All CCSD21 students to start with distance learning

July 31, 2020

Topic: Student Learning

The below message was sent to CCSD21 families through ParentSquare, the district’s notification tool. Parents that did not receive this message should send an email to [email protected] to ensure their contact information is up to date.

July 31, 2020

Dear CCSD21 families,

Our greatest responsibility is to provide a quality education in conditions that are safe and healthy for students and their families and for district employees and their families. Our School Reopening Plan was designed to maximize our ability to offer that safe and healthy environment to all. However, much of our ability to deliver on those commitments are impacted by external factors that are not in our control.

Considering the upward-trending infection rates locally, across the state, and nationwide, and inconclusive data on COVID-19 spread among and through children, the Board adopted a revision to the CCSD21 Return to School Plan for the 2020-2021 school year. CCSD21 will begin the 2020-2021 school year with full-time distance learning for all students. We hope to welcome students back for in-person instruction beginning Monday, October 5, 2020. A final decision on the resumption of in-person instruction will be made no later than Friday, September 25, 2020. 

In each decision we have made, we have grounded ourselves in our ability and willingness to follow the science, be agile, flexible, and ready to deal with the unknown. We know this decision will be praised by some, and will come as a disappointment to some. We know that families may experience challenges with childcare during this time of continued distance learning. This was a very difficult decision, but one that is based on doing what we feel is right for the health and safety of all. 

The district will offer daily on site supervision for children in grades K-6 to those families who establish a clear need during this period of extended distance learning. Children attending the supervision program will have limited interaction with others as they engage in their own daily distance learning classes. Capacity is limited, therefore we ask that only those families who are unable to provide for alternate supervision of their children during this time submit an application for the program. Parents will be notified of their child’s enrollment status in the supervision program at least one week before school begins.

Application for Supervision of Children Grades K-6: English  |  Español  |  Polski  |  Русский

An additional email will be sent to families today explaining the existing opt-in Distance Learning Academy, distance learning for all students to begin the year, and the resumption of in-person instruction. The text of that email can also be found here

Thank you for your understanding and support.