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FAQs: Please check this website often as it will be regularly updated.
FAQs: Please check this website often as it will be regularly updated.
ATHLETICS/CLUBS - UPDATED (WITH ADDITIONAL UPDATES COMING AS THE STATE IS CURRENTLY REVIEWING GUIDANCE)
ATHLETICS/CLUBS - UPDATED (WITH ADDITIONAL UPDATES COMING AS THE STATE IS CURRENTLY REVIEWING GUIDANCE)
- Will sports still be offered next school year?
UPDATED AUGUST 4: Yes. The IESA (Illinois Elementary Sports Association) has reversed their decision prohibiting interscholastic competition in 2020. We will now allow interscholastic competition and practices for approved sports during the 2020-2021 school year for approved sports. These practices/competition will honor the guidelines set by the IESA. We will continue to follow the guidelines on social distancing, cleaning procedures, and wearing masks when appropriate, as determined by local and state guidelines.
UPDATED AUGUST 4: Yes. The IESA (Illinois Elementary Sports Association) has reversed their decision prohibiting interscholastic competition in 2020. We will now allow interscholastic competition and practices for approved sports during the 2020-2021 school year for approved sports. These practices/competition will honor the guidelines set by the IESA. We will continue to follow the guidelines on social distancing, cleaning procedures, and wearing masks when appropriate, as determined by local and state guidelines.
- Will e-learning students be able to participate in clubs or athletics?
UPDATED AUGUST 4: New guidance has been released by ISBE (Illinois State Board of Education) that requires students who are e-learning to have the option to attend in-person extracurricular sports and clubs. Please note that a face mask will still be required for participation. Additionally, those students who may be considered immunocompromised must have a doctor's note clearing their in-person participation.
UPDATED AUGUST 4: New guidance has been released by ISBE (Illinois State Board of Education) that requires students who are e-learning to have the option to attend in-person extracurricular sports and clubs. Please note that a face mask will still be required for participation. Additionally, those students who may be considered immunocompromised must have a doctor's note clearing their in-person participation.
- Will parents be allowed to attend athletic events and performances?
UPDATED AUGUST 4: Yes, spectator and group gatherings are subject to IDPH guidelines during this time.
UPDATED AUGUST 4: Yes, spectator and group gatherings are subject to IDPH guidelines during this time.
- Will athletes be required to wear masks?
UPDATED AUGUST 4: At the moment, ISBE guidance states that athletes will not be required to wear masks during practice/skill development if they are able to maintain 6 feet of distancing. Should interscholastic competition resume, they will be required to wear masks or cloth face coverings while riding the bus to and from any future (winter or spring) games.
UPDATED AUGUST 4: At the moment, ISBE guidance states that athletes will not be required to wear masks during practice/skill development if they are able to maintain 6 feet of distancing. Should interscholastic competition resume, they will be required to wear masks or cloth face coverings while riding the bus to and from any future (winter or spring) games.
- Will band and choir be able to take place indoors in the winter?
Yes, during the late fall and winter months, band and choir will take place indoors. Students will not share instruments and distancing between students will be increased to avoid any transmission during singing or playing of an instrument.
Yes, during the late fall and winter months, band and choir will take place indoors. Students will not share instruments and distancing between students will be increased to avoid any transmission during singing or playing of an instrument.
UPDATES
UPDATES
- Can students with an IEP enrolled in the e-learning program come into the school to receive services from related services personnel (OT, PT, SW, etc.)?
Students with an IEP who would like to request face-to-face related services may arrange to come into the school if possible. Please work with the classroom teacher and the individual providing the services to find a mutually agreeable time. Transportation must be provided by the parent.
Students with an IEP who would like to request face-to-face related services may arrange to come into the school if possible. Please work with the classroom teacher and the individual providing the services to find a mutually agreeable time. Transportation must be provided by the parent.
GENERAL
GENERAL
- What are my choices for sending my children back to school?
Students in grades K-8 will have 2 options: traditional school or the CSD17 E-Learning Program. These options are subject to change based on guidance from ISBE. In-person instruction will be provided to students enrolled in the Little Learners, CAB and EC program. Parents will receive more information on the 2020-2021 school year in the near future regarding these programs.
Students in grades K-8 will have 2 options: traditional school or the CSD17 E-Learning Program. These options are subject to change based on guidance from ISBE. In-person instruction will be provided to students enrolled in the Little Learners, CAB and EC program. Parents will receive more information on the 2020-2021 school year in the near future regarding these programs.
- Now that we know what the options are, what comes next?
