services in Grades 7-12 will follow their class schedule outlined above for CMS and CHS.
• Students receiving special education services in Grades K-6 will be expected to attend Google Meets set up by their assigned classroom teachers.  
• Students who receive special education services in the General Education setting will continue to receive instruction and assignments from their general education teacher(s).
• Students who receive special education services in the general education and special education setting will receive instruction and assignments and activities from their general education teacher(s) and from the special education teacher(s).
• Students who receive special education services in the Special Education Setting will receive all of their instruction and assignments and activities from their special education teacher(s). 
• Related Services: Speech, Social Work, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Adapted PE- Students receiving related services per their IEPs will be communicated with on an individual basis from their related service providers regarding service delivery model and schedule.

IEP Meetings

Scheduled IEP meetings will continue to take place via Google Meets. IEP Coordinators will send out emails with the google meets link and invitation. If for some reason the IEP meeting would need to be rescheduled, all IEP Team members will be notified as soon as possible. Please reach out to your child’s special education teacher/case manager with any questions. 

Grading

Students will be expected to complete all assignments, assessments, and projects in a timely manner. All assignments will be graded when appropriate and students will be provided with feedback on each graded assignment. 

Technology

All students have been provided with a Chromebook and charger for remote instruction. Students who do not have adequate access to the Internet will be provided with a hotspot/router. Here are instructions on connecting to WiFi: English or Spanish. Please contact your building principal if you have connectivity issues. 

Use this link for a list of school-by-school contact information for student/parent technical support. 

COVID 19 Testing Availability

If your student is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, and you would like them to be tested for COVID at school, please contact your student’s school health office to request an appointment. Appointments will be made based upon availability on a first come, first served basis and will only occur during the School Health Staff’s contractual hours.  Use this link for contact information. 

Child Care/Latchkey

The district is partnering with the Collinsville, Maryville and Troy YMCA to allow families access to child care and/or latchkey service regardless if student attendance is in-person or remote during the adaptive pause.  Y Club will be offered from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm on January 11th, 12th, and 13th at Renfro Elementary for current students.  School’s Out Camp will be held on the 14th and 17th at the YMCA.  Interested families should contact the CMT YMCA at 618-346-5600.

Food Service

FREE student meal service will be provided to  students (ages 1-18) on Remote Learning Days during the Adaptive Pause in CUSD 10.  We encourage families to take advantage of this offer to ensure children are fed.  (Click HERE for a printable PDF of food service information and map.)

On Remote Learning Days during the current adaptive pause, meal service will be available Tuesday (Jan 11), Wednesday (Jan 12) and Thursday (Jan 13).  Since January 14 and 15 were scheduled non-attendance days, food service is NOT available on those days.  

Curbside Pick-up: Bagged meals will be available via curbside pickup from 7 am-12 pm, at the following locations:

• Collinsville High School (Back of School by Dock)
• Dorris Intermediate School
• Kreitner Elementary School
• Webster Elementary School (Back of School)

Delivery Route Pick-Up Locations: First Student school buses will deliver meals designated neighborhoods using the following routes and schedule:

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Kahok Families,

The second half of the 2021-22 school year is underway, unfortunately, we find ourselves dealing with yet another COVID surge throughout our country that is impacting our state, region and district.  We put 2021 in the rearview mirror last weekend, unfortunately we cannot do that with the COVID pandemic. 

This is a message I hoped we would never have to send this school year, however, due to the current surge in COVID-19 cases and accompanying staff shortage, we are unable to sustain in-person learning.  As a result, after consultation with the Madison County Health Department, CUSD 10 will take an adaptive pause and utilize e-learning beginning Tuesday, January 11, 2022.  Monday, January 10th, will be a regular day of attendance to allow teachers and students to prepare for e-learning.  

This adaptive pause is scheduled through the Martin Luther King holiday (Monday, January 17th) to provide time for isolated or quarantined students and staff to return to an in-person setting.  Please note:  According to the district’s 2021-22 calendar, Friday, January 14th is a scheduled non-attendance day for students as staff will participate in a Teacher Institute Day.  This means e-learning will take place on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday next week. In-person learning will resume on Tuesday, January 18th.

As we prepare for this to occur, our district is working to ensure students have possession of the devices they need for learning at home, food service will be available and accessible, and social-emotional support is in place for students as they move to and from a remote setting. 

On Monday, January 10th, information about e-learning, food service, technology support, COVID-19 testing, etc. will be released to families.  In addition, you will receive details from your child’s school and/or teacher(s) concerning classroom specific expectations.    

This is not how anyone wanted 2022 to begin.  However, the resilience of our staff, students and families has consistently proven when we work together we can overcome challenges. Do not hesitate to reach out for assistance.  Thank you for your constant dedication to our students and staff!  

Sincerely,

Mark B. Skertich, Ed.D.
Superintendent

The post Important Announcement of Adaptive Pause Beginning Jan 11 2022 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

The post Renfro is Site of Dec 6 IDPH COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic 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.

The post IDPH Vaccine Clinic at Renfro 12/6/21 for 5 to 11-Year-Olds appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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Kahok Families, 

The school year is flying by as we quickly approach the middle of November.  We only have seven school days until Thanksgiving Break and thirty-one school days remaining until Winter Break.  Please be safe as you navigate the holiday season. If your family or organization would like to sponsor a local family to help provide holiday gifts, please email dzimmerm@cusd.kahoks.org or ljimenez@cusd.kahoks.org.  

Following the emergency authorization and distribution of COVID-19 vaccines for five- through eleven- year-olds, the Illinois Department of Public Health has begun scheduling vaccine clinics in school districts. Renfro Elementary will be the site of two vaccination clinics for students five years and older, as well as community members wishing to be vaccinated.  The clinics will be held on November 15th and December 6th from 3 p.m. until 8 p.m. in the Renfro Elementary Gymnasium.  Walk-ins are welcome, but we encourage families to register in advance by clicking HERE.  All students under the age of eighteen must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.   

It is only November, but mother nature operates by her own rules. Please take a few moments to prepare in advance for the winter season by refreshing your knowledge of how the district will handle “snow days” before they occur.  These determinations will be made with as much advance notification as possible, however, the necessity of early morning decisions may be required depending on the weather situation.  Click on THIS LINK to access information regarding our E-Learning Days. Specific schedules and expectations for E-learning days will be communicated by your child’s classroom teacher(s) and building principal.    

Please use THIS LINK to access a Veterans’ Day video as we honor all who have served our country both past and present.  School will not be in session tomorrow on Veterans’ Day, but this doesn’t mean meaningful conversations cannot happen at home around the kitchen table as our country honors our armed forces.  If you know a veteran or pass a service member on the street, please thank them for their service.  On behalf of our entire district, Happy Veterans’ Day.

