Dear Families:
The Arcola School District continues to closely monitor the situation involving the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and is working in coordination with county and state health authorities. At this time, no decision has been made regarding school closure. But, we are planning in advance for that possibility. We would also encourage you to plan in advance for childcare if a closing occurs. The health and safety of our students, staff and families is a top priority for our district. Our decision-making will demonstrate an abundance of caution to protect everyone's health and well-being. Any decision that we make will be made in conjunction with the Public Health Department.
We received an email earlier this week from State Superintendent, Dr. Carmen Ayala, stating that it is “imperative” that school districts work on plans in case schools must close due to COVID-19. These plans include the possibility of using e-learning. An e-learning plan would allow learning to continue mostly via technology while our students are not in school, while also having access to their teacher(s) electronically. We are also working on plans for those families that do not have access to internet. Right now, our school does NOT have the authority to use e-learning but the state education association has informed us they are seeking relief from the legislature, which would allow us to use e-learning. As a result, we are working on a plan.
Illinois State Board of Education dictates that our calendars include 5 emergency days. We have already used 2 emergency days this school year for weather related school closings. That means we have 3 days remaining. If school is closed longer than the 3 unused emergency days, we can activate what are called “Act of God” days. This means school is closed due to a situation not in our control and any “Act of God” day will not be made up. This could change depending on what happens with the law and e-learning days.
With spring break next week, we understand that some of you, along with some of our staff, might go on vacation involving travel. At the time of this letter, it has been decided that anyone traveling to a Level 2 or 3 country will be required to be quarantined for 14 days after returning. More information on travel can be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html
For the most reliable information, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Illinois Department of Public Health website for more information about COVID-19. Also, please see the enclosed flyer about the best way to prevent the spread of the disease.
If you have any questions, please feel free to call me at 217-268-4963 or contact me by e-mail at tmulligan@arcolaschools.com.
Sincerely,
Dr. Thomas H. Mulligan, Superintendent
Arcola C.U.S.D. 306