02/09/2021 Important Message from District 89

February 9, 2021

Dear D89 Families,

I hope this message finds you and your families safe and well. I am writing to update you on our current school plans for the weeks and months to come.

Next week, Tuesday, February 16, will be an asynchronous day of learning, meaning students will work on assignments independently. Teachers will communicate their expectations directly with their students. We know this is short notice, however we have been given the opportunity to vaccinate our teachers and staff on Tuesday, February 16th, and as such we will be taking the day to provide the vaccination to our teachers and staff.

The following days will be considered Instructional Planning Days (formerly known as Teacher Institute days) and as such, students will have no classes on these days Friday, February 26, and Monday, March 29.

In keeping with our commitment to providing a safe, supportive learning environment for all, District 89 has begun a phased in approach to in-person learning. We have had success with in-person activities such as MAP testing, EL screenings, device distribution, food distribution and materials distribution and will be moving forward with a hybrid learning model. District 89 remains committed to following all safety guidelines and precautions outlined by local and state health officials. Families that have indicated an interest in the hybrid learning model with some in-person instruction will receive a separate communication with additional information next week. Please note that there will continue to be an eLearning option for students whose families have chosen to remain in this model of instruction.

Finally, just a friendly reminder that we will be distributing Grab-and-Go meals to our families this coming Tuesday, February 16 at our schools, with the exception of Melrose Park Elementary School. Melrose Park School families can simply go to any one of our other schools for their meals. There will be no meal distribution on Monday, February 15 due to the President’s Day holiday.

Should you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact your school principal.

Sincerely,

Dr. David Negron