In the days and weeks ahead basketball will be in full swing at CMS and CHS. Our community’s basketball fanatics are excited to see our students compete.  I simply ask, don’t forget to wear your purple and show your Kahok Pride.  Let’s go Kahoks!  

Sincerely, 

Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent

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

Click the image below for a downloadable copy of the flyer. 

The post Vaccine Clinic for 5- to 11-Year-Olds at Renfro Nov 15 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.

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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.

Click HERE to read the update in Spanish.

Kahok Families, 

The first two weeks of school are always exciting!  Extreme heat and a full moon always add hurdles, but there is nothing better than seeing our schools full of activity as we take another step toward a normal school year.  Yes, things look a little different, but the positive interactions among students, their peers and staff were a much-needed boost for everyone! 

The district will continue our efforts to provide transparent communication to families regarding the health of our students and staff.  Please click the COVID-19 Dashboard on our website to find weekly updates on positive cases and exclusions.  This data will be updated at the end of each week.

A point of clarification: the Governor’s announcement yesterday – requiring all school employees to be vaccinated or submit to weekly COVID testing – does not affect our PreK-12 students.

The district is once again partnering with the Madison County Health Department to host a COVID-19 vaccine clinic on September 1st at Collinsville Middle School from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.  Everyone twelve years or older is eligible to attend.  Children twelve to seventeen years old must be accompanied by a parent/guardian.  Please visit www.madison.chd.org to schedule an appointment.  Walk-ins are also welcome.

One of the best sights at the start of the school year is seeing our students participate in middle school baseball, softball, and cross country; as well as high school cross country, golf, tennis, swimming, band, soccer, football and volleyball.  We have missed many things in the past 18 months. I don’t think we realized how much we missed our families, community members and students cheering on the sidelines until we experienced it last week at the Collinsville High School Kahok Kickoff.  This was a great reminder of the love and passion that resonates throughout Kahok Nation for our students!  

Finally, I want to remind you there is no school on Monday, September 6th, in observance of Labor Day.  Students will return on Tuesday, September 7th.  Enjoy the three-day weekend when it arrives and please be safe.  Thank you for your constant dedication to our students, have a great weekend, and don’t forget to wear your purple and show your Kahok Pride!

Sincerely,

Mark B. Skertich, Ed.D.
Superintendent   

The post August 27, 2021 Update from Dr. Skertich appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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Collinsville High School & Collinsville Area Vocational Center:

Tuesday, August 17, Open House 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Collinsville Middle School:

Monday, August 16th Orientation for Incoming 7th Grade: 6:30PM – 7:30PM
Tuesday, September 14th Open House (Grades 7 & 8): 6:30PM – 7:30PM

Dorris Intermediate School:

Monday, August 16th Open House 5th Grade: 4:00PM-7:00PM; By Appointment Only.
Tuesday, August 17th Open House 6th Grade: 4:00PM-7:00PM; By Appointment Only.

Caseyville Elementary:

Monday, August 16th Kindergarten Orientation & Open House 5:00PM – 7:00PM;  By Appointment Only.

Jefferson Elementary:

Monday August 16th, Open House 5:00PM-7:00PM; By Appointment Only

Kreitner Elementary:

Monday, August 16th Kindergarten Orientation: 4:45PM – 5:15PM
Monday, August 16th Open House 1st Grade – 4th Grade: 5:15PM – 6:15PM

Maryville Elementary:

Monday, August 16th K-4 Open House
Last Names A-K: 5:00PM-5:45PM & Last Names L-Z: 6:00PM – 6:45PM

Renfro Elementary:

Monday, August 16th Open House Grade KG, 2nd Grade & 4th Grade:
Last names A-K from 5:00PM – 5:30PM, Last names L-Z from 5:45 – 6:15

Tuesday, August 17th Open House 1st Grade & 3rd Grade:
Last names A-K from 5:00PM to 5:30PM, Last names L-Z from 5:45-6:15

Summit Elementary:

Monday August 16th, Open House 5:00PM-7:00PM; By Appointment Only.

Twin Echo Elementary:

Monday, August 16th, Kindergarten Orientation & Open House 6:00PM – 7:00 PM

Webster Elementary:

Monday, August 16th Kindergarten Orientation 5:30PM-6:00PM & Open House 6:00PM – 7:00PM

Hollywood Heights:

Thursday, August 19th Open House 5:00PM – 6:00PM

The post 2021-22 Open House & Kindergarten Orientation Schedule 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 vaccination clinic will be held at:
Collinsville Middle School
9649 Collinsville Rd.
Collinsville, IL 62234

On the day of your appointment, please remember to bring your QR code, photo ID, and vaccination card (if second dose).

Masks are required.

Minors must be accompanied by parent or legal guardian at all times and Pfizer is the only approved vaccine for those under the age of 18 (12-17 years old). The parent or legal guardian must show identification.

Please Note:
• If you have ever had a severe allergic reaction (e.g. anaphylaxis) to ANY injectable medication or vaccine you are not eligible to register for these clinics. Please contact your healthcare provider for assistance locating an appropriate clinic.
• If you are sick or are COVID-19 positive, please contact MCHD to reschedule.

The post MCHD Hosting COVID-19 Vaccination Clinic at CMS June 28 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

May 20, 2021 –  Madison County Health Department is holding a COVID-19 vaccination event on Monday, June 7, 2021 from 3:30 -7:30 pm at Collinsville Middle School, 9649 Collinsville Road.

People 12+ are eligible to receive the the Pfizer vaccine that day.  Parents MUST accompany minors 12-17 years old.

Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are welcome.  To register, visit the Madison County Health Department website or or call (618) 692-8954 ext. 2.

Click to read vaccination information from the Illinois Department of Public Health about children 12+ (English)
Click to read vaccination information from the Illinois Department of Public Health about children 12+ (Spanish)

The post CMS is Site for MCHD Vaccine Clinic June 7, 2021 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

SOCIAL MEDIA

Tag your social media posts using:

#2021KAHOKS
#ONCEAKAHOKALWAYSAKAHOK

LINKS

Click the image below to access 2021 Commencement Ceremony videos recorded May 15, 2021

Click the image below to view a recording of the the 2021 Honors Convocation held May 12, 2021

Click the image below to watch Kahok Talk: Senior Edition 2021

Click the image below to read about 2021 Alumni Achievement Award Recipient Ken Oberkfell

IMPORTANT DATES

April 19: 
Delivery of senior Kahok Proud yard signs.

April 26:
Academic Signing Day for Seniors, CHS Auditorium, 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. 

April 30:
Senior Prom 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Gateway Center.

May 5:
Last day for daily work and assignments for seniors; Last day of attendance for seniors who are passing.

May 7:
Last day for seniors.

May 12:
Twin Echo Elementary Clap-out Celebration for Graduates, 12:00 p.m. See details below.
Maryville Elementary Clap-out Celebration for Graduates, 5:00 pm. See details below.

