Return to School 2020-2021 Remote Learning

District 201 Holiday Break Notification - December 18, 2020

Update: December 18, 2020

Dear Morton Families:

Here are some important messages as we head into break:

1. The district will remain in full remote learning until at least January 19th. In the meantime, you should be receiving a message from your child’s school with a link to inform us whether you will send your child to school in person when the time comes and it is safe to move to a hybrid schedule.

2. The first day of classes for second semester will be Wednesday, January 6th. Monday, January 4th is a teacher institute day, and Tuesday, January 5th will be a remote learning planning day for teachers to be fully prepared to start second semester off right.

3. The holidays for many are a joyful, thankful time to spend with family near and far. However, for some of our students there is an increase in depression, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness during the holiday season. As we approach the holiday season, I want to remind families that our schools’ web sites offer a wealth of information and services to support mental and emotional well being. Morton staff implements a variety of therapeutic approaches. We are asking our Morton families to check in with their children's emotional well-being over the holidays. Please talk to your children about their feelings. If you are concerned and not sure what else to do we hope you contact your child's school for guidance and resources. Each school’s main telephone number will be monitored during the break to respond to these requests.

Morton East                            708.780.4000

Morton Freshman Center       708.863.7900

Morton Alternative School     708.222.3080

Morton West                          708.780.4100

In an emergency please don’t hesitate to call your local emergency services.

Your child's safety and well-being are of the utmost importance to us. We wish all of our Morton families happy holidays. Go Mustangs.

******

Estimadas familias de Morton

Aquí hay algunos mensajes importantes a medida que nos dirigimos al receso:

1. El distrito permanecerá en aprendizaje remoto hasta al menos el 19 de enero. Mientras tanto, debería recibir un mensaje de la escuela de su hijo con un enlace para informarnos si mandará a su hijo a la escuela en persona cuando llegue el momento y sea seguro pasar a un horario híbrido.

2. El primer día de clases del segundo semestre será el miércoles 6 de enero. El lunes 4 de enero es un día de instituto para maestros, y el martes 5 de enero será un día de planificación de aprendizaje remoto para que los maestros estén completamente preparados para comenzar bien el segundo semestre.

3. Para muchos, los días festivos son un tiempo alegre y agradecido para pasar con la familia cercana y lejana. Sin embargo, para algunos de nuestros estudiantes hay un aumento en la depresión, la ansiedad y los sentimientos de desesperanza durante la temporada navideña. A medida que nos acercamos a la temporada navideña, quiero recordarles a las familias que los sitios web de nuestras escuelas ofrecen una gran cantidad de información y servicios para apoyar el bienestar mental y emocional. El personal de Morton implementa una variedad de enfoques terapéuticos. Les pedimos a nuestras familias de Morton que se informen sobre el bienestar emocional de sus hijos durante las vacaciones. Hable con sus hijos sobre sus sentimientos. Si está preocupado y no está seguro de qué hacer, esperamos que se comunique con la escuela de su hijo para obtener orientación y recursos. El número de teléfono principal de cada escuela será monitoreado durante el receso para responder a estas solicitudes.

Morton East 708.780.4000

Centro Morton Freshman 708.863.7900

Escuela Alternativa Morton 708.222.3080

Morton West 708.780.4100

En caso de emergencia, no dude en llamar a los servicios de emergencia locales.

La seguridad y el bienestar de su hijo son de gran importancia para nosotros. Deseamos a todas nuestras familias de Morton felices fiestas. Vamos Mustangs.

District 201 remains in full remote learning

Update: December 4, 2020 - 6:30pm

(desplácese hacia abajo para ver el mensaje en español).

Good evening Morton families,

District 201 will remain in full remote learning for the remainder of the semester. The last day of first semester is Friday, December 18th. We will continue to inform parents in the future on any plans to move to a hybrid schedule when we are able to do so.

In the meantime, please keep in mind that the schools are open to any student who wants to come in to the buildings for Internet access or a quiet place to focus on schoolwork. Students must adhere to all health and safety guidelines, including face coverings and physical distancing.

We would also like to remind you that a wealth of resources are available on our web site for academic and social/emotional supports for students and families. Please visit the district site or your school’s web site for more details.

Thanks for your continued support. Go Mustangs.

