Dear North High/South High Students and Families:
This message is being sent to provide more information on what to expect in the coming weeks and coping strategies to adopt as we navigate this new way of learning. Students are not to attend school in person until April 6.
Until informed otherwise, please report any positive test of COVID-19 to the school.
Schedule through April 6
As was announced on Friday, we have begun our e-Learning schedule below:
- TODAY - March 16 - Students do not report to school.
- The purpose is to maintain a continuity of learning. By holding an e-learning day on March 16, we do not need to make-up any days at the end of the school year. We do not need to make up the days where continuity of learning is occuring from March 17 - 27 as the governor has declared them as “Act of God” days. The only day student attendance will be formally taken is on March 16.
- By 1 p.m., students will receive an email from each of their teachers outlining the structure of the upcoming activities. Students should read each of these emails so they understand expectations for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Using their Chromebooks and accessing the internet, students must check-in for school by 6 p.m. using the attendance form that will be sent to their District 99 email address. If a student is ill, please follow the normal reporting procedures for a school absence. Again, March 16 is the only day attendance will be formally taken through April 6.
- March 17 - 19 - Continuity of learning days
- March 20 - No student or staff attendance.
- March 23 - No student attendance. Staff will meet virtually to create a weekly e-Learning plan and communicate that plan to students. By 1 p.m., students will receive an email from each of their teachers outlining the structure of the upcoming activities. Students should read each of these emails so they understand expectations for Tuesday and Wednesday.
- March 24 - 25 - Continuity of learning days
- March 26 - 27 - No student or staff attendance.
- March 30 - April 3 - Spring Break
- Monday, April 6 - School resumes with regular Late Start schedule.
Please take a few minutes to watch this video from District 99 Superintendent Dr. Hank Thiele that every member of the District 99 community also is watching as we prepare for the next three weeks.
e-Learning Day and Continuity of Learning Day Expectations
To study and complete work from home requires discipline. We are creating a structured plan for students to follow in order to keep learning moving forward.
- On the continuity of learning days, students will access and complete assignments that are meaningful and continue to advance them through the curriculum. There will be an assignment given in every class that will take students the appropriate time to complete. Assignments will vary based on a teacher's instructional goals. Some will have due dates that occur during continuity of learning days; others might have more extended due dates.
- As with any assignment, students will know the goal of the lesson, what resources will be needed to complete the lesson, how they will submit the work, when the work will be due, and how it will be assessed.
- Assignments may be any combination of learning tasks (instruction, reading, researching, writing, assessment, etc.), and will not necessarily be technology-based.
- If teachers decide to hold a phone conference or video hangout session with students, they will do so during the regularly scheduled class time so that students do not have overlapping virtual class sessions. Teachers will be sure to communicate that to the students if this teaching method is used. Students should read communication carefully from teachers throughout the extended continuity of learning days so that they do not miss a required assignment/appointment.
- All students with an IEP or 504 will continue to receive appropriate support. Students who have questions should contact their counselor or case manager.
- During school hours (8 a.m. to 3:20 p.m.), students may email their teachers if they need assistance with their assignments for the day.
- Teachers will notify their students if they will be unavailable for an extended period of time.
If students have forgotten anything at school that they absolutely need to continue their learning, the building will be open on Monday, March 16 from 8:00 am - 3:00 pm. Feel free to come in and retrieve what you need from your locker, but be very quick. If needs arise during the week, students should communicate with their teacher or the school for direction.
Technology Support
All students have a Chromebook as well as access to the internet from home. If a student needs technology support during an eLearning Day, they can contact IT Support
SOUTH HIGH - email southcb@csd99.org or calling 630-795-8556.
NORTH HIGH - email northcb@csd99.org or calling 630-795-2720.
If an in-person visit is necessary, we will provide instructions over the phone or give instructions on when and where to visit the building. Students can also refer to this Tech Support for Students document.
Unfortunately, cyber criminals are working overtime to capitalize on our fears and needs. Please be extra vigilant during these times and do not click on suspicious links. Avoid clicking on the links in emails or search results unless you are absolutely certain of their validity.
Continued Meal Availability
In addition to ensuring that academic learning continues, District 99 is committed to supporting students who receive meal assistance. We have contacted those families who receive meal assistance from us to continue this service during this new schedule. If any student finds themselves in a situation where food is desperately needed, please reach out to us at 630-795-8500 and we will attempt to help in any way possible.
Staying Healthy Mentally and Physically
We understand that this unprecedented environment might cause anxiety. To that end, know that District 99 also is committed to supporting students’ and staff’s social-emotional needs. In addition to this link from the CDC that we shared, we have created this document for helpful information. As is the case with the classroom teachers, Student Support Services personnel are also available on eLearning days during regular school hours.
Please remember that we are no longer reporting to school because we are following the guidelines of social distancing. This means that in addition to all activities and sports being cancelled, students should not be gathering at each other’s houses. Dr. Thiele sent guidelines regarding social distancing on Saturday; this message and all other messages may be found here. Students should use the time at home to stay current on classwork, take care of themselves, and take care of others.
Finally, we understand how disappointed you are with the cancellation of school activities, and many of you are thinking ahead to other upcoming events. Know that we are focusing on getting through the time period through spring break and have not considered any later events. If/When we get to the point where additional decisions have to be made, we will communicate that to everyone immediately.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we tread into uncharted territory.
Janice Schwarze - North High Principal
Ed Schwartz - South High Principal