May 12:
Honors Convocation 7:00 p.m. in Fletcher Gym.

May 13:
Renfro Elementary Car Parade for Graduates, 6:00 p.m. See details below.

May 14:
Caseyville Elementary Clap-out Celebration for Graduates, 12:45 p.m.  See details below.

May 15:
Commencement ceremonies at 10:00 a.m. (A-L) and 1:00 p.m. (M-Z).

May 17:
Webster Elementary Clap-out Celebration for Graduates at 11:30 a.m. Grads arrive at 11:00 – See details below.

May 18:
Summit Elementary Clap-out for Graduates, 10:00 a.m.  See details below.
Jefferson Elementary Clap-out for Graduates, 12:15 p.m. See details below.

May 19:
Kreitner Elementary Clap-out Drive-thru Parade Celebration for Graduates, 10:30-11:30 a.m. See details below.

May 20:
Good Shepherd Lutheran School Clap-out Event for Graduates at 1:00 p.m. See details below.

Congratulatory Yard Signs

On Monday, April 19, CHS staff began delivering congratulatory yard signs to the homes of the Class of 2021. Teachers, coaches and administrators popped up in neighborhoods throughout the community.

Click the image below to see Kahok Proud 2021 Senior Sign Photos:

Academic Signing Day

Academic Signing Day was held in-person on Monday, April 26, in the auditorium at the CHS Fine Arts Center. Student sign-up was required to attend and to receive recognition.

Click the image below to view the list of participants and photos from the event:

Senior Prom

A unique “seniors only” prom was held Friday, April 30, 2021 at the Gateway Center in Collinsville for the Class of 2021.  To comply with COVID-19 public health restrictions, attendees were required to wear masks and practice social distancing.  Seniors were allowed to remove their masks briefly to have portraits taken.

Everyone received imprinted cloth swag bags which included a commemorative t-shirt and mask, glow accessories, snacks and coupons from local businesses.  Thanks to the Collinsville Chamber of Commerce, City of Collinsville, Gateway Center, Anderson Hospital, All Pro Tees and Kyle Gordon for sponsorships and donations.

This year’s prom was coordinated by the CHS Junior Class (Class of 2022) sponsors Michelle Fedorchak and Katie Alexander. Other CHS staff contributed time and effort for planning, set-up and chaperoning duties.

Click the image below to see a photo album of Prom 2021: A Night in the Spotlight, held April 30, 2021 at the Gateway Center in Collinsville.

GRADUATION WEEK ACTIVITIES

Honors Convocation

Honors Convocation will be held in-person on Wednesday, May 12, at 7:00 p.m. in Fletcher Gymnasium.  Participation is by invitation. Students who attend in-person will be recognized. Guest seating is limited to two guests per honoree to allow for social distancing. Guests and participants will be expected to wear masks during the event.  Friends and family are invited to watch a livestream of the event. The livestream link will be shared on this page and on district social media.  Students who have earned recognition at Honors Convocation will receive an invitation and additional information prior to the event.

2021 Commencement

Collinsville High School 2021 Commencement will be held in-person on Saturday, May 15, 2021 in Fletcher Gymnasium. 

Based on public health guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and Madison County Health Department (MCHD), the following modifications are necessary to allow social distancing:

• This year’s ceremony will be held in two sections:  Students with last names A-L will graduate in a ceremony that begins at 10:00 a.m.; Students with last names M-Z will graduate in a separate ceremony that begins at 1:00 p.m.
• Students are strictly limited to two guest tickets.  The tickets will be available for student pick-up the week of April 19th in the CHS Main Office. Remote-only students will receive instructions to come to the Main Office to get their tickets. 
• Graduates’ chairs will be separated from each other; guests are required to socially distance themselves in bleacher seating. 

Both ceremonies will be live-streamed to allow family and friends to watch from home. 

Everyone attending commencement is required to wear a mask covering their nose and mouth.  Families are asked to limit time in the gymnasium following the ceremony to allow staff to clean the facility; and to depart from the parking lot in a timely manner following the first session to make space for vehicles arriving for session two.  

A photographer will take individual photos of each grad onsite with their diploma.  A complimentary portrait, along with a composite class photo, will be sent to every graduate courtesy of CHS and CUSD 10 in a few weeks following the ceremony.

Click HERE for graduation instructions for seniors. In lieu of a graduation practice, all graduates will report to their assigned rooms on graduation day and receive guidance for the ceremony.  

If any graduation guest has special needs requiring accommodations in Fletcher Gym during graduation, please contact the CHS Main Office.

Information for Family Members/Guests Attending Commencement

Dear Parents and Guardians of Kahok Seniors,

Graduation will be held on Saturday, May 15, 2021. Session 1 (Students Last Name A-L)  will start promptly at 10:00 a.m. and Session 2 (Students Last Name M-Z) will begin at 1:00 p.m.

• Doors will open 1 hour in advance of each ceremony.
• Tickets are required for entry. Each graduate has been allotted 2 tickets. No re-entry to Fletcher Gymnasium is allowed.
• Masks are required.
• Social distancing is requested of our graduation guests.
• Security will be provided by the Collinsville Police Department. Please no artificial noisemakers, laser pointers, etc. All school rules apply.
• Please do not obstruct the view of other guests by standing near railings or holding balloons. Guests are not permitted to stand adjacent to the stage area. Session 1 guests should leave the premises promptly so cleaning may take place in advance of the ensuing ceremony.
• Pictures will be provided to graduates by Kabance Photo Service courtesy of CHS and Unit #10. Guests are not permitted on the floor area during the ceremony.
• Additional information may be accessed at https://www.kahoks.org/headlines/celebrating-the-class-of-2021/ on our website.
• Specific Instructions for Class of 2021 Graduates include: Graduation Instructions for CHS Seniors

Congratulations on this milestone in your son/daughter’s life! I wish our graduates and you all my best. Please contact me at 618-346-6320 or dsnider@cusd.kahoks.org if I can be of any assistance. I look forward to seeing your on Saturday, May 15th.

Sincerely,

David G. Snider, CHS Principal

HONORING THE CLASS OF 2021

At the end of every school year, CUSD 10 elementary schools honor graduates who are former students.  This year, Good Shepherd Lutheran School will also be inviting their former students from the Class of 2021 to return for a celebration. Questions? Contact your former school.

Caseyville Elementary: May 14th @ 12:45 pm.  Seniors need to be.  at the school by 12:30 p.m. Click HERE for details.

Jefferson Elementary: May 18th f@ 12:15.  Outside, weather permitting, celebrating CHS grads, fourth graders and Mrs. Jean.

Kreitner Elementary:  May 19 @ 10:30-11:30 am.  Former Kreitner grads will be honored with a drive-through parade. Grads will enter the property, and are encouraged to decorate their vehicle  and have a sign with their name on it.  Staff will announce the student and his/her/their future goals & plans.

