Hello DGN Students and Families:
While this message is focused on students, I urge all families to read it as well because I think it is important that we are all hearing the same things. I also urge you to watch the video embedded in the letter below.
First, I want to thank everyone for their support and commitment to continued learning this week. I know that the uncertainty of the times has raised a lot of questions and created some anxiety. We were all expected to operate in a completely new environment with hardly any notice. I have been incredibly impressed with both our teachers and our students as they worked through the first week of remote learning. It has been really fun to see examples of student learning posted on social media this week, and I’ve heard from many teachers that student engagement has been strong. Thank you, everyone, for your efforts throughout the week.
I understand that many students are worried about their grades. As we shared earlier, the Illinois State Board of Education has stated that student work completed during the statewide school closure March 17-30 must not affect student grades unless it is to improve those grades. The content that you are working on is important or you wouldn’t be doing it. At some point, you will have to demonstrate your learning of the content in a way that a point value is assigned to it. For right now, I encourage you to concentrate on learning. Stay engaged and current with the activities, ask questions if you don’t understand, share your understanding with your classmates, and keep learning. If your focus is on learning, then when the time comes, the grades will take care of themselves. The same people who are available to assist you during regular days are available during these Continuity of Learning Days. Reach out to your teachers, counselors, and other staff when you need them. Our goal is to help you with whatever you need.
Some of you might have seen my tweet with this quote from Maya Angelou: “You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” Indeed, we are living in a time where a lot is happening to us, and we don’t have a lot of control. We are disappointed with many cancellations of events and worried about future cancellations. Though we have little control over the current situation, we definitely have control over our response. I urge you to think not only about what you will do to ensure that you are not reduced by our current challenges but what you will do to come out of this situation a better person. Even better, how can you help others? With physical distancing, you might not be able to help someone in person, but there are many ways to connect with others virtually. Perhaps you can reach out to someone you know who is struggling. Maybe you can post positive messages on social media. Perhaps you can repair broken relationships or help more around the house. The possibilities are endless.
This video from Josten’s provides some great perspective on how to approach these challenging times. I urge you to take five and a half minutes and watch it; it is definitely worth your time. As I watched it, I was struck by the fact that in my four years as principal, DGN has certainly experienced more than its fair share of challenges. Each time, we have looked for opportunities to learn and grow, and we have supported one another through each and every challenge. Our current situation is no different. I am confident that we will find our way because we will do it together.
Given the fluid nature of our current environment, we can expect additional guidance from our state government soon. Know that whatever comes next, building and district staff and administration will continue to provide you necessary support and will communicate with you regularly. To that end, it is important that you check your emails regularly.
As we move into the weekend, I hope you will find some time to take care of yourself. Here* are some great activities that will keep you from getting bored while also helping you cope with the unknown. As for me, I am finishing up a large mug of hot chocolate and plan to exercise later today. Do what works for you!
Take care,
Mrs. Schwarze
North High Principal
* NOTE: Find only those activities that comply with the State's shelter-in-place guidelines!