******

Buenas noches familias de Morton,

El Distrito 201 permanecerá en aprendizaje remoto durante el resto del semestre. El último día del primer semestre es el viernes 18 de diciembre. Continuaremos informando a los padres sobre cualquier plan para cambiar a un horario híbrido cuando podamos hacerlo.

Mientras tanto, tenga en cuenta que las escuelas están abiertas a cualquier estudiante que quiera entrar a los edificios para acceder a Internet o un lugar tranquilo para concentrarse en el trabajo escolar. Los estudiantes deben cumplir con todas las pautas de salud y seguridad, incluido el uso de cubiertas faciales y la distancia física.

También nos gustaría recordarle que hay una gran cantidad de recursos disponibles en nuestro sitio web para apoyo académico y social/emocional para estudiantes y familias. Visite el sitio del distrito o el sitio web de su escuela para obtener más detalles.

Gracias por su apoyo continuo. Vamos Mustangs.

Hybrid Learning Schedule Model

Return to School Parent Response Needed- Deadline 4 p.m Monday, October 5th

J.S. Morton District 201 is planning for the eventual return to in-person learning for our students. Our plan is to move into a hybrid schedule once conditions allow us to do so. Please complete the form, here, to indicate whether you intend for your child to attend school in person or remotely, after you have reviewed the information on this page. A separate form is needed for each Morton student in the family. Thank you!

Overview of the Hybrid Learning Model

Full information on all of the health and safety precautions in the schools, as well as further details on the hybrid schedule, can be found in the Return to School manual, here. Below is a summary.

Health and Safety

The following precautions are in place during hybrid learning:

• Every classroom has a hand sanitizer dispenser and disinfectant spray.
• Social distancing will be enforced with a 6-foot distance between students in classrooms whenever possible.
• Any gatherings in the school will be limited to 50 or fewer in accordance with current IDPH guidelines.
• One reusable face covering will be provided to students and staff.
• Increased and more frequent cleaning and disinfecting protocols are in place.
• Isolation spaces are available in case someone develops symptoms while in the school and needs to be evaluated or wait to be taken home.
• Parents will be required to certify that their child is symptom and fever free in Skyward each day before the student arrives at school.
• Meals will continue to be grab and go to prevent students from having to congregate for meals.
• Hallways are marked with directional arrows to ensure one-way traffic on the right side.
• Most staircases will be one direction only.
• Lockers will not be assigned except when there is a specific need identified for the student and authorized by the Assistant Principal’s Office.

Attendance and Logistics

Our current plan is for 50% of students to be in the school at a time. Under the current plan, students would attend school in person for half of their classes every day.

• The silver group (approx. A-L) will attend in person in the morning and remotely in the afternoon.
• The maroon group (approx. M-Z) will attend their classes remotely in the morning and in person in the afternoon.
• Instruction during each class period will be delivered at the same time to both the students in the classroom and to the students at home.
• Just as they have been during remote learning, the schools will continue be open for students to be in the building for their remote class sessions, if they choose.
• The district may need to adapt the schedule due to changing health and safety requirements, parents’ responses to the Return to School Parent Response Form, and in partnership with the elementary schools. For example, the schools may need to implement an “every other day” schedule instead of an “a.m./p.m.” schedule, or, the number of students in the school may need to be altered. This would be decided prior to the transition to a hybrid model.

Current Hybrid Model School Schedule

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Modelo de horario de aprendizaje híbrido

Se necesita respuesta de los padres para regresar a la escuela - Fecha límite 4 p.m Lunes, 5 de octubre

El Distrito de J.S. Morton 201 está planeando el eventual regreso al aprendizaje en persona para nuestros estudiantes. Nuestro plan es pasar a un horario híbrido una vez que las condiciones nos lo permitan. Una vez que haya revisado la información en esta página, complete el formulario, aquí, para indicar si desea que su hijo asista a la escuela en persona o de forma remota. Se necesita un formulario separado para cada estudiante de Morton en la familia. Gracias

Resumen del modelo de aprendizaje híbrido

Puede encontrar información completa sobre todas las precauciones de salud y seguridad en las escuelas, así como más detalles sobre el horario híbrido, en el manual de Regreso a la Escuela, aquí. A continuación, se muestra un resumen.