Maryville Elementary: May 12 @ 5:00 pm. Clap out car parade for 4th graders and seniors at Maryville Elementary.

Renfro Elementary: May 13 @ 6:00 p.m.   Car parade. Click HERE for details.

Summit Elementary:  May 18 @ 10:00 a.m.

Twin Echo Elementary: May 12 @ 12:00 p.m., Graduates will be escorted around the school by Principal Dr. Julie Haake.

Webster Elementary: May 17 @ 11:30 a.m., Graduates arrive at 11:00 a.m.  Click HERE for details.

Good Shepherd Lutheran School: May 20 @ 1:00 p.m.  Wear cap and gown. All former students from local high schools will be included. Eighth graders will celebrate their future high schools.

The post Celebrating the Class of 2021 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

The August Faculty Member of the Month nomination included, “She has gone above and beyond her duty to make students feel welcome in her class and has redesigned her class to include things that her students want to learn and also what law enforcement officials expect from their officers. She is one of the founding faculty members of the Leo Club and has worked with her students and community leaders on numerous service projects.  She also spent the fourth quarter and summer working to get the needs of students met with her work with the Kahok Closet project.” For these reasons, we name Ms. Rachel Gattuso the August Faculty Member of the Month!

The September Faculty Member of the Month has worked very hard to become an active and integral part of Collinsville High School.  She has volunteered her time to assist a number of sports, clubs and organizations including the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.  Over the summer she wrote a grant for the health classes at CHS that the Illinois State Board of Education awarded to our school.  This money will be a great resource for our kids at CHS.  For these reasons, we name Mrs. Julie Hazzard the September Faculty Member of the Month!

The October Faculty Member of the Month wears many hats at CHS.  Her nominators wrote, “She is a department chair, student organization sponsor, former class sponsor and teacher.  Since the fourth quarter of last year, she has worked very hard to get as many students and faculty members as possible involved with fun activities while we were remote and also during this hybrid school year.  Last week she spearheaded our Red Ribbon Week activities.  She works hard on behalf of our special needs students each and every day.” And it is for these reasons we award the October Faculty Member of the Month to Mrs. Stacey Hartle!

The post CHS 2020-21 Faculty of the Month Recipients appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Click to visit the Madison County Health Department website for more information and to schedule an appointment.

Vaccination Sites Across Illinois Ready to Administer Pfizer-BioNTech Vaccine to Youths Ages 12 through 15

State mass vaccination sites, local health departments, and providers offering Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine

SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) today announced vaccination locations across the state are prepared to administer the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine to youth ages 12 through 15 years after the Advisory Committee on Immunizations Practices (ACIP) voted today to recommend its use. The announcement comes following the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recent expansion of the emergency use authorization for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in those youths.

“The expanded use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine brings us one step closer to getting back to our daily lives and ending this pandemic,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Our state-supported mass vaccination locations, along with local health departments and other providers, are ready to vaccinate young people immediately, providing kids and families with a sense of relief after a difficult year.”

Previously, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was authorized for use in individuals ages 16 years and older. The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine is administered as a series of two doses, three weeks apart, for all eligible individuals.

“The goal is to vaccinate as many Illinoisans as possible to decrease new cases of disease and prevent mutation to more dangerous variants,” said IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike. “The expanded authorization for use of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in youth ages 12 through 15 years will not only help protect our younger population, it will help us get back to in-person learning across the state.”

COVID-19 vaccinations for those 12 years and older are available at state-supported mass vaccination and mobile clinics, local health departments, pharmacies, Federally Qualified Health Centers, and from other providers who offer the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. IDPH is working to enroll pediatricians into the State immunization registry so they can administer COVID-19 vaccine to their patients. Additionally, schools may partner with the local health department or pharmacy to set up vaccination clinics for students.

Individuals should check with their local health department or health care provider about whether a parent or guardian must be present for an individual under the age of 18 to receive the vaccine, or whether some other form of written consent is required.

In clinical trials, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine was found to be 100% effective in preventing COVID-19 among participants ages 12 through 15 years. The side effects in adolescents were similar with those reported in clinical trial participants 16 years of age and older and included pain at the injection site, tiredness, headache, chills, muscle and joint pain, and fever.

According to the FDA, at this time, there are limited data to address whether the vaccine can prevent transmission of the virus from person to person and how long the vaccine will provide protection.

Pfizer Inc. will continue to monitor the safety of the vaccine and will be required to report to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System, along with providers, all serious adverse events, cases of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome, cases that result in hospitalization or death, and vaccine administration errors. This is the same system that was able to quickly identify a small number of adverse events that have been associated with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Both the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) COVID-19 vaccines are authorized for use in individuals 18 years and older and will continue to be available to adults.

The post Vaccination Sites Now Offering Vaccine to Ages 12-15 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

CHS Counseling Department Co-Chair Karen Olsen coordinates the annual event that recognizes graduating seniors in the same fashion athletic scholarships are announced. The 2020 event had to be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so last year, the Class of 2020 submitted photos to announce  their colleges and scholarships.  Those photos were featured in the end-of-year senior class video.

The 64 students participating in the 2021 event represented $1.9 million in academic merit scholarships from their chosen universities.  Not every college-bound senior attended the signing day ceremony.  The total amount of scholarships reported by by the Class of 2021 will be announced at Honors Convocation on Wednesday, May 12.

Each student invited a few family members or special guests who accompanied them on the stage for the announcement of their scholarships and future plans.  Families removed their masks for the commemorative photos taken by CHS yearbook sponsor Shawn Geppert.

Click the image below to view the 2021 Academic Signing Day Photo Album:

2021 CHS Academic Signing Day Participants:

Session I:

