Updates to D97 Remote Learning Plan, Effective March 16, 2022

Updates to D97 Remote Learning Plan, Effective March 16, 2022

Dear District 97 Staff and Families,

We are writing today to share some changes to the district’s remote learning plan for students who test positive for COVID-19 or are experiencing COVID-like symptoms.

Over the past few weeks, updated guidance and a decline in COVID-19 cases have allowed us to re-evaluate some of the protocols that have been in place since the start of the 2021-22 school year, including our remote learning plan for students who are quarantined or excluded from school. Since September, students have been provided asynchronous work and a “window to the classroom,” which provided them with limited, passive access to their classes via Zoom.

Last week, the administration met with leadership from the Oak Park Teachers’ Association (OPTA) to discuss both remote learning and recent changes to our COVID-19 safety plan. Together, we are moving forward with a letter of agreement to discontinue the “window to the classroom,” effective Wednesday, March 16. District 97 will continue to follow and comply with any Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) requirements for remote learning due to COVID-19, but teachers will have the discretion and flexibility to determine the most appropriate and beneficial method of providing remote instruction to best foster student learning.

The number of students requiring remote learning has dropped significantly since January, however, we remain committed to meeting the needs of our students and providing as much continuity of learning as possible if students are impacted by COVID-19. Although the passive “window” will no longer be required, teachers will continue to provide our students with access to their schoolwork and any necessary support, following the procedures below.

Beginning Wednesday, March 16:

  • Remote learning will only be provided to any student who is excluded from school consistent with guidance or requirements from the local public health department or the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). Based on current guidance, this includes:
    • Students who test positive for COVID-19;
    • Students who are symptomatic and awaiting a COVID-19 test.
  • The school nurse will determine if a student qualifies for remote learning based on the above criteria and teacher(s) will be notified.
  • Once teachers are notified, they will prepare and provide all material needed for the student’s remote instruction through the designated learning management system, or they may place a packet of materials that parents or siblings may pick up from the main office of the school. The decision is at the teacher’s discretion.
  • Further details and instructions for assignments/instruction will be communicated at the school level when students are placed in remote learning.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership.

Sincerely,

Dr. Griff Powell and Dr. Patricia Wernet
Co-Interim Superintendents