- North Shore School District 112
- Frequently Asked Questions Guide
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North Shore School District 112 Solicited input from parents, staff members, and the community. As of August 7, 2020, there were more than 1,500 entries. This document reflects answers/responses to the questions and categories of questions with respect to the reopening of the schools for fall 2020. View the most recently added questions on the top of the page and scroll down to view questions in specific categories.
New FAQs added August 24, 2020
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Once the school year starts how will the decision to stay open be made?
The District will continue to look at the following county-level metrics as a baseline for making decisions on in-person learning:
- Positivity rate over 8%
- New cases per 100,000- the target is less than 50 per 100,000
- ICU bed availability- at least 20% available.
- Number of CLI admissions. Target- decreasing or stable
Link to metrics: https://www.dph.illinois.gov/countymetrics?county=Fayette
You can also reference the District 112 Dashboard for local COVID-19 metrics at http://nssd112.org/Dashboard
When any three of the four hit warning, we will consider moving to the remote learning model. We will also take into consideration the number/and or percentage of students and staff in our district that are probable COVID-19 positives as part of the decision to go remote for all. -
Is the Illinois Virtual School self-directed learning or is an instructor provided?
The IVS classes have assigned instructors that students can communicate with. The work is self-paced and self-directed. For more information please review the IVS FAQ page.
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Will schools have air quality enhancements?
All schools are currently being reviewed by Trane to provide an Indoor Air Quality Assessment to inform the administration and board on action toward enhancements. While each school has varying degrees of work being done, the board has approved a general scope of enhancements in each building. The goals of these enhancements are to:
- Dilute the buildup of indoor air contaminants through improved ventilation
- Move exhaust air out efficiently including recirculated air from kitchens, restrooms and combustion systems.
- Maintain indoor humidity levels through the addition of monitoring systems on all buildings
- Clean the indoor air through improved air handling filters (MERV-13) and improved sensors on equipment to allow for automation and energy efficiency
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When will technology and school supply pick-up happen for students in the Virtual Learning Model?
Each school building will be arranging a pick up for technology and school supplies for students in the Virtual Learning Model. The estimated date for these efforts is August 26-27, but confirmation will come from each school after all the supplies have been received.
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What will happen in the second semester when/if virtual-only learners want to return to in-person school?
They need to let their school administrator know that their choice is for their student to return to in-person.
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Can you explain how the dual language would work in the Virtual Learning Model?
Students who are enrolled in elementary dual language and who select the virtual learning model will have a schedule that models the hybrid learning model for dual language programming (instruction in Spanish and English), utilizes the core instructional resources for the dual language program, and is taught by certified bilingual NSSD112 teachers.
Middle school students who select the virtual learning model will be enrolled in Illinois Virtual School. Students would have an advanced Spanish language course through the Illinois Virtual School. They would have social studies in Spanish remotely from a District 112 teacher.
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What are the benefits of in-person learning for our younger students?
The American Academy of Pediatrics strongly advocates that all policy considerations for the coming school year should start with the goal of having students physically present in school. The importance of in-person learning is well-documented, and there is already evidence of the negative impacts on children because of school closures in the spring of 2020. Lengthy-time away from school and associated interruption of supportive services often result in social isolation, making it difficult for schools to identify and address important learning deficits as well as child and adolescent social-emotional well being. Beyond the educational impact and social impact of school closures, there has been a substantial impact on food security and physical activity for children and families.
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Do you have any further information with regard to the High School Placement testing that would usually take place during the winter term?
There is not a placement exam for high school English Language Arts. We are awaiting more information as it relates to placement for math.
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Do you have any further information with regards to the new 6th Graders integration/introduction into the Middle School?
Each middle school will host a virtual 6th-grade orientation before the first day of school. This event will be hosted via the Zoom webinar and each school team will take time to go through what middle school will look like and answer any questions that students might have. Detailed information will be shared through principal communications
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If a child enrolled in the hybrid model is sick but able to complete their online assignments for the day, will they be given attendance for that portion of the day?
As within a more typical school year, students get sick and need to remain at home. Even in these instances, students maintain progress in their coursework to varying degrees based on the reason for the absence and the duration out of school. As such, it is possible for a student, home due to illness, to be able to complete work and receive credit for their learning, though this may not always apply.
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How will band/music/orchestra classes be conducted?
Band, orchestra, and chorus will be conducted virtually. Students will participate in band, orchestra, and chorus on specified days through their creative arts classes at the middle school level.
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What will kindergarten virtual and hybrid learning be like given some of the play-based/interactive nature of the programming at that age level?
The primary focus of the virtual and hybrid model will be to make sure our students develop emergent literacies in math, English language arts, and Spanish language arts. The instruction will be developmentally appropriate for five and six-year-olds and still incorporate best practice strategies for children that age (singing, games, rhymes, stories, etc…)
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What is ABM's disinfection protocol for the schools? Which disinfectant products along with EPA registration numbers of those products are going to be used?
ABM enhanced cleaning FAQs can be found here and procedures are located here for public consumption and review. The disinfectant products that will be utilized are Oxivir TB, EPA # 70627-56, and Virex 256, EPA #70627-24.
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Will the Illinois Virtual School have the same curriculum as district 112?
Illinois Virtual School will focus on the same learning standards as the district 112 curriculum. The curricular resources that will be utilized will be different.
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Why has the District recommended two hours daily of in-person hybrid instead of doing two full days of in-person hybrid such?
It is our belief that in-person learning to the degree possible and practical is the “gold” standard of education. To that end, the current hybrid model puts our students in a position to experience the “gold” standard with daily in-person to reading, writing, and math instruction. In addition, this daily opportunity for social-emotional connections between all members of the school community is vital to a healthy and balanced school year.
New FAQs added August 7, 2020
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What is the protocol if a single student or school staff member tests positive for COVID-19?
Confirmed cases of COVID-19 should be reported to your principal and/or school nurse. The District will inform the school community of outbreaks per local and state health department guidelines while maintaining student and staff confidentiality. The District will work with the Lake County Health Department to conduct contact tracing, which includes reviewing class schedules, seating charts, close contacts at school, and other relevant information. In most instances, a single case of COVID-19 in a school would not warrant closing the entire school. Community spread and how much contact the person with COVID-19 had with others, as well as when such contact took place, will be considered.
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If a student in the Hybrid Learning In-person Model must quarantine for 14 days, how will their education continue?
Students in quarantine will receive assignments and asynchronous work from the in-person portion of their day and will also take part in the virtual part of their day with their class. They would not be moved to a virtual model while in quarantine. This is similar to any extended student leave of absence.
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Could reopening schools lead to increased rates of COVID-19?
According to the CDC, evidence from schools throughout the world suggests that reopening schools may be low risk in communities with low transmission rates. Computer simulations have suggested that schools reopening may further increase spread in communities where transmission is already high. The District is monitoring metrics on a daily basis and the current infection rates in surrounding localities are currently not categorized as high risk at this time. The District is implementing risk mitigation strategies - lowering the risk of transmission. All people will have face coverings, 6ft social distancing will be adhered to, air refresh is being increased in all buildings and rooms, and intense cleaning protocols are in place as an example. There is so much unknown about COVID-19 the District is learning and adapting as best they can.
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Is there any further guidance that can be provided to help families screen students to be certified to attend school each day?
The department of Lake County has released a web portal (dated August 6). Among valuable information, this webpage offers checklists and screening decision tools to help with at-home screening. The document is available at https://www.lakecountyil.gov/4412/Community-Guidance-and-Resources#schools.
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What are the specific criteria that will be considered in making a decision to move from the Hybrid Learning In-Person Model to a full virtual/remote model?
The District, in consultation with the Lake County Department of Public Health, the Illinois Department of Public Health, and the Illinois State Board of Education, reviews data points that include a 7 day rolling average of test positivity in Region 9 of IL (Lake and McHenry Counties). A percentage of 8 for 3 days will call for additional mitigation strategies that could contribute to a move away from in-person learning. In addition, the number of cases per 100,000 people is another metric used in the overall consideration of community spread and the potential need for a change or pivot. In addition, the percentage of ICU beds in hospitals is also something that factors into consideration. Please see Dr. Lubelfeld’s July 31 video message for more information [specifically starting at the 2:55 minute mark in the video]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-WvcZMgN6A&feature=emb_logo
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How will you be able to clean middle school classrooms between classes?
As an update from the last published FAQ, middle school students will NOT be asked to wipe down their desks as they come into a class. They may wipe them down if they choose. They will be provided gloves and Clorox wipes to do so if they choose to do so. ABM cleaning specialists will provide cleaning services between classes. Middle school principals and the company are working out the logistics of that process and further updates will be provided.
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How many custodians will be staffed to clean in the 2-hr period between the AM/PM groups PRE-K-8?
District 112 currently employs 38 custodians to clean our buildings through our contract with ABM. We are hiring an additional 10 ‘disinfectant specialists’ to support a higher level of cleaning for all school buildings for the start of the year. The additional standard will focus on twice-daily cleaning of frequent high touch areas (doors, bathrooms, etc) using a hospital-grade disinfectant, as well as electrostatic broad application performed weekly.
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How were AM/PM session assignments decided?