Aguilar, Adam / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Asbeck, Jerrica / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Provost Full Tuition Scholarship
Bell, Aaliyah / University of Illinois at Chicago / Sukuma Scholars Scholarship & UIC Opportunity Scholarship
Bell, Clarissa / Southwestern Illinois College / Top 20% Full Tuition Scholarship
Bircher, Jack / University of Missouri / Mark Twain Scholarship
Boerner, Tyler / Arkansas Tech University / Board of Trustees Scholarship and University Honors Scholarship
Burchett, Holly / Lindenwood University
Chambers, Joshua / Southeast Missouri State University / Residence Life Leadership Award, Redhawks Achievement Award, Copper Dome Scholarship, College Access Partnership Award
Chandler, Sarah / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Christopher, Jared / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Claxton, Jeffrey / University of Nebraska / George Beadle Scholar Scholarship
Cleland, Miles / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Cole, Shaquerria / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Johnetta Haley Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Collins, Millicent / Northern Illinois University / NIU Merit Scholarship & Rene Lebeau Scholarship
Day, Carlei / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Delacruz, Claudia / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Johnetta Haley Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Deleon, Rene / Southwestern Illinois College / Top 20% Full Tuition Scholarship
Dickey, Abbigail / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Doebber, Jessica / Maryville University / Saints Scholarship & Direct admission into their 5 year MBA program
Fairfield, Logan / Arizona State University / New American University Scholarship and Provost’s Award
Fernandez, Luis / Southwestern Illinois College / Top 20% Full Tuition Scholarship
Fisher, Kennedy / Towson University / Tiger Scholarship
Gerstenecker, Alyssa / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Greer, Jayme / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Provost Full Tuition Scholarship
Grieve, Mackenzie / Fontbonne University / Dean’s Competitive Scholarship,
Hall, Jaylnn / Missouri State University / Academic Achievement Scholarship
Hamilton, Mackenzie / Lindenwood University / Lindenwood Academic Merit Scholarship
Hay, Nathan / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Hendricks, Anna / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Provost Full Tuition Scholarship
Hoelscher, Faith / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Hoffman, Sierra / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Johnetta Haley Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Jones, Carstyn / University of Kansas 5 / Distinction Scholarship
Kerwin, William / Missouri University of Science and Technology / Illinois Promise Scholarship, Border County Award
Kirksey, Collin / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Kyles, Makaela / University of Arizona / Arizona Recognition Award
Lamas, Allyson / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Housing Scholarship
Lee, Jackson / Illinois College / Excellence in Education Scholarship, Heritage Award, and Ready for Success Scholarship
LeFlore, Jada / Southwestern Illinois College / Top 20% Full Tuition Scholarship
Lentz, Caroline / University of Missouri / Mark Twain Scholarship and College of Engineering Scholarship
Petty, Victoria / McKendree University / Honors Scholarship and the Daniel Kerr and Maude Alexander Scholarship
Turner, Jake / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship & direct admission into Engineering Program

Session II:

Counton, Chase / University of Alabama / Out of State Academic Competitive Scholarship
Martz, Elena / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Johnetta Haley Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
McGovern, Morgan / University of Iowa / Advantage Iowa Award
Norton, Olivia / University of South Carolina / University Departmental Scholarship, Academic Scholar Merit Award, and School of Music Flute Scholarship
O’Donnell, Logan / Webster University / Gorlok Gold Academic Scholarship and Midwest Student Exchange Program Scholarship
Pettit, Hannah / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Pfeffer, Rachel / Southwestern Illinois College 3 B Top 20% Full Tuition Scholarship
Pierce, Grace / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Pruitt, Cadence / University of Tulsa / Tulsa Academic Scholarship
Rauk, Elizabeth / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Rives, Kaelin / University of Kentucky / Bluegrass Spirit Scholarship & William C. Parker Scholarship
Romo, Fatima / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Provost Full Tuition Scholarship
Schrage, Braden / Southwestern Illinois College / Top 20% Full Tuition Scholarship
Smith, Molly / Greenville University / Women of Leadership Merit Scholarship and a Music Scholarship
Smith, Terence / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Johnetta Haley Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Sparks, Maddeson / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Stahnke, Alexander / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Stevenson, Jonathan / Southwestern Illinois College / Top 20% Full Tuition Scholarship
Stewart, Brandy / Judson University / Dean’s Scholarship, Medearis Memorial Scholarship, Women’s Bowling Scholarship
Terveer, Gage / Aurora University / Aurora University Scholarship
Thomas, Donald / University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign / Illinois Promise Award
Torres, Fatima / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Johnetta Haley Scholarship, Housing Scholarship
Wells, Colin / Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville / Cougar Pride Scholarship, Housing Scholarship

#2021Kahoks #proudtobeakahok #onceakahokalwaysakahok

The post CHS Holds 2020-21 Academic Signing Day In-Person appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Madison County eligibility to receive the COVID-19 vaccine is open to anyone 16 years of age or older who lives or works in Illinois. We encourage everyone who is eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible to help slow the spread and increase protection against this new virus.

Appointment dates and times are available at various locations in Madison County. To schedule your vaccination appointment, visit www.madisonchd.org and click on the green Appointments are Open link at the top of the page. Follow the prompts and select the date, time, and location that you want and then schedule your appointment. In the end, you will receive a confirmation and a QR code. Print the QR code and bring it with you to your appointment. If you need assistance scheduling your appointment or do not have access to a computer or the internet, call (618) 650-8445 Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm and someone will schedule your appointment over the phone.

What to bring to your appointment:

• Photo ID with birth date for all ages.
• If using a school photo ID, bring birth certificate.
• Parent or guardian (with proof of guardianship) if 16 or 17 years old.
• Proof of employment or residency in Illinois.
• QR code from scheduling your appointment.
• Vaccination card for 2nd dose appointment.

Click this link to schedule your appointment:

www.madisonchd.org

Additional appointment dates, times, and locations are added often.

Please share this information with anyone who lives or works in Illinois. Everyone doing their part helps us all get back in the game.

Sincerely,

Madison County Health Department

The post CHS Students 16+ Now Eligible for COVID-19 Vaccine appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

March 30, 2021 – The Collinsville High School Robotics team of juniors James Metcalf and Jacob McChristian, and sophomore Brandon Nygard, is headed to compete at the VEX Robotics Competition State Championship on Saturday, April 3, 2021 at Illinois State University.  

“James and Jacob have been together since 7th grade and Brandon joined them as a freshman last year,” said CHS VEX Robotics Coach Cynthia Bednara, “This year has been very difficult, while they were able to prototype their robot in CADD and build a working model almost instantly, the pandemic has limited them to remote competitions and skills events – giving them little ability to see other teams in action and have regular conversations with them as they have in the past years.”

“They are super excited to be able to go to the state competition and compete in-person against 23 other teams representing the best in Illinois – all of which are from the Chicago area.  They are hoping to do well enough to earn a trip to VEX Worlds Competition – even though it is remote this year – as they would be our first team from CHS to do so.  They have come a long way over the years and I am already excited to see what they do next year.  They are anxious to find out what next year’s challenge will be when it is released at Worlds at the end of May,” added Bednara.

The post Robotics Team to Compete at State 2021 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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Hello Kahok Nation,

Each passing week provides another step towards normalcy during the school day, at after school events and in our day-to-day lives.  Yes, things look a little different than a year ago, but each week brings us closer to normal.  

Starting next Monday, March 29, and continuing through May 7, Collinsville CUSD #10 will conduct a survey of school climate and learning conditions.  The survey provides a unique opportunity for parents, teachers and students, to have a voice in improving our schools.  Please complete the 3-minute research- based survey to help identify strengths and weaknesses in our school’s learning environment. This survey will serve as an opportunity for schools to reflect and drive improvements.  Use THIS LINK to access the parent survey – which will also be shared by principals and posted on our website.

