The following letter was sent to all District 123 families and staff regarding recent updates to COVID-19 guidance.
Throughout the pandemic we have committed to relevant and timely communication with our learning community regarding information about our health and safety plans. This past Friday, a series of key updates were released.
- The Governor's petition for appeal regarding COVID-19 Mitigations was denied. Additionally, the Illinois Supreme Court vacated the Sangamon TRO because the appeal was "rendered moot through happenstance," and the case was remanded to Judge Grischow.
- While masks have been recommended but not required at District 123 schools since February 22, immediately following the Illinois Supreme Court decision, Governor Pritzker lifted his mask mandate for all Illinois schools (public and private).
- Previously, the CDC required masks to be worn on all forms of transportation operated by school districts. The CDC has updated this requirement. Effective February 25, 2022; the CDC is exercising its enforcement discretion to not require that people wear masks on buses or vans operated by public or private school systems, including early care and education/child care programs. The CDC also updated its guidance on masking to recommend masking in schools only in areas of high transmission, based on new key metrics.
These new guidelines bring a sense that we are beginning to climb out from under this pandemic as a community. Throughout this past week, students and staff members have exhibited a tremendous amount of respect for one another's mask choices. As always, District 123 will not tolerate harassment or bullying of any kind, and we ask that families and staff continue to treat each other with kindness and respect. As adults, how we model for our children disagreeing respectfully with different points of view is a foundational skill that prepares them for their future.
We look forward to our continued partnership as we move forward this school year.
Sincerely,
Paul J. Enderle Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools