Valley View Schools To Close Starting March 17

ROMEOVILLE, IL — In compliance with Gov. Pritzker's orders, all Valley View public schools will close starting Tuesday, March 17. School will remain in session on Monday, March 16. Assistant Superintendent Rachel Kinder released a letter to parents and guardians on March 13, detailing the extent and scope of the closure.

Here is that letter's text in full:

The following is the text of a message from Valley View School District 365U Asst. Superintendent Mrs. Rachel Kinder shared with VVSD families on March 13.

Dear Valley View Families,

In accordance with the directive of Governor Pritzker, all Valley View School District 365U schools will be closed beginning Tuesday, March 17. Classes will be held on Monday, March 16 in order for teachers to inform students regarding options for at home learning during the time our schools are closed. All VVSD schools will be closed through Spring Break and classes are tentatively scheduled to resume on Monday, April 6.
Here are some key points that you need to know as of today, Friday, March 13:

• We do not have any suspected or confirmed cases of coronavirus in VVSD at this time.
• Extra-curricular school events including athletics are cancelled beginning Tuesday, March 17.
• Before and After School Care at VVSD schools is cancelled beginning Tuesday, March 17.
• Details about “At home learning” will be shared with students on Monday, March 16 and will be posted on the District website www.vvsd.org/athome
• Spring Break will still be observed March 30-April 3
• All facility usage by outside organizations is cancelled until further notice.
• VVSD Child Nutrition Program Meal Service will be available on “Grab and Go” basis at designated sites two days per week beginning Wednesday, March 18. Specific details will be posted at www.vvsd.org

A Note on Illinois Primary Election Day, Tuesday, March 17

Illinois Primary Election Day is on Tuesday, March 17 and we have 13 schools that serve as polling places. By law, we do not have the option to cancel this activity. Our building maintenance staff will be in the school buildings while the polls are open to maintain the cleanliness of the building. There will be additional sanitation procedures used in the areas accessed by voters visiting the school.

We realize this is a stressful time for families. If you are looking for resources for talking with your children, the National Association of School Psychologists has parent resources online. I want to assure you that our emergency operations team is meeting frequently to monitor this evolving situation and update procedures as needed. We will keep you updated as health officials issue new guidance that impacts our schools.

We are very aware of the impact on families of closing our schools and this decision has been considered very carefully. As always, the top priority in our decision making is the safety and security of our students and staff members.

Rachel Kinder, Ed S
Asst. Superintendent of Schools
Valley View School District 365U

Earlier in the week, Governor Pritzker declared a state of emergency in Illinois. As of March 13, 32 cases of COVID-19 had been confirmed in the state, though none in Will County.

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