D-205 Wants To Expand In-Person Learning: Memo

ELMHURST, IL — Elmhurst School District 205 officials have not ruled out full in-person learning by the end of the school year.

At the same time, they have not put such a plan in motion.

For Tuesday's school board meeting, Superintendent Dave Moyer is expected to give an update on the status of in-person learning. His memo in the board's meeting packet said officials are developing a plan for increased in-person learning for the remainder of the school year.

Because of improved coronavirus case rates and the vaccination timeline, the district is planning to let students attend in person on alternating Wednesdays as of Feb. 10, the memo said.

This change excludes Bryan and Sandburg middle schools because officials say they do not have enough space for social distancing. They are the only schools with students divided into three groups for purposes of in-person learning.

As of last Friday, the district changed its snack break procedures to let students eat inside during bad weather, provided they are in larger spaces and 6-feet social distancing can be preserved, according to the memo. Earlier this month, a photo circulating on social media of kindergarteners eating outside upset many residents.

At the Feb. 9 school board meeting, the administration is expected to present a plan for the remainder of the school year for the board's approval.

According to Moyer's memo, the plan will emphasize an expedited return to school for kindergarten and first grade students

The memo also said the administration may recommend approval of revised local metrics and mandatory coronavirus testing for sixth through 12th grade students interested in attending in person. The board has talked about the possibility of testing for months, but has made no decision.

The school board's open meeting starts at 7 p.m. Tuesday. It can be watched online.