All families were asked to respond to a survey providing their preference for AM/PM designations. Building administrators assigned AM/PM designations based upon several criteria, including the family preference. While not all requests were met, a great deal of effort went into making sure there are social and learning groups within each classroom that will maximize the opportunities within the Hybrid Learning In-person Model. Note: Due to the complexities of the middle school scheduling process parent preference was only factored in on the elementary level.
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What is the maximum number of students in an in-person class, in the hybrid model?
While there is no change to the previous classroom guidelines for the upcoming school year, the nature of the Hybrid Learning model will significantly reduce class size. Current staffing/ scheduling projections show an average of between 10-15 students per class across the District. Class sizes are reduced to allow for 6 ft social distancing.
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How will student pick-ups/drop-offs work if you have two students at two different schools that release at or around the same time?
This is something that will operate similarly to the previous school years. Parents who need to accommodate such overlap should communicate with building administrators to decide the order of pickups and drop-offs and the arrangements for student supervision that are required. Principals may implement new drop off/pick up protocols as needed.
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Will face shields be allowed instead of face masks?
Face shields are not an Illinois Department of Public Health approved device. Face Shields may be worn in addition to face masks at any given time by students or staff.
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Can students work in small groups at school in the Hybrid Learning In-person Model?
Students can work in small groups as long as the students are six feet apart. A reduction in overall class size will aid in giving students space to keep six feet apart even when there are multiple groups working in the same class.
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Will students be able to eat snacks at school?
There will be no snack time for students at school unless there is a 504/IEP plan in place that requires eating. If a snack is required, a safe place will be provided to consume the snack. In-person schooling time has been reduced to eliminate the need for typical snacking and break time.
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Will students be able to drink water?
A student may remove their mask to take a sip of water. Teachers will instruct students on how to safely & quickly take a drink.
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Can students turn in paper assignments? Can student materials be shared?
Yes, students can safely turn in paper materials to teachers. No, students should not share materials at any time.
INSTRUCTION / LEARNING QUESTIONS
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If we move back to Phase 3 (Restore Illinois Plan) will students in virtual and hybrid still be “separated”?
The students will remain in their consistent hybrid or virtual assignments for the entire first grading period (trimester at the elementary level and the first quarter at the middle school level) regardless of if we’re in Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois Plan. In essence, if we pivot to all remote, the students remain with their assigned teachers and student cohorts under the schedule for the Hybrid Learning model.
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Will virtual students be provided with workbooks and paper-based materials?
Yes, all students will be receiving print materials.
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Will both the hybrid and virtual model offer world language curriculum?
The hybrid and virtual model will offer world language for middle school students.
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If we have opted out of the hybrid model, will we be allowed to opt back in if circumstances change?
The decision to opt-out of the Hybrid Learning Model is set until November 2020 at the end of the first grading period. November 6, 2020, for Middle School students and November 20 for K-5. See this letter for more information.
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How and when will my child's IEP get supported if the student has opted out of the hybrid model?
An IEP meeting will be held to determine how IEP needs can best be met. This applies to all students with IEPs regardless of the learning model.
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What are the plans for the library at the 10 schools?
Library is a special class that will be delivered remotely at the elementary level. How the library spaces will be reopened will be determined at a later date.
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How is attendance taken for the different learning models?
Daily attendance and engagement of students is expected whether students are participating in classes in person or remotely. Building principals will oversee attendance in their building. Schools will make daily contact with all students and families, especially those who are not in attendance or not engaging in classes, whether in-person or remotely. During remote learning (Virtual Learning Model or Remote Learning Model), attendance will be tracked by attending live synchronous sessions and/or work completion.
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Neighbors are trying to pool together resources to share child care. Will the district try to accommodate those families?
The District is committed to supporting the educational and social-emotional well being of all students no matter the circumstances. Parents should reach out to their teacher/principal for specific questions or requests. As a matter of practice, the District does not endorse nor promote any private entities or activities. The District educational plan is clearly laid out.
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In the hybrid model how will students come into and out of the buildings maintaining appropriate physical distancing?
We will allow for staggered entry - we will not have large congregations of students or staff as we have had in the past due to the hybrid split of AM/PM and other operational changes. Procedures will be established at each school by the principal.
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Will advanced and accelerated Math and English Language Arts (ELA) options be available for middle school kids?
Yes. All current scope/sequence of course offerings are available in Hybrid (in person or virtual) and Remote. The educational models will align with and follow the guaranteed and viable standards-aligned program of studies.
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Does the Middle School Virtual Learning Model allow for ‘leveling’?
The Middle School Virtual Learning Model includes leveling in English Language Arts (ELA) and math following the District’s course maps.
