June 23, 2020

Dear staff, students, and communities of Arthur CUSD #305,

I hope this message finds you and your families safe and well.  Today, the Illinois State Board of Education released guidance for schools on the 2020-2021 school year.  

The 60 page document has been much anticipated and will go a long way toward answering critical questions all of us share about what the 2020-2021 school year will look like in terms of in-person learning, scheduling, transportation, wearing masks, social distancing and other measures intended to keep everyone safe and healthy, while also re-engaging students in the learning process.  

Right now, we don’t have all the answers to those questions as this document was released to school districts at the same time it was released to the public.  However, I want to assure you that we have already begun planning and strategizing about how we can provide opportunities for our students to safely return to school in the Fall. We formed a Remote Learning team in May that includes over 20 teachers representing all buildings and spans many grade levels that have met two times already and are scheduled to meet this Thursday, June 25th.  We have had some wonderful conversations and have tried to predict and plan for what we can do in order to prepare everyone for a return to school in the Fall.  

I am truly amazed at the dedication and hardwork that the teachers and administrative team have demonstrated already in preparation for the release of the guidelines from ISBE.  I also want to mention that the majority of our teaching staff have been voluntarily completing several online training modules that were prepared and provided to them to ensure that they will be utilizing best practices if we have to incorporate remote learning into our transition plan.  Just a few examples of the wonderful staff that we are so fortunate to have working with us in our great district.  

The Arthur CUSD #305 district is keenly aware of the urgent need to communicate to families about what to expect next school year.  As previously mentioned we have already been proactive in our approach to developing that plan, and I’m confident that we will put forth a plan that will prioritize the health and safety of our students while maintaining a dynamic learning environment.  Thank you for your patience, understanding and flexibility as our entire district navigates this challenge that stands before us.  We will continue to update as frequently as possible but in the meantime, please stay safe, and please enjoy your Summer!

Sincerely

Mr. Shannon Cheek

Superintendent