March 13, 2020 – The following is a letter sent to the D123 community from Superintendent Paul Enderle regarding school closures beginning Monday, March 16
Dear District 123 Families,
All Oak Lawn-Hometown School District 123 schools will be closed beginning March 16th through March 20th.
In collaboration with our neighboring school districts and out of an abundance of caution for the health and wellness of District 123 students we are taking this unprecedented step. At this time there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 among students or staff at District 123.
As COVID-19 continues to spread in our state, our country and worldwide, District 123 wants to do everything in our power to protect the health and wellness of our students, our staff and their families. As a country we are beginning to exercise the practice of “Social Distancing.” We are doing our part in this effort as we also take steps to limit the transmission of this virus.
To that end, we are closing school, and all associated before- and after-school programs. District 123 had already planned an eLearning practice day for Tuesday, March 17th. We will be exercising this eLearning practice plan instead on Monday, March 16th. You will receive an email on Monday morning from your school principal.
Students will remain home with no expectation for eLearning on Tuesday, March 17th (Institute Day). District 123 families should be alert and aware for further communication from their schools and/or principals regarding future eLearning during the remainder of the week prior to spring break. District 123 will also be closed the following week as previously scheduled for Spring Break. All students Kindergarten through 8th grade will be provided with their school device to take home.
As this remains a very fluid situation, we are unsure at this time when schools will reopen. Building access will be available on Monday, March 16th to allow for families should you need to pick up anything your student may have left at school. Additional information can be found at d123.org
District 123 will continue to monitor all appropriate guidance from local, state, and federal health officials. We will provide regular and timely communication with the entire District 123 community as we move forward. Thank you for your understanding, patience, and continued partnership in keeping our students, our staff, and our community healthy.
Sincerely,
Paul J. Enderle
Superintendent