Salud y seguridad

Se toman las siguientes precauciones durante el aprendizaje híbrido:

• Cada salón tiene un dispensador de desinfectante para manos y un aerosol desinfectante.
• Se reforzará el distanciamiento social con una distancia de 6 pies entre los estudiantes en los salones siempre que sea posible.
• Cualquier reunión en la escuela se limitará a 50 o menos de acuerdo con las pautas actuales de IDPH.
• Se proporcionará una cubierta facial reutilizable a los estudiantes y al personal.
• Existen protocolos de limpieza y desinfección más frecuentes.
• Hay espacios de aislamiento disponibles en caso de que alguien desarrolle síntomas mientras está en la escuela y necesita ser evaluado o esperar a que lo lleven a casa.
• Se requerirá que los padres certifiquen que su hijo no tiene síntomas ni fiebre en Skyward cada día antes de que el estudiante llegue a la escuela.
• Las comidas se seguirán distribuyendo para evitar que los estudiantes tengan que reunirse para comer.
• Los pasillos están marcados con flechas direccionales para garantizar el tráfico en un solo sentido en el lado derecho.
• La mayoría de las escaleras serán de una sola dirección.
• No se asignarán casilleros excepto cuando haya una necesidad específica identificada para el estudiante y autorizada por la oficina del subdirector.

Asistencia y Logística

Nuestro plan actual es que el 50% de los estudiantes estén en la escuela a la vez. Según el plan actual, los estudiantes asistirían a la escuela en persona durante la mitad de sus clases todos los días.

• El grupo plateado (aprox. A-L) asistirá en persona por la mañana y de forma remota por la tarde.
• El grupo marrón (aprox. M-Z) asistirá a sus clases de forma remota por la mañana y en persona por la tarde.
• La instrucción durante cada período de clase se entregará al mismo tiempo tanto a los estudiantes en el salón de clases como a los estudiantes en casa.
• Al igual que durante el aprendizaje remoto, las escuelas seguirán abiertas para que los estudiantes estén en el edificio para sus sesiones de clases remotas, si así lo desean.
• Es posible que el distrito necesite adaptar el horario debido a cambios en los requisitos de salud y seguridad, las respuestas de los padres al formulario de regreso a la escuela y en asociación con las escuelas primarias. Por ejemplo, es posible que las escuelas deban implementar un horario "cada dos días" en lugar de "a.m./p.m". horario, o el número de estudiantes en la escuela puede necesitar ser modificado. Esto se decidiría antes de la transición a un modelo híbrido.

Horario Escolar Actual del Modelo Híbrido

UPDATE: Breakfast and Lunch Curbside Student Meals - August 24, 2020

Where do I go to pick up breakfast and lunch?

Meals are intended for Morton students with a valid school ID. Lunch entrees are pre-packaged frozen meals to heat & serve at home. Current school year income eligibility application must be on file to be eligible for free and reduced priced meals. Remember to be sure to add money into your student account through RevTrak. Contact your school for any questions or for allergy concerns. 

Breakfast $1.75

Lunch Price $2.90

Meals are available at the following locations for curbside pick-up weekdays only between the hours of 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

District 201 Locations

Morton East High School
2423 South Austin Boulevard
Cicero, IL 60804

Morton Freshman Center
1801 South 55th Avenue
Cicero, IL 60804

Morton West High School
2400 South Home Avenue
Berwyn, IL 60402

Additional Breakfast and Lunch Pick Up Locations

Morton Transition Center -  5031 West 31st Street, Cicero

Abraham Lincoln Elementary School - 3545 South 61st Avenue, Cicero

Berwyn Recreation Center - 31st Street & East Avenue, Berwyn (North side of parking lot),

Strikers Lanes - 16th Street & Euclid Avenue, Berwyn (Across the street)

Stickney Library - 43rd Street & Oak Park Avenue (South side of building)

George Washington School - 8101 West Ogden Avenue, Lyons

Visit the Grab and Go Menu for the fresh lunch and breakfast menu.

Update: District 201 School Re-Opening Update

July 25, 2020 - 6:30pm

A letter from District Superintendent, Dr. Tim Truesdale

(desplácese hacia abajo para ver el mensaje en español).

Dear Morton Families,

Thank you for your patience as we have worked to decide and plan for the safe and most educationally beneficial beginning of the 2020-2021 school year.

After much deliberation and review of all the input gathered, Morton 201 schools will begin the year in remote learning.