Effective immediately, the district is adjusting its quarantine period for students considered a close contact to a positive COVID-19 case.  Previously, a close contact’s quarantine period would have been fourteen (14) days, however, after communication with the Madison County Health Department, in accordance with the COVID-19 Exclusion Decision Tree, a student with no symptoms of COVID-19 after exposure may return to school after ten (10) days of monitoring.  We realize no quarantine has been easy, but shortening the time frame will benefit families and students.  The district is also hopeful this period will be shortened again in the future as school guidance evolves from the State of Illinois.  

IDPH guidance on fans at co-curricular events continues to evolve and will continue to do so in the weeks and months ahead.  After reviewing the most recent guidance and speaking with members of the Southwestern Conference, the district has found a balance that is acceptable for limited attendance at indoor and outdoor events while providing consistency throughout our conference.  Families and students will have the opportunity to watch our students perform and compete in the weeks ahead and our students will get to hear the cheers of their family and peers. We ask for your continued support of protocols and safety measures that will be provided by our principals, athletic directors, coaches and sponsors.

Additionally, as guidance continues to evolve, the high school staff have been working closely with the staff at the Gateway Convention Center and the City of Collinsville to ensure the Class of 2021 gets a “red carpet” experience at this year’s prom entitled “A Night in the Spotlight.”  Once again, our staff, communities and businesses are rallying around our students to provide a safe and entertaining experience and we are grateful!    

As we are about to approach our third week of students attending four days a week, please note, Spring Break begins Thursday, April 1st and students will return on Tuesday, April 6th.  Enjoy the well-deserved downtime, 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 spring break!  

Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent 

The post MARCH 26, 2021 UPDATE FROM DR. SKERTICH appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

In March, Collinsville Charities for Children volunteers Grant Koentz, Bob Uhrig and Derek Johnson loaded nearly two-hundred pairs of shoes and bags of socks into a vehicle and made deliveries to CUSD 10 elementary schools.  This year’s distribution did not include photos with Santa and complimentary candy canes, but students were still surprised and excited to receive new shoes and socks.

Shoe Carnival once again provided shoes at a discount for Collinsville Charities for Children to purchase. The store also helped pick-out and organize the shoes for delivery. At the December event, children’s feet are measured and each child is allowed to pick out their favorite pair and try them on before leaving.  This year, sizes were gathered by the schools and Shoe Carnival provided a popular style for each child based on age.  Uhrig said the store employees went above and beyond to assist the charity by sorting the boxes by school and labeling them with each child’s name.

Collinsville Charities for Children has provided this service to Collinsville CUSD 10 children for more than a decade.  The program originated with the local Optimist Club in the 1980s and transitioned to a separate 501(c)(3) organization in the 2000s.

Funds to provide the shoes and socks are raised at the annual Collinsville Charities for Children Golf Scramble.  This year’s event is Friday, June 11 at Arlington Greens.  See information below.

The post Collinsville Charities for Children Delivers Shoes to Schools appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

March 24, 2021 –

“We’ve been working for several weeks to come up with plans for Prom 2021 that will comply with public health restrictions and guidelines,” said Collinsville High School Principal David Snider. “Thanks to the Madison County Health Department and the Gateway Center, we have organized a great event that will provide a much needed night of fun for our students AND keep everyone safe and healthy.”

This year’s theme is a Hollywood-style extravaganza: “A Night in the Spotlight.” To allow social distancing and minimize crowd size, prom attendance is limited exclusively to CHS seniors.  Two sessions will be held: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm and 9:00 pm – 11:00 pm.  There will be time in between to sanitize and re-set the ballrooms. 

Doors will open ½ hour prior to each session to space arrivals and allow a special red-carpet entrance complete with paparazzi, glitz and glamour.  

CHS junior class sponsor Michelle Fedorchak said, “We hope to provide a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our seniors that’s as close to a traditional prom night as possible. We are excited about the VIP treatment we have in store to give them a memorable ‘Night in the Spotlight.’”

Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich said the district felt it was important to hold a prom for this year’s seniors, even if some traditions had to be sacrificed due COVID-19 public health restrictions.  

“The Class of 2021 has had a challenging senior year and has had to forgo many activities they had anticipated throughout their school years. CHS has done an outstanding job to present a night our senior class can share, enjoy and celebrate in-person before they graduate,” said Skertich. 

Prom attendees will be required to wear masks and stay within a designated VIP party space – or “Prom Pod” – of up to four people. This spacing will serve as a social distancing reminder, but still allows sightlines between groups and the ability for everyone to participate in dancing and other activities. 

Thanks to the generosity of the City of Collinsville and the Gateway Center, prom tickets will be no more than $20 for each student.  Tickets go on sale after Spring Break at CHS. Individual Prom Pods will be requested and reserved at that time.  Groups of up to four students can make reservations together and request to be located near other friend groups.  

The night does not include dinner, but will include entertainment, music provided by a DJ with an elite sound system, light show with special effects, photography and other surprises.  Local businesses will be offering pre- and post-prom dining packages and discounts. 

Watch for more information to be shared with students over the coming days and to be posted on the special “A Night in the Spotlight” page on the www.kahoks.org website.

The post CHS Announces 2021 Senior Prom: A Night in the Spotlight appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

The post CHS/CAVC 2017 Grad on Frontline Administering Vaccine appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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Hello Kahok Nation,

Spring temperatures arrived a little early this week and not a moment too soon!  While they may not last, it is a sign of what’s to come in the months ahead and anything over sixty degrees is welcome!

This week we welcomed back Dorris Intermediate School students four days-a-week and we are excited to increase CMS and CHS student attendance to four days-a-week beginning next Tuesday, March 16th.  It has been a challenging twelve months to say the least, but the increase in student attendance has been a morale booster for staff, students and families.  We appreciate everyone’s constant dedication to our students.

The Illinois State Board of Education and Illinois Department of Public Health updated quarantine information stating fully vaccinated persons, per CDC guidelines, are not required to quarantine if identified as a close contact to a confirmed COVID-19 case.  This will limit staff quarantines for the remainder of the school year and aid in our efforts to maintain our newly expanded in-person learning setting.

While the transition to more in-person learning days will bring excitement for our students, it will also bring stressors they have not experienced in a long time.  We encourage families to have conversations with your children regarding their school day and social interactions.  Enjoy the smiles that come with these discussions, and be mindful of potential concerns.  Living through a pandemic has been challenging for everyone, especially young people, if you have a concern reach out to your child’s respective building staff.  We are here to help.

This week also marks the beginning of girls’ volleyball, boys’ soccer and football at CHS.  The seasons are later than the norm and are much shorter.  However, over the next few weeks we will get to see Kahoks compete and our high school bands perform outside.  This is far different than the normal we experienced a year ago, but it brings us a step closer to normalcy.

Continuing with our district’s efforts to improve cultural awareness among our staff, students and families, here is a link to the  CHS Multicultural Kahoks presentation celebrating National Women’s History Month.  This project recognizes the  many accomplishments of our Kahok Alumnae.  On behalf of our district, I would like to recognize the efforts of our CHS students celebrating the many accomplishments of women from Collinsville High School.

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 weekend!

Sincerely,

Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent

The post March 12, 2021 Update from Dr. Skertich appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Collinsville High School is hosting a No Hate Tour Virtual Assembly at 10:00 am on Monday

About the Tour

The No Hate High School Tour, now in its 21st year, is an incredibly impactful educational program that uses the energy and excitement of celebrities to deliver critical bullying prevention tools, techniques and information to students in a relatable, peer-to-peer manner. Due to the COVID-19 crisis, the Tour is going virtual for the 2020-21 school year with a completely revised program featuring the biggest names from the NBA, NFL, Action Sports, Music, Gaming, and Entertainment delivering messages of hope and inspiration to students. You may see messages from celebrities like Magic Johnson, Richard Sherman, Bethany Hamilton, Anthony Anderson, Tony Hawk, and more.

These well-known celebrities will speak directly to the students about their own experiences with bullying while offering advice about overcoming obstacles, being an ally, inclusion, kindness, surrounding yourself with positive influences, problem solving, and other important subjects that resonate with kids during a time when so many people are suffering from mental health issues.

The No Place for Hate virtual assembly is a combination of live and pre-recorded messages with an emcee that delivers essential information in a fun, positive, and interactive fashion. Students will be able to submit questions and comments that our emcee can address live during the assembly. There will also be polls and trivia that pop up to keep the students engaged.

Last but not least, the tour will be giving away (1) XBOX Series X or a $500 Visa Gift Card to a student at our school! Students will be able to enter to win once they are in the assembly room.

How to Watch

The assembly will start at 10:00 a.m. sharp on March 15. In order to join the assembly, please follow the following instructions:

1. Click THIS LINK at least 5 minutes before the assembly start time.
2. Click REGISTER and enter your information to gain access to the show. You’re all set! When the countdown clock strikes zero, you will be brought into the assembly room to watch. You WILL NOT need to use your webcam or microphone for the assembly.

FAQ

• Is the assembly live? Yes! There will be a live emcee addressing your students. The celebrity videos are pre-recorded.
• Can I screenshare the assembly through Google Meets, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams? It is recommended that students log on to the assembly link individually so that they can interact with the assembly. However, you can screen share through your online classroom if you prefer. The students will still see all of the same content, they just won’t be able to submit questions/comments to the emcee or vote in polls/trivia.
• When will the XBOX/Gift Card be chosen? Students have until midnight on the day of the assembly to enter the prize contest. The winner will be chosen the following business day.
• Is our school the only school in the assembly? Yes!
• Can parents/teachers watch the assembly? Yes! They will enter the same way as the students, using the same link.
• Want to learn more about the assembly? Visit www.nohatetour.com 

The post “No Place for Hate” Virtual Assembly for CHS March 15, 2021 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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Since the start of second semester, we have closely monitored the health of our staff and students.  In addition, we have eagerly awaited a health department vaccination plan for school personnel.  

Beginning this weekend, the Madison County Health Department will hold a vaccination clinic for Madison County school districts on Saturdays for the foreseeable future.  This means, by the end of the month, all school personnel who wish to begin the vaccination process will have the opportunity.

Our community’s health data continues to improve. The health of our students and staff has reached a level that will allow a safe expansion of student attendance.  Combined with the clear vaccination path outlined for school personnel, the district has finalized a plan to increase the number of days students attend each week.  

Here is the anticipated schedule for district schools to expand to four (4) days a week of in-person student attendance (Tuesday-Friday): 

Elementary Schools (K-4): March 2nd
Dorris Intermediate School (5-6): March 9th
Collinsville Middle School (7-8) & Collinsville High School on March 16th 

Please Note:

• Mondays will remain a Remote Learning Day as they have throughout the school year.
• Families always have the option to choose or continue Remote Learning through the end of the school year.
• At-school Rapid Point-of-Care Antigen Tests are available to students who exhibit symptoms during the school day.  If your family has not returned pre-authorization forms, use THIS LINK to learn more and complete the form.      

Please be on the lookout for “Change in Learning Plan Selection Request” information from the District on February 23rd.  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 finalize preparations for the anticipated expansion to four (4) days a week of in-person student attendance during the 4th academic quarter.  

It is our hope no further Learning Plan changes will be necessary for the remainder of the school year.  However, one thing we have learned during the pandemic is to prepare for the unexpected, and have alternate plans in place as a precaution. If adjustments to our plan are required, we will give families as much notice as possible.

The post Change to CUSD 10 Learning Plan Announced February 12, 2021 appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

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The Honorable JB Pritzker
Office of the Governor
207 State House
Springfield, IL 62706

 February 3, 2021

 Dear Governor Pritzker,

Thank you for your work to mitigate the risks of COVID-19 and the continued vaccination of Illinois residents.  As school district leaders, we are committed to helping Region 4 and the entire state achieve Phase 4, while assisting in the vaccination of our communities.  We appreciate the guidelines for low, moderate, and high risk sports to practice, scrimmage, and compete.  These guidelines provide hope for our students and our families to see athletics return this school year.  

However, regardless of our efforts, Region 4 may not achieve or maintain Tier 1 or Phase 4 due to ICU bed availability, which means our student athletes could miss out on the opportunity to participate in sports during the 2nd semester.  This restriction does not take into account the availability of additional ICU beds in the nearby St. Louis Metropolitan Area.   

As advocates for the well-being of our students, we are suggesting additional mitigation strategies to ensure our student athletes have the opportunity to not only practice, but scrimmage and compete, providing a sense of normalcy during exceptional times. The following are  additional mitigation strategies to ensure our student athletes are able to compete regardless of our Region’s Phase or Tier Mitigation:

1. No Spectators – limiting the opportunity for community spread
2. Health Screenings prior to competition – preventing potentially infected athletes from spreading the virus
3. Antigen Testing – to isolate and prevent the spread of the virus 
4. No locker rooms – limiting the opportunity for spread 
5. Additional time between JV and Varsity Games or 7th and 8th – providing an opportunity to clean in between competitions
6. Limiting Transportation for Teams – teams travel separately

We appreciate your administration’s efforts to curb the spread of the virus, but please be aware our Region 4 hospital systems serve not only our residents, but also residents outside of our region.  Patients from Illinois counties outside of Region 4 have negatively impacted our ICU bed availability, inflating our overall numbers.  As a result, school districts outside of Region 4 will be competing in the weeks ahead, while sending patients to our community health systems.  This negatively impacts our students’ opportunity to compete and  denies equitable opportunities for our student athletes.  

