Dear Families,
As many of you may have expected based on the news, District 97 will need to continue its “adaptive pause” in response to the COVID-19 rates in our region and across the state. We monitor these metrics closely, and while we have declined from the recent high of 16%, unfortunately, both test positivity and case incidence rates are well above our thresholds. As of Nov. 19, the seven-day average for test positivity in Region 10 is 14.9%, which indicates substantial community spread. The 14-day rolling average for the number of new cases per 100,000 in Oak Park also far exceeds the thresholds outlined in our guiding metrics.
As a result of this and the prediction that our positivity rate will remain above 8%, remote learning will continue through Tuesday, January 12, 2021. This date is subject to change, as we will be looking for the metrics to show a consistent decline in COVID-19 activity before we bring any students and staff back for in-person learning. We will notify you on Monday, January 11, if there will be a need to remain in remote learning.
Our students, families and staff need consistency, especially during this trying time. We remain eager to return to in-person learning and will do so once the metrics improve. To prepare for our return after winter break, we continue to ask everyone to follow the Illinois Department of Public Health guidelines to help limit community transmission. Wearing face coverings, practicing social distancing, limiting mass gatherings, and using proper hand hygiene all play a role in protecting the overall health of our community.
Thank you for your continued partnership. We hope you and your family stay healthy and enjoy the holidays.
Sincerely,
Donna Middleton
Senior Director of Student Services