Coronavirus Update - March 12, 2020

We are continuing to monitor the latest updates regarding coronavirus (COVID-19), and we have been taking proactive steps as a district and school community to ensure the health and safety of our students and staff. District 97 is also working closely with community partners, and has been following recommendations from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for school districts that do not have a confirmed case of coronavirus in their community.
 
As of 12:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 12, health officials have not recommended closing schools. However, out of an abundance of caution, District 97 has decided to postpone all school field trips and large gatherings through Spring Break (March 23-27, 2020) in order to minimize risk to students, families and staff. Principals have sent communication to their families about school-specific events that are impacted.
 
As you know, the information we are receiving regarding coronavirus is changing rapidly. We are recommending that all students and staff take home all computers, iPads, chargers, and other belongings needed in the event of a school closure.

The health and safety of our school community is our highest priority. Our planning team has been working diligently to respond to this challenging and rapidly-evolving situation, which has included regular communication/consultation with our community partners. We are planning to send a more comprehensive update later this afternoon. In the meantime, you can find information and resources related to coronavirus on our website at https://www.op97.org/updatecenter/index.

Sincerely,
 
Dr. Carol Kelley
Superintendent