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Does the K-8 Hybrid Learning Model allow for Differentiation?
In the Hybrid model, teachers will differentiate instruction during in-person and remote instruction using core and supplemental resources.
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In the virtual model, will students have deadlines for assignments? Can they continue to receive a daily and/or weekly schedule and checklist?
Teachers can establish deadlines for assignments in the Virtual Learning Model.
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For the hybrid model, will middle school students be switching classrooms, or will they be grouped by their leveled classes?
Middle School students will switch classes due to the intricacies of the schedule which has multiple levels of math, ELA, and World Language options.
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If ILP students go 100% remote will their Special Education teacher still be the one they’d have had in class?
Students with ILP needs will have a certified special education teacher, but at this time we cannot guarantee it would be their previous ILP teacher.
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1. What are the highlights of the District’s recommended hybrid option?
The hybrid model is the administration’s recommended model to begin the school year. The hybrid model consists of five instructional hours with both in-person learning and virtual learning. It consists of an AM/PM schedule where students attend school in-person school for 135 minutes either in the AM or in the PM. The remaining 165 instructional minutes will be a combination of synchronous (live) and asynchronous (without live interaction) learning from home.
At the elementary level Music, Art, Library, and Physical Education will be a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning. At the middle school level Social Studies, Science, Creative Arts, and Physical Education will be a combination of synchronous and asynchronous learning. -
2. What will be the school day hours for the hybrid model?
Elementary and Dual Elementary Hybrid Hours
8:40 - 10:55 = AM session (2 Hours & 15 Minutes)
10:55 - 12:55 = Teacher lunch/plan/cleaning/transportation (2 Hours)
12:55 - 3:10 = PM session (2 Hours & 15 Minutes)
Middle School Hybrid Hours
7:55 - 10:04 = AM session (2 Hours & 9 minutes)
10:04 - 12:24 = Teacher lunch/plan/cleaning/transportation (2 Hours & 20 Minutes)
12:25 - 2:34 = PM session (2 Hours & 9 Minutes) -
3. Why has the District recommended the hybrid model?
Consistent with the Illinois State Board of Education as well as the overarching social-emotional and academic needs of our students, it is our belief that in-person learning to the degree possible and practical is the “gold” standard of education. To that end, in an effort to follow guidelines from health experts we can reduce class sizes and time on campus by maximizing educational focus in-person to reading, writing, and math, and at home to science, social studies, physical education, health, art, music, and other specialized courses.
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4. Will students be provided a virtual learning option as an alternative to the hybrid learning model?
Parents are required to elect either the hybrid or virtual learning model for their child(ren). If a parent does not complete the form, their child(ren) will be automatically placed into the Hybrid Learning Model. Due to the complexity of scheduling, families may not be given an option on AM or PM sessions. Scheduling consideration will be given to keep siblings within the same building together. Enrollment in the Hybrid Learning Model or Virtual Learning Model will be from September 3, 2020, to November 6, 2020. Selections cannot be changed as the information obtained drives staffing and class placement decisions. The forms are due on July 29, 2020.
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5. What are the highlights of the District’s virtual learning model?
For parents who opt out of hybrid learning, virtual learning is an option.
Virtual learning will consist of five hours of learning via synchronous and asynchronous instruction. In this model, there will be allocated times for each content area. Learning standards will be the same as those utilized for the K-8 hybrid model and will ensure rigorous instruction. A variety of learning platforms will be utilized, including OTUS, PlayPosit, SeeSaw, and Zoom. All instruction will occur remotely.
Elementary students will be instructed by a District 112 teacher either live-streamed and/or by an assigned virtual learning teacher. Middle school students who opt out of hybrid instruction will receive virtual learning either through the Illinois Virtual School or a District 112 teacher. Parents who elect for their child(ren) to attend the virtual learning model, will make a commitment from September 3, 2020, to January 1, 2021. -
6. What are the main differences between the full-day, hybrid, and virtual models?
The instructional model for full-day remains consistent with other models, however, the daily operations will be modified based on the guidelines from the IDPH, ISBE, and the Phase of the Restore Illinois Plan. The virtual learning model classes for elementary students will be instructed by a District 112 teacher. Middle school students will receive virtual learning either through the Illinois Virtual School or a District 112 teacher.
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7. What is the difference between virtual learning and remote learning?
If a parent elects to not participate in our Hybrid Learning model, a virtual learning model may be chosen. If Illinois returns to Phase II or III of the Restore Illinois Plan and in-person learning is not an option OR if a classroom is required to close to meet local and/or state health requirements, a remote learning model will be utilized. Remote learning will consist of five instructional hours of learning via synchronous (live instruction) and asynchronous (without live interaction) and will utilize the same instructional schedule, learning standards, and teaching strategies as the other models. A variety of learning platforms will be utilized to support remote learning.