Take time to familiarize yourself with the options, and then choose the best option for your child(ren) using the survey on the website. Families must commit to their learning model for each trimester and will not be able to switch until the following trimester. We are asking all families to make a selection as soon as possible so that we can develop class lists. If you still have questions, you can reach out to your child’s school to discuss your options further.
Take time to familiarize yourself with the options, and then choose the best option for your child(ren) using the survey on the website. Families must commit to their learning model for each trimester and will not be able to switch until the following trimester. We are asking all families to make a selection as soon as possible so that we can develop class lists. If you still have questions, you can reach out to your child’s school to discuss your options further.
- What will traditional school look like?
Students will be back on campus. We will be requiring social distancing, face masks, regular hand-washing, and staying home when ill. Parents must complete our In-School Attendance Affidavit before sending students back to school.
Students will be back on campus. We will be requiring social distancing, face masks, regular hand-washing, and staying home when ill. Parents must complete our In-School Attendance Affidavit before sending students back to school.
- What if a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19?
Our re-opening plan is designed to limit the spread. We have developed protocols including contact tracing and notification of all individuals who may have been in close contact. We will work with the Will County Health Department for when a student or staff member tests positive. The parents of all students in the classroom and on the students bus will be notified but will not be required to self-quarantine unless in close proximity.
Our re-opening plan is designed to limit the spread. We have developed protocols including contact tracing and notification of all individuals who may have been in close contact. We will work with the Will County Health Department for when a student or staff member tests positive. The parents of all students in the classroom and on the students bus will be notified but will not be required to self-quarantine unless in close proximity.
- How will parents/guardians self-certify students are free of illness before coming to school?
Parents must self-certify using our Channahon 17 App (Iphone or Android) by 6:30am(TRS/CJHS) or 7:00am(NBG/PP). Students that do not self-certify will be tested at school and parents/guardians will be reminded that this is required. Parents and Guardians that are unwilling or unable to self-certify should select e-learning for their child(ren)
Parents must self-certify using our Channahon 17 App (Iphone or Android) by 6:30am(TRS/CJHS) or 7:00am(NBG/PP). Students that do not self-certify will be tested at school and parents/guardians will be reminded that this is required. Parents and Guardians that are unwilling or unable to self-certify should select e-learning for their child(ren)
- Will parents and volunteers be allowed on campus?
Parents, volunteers, and visitors will not be present on campus except by appointment. That will be revisited throughout the year.
Parents, volunteers, and visitors will not be present on campus except by appointment. That will be revisited throughout the year.
- Under the Traditional model, will elementary students be able to have recess?
Yes, students will take many breaks outside weather permitting. Recess will be organized to emphasize social distancing. Shared recess equipment will not be available to students for the first trimester, including the playground.
Yes, students will take many breaks outside weather permitting. Recess will be organized to emphasize social distancing. Shared recess equipment will not be available to students for the first trimester, including the playground.
- Will students/teachers be required to wear face coverings?
Face coverings will be required. Students with a medical exemption will be allowed to wear face shields instead of masks. We recognize that face masks are not liked by most people and we highly recommend having children practice wearing a mask if they are not used to it or uncomfortable. Begin with 5 minutes for a few days while engaging in an activity they enjoy. Increase the time gradually until school begins.
Face coverings will be required. Students with a medical exemption will be allowed to wear face shields instead of masks. We recognize that face masks are not liked by most people and we highly recommend having children practice wearing a mask if they are not used to it or uncomfortable. Begin with 5 minutes for a few days while engaging in an activity they enjoy. Increase the time gradually until school begins.
- Is the district providing masks?
Yes. Face coverings will be provided. The district will provide washable and reusable masks or disposable masks. Students may bring their own masks as well. Gaiter-style face coverings will be allowed as long as they are 2-ply and fitted snuggly over the nose and mouth. Students must also understand how to properly move the gaiter in and out of position. Gaiters that do not fit properly will not be permitted and a student will be provided with a disposable face mask.
Yes. Face coverings will be provided. The district will provide washable and reusable masks or disposable masks. Students may bring their own masks as well. Gaiter-style face coverings will be allowed as long as they are 2-ply and fitted snuggly over the nose and mouth. Students must also understand how to properly move the gaiter in and out of position. Gaiters that do not fit properly will not be permitted and a student will be provided with a disposable face mask.
- How will we ensure students will be wearing face masks?