The detailed guide to the class schedule, meals, access to support services, health and safety protocols, and more, will be provided by July 30^th. In the meantime, here are some details families should know:

• Classes will begin Wednesday, August 19^th. During the first three days, August 19^th through 21^st, students in small groups will be able to attend one scheduled half day in person following IDPH guidelines to meet their teachers and ensure their technology is set up to successfully participate remotely. Details will be provided to parents by school principals.
  
  
• School facilities will be open daily on a limited basis, including libraries, auditoriums, and other large spaces for access to Internet connectivity or a supervised, safe and quiet place for students to engage in their coursework. These spaces will not be available for “hanging out,” they will only be used with assigned seating for quiet study and only if social distancing, face covering and other health and safety rules are strictly followed.
  
  
• Meals will continue to be grab and go with time allotted in the middle of the school day for students to pick up breakfasts and lunches. Meal pickup locations will be expanded to improve convenience and save our students time. Regular meal pricing must resume at the start of the school year, so please make sure you complete your free or reduced-price meals applications.
  
  
• The student school day will run approximately from 8:45 a.m. until 3:10 p.m. every day, and all classes will meet daily at their scheduled times.

As state and local health guidance allows, the district will progress through a hybrid model in which students attend school in person for half of the day, each day, and eventually to full in-person instruction. We will be reviewing the data and guidance every two weeks to make plans for these transitions. If the state and region remain in Phase 4 and it is safe to hold in-person instruction at half capacity, the district may begin the hybrid model after September 18^th.

This spring and summer the district worked with committees that included staff and parents, received parent input through survey responses and feedback, received input from students, and worked with local officials and our elementary school partner districts. These coordinated efforts have led us to the decision to open the year in remote learning. We will continue to collaborate with stakeholders as we work to return to in-person instruction as soon as possible.

Your child’s well being and education are always our priorities. I am proud of the accomplishments of our staff and students during remote learning in the spring. Our teachers, aides, secretaries, nurses, maintenance, food service and other staff and partners went the extra mile to maximize our students’ learning under very difficult and uncertain circumstances, and our students demonstrated their usual amazing resilience.

As we all continue to look forward to the time when we can return to school in person and fully regain the connections we value with our students, we are certain that our remote learning plan will be even better than it was in the spring. Thank you.

Tim Truesdale

#MortonPride

#OrgulloMorton

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Estimadas Familias de Morton,

Gracias por su paciencia, ya que hemos trabajado para decidir y planificar el comienzo seguro y más beneficioso del año escolar 2020-2021.

Después de mucha deliberación y revisión de toda la información reunida, las escuelas de Morton 201 comenzarán el año en el aprendizaje remoto.

El 30 de julio se proporcionará la guía detallada del horario de clases, las comidas, el acceso a los servicios de apoyo, los protocolos de salud y seguridad, y más. Mientras tanto, aquí hay algunos detalles que las familias deben saber:

• Las clases comenzarán el miércoles 19 de agosto. Durante los primeros tres días, del 19 al 21 de agosto, en grupos pequeños, los estudiantes podrán asistir a un medio día programado, siguiendo la orientación del IDPH, para conocer a sus maestros y garantizar que su tecnología esté configurada para participar con éxito de forma remota. Los directores de la escuela proporcionarán detalles a los padres.
  
  
• Las instalaciones escolares estarán abiertas todos los días de forma limitada, incluidas bibliotecas, auditorios y otros espacios grandes para acceder a la conectividad a Internet o un lugar supervisado, seguro y tranquilo para que los estudiantes participen en sus cursos. Estos espacios no estarán disponibles para "pasar el rato", solo se usarán con asientos asignados para estudiar en silencio y solo si se siguen estrictamente las distancias sociales, la cobertura de la cara y otras reglas de salud y seguridad.
  
  
• Las comidas continuarán siendo Grab and Go con tiempo asignado en medio del día escolar para que los estudiantes vengan a las escuelas a recoger desayunos y almuerzos. Los sitios de recogida de comidas se ampliarán para mejorar la comodidad y ahorrar tiempo a nuestros estudiantes. El precio de las comidas regulares debe reanudarse al comienzo del año escolar, así que asegúrese de completar sus aplicaciones de comidas gratuitas o de precio reducido.
  
  
• El día escolar del estudiante durará aproximadamente de 8:45 a.m. a 3:10 p.m. todos los días, y todas las clases se reunirán diariamente a las horas programadas.