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8. How will the District provide devices to all students for the virtual or remote learning model?
All students will be issued a device according to grade level. Students in Kindergarten-2nd Grade will receive iPads, and students in 3rd Grade and up will receive Chromebooks. To ensure student safety while using devices, iPads will be filtered by Securly and Chromebooks will be filtered by GoGuardian. Students will utilize their home internet connection to use these devices. Families without internet access will be issued hotspots.
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9. How do the different learning models address English Language Learners?
English Learners (ELs) will receive services to develop language skills during synchronous (live) and asynchronous (without live instruction) portions of the remote or hybrid learning models.
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10. How will student attendance work at the start of the school year?
Daily attendance and engagement of students is expected whether students are participating in classes in-person or remotely. Districts, schools, and teachers will make daily contact with all students and families, especially those who are not in attendance or not engaging in classes, whether in-person or remotely.
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11. How will students be assessed academically at the start of the school year?
The COVID-19 global pandemic caused a significant disruption with students returning with varying degrees of mastered skills and learning needs. As a result, all students in all learning models will be assessed at the start of the year, utilizing a combination of assessment tools to fully understand each student’s individualized needs.
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12. Will school events take place this year?
In order to protect our staff and students, we are reducing the number of in-person or large scale meetings and school events until we are in Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois Plan. The following list of events or meetings (which is not exhaustive) will occur virtually: parent-teacher conferences, back-to-school events, open houses, musical concerts, fine arts performances, etc.
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13. Will there be field trips this school year?
Per ISBE guidelines, field trips will not be taken until local and state health guidelines have determined it is safe to do so. Virtual field trips will be utilized as an alternative when appropriate to the learning objective.
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14. How will band/orchestra/chorus be handled in elementary and middle school?
Band/orchestra/chorus will occur remotely for both elementary and middle school.
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15 . Will there be extra-curricular activities, sports, or musicals this school year?
Extracurricular and club activities are an important part of a student’s experience in school. While in the hybrid and remote learning models, these activities will not occur in person but pre-budgeted ones may occur remotely with principal pre-approval outside of working hours (or duty-free lunch). Any new clubs/activities will follow the same pre-approval process that has been in place in the past.
SPECIAL EDUCATION RELATED QUESTIONS
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17. Describe the plan for the special education programs?
District 112 is committed to ensuring that our students with Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 Plans are provided their educational services in compliance with all state and federal safety guidelines related to the COVID-19 Global Pandemic. We are committed to providing a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) pursuant to your child’s IEP, regardless of how the school looks during the various state phases.
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18. How will IEP services be determined under the different models?
The IEP team will determine if services will be provided in-person or remotely based on the individual student’s needs. If in-person services best meet the needs of the student, the student’s in-person time may be extended.
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19. How will IEP and 504 meetings be held during the school year?
To limit the number of individuals visiting a building, the District encourages IEP and Section 504 meetings to be held virtually. If the parent(s)/guardian(s) prefer an in-person meeting, please inform your child’s case manager so accommodations can be made.
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20. What is the plan for students who need 1:1 aid?
Individual Education Plans will be reviewed at the beginning of the school year to ensure they meet the needs of the child (based on delivery of programming), which will include the need for support from a 1:1 paraprofessional.
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21. Will there be a change in how resource teachers / interventions / speech see their students?
IEPs will be reviewed at the beginning of the school year to determine the best method of delivery. Special Education programming will be delivered both in-person and remote based on student need and safety precautions.
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22. Has there been consideration/funds allocated for assistive technology for the hearing impaired in light of the widespread use of masks, inclusive of teachers who may need this technology?
PPE has been purchased to support students. Assistive technology will be determined based on student need.
OPERATION RELATED QUESTIONS - SAFETY, FACILITIES, TRANSPORTATION
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What will happen to a student that is dropped off without doing a health certification at home?
Teachers will identify the student via their daily reports and notify multiple members of their office team (secretary, nurse, principal/associate principal) to ensure a message is received for follow-up. The nurse or other staff member will call the home to address the missed certification. Follow-up steps will include a phone call, email, and/or text to parent to ensure notification and clarify any issues (self-certification took place, but the technology did not work, etc.). During this time the student will remain in the nursing office. If this becomes a pattern additional measures may be taken including additional school site certification prior to entry and more formal home school partnership planning to ensure compliance.
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How will “face coverings” be defined and enforced? What will determine an “acceptable” face covering and how will teachers make sure they’re all acceptable?
