District 66 To Start School Year With In-Person, Remote Learning

Downers Grove IL

07 August, 2020

5:08 PM

Description

DOWNERS GROVE, IL — Center Cass School District 66 will kick off the 2020-21 school year with both in-person and remote instruction, depending on which options parents have chosen for their children. The board of education unanimously approved the phase two draft reopening plan at a meeting Aug. 6, Superintendent Dr. Andrew Wise told Patch. Students whose families opt for in-person instruction will attend classes daily in person. Those who opt for remote learning will learn strictly via e-learning. Students at Elizabeth Ide and Prairieview Elementary Schools are expected to commit to a full trimester of their selected learning model. Students at Lakeview Junior High School will be asked to commit to a full quarter for their selected learning model. Wise said parents who want to change their selection can do so prior to Labor Day. Per the plan, the district will maintain social distancing by: Reducing in person class size to approximately 14-19 students per section/classCreating a remote option in which each class will have approximately 4-8 students onlineLimiting student movement outside their classroom to just a few occurrences a dayCohorting students as much as possible to minimize contact with others should a positive case ariseWise told Patch, "We have created social distancing inside our schools for students and employees. Everyone will have the ability to work or learn in an environment with frequent sanitation, daily symptom checks, [personal protective equipment] requirements, and new rules to ensure safety for all." Wise added that the district is prepared to go to fully remote learning model if necessary. He said, "We have had an open dialogue with all members of the learning and medical community. As we received information, it was integrated into our plan. We foresee our plans continuing to evolve as more information is released." Wise told Patch,"The collaboration between the board, teaching association, district employees, and administration in the creation of the Back to School plan was evolutionary and natural. I believe that is because everyone in District 66 is focused on creating the best educational model while protecting the very people who are providing and receiving the education." He went on,"District 66 has a history of working with its parents to help kids succeed. This year will be no different. If parents have questions as the school year moves forward, I urge them to contact us, and we will do our best to help students achieve success." Parents have until Aug. 10 to opt into the desired learning model for their children. Classes are set to start Aug. 21.