Gov. JB Pritzker announced all k-12 schools, public, private and parochial, throughout the state will remain closed to in-person classes through the end of the 2019-2020 school year. "I've said time and time again, our decisions must follow the science and the science says our students can't go back to their normal routine this school year," said Pritzker in a news release.
Illinois is set to receive approximately $569 million in federal funds for pre-k through grade 12 schools, as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. “The funding can help equip students with technology and internet access to enhance remote learning, support teachers in developing their remote instruction skills, and assist schools in continuing to provide meals to children and communities,” the release said.
Springfield Public Schools Supt. Jennifer Gill told Illinois Times in an interview that the district is set to receive $7.8 million in CARES Act funds, but that she is still waiting on specifics about how the money will be used. The district continues to provide meals to all students in need throughout the week at pick-up sites. iPads and laptops have been distributed to students, and internet access has been provided for those in need.
In an automated call sent out to parents on behalf of Springfield Public Schools Friday it was said, “As remote learning continues, we encourage students to continue to log in, complete assigned coursework and check in with teachers.” The last day of the school year is May 27. If parents still need devices or internet connection for their students they are urged to contact the district's main phone line, 217-525-3000, or to get in touch with the principal of the school their child attends.
Gov. Pritzker said said any grades for the remainder of the school year “should deliver feedback and not be used as a tool for compliance.” Gill explained how grades will work for the district in our interview with her, here.
Springfield Public Schools Supt. Jennifer Gill told Illinois Times in an interview that the district is set to receive $7.8 million in CARES Act funds, but that she is still waiting on specifics about how the money will be used. The district continues to provide meals to all students in need throughout the week at pick-up sites. iPads and laptops have been distributed to students, and internet access has been provided for those in need.
In an automated call sent out to parents on behalf of Springfield Public Schools Friday it was said, “As remote learning continues, we encourage students to continue to log in, complete assigned coursework and check in with teachers.” The last day of the school year is May 27. If parents still need devices or internet connection for their students they are urged to contact the district's main phone line, 217-525-3000, or to get in touch with the principal of the school their child attends.
Gov. Pritzker said said any grades for the remainder of the school year “should deliver feedback and not be used as a tool for compliance.” Gill explained how grades will work for the district in our interview with her, here.
Gill said in an email sent to parents
on Friday afternoon: “The
announcement also means that our traditional celebrations like prom,
awards and honors nights and graduation ceremonies will not be
able to be held in a traditional format. This is especially
heartbreaking for our seniors who so deserve the social finale to
their year and high school days and the awards and commencement
recognition they’ve worked so hard for these last four years. We
are working on ways to still observe these traditions in a
nontraditional way and each school will be seeking input from our
students and families in the days to come on how we might accomplish
that. Additionally, we will wait for guidance from IHSA on spring
sports and keep you posted.”