We will follow ISBE, IDPH, and CDC guidelines. If a mask does not properly fit a student, we will provide them with a disposable mask. It is required that all persons entering and in any of our buildings wear face coverings. We have masks, face shields, and other coverings as needed and as appropriate.
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What happens if a student needs to go to the nurse? Or becomes ill/injured during the day?
Teachers will be provided basic first aid supplies (e.g. bandages) to reduce traffic in the health office. Students should still be sent to the Health Office when needed. Building upgrades are being made to health offices across the District to provide areas of isolation for students that may show signs of possible COVID-19 related symptoms.
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Where exactly will the air conditioners be placed? Is it in the hallways? Why can’t each individual classroom have a portable unit?
If the District needs to rent portable and temporary mechanical cooling (A/C) units for the start or end of the school year based upon climate conditions, units will be set outside of main branches, and power will run through gyms or MPC/cafeterias and pumped through the hallways. The classroom doors will stay open to increase airflow. Ductwork and mechanical units will be out of the way of students and staff. With well over 300 classrooms in the District, this would be a large project, which would include running electricity to each and ductwork out a window for each, as long as the room has windows. We also do not have enough electrical circuits to run to each classroom as these do not plug into a normal outlet. The work to provide additional panels would be a large project in itself. Also, the Operations, Facilities, and Transportation department would not have any control over these through the central system controls. The air quality enhancements include additional air circulation and portable units do not provide this type of circulation, they merely cool the air. We are working with longtime HVAC partner TRANE on options for air quality improvements.
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23. What happens if there is a student/teacher/staff member who tests positive for COVID-19?
Employees and students must quarantine at home and monitor for symptoms for 14 days per ISBE’s return to school guidance if they:
Tested positive of COVID-19
Had close contact with someone who has tested positive of COVID-19
The guidance defines “close contact” as being within 6 feet of an individual with symptoms for more than 15 minutes.
Suspected having COVID-19
Employees should contact Deputy Superintendent, Monica Schroeder, immediately if they experience any of the above and do not report to work. Contact tracing will be initiated by Dr. Schroeder in collaboration with the Lake County Health Department.
Parent(s)/guardian(s) must call the school nurse and/or the principal to inform them. This information will then be reported to Dr. Holly Colin, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services, so contact tracing can take place.
In the event that a staff member or student tests positive for COVID-19, the building principal will inform the Director of Facilities and Operations, Kevin Liebe. According to ISBE’s Guidance for Reopening School, the areas of the school used by a sick person will be closed. These areas will not be used until after proper cleaning and disinfection procedures have been completed. We will wait at least 24 hours before cleaning and disinfecting; and if 24 hours are not possible, we will wait as long as it is possible. Principals will relocate classes during this time period. The area will be opened for use once it has been appropriately disinfected. -
24. Will temperature checks be conducted for the hybrid model?
All staff and students will be required to check their temperatures at home every day before coming to school. An online signoff will be utilized by all to certify that they are healthy enough to be in the building that day.
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25. Will a mask be required and will the District provide masks for all students?
Per the Illinois State Board of Education guidelines, all students and staff must wear face coverings while in our school buildings. Students and staff will be provided with disposable masks if they arrive at the building without one.
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26. Will there be more deep cleans of the school buildings?
In a hybrid environment, classroom preparation and cleaning will be significant. All buildings will be cleaned and disinfected thoroughly on a daily basis. Any unnecessary furniture and other items currently in classrooms will be removed and stored. Rugs/carpets will not be used. Classrooms will also have their own cleaning supplies within the rooms. During the break between the AM and PM cohorts, the classrooms and common areas will be thoroughly cleaned by maintenance staff.
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27. Will there be hand washing stations and hand sanitizer available throughout the school buildings and in each classroom?
Hand sanitizer and portable hand washing stations will be provided throughout the schools. Regular hand washing will be incorporated into the school day. Touchless sensors will be added to sinks that do not have them. Signage displaying correct sneezing/coughing methods and handwashing protocols will be displayed in all bathrooms, hallways, and classrooms in English and Spanish.
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28. How do families attain mental health services support for students that may be in need next school year?
Each building has a mental health team consisting of school psychologist(s) and social worker(s). Families are encouraged to reach out to the building team for support. Additional questions or concerns can be addressed to Dr. Holly Colin, Assistant Superintendent of Student Services.
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29. How will the District handle food service in the hybrid model?
Student lunch occurs at home. ‘Grab and Go’ meals will continue to be available, as they have been since mid-March 2020. In a hybrid environment, breakfast and lunch will be a grab and go option, with students picking up meals as they leave the building. AM students take with them as they are leaving for that day, PM students take with them as they are leaving for the next day.