We are going to give students as many socially-distanced breaks outdoors as possible. However, we expect some students will attempt to remove their masks while in school. Our staff will address these situations with each child without singling them out. Those who come to school without a mask or refuse to wear one will be removed from the classroom to another space and will continue their work independently. Parents will be contacted to pick the child up. This will not be a punitive action; however, we must ask all families to commit to the safety of others and those who intentionally ignore that request will need to participate in the e-learning option.
We are going to give students as many socially-distanced breaks outdoors as possible. However, we expect some students will attempt to remove their masks while in school. Our staff will address these situations with each child without singling them out. Those who come to school without a mask or refuse to wear one will be removed from the classroom to another space and will continue their work independently. Parents will be contacted to pick the child up. This will not be a punitive action; however, we must ask all families to commit to the safety of others and those who intentionally ignore that request will need to participate in the e-learning option.
- What do they do with masks while they are outside or eating lunch?
We have ordered a safety lanyard for every child. The lanyard will connect to the mask, which will allow them to take their mask off easily without losing it or mixing it up with another student's mask.
We have ordered a safety lanyard for every child. The lanyard will connect to the mask, which will allow them to take their mask off easily without losing it or mixing it up with another student's mask.
- Where will they eat lunch?
Students will be able to eat lunch in the cafeteria or gymnasium with 6 ft social distancing in place. Schools are exploring outdoor seating areas where feasible.
Students will be able to eat lunch in the cafeteria or gymnasium with 6 ft social distancing in place. Schools are exploring outdoor seating areas where feasible.
- How will teachers handle classroom supplies?
Students will use their own equipment. The sharing of materials may only happen when items are disinfected between use.
Students will use their own equipment. The sharing of materials may only happen when items are disinfected between use.
ACADEMIC PROGRAM
ACADEMIC PROGRAM
- Will children take local assessments this year?
While we are focusing on bringing students back to school safely, we also want to make sure to provide an outstanding academic experience. We do expect students will have an opportunity to take the MAP and other assessments this year, which will help to inform teachers' instruction.
While we are focusing on bringing students back to school safely, we also want to make sure to provide an outstanding academic experience. We do expect students will have an opportunity to take the MAP and other assessments this year, which will help to inform teachers' instruction.
- Will students participate in field trips?
All field trips are cancelled at this time. Classrooms are encouraged to participate in virtual field trips.
All field trips are cancelled at this time. Classrooms are encouraged to participate in virtual field trips.
- Will students receive enrichment and RTI support?
In most cases, homeroom teachers will have the same group of students throughout the day and students will still receive enrichment opportunities in the classroom through differentiation. Some students may work in smaller groups on advanced work outside of the classroom in a socially-distanced, small group setting. Additionally, students at CJHS in the Catalyst program (math or ELA) may need to switch classrooms with their peers. The teachers are well-equipped to differentiate to meet a variety of student needs.
In most cases, homeroom teachers will have the same group of students throughout the day and students will still receive enrichment opportunities in the classroom through differentiation. Some students may work in smaller groups on advanced work outside of the classroom in a socially-distanced, small group setting. Additionally, students at CJHS in the Catalyst program (math or ELA) may need to switch classrooms with their peers. The teachers are well-equipped to differentiate to meet a variety of student needs.
- Will we still meet our child's teachers?
Yes, however Open House and other events will take place in a digital format to start the year. School events and large gatherings will be suspended at this time.
Yes, however Open House and other events will take place in a digital format to start the year. School events and large gatherings will be suspended at this time.
CLEANING/DISINFECTING
CLEANING/DISINFECTING
- How often will classrooms be cleaned?
Classrooms will be deep-cleaned each day by trained staff. Common touch points will be cleaned throughout the day.
Classrooms will be deep-cleaned each day by trained staff. Common touch points will be cleaned throughout the day.
- Will there be any adjustments to HVAC systems?
Yes, we have adjusted our HVAC system to increase air circulation.
Yes, we have adjusted our HVAC system to increase air circulation.
CSD17 E-LEARNING PROGRAM
CSD17 E-LEARNING PROGRAM
- If we select the e learning option is it the same curriculum as the in person class material?
Yes, that is our intention and we will make every effort to ensure a guaranteed viable curriculum for students whether working from home or at school. Dedicated teachers will be working with our e-learning students and will attempt to remain aligned with the entire grade level team. Some live instruction will be provided in each grade level.
Yes, that is our intention and we will make every effort to ensure a guaranteed viable curriculum for students whether working from home or at school. Dedicated teachers will be working with our e-learning students and will attempt to remain aligned with the entire grade level team. Some live instruction will be provided in each grade level.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
SPECIAL EDUCATION
- How will Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings take place in the Fall?