Since the pandemic began, families that could afford club sports have and continue to provide their children extra-curricular activities in basketball, soccer, volleyball, and wrestling in Illinois and neighboring states.  However, the cost itself denies the same opportunity for all families.   Go Fund Me is one example of how communities have helped ensure students were given the opportunity to play because the cost of club sports was too expensive for families.  Sadly, absent of this type of support, students are being denied equitable opportunities that our public high schools and middle schools provide during a normal school year.  As an advocate for families of all income levels, we know you would desire a more equitable solution. 

Throughout the pandemic, school districts have provided a safe environment for our students.  This has occurred for high school graduation, in-person learning, and fall athletics.  We are asking for the same opportunity for not only basketball and volleyball teams, but the entire list of winter and spring sports.  This will allow our students a viable physical and mental outlet during the COVID-19 pandemic.  

Governor Pritzker, the Southwestern Athletic Conference needs your help!  

Kristie Baumgartner, Ed.D., Superintendent Alton CUSD #11
Darcy Benway, Ed.D., Superintendent O’Fallon Township High School
Arthur Culver, Superintendent East St. Louis District #189
Jason Henderson, Ed.D., Superintendent Edwardsville CUSD #7
Brian Mentzer, Ed.D., Superintendent Belleville TWP HS #201
Mark B. Skertich, Ed.D., Superintendent Collinsville CUSD #10

The post CUSD 10 & IL SWC Ask for Governor’s Support 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.

Each year, students across Madison County compete in the Young Authors program.  K-8 students are asked to create original stories – turn them into book format – and submit them to their teachers.

Each school judges the entries they receive. The winners are recognized on the district level and could be invited to attend the Madison County Young Authors Conference hosted by the Madison County Regional Office of Education or the statewide conference.

Participants from CUSD 10 schools will be given a certificate and the district winner will receive a prize and a certificate.  K-4 elementary schools will choose one winner,  5-8 will choose one per grade level.  Winners will be announced by February 26th.

The district has hosted an annual Young Authors Tea for the authors and their parents.  For the 2020-21 school year, due to COVID-19 public health restrictions, the specific format of recognition is to be determined.

Click for information in Spanish 

How to participate in Young Authors 2020-21

• • The manuscript identification card (see below) must be complete and attached to the front, inside cover of every book in order for it to be considered for advancement.
  • Books by three or more children will not be accepted.  Books authored/illustrated by pairs of students will be accepted; however, co-authored/illustrated entries will count as two of the district/school allotment of entries. 
  • Due to issues with copyright laws, stories with copyrighted characters will not be allowed.  (Ex. Spongebob, Superman, Batman, Legos, etc.)
  • Dictated books may be typed or handwritten by an adult, but must be in the student’s own language.
  • Manuscripts must have a substantial cover with pages securely attached.  The title of the book and the author’s name is placed on the cover, as well as an illustration. 
  • Books need a title page including the title of the book, the author, a fictitious publishing company, and the copyright date (year). 
  • Books need a dedication page and an author’s page which may include information such as the author’s age, grade, likes, and hobbies. You may attach a picture to this page.
  • Pages are numbered in the center on the bottom of each page and illustrations appear throughout the book. 
  • Should a book advance, parents will be responsible for transporting their children to and from the conferences.

Books are due to teachers by January 27, 2021.

Click HERE for a printable copy of the rules and the REQUIRED manuscript identification form (English)

Have Fun and Be Creative!

The post Information for 2020-21 K-8 Young Authors 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.

Español

Kahok Families,

The school year has been anything but conventional since August as our students have transitioned in and out of various  learning settings.  While we prepared for this throughout the summer internally, and continually shared information with families regarding what to expect, it doesn’t become reality until each change occurs.  At that point, regardless whether the shift is to  something we’ve already experienced or to something new, the change adds additional stress to our families, students and staff.   

Everyone’s efforts have collectively allowed our students to receive face to face, live or recorded instruction, as well as social emotional support, as we navigate this pandemic.  We are beyond grateful for the passion and dedication demonstrated for our students, and never take these efforts for granted.    

We will transition to Full Remote learning beginning Monday, December 7 until our scheduled Winter Break begins on December 23rd.  Over the next few weeks, the district will evaluate the learning setting most appropriate for the start of 2nd semester in January.  The impact of family gatherings that occur over Winter Break, and how they may impact the health of our staff and students, will factor into the district’s next steps.  A plan will be finalized and provided to families the week of December 21st.

Although we will not have students in our buildings the last 12 school days this semester, we are still asking families to communicate with your child(ren)’s respective school(s) if they test positive, are symptomatic, or considered a close contact with a positive COVID-19 case.  This information will allow the district to continually monitor the health of our students and staff and drive district and building-specific learning setting decisions for the second semester. Please visit the district’s COVID-19 Dashboard that will be updated on our website each Friday.  

Nothing about this situation has been easy, but our Kahok family of  Educators has – and continues to – come up with incredible ways to help educate our students during a pandemic. Please check out the resources shared on our Learning Resources/Help website page. You will find links to resources recommended or created by CUSD 10 staff to provide you and your child(ren) with additional support and ideas for creative online learning.  

While you’re there, take a few minutes to visit the district’s virtual STREAM (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) Room.  The site provides countless activities children can do at home individually or with their entire family.  Move your cursor throughout the page and over each item, you will be amazed at what is available.  As a side note, make sure you find the “StoryBots” musical take on the sun, moon, earth and solar system.  It is equally enjoyable, as it is educational for all ages!

Finally, you should have received information regarding the Rapid Point-of-Care Antigen Testing program we will begin administering in the second semester to students and staff who exhibit COVID-19  symptoms. There is complete information about the program, including the parent/guardian prior consent form, on our COVID-19 Health page. The page also covers important COVID-19 information, the daily student health certification checklist and Illinois Department of Health exclusion chart.  

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

Sincerely,

Mark B. Skertich Ed.D.
Superintendent

The post December 4, 2020 Letter to Families from Dr. Skertich appeared first on Collinsville Kahoks.

Lentz and Delacruz

December 2, 2020- Collinsville High School students Caroline Lentz and Claudia Delacruz were recognized for their performance in the November 28, 2020 CIVITAS STL Model United Nations online session. 

CHS Model UN sponsor Barbara Lindauer announced the two won for their resolution “Police Misconduct in Hong Kong.”  Lentz and Delacuz represented the United States delegation.  CIVITAS STL Model UN explains its mission as follows:

“Under the banner of the United Nations students are encouraged to immerse themselves in the politics, cultures, and problems of the 193 member nations. They research, write resolutions, and serve as delegates during sessions that showcase what they’ve learned about solving the world’s problems. During this time most students see that to make a difference everyone has to work together to get things done, whether it be curing AIDs, extreme poverty, or climate change. Compromise has always been and will always be the keystone to peace and the Civitas United Nations program tries to both promote and model this approach.”

This year, due the COVID-19 public health crisis, Model UN was held via Zoom.  The next session is Saturday, December 5.

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