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30. How will the required drills (Fire, Tornado, ALICE) be handled so that distancing can be maintained?
Drills will be scheduled and practiced to allow for social distancing. For example, classes would be staggered to practice an active shooter drill (i.e. ALICE).
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31. How will proper ventilation be provided for students and staff wearing masks in non-AC buildings?
The District has hired outside contractors to complete a detailed cleaning and services of all ventilators, air handling units, and rooftop units. All exhaust fans will be cleaned and serviced as well. Additionally, the District will be utilizing portable air conditioning units that will increase airflow and cool common areas in buildings for the first month of school when temperatures are often high. The District is renting at least two outdoor large tents per school to be used by staff for outdoor learning spaces to provide shade and protection from inclement weather.
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32. Will start times be changed to help manage social distancing?
Each school will stagger arrivals/dismissals as appropriate for the school, given the size of the student population and the building configuration. Where possible, multiple entrances and exit points will be utilized. Designated spots for bus pick-up and drop-off will also be assigned.
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33. Will outside guests be permitted on school grounds?
To reduce visitors in the buildings, guests will only be permitted with prior approval from the building principal. Guest readers, volunteers, private evaluators/observers, and other non-essential visitors will not be permitted until we are in Phase 5 of the Restore Illinois Plan.
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34. Will Innovation Learning be an option if a school is operating in a hybrid model?
Innovation Learning will be available before and after school programming for students enrolled in the Hybrid Learning Model. Students who are enrolled in the AM session of the Hybrid Learning Model may choose to register for before-school programming; students enrolled in the PM Hybrid Learning Model may choose to register for after school programming. Innovation Learning will follow state and local safety guidelines.
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35. Will students be allowed to share classroom materials (games, manipulatives, etc)?
Students will not be permitted to share materials in the classroom. Materials that are typically shared by students have been removed from classrooms.
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36. If there are rolling shutdowns, how will materials be provided to students?
All students will have a collection of print materials from their core English Language Arts (Spanish Language Arts, as applicable) and math materials provided to them to keep at home in preparation for rolling shutdowns. We are currently reviewing materials in other content areas.
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37. Where will students store their backpacks, jackets, supplies since lockers and cubbies are so close together?
Students will be provided with a safe space to store essential items brought to school. Personal items (stuffed animals, etc.) will not be allowed in school. No classroom supplies will be shared.
ADDITIONAL OPERATION RELATED QUESTIONS
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39. Is the district considering using Lincoln School, more of Green Bay school, or temporarily delaying the Edgewood/Northwood construction to use the closed junior high
Lincoln school usage is not feasible, the school was studied and assessed last winter. Green Bay school is completely in use and the Northwood construction project is on time and at present, the closed Elm Place School is fully used.
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40. How many students will be allowed per classroom?
Official class size guidelines will not change, however, in a hybrid model approximately half of the students attend either a morning or afternoon schedule which reduces the class size to half of the class’ normal enrollment. This allows for more space to physically distance and maintains small cohorts of students to attend school at a time which limits the number of students interacting at once in a building and on a bus.
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41. Will students have to be 6 feet apart in the classrooms?
Desks and tables will be arranged to allow for a 6-foot distance in all directions, facing the same direction when possible. Students will sit only on one side of tables, and plexiglass partitions will be used where needed. Students will remain seated as much as possible to limit movement inside the classroom and assigned seating will be used. Classroom doors will remain open, and mechanical systems will be scheduled to take in more outside air, weather permitting.
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42. Will the middle school class schedule be modified to reduce hallway congestion?
The hybrid middle school schedule reduces the number of middle school students in attendance by half. When students change classes during passing periods safety precautions will be taken including hallway directional signage, no use of lockers, and social distancing.
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43. Will students be kept in one classroom all day with the same teacher?
At the elementary level, students will be kept in one classroom. At the middle school level, students will change rooms a maximum of two times per day. When students change classes during passing periods safety precautions will be taken including hallway directional signage, no use of lockers, and social distancing.
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44. Will the playgrounds be open for recess in a hybrid learning model environment?
There will not be recess in the hybrid model.
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45. Will modifications be made to bathrooms? More frequent cleaning? Install guards between stalls/urinals?
Cleaning will be done more frequently. Some urinals, where there are a larger number in a row (3 or more) will have every other urinal closed off. Where there are two or less, or where the urinal is next to a sink, physical barriers will be installed. We are also ordering no-touch faucets as well.
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46. How will bus transportation change to manage social distancing in the hybrid model?
Buses will be limited to 30 people and masks are required. Assigned seating will be used to ensure appropriate social distancing. If there are siblings on the bus, we will assign a seat with a sibling. Drivers and bus monitors will wear PPE and perform regular hand hygiene. Buses will be cleaned and disinfected twice daily, in between AM and PM routes.