CSD17 Schools is committed to providing families an opportunity to have meaningful participation in the special education process. Whether in-person or an alternative format, such as videoconferencing or by phone, IEP teams will partner with families to determine the most practical format to conduct IEP meetings.
CSD17 Schools is committed to providing families an opportunity to have meaningful participation in the special education process. Whether in-person or an alternative format, such as videoconferencing or by phone, IEP teams will partner with families to determine the most practical format to conduct IEP meetings.
- Will students with Individual Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 Plans receive accommodations if E-Learning?
All students attending the CSD17 E-Learning program will have access to any accommodations possible within the context of the virtual setting. In addition, CSD17 may be able to provide additional accommodations per a student’s IEP or Section 504 Plan if the accommodation(s) is/are appropriate for the online educational environment. Please note that some accommodations may not be possible to implement in the online educational setting.
All students attending the CSD17 E-Learning program will have access to any accommodations possible within the context of the virtual setting. In addition, CSD17 may be able to provide additional accommodations per a student’s IEP or Section 504 Plan if the accommodation(s) is/are appropriate for the online educational environment. Please note that some accommodations may not be possible to implement in the online educational setting.
- Will the district be completing Child Find and evaluations when school reopens?
CSD17 Schools will continue to identify, locate, and evaluate students suspected of having a disability and needing special education and related services. At the same time, we will be mindful that some students may have been displaced from their typical learning environment when initiating the referral process. Some evaluation procedures can be completed in remote learning situations. Some evaluations require in-person contact with students or observations of students in school settings.
CSD17 Schools will continue to identify, locate, and evaluate students suspected of having a disability and needing special education and related services. At the same time, we will be mindful that some students may have been displaced from their typical learning environment when initiating the referral process. Some evaluation procedures can be completed in remote learning situations. Some evaluations require in-person contact with students or observations of students in school settings.
TRANSPORTATION
TRANSPORTATION
- Will children ride buses?
Transportation will still be provided, but we are asking parents to consider transporting their children to school when feasible.(Buses will be disinfected each day.) Prior to sending your child to a bus stop or school, the parent/guardian will conduct a daily health screening (Covid-19 self-certification symptom check).
Transportation will still be provided, but we are asking parents to consider transporting their children to school when feasible.(Buses will be disinfected each day.) Prior to sending your child to a bus stop or school, the parent/guardian will conduct a daily health screening (Covid-19 self-certification symptom check).
- Will students be able to take different buses in the AM/PM or on different days?
No, students will only be able to take one bus to and from one stop. We are unable to pick up and drop-off students at different locations. The AM and PM stop must be the same stop M-F. Parents do have the option to drive their child in the morning or in the afternoon.
No, students will only be able to take one bus to and from one stop. We are unable to pick up and drop-off students at different locations. The AM and PM stop must be the same stop M-F. Parents do have the option to drive their child in the morning or in the afternoon.
- Will students be required to wear face masks on the bus?
Yes, students are required to wear face masks on the bus.
Yes, students are required to wear face masks on the bus.
- Will buses be disinfected daily?
Yes, buses will be disinfected daily between routes and at the end of the day.
Yes, buses will be disinfected daily between routes and at the end of the day.
- What will happen if I forget to certify my child before they get on the school bus.?
If you forget to certify your child before school we will allow them to ride the bus to school in their own seat. Their temperature will be taken at the school and you will be contacted to let you know that they have been screened. After a second missed certification the parent will be contacted again. A third missed certification will result in the loss of bus transportation for the trimester.
If you forget to certify your child before school we will allow them to ride the bus to school in their own seat. Their temperature will be taken at the school and you will be contacted to let you know that they have been screened. After a second missed certification the parent will be contacted again. A third missed certification will result in the loss of bus transportation for the trimester.
- When kids arrive on campus will they go straight from the bus to the classroom or will they be waiting outside for any period?
They will likely go directly to the classroom through the exterior classroom doors, but this will depend upon the school, the grade level, and the program. They will be required to enter through the hallways during inclement weather due safety concerns walking around the exterior of a building.
They will likely go directly to the classroom through the exterior classroom doors, but this will depend upon the school, the grade level, and the program. They will be required to enter through the hallways during inclement weather due safety concerns walking around the exterior of a building.
- Where will kids sit on the bus?
With the State of Illinois Phase 4 restrictions limiting our bus rider capacities, bus riders are limited to one bus location to-and-from school each day, everyday.
With the State of Illinois Phase 4 restrictions limiting our bus rider capacities, bus riders are limited to one bus location to-and-from school each day, everyday.
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