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47. Who will be eligible for bus transportation in the hybrid model?
The District will limit bus ridership to only students who are eligible for free transportation or special education transportation per the student’s Individual Education Plan. Schedule changes and riding additional routes outside what is assigned will not be permitted. Route time will be minimized by combining pickup and dropoff locations.
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48. Will bus drivers be taking the temperature of students before they board the bus?
No. Parents are required to check students’ temperatures at home before they board the bus. Drivers and monitors will wear PPE and perform regular hand hygiene. Buses will be cleaned and disinfected twice daily, in between routes.
STAFF RELATED QUESTIONS
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49. How will the health of teachers and staff be monitored during the school year?
Employees are required to self-monitor at home for symptoms (fever of 100.4 or higher, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, the new loss of taste or smell) related to COVID-19 before arriving at work. All staff must self-certify that they are COVID-19 symptom-free each day utilizing the NSSD112 COVID-19 Employee Self-Certification Form. Temperature checks before arriving at work are required. If employees exhibit COVID-19 symptoms, they may contact their physician. Employees are required to utilize the Absence Management System (AESOP) to report their time off and remain at home using sick time, other paid time off (vacation or personal), or leave without pay.
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50. What will happen if a staff member is feeling sick at work and is exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms?
If an employee feels sick at school, we have designated the school nurse as the person to be responsible for responding to any presumed positive cases of COVID-19. They should call the nurse's phone immediately to discuss the situation and symptoms they are experiencing. If the nurse is unavailable, they should contact the school principal. Employees must quarantine at home and monitor for symptoms for 14 days per ISBE’s return to school guidance if they:
- Tested positive of COVID-19
- Had close contact with someone who has tested positive of COVID-19
- Suspected having COVID-19
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51. How will the District be supporting the mental health of our teachers?
The District began planning and implementing Social Emotional Learning (SEL) last year for adults through numerous book club opportunities, physical fitness events, and other activities to support self-care. The year typically begins with an all-staff in-person kickoff meeting, and this year the District will forgo meeting in person as a District, but will share a message from a speaker and best-selling author, Amy Blankson, on self-care in the midst of stress and anxiety. In addition, on October 12, 2020, the District has planned an institute day for the Orange Frog workshop that teaches about positive environments and practices. Staff will receive professional development each month on a positive psychology principle from The Happiness Advantage book by Shawn Achor and a corresponding core SEL competency. These include a focus on self-management, self-awareness, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making.
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52. If a hybrid model is adopted, will staff also have the option of working from home or in the school? Especially thinking of staff who has school-age children who may or may not be remote learning, children in daycare, etc.
In the Hybrid Learning Model, staff will work on-site in the school buildings. The option to work from home does not exist in the Hybrid Learning Model. This will only change if the Governor calls for a stay-at-home order or the District closes a classroom or school due to COVID-19 moving then to a Remote Learning Model.
The Hybrid Model requires students to attend school in the a.m. or p.m. All staff will assist with the arrival and dismissal of students, supervision, and will rotate substitute coverage if and when needed.
If staff have daycare issues, they are eligible for an additional 2 weeks of paid leave under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA). -
53. Will teachers have planning periods in the hybrid learning model?
Yes, teachers will have a two-hour lunch and planning period each day in the hybrid model.
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54. Is the District making staffing adjustments in preparation for the upcoming school year in light of COVID 19?
Adjustments were made earlier this summer as enrollment and or special education needs to be increased slightly in some buildings. Based on the current enrollment and needs, the District is not adding additional FTE at this time. We will continue to monitor staffing needs throughout late summer and fall to determine if additional staff are needed. The District also recognizes that there may be a need for some staff to be reassigned, in compliance with collective bargaining agreements, to address positions that may be warranted based on the various learning models. The District is assessing whether vacant special paraprofessional positions that occurred due to resignations in late spring and summer need to be filled as we enter the school year based on current student needs and reopening models. If positions are needed, the District will post those vacancies and select candidates as appropriate. In addition, the District is currently reviewing options to address the potential need and demand for substitutes.
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55. Will the District require substitute teachers to obtain a COVID-19 test?
No, but we will have substitutes self-monitor and self-certify, just like the staff and students, in the morning before reporting to the buildings.
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56. Why is the school board meeting virtually to decide that in-person school is "safe" to resume? If it is safe to resume school in-person, shouldn't it be safe to meet in-person as well? Or is the health of educators, school staff members, and our families low priority?
July 21, 2020, Board meeting is held in person, live from the Administration Center at Green Bay School. Health and safety have been the highest priorities of the Board.