Como lo permite la orientación de salud estatal y local, el distrito progresará a través de un modelo híbrido en el que los estudiantes asisten a la escuela en persona durante medio día, cada día, y eventualmente a la instrucción en persona de día completo. Revisaremos los datos y la orientación cada dos semanas para hacer planes para estas transiciones. Si el estado y la región permanecen en la Fase 4 y es seguro mantener la instrucción en persona a media capacidad, el distrito puede comenzar el modelo híbrido después del 18 de septiembre.

Esta primavera y verano, el distrito trabajó con comités que incluían al personal y los padres, recibieron comentarios de los padres a través de las respuestas y comentarios de la encuesta, recibieron comentarios de los estudiantes y trabajaron con funcionarios locales y nuestros distritos asociados de la escuela primaria. Estos esfuerzos coordinados nos han llevado a la decisión de comenzar el año en el aprendizaje remoto. Continuaremos colaborando con las partes interesadas mientras trabajamos para volver a la instrucción en persona lo antes posible.

El bienestar y la educación de sus hijos son siempre nuestras prioridades. Estoy orgulloso de los logros de nuestro personal y estudiantes durante el aprendizaje remoto en la primavera. Nuestros maestros, ayudantes, secretarias, enfermeras, mantenimiento, servicio de alimentos y otro personal y socios hicieron un esfuerzo adicional para maximizar el aprendizaje de nuestros estudiantes en circunstancias muy difíciles e inciertas, y nuestros estudiantes demostraron su increíble capacidad de resiliencia habitual.

A medida que todos seguimos esperando el momento en que podamos regresar a la escuela en persona y recuperar por completo las conexiones que valoramos con nuestros estudiantes, estamos seguros de que nuestro plan de aprendizaje remoto será aún mejor de lo que era en la primavera. Gracias.

Tim Truesdale

#MortonPride

#OrgulloMorton

Illinois State Board of Education guidance for schools in the 2020-21 school year

Update : June 26, 2020 - 7:30pm

A letter from District 201 Superintendent

(desplácese hacia abajo para ver el mensaje en español).

Dear Mustang Community,

I hope this message finds you and your families safe and well. This week, the Illinois State Board of Education released guidance for schools on the 2020-21 school year. 

This 60-page document has been much anticipated and will go a long way toward answering critical questions all of us share about what the 2020-21 school year will look like in terms of in-person learning, scheduling, 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, and every district has unique challenges to reopening schools safely. Therefore, we kindly ask for your patience as our staff thoroughly reviews this detailed guidance and implements the suggestions into our district’s own transition plan.

District 201 is keenly aware of the urgent need to communicate to families about what to expect next school year and anticipate releasing our own transition plan the week of July 13th.

Our district team has already been discussing options and obtaining the necessary supplies and materials to meet safety and health requirements. This guidance will accelerate those conversations and actions, and I’m confident our district will put forth a plan that prioritizes the health and safety of our students while maintaining a dynamic learning environment. 

Please complete a questionnaire that will assist us in our efforts at this link: https://rb.gy/gwmrt0. Thank you again for your patience, understanding, and flexibility as our entire district navigated a situation together this spring that none of us could have imagined. 

I will be in touch soon. In the meantime, stay safe and enjoy your summer.

Dr. Tim Truesdale - District Superintendent

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Querida comunidad Mustang,

Espero que este mensaje los encuentre a ustedes y a sus familias sanos y salvos. Esta semana, la Junta de Educación del Estado de Illinois publicó una guía para las escuelas para el año escolar 2020-21.

Este documento de 60 páginas ha sido muy esperado y responderá preguntas críticas que todos tenemos sobre cómo será el año escolar 2020-21 en términos de aprendizaje en persona, programación, uso de máscaras, distanciamiento social y otras medidas destinadas a mantener a todos seguros y saludables, al tiempo que se vuelve a involucrar a los estudiantes en el proceso de aprendizaje.

En este momento, no tenemos todas las respuestas a esas preguntas, ya que este documento se lanzó a los distritos escolares al mismo tiempo que se lanzó al público, y cada distrito tiene desafíos únicos para reabrir las escuelas de manera segura. Por lo tanto, le pedimos su paciencia mientras nuestro personal revisa esta guía detallada e implementa las sugerencias en el propio plan de transición de nuestro distrito.

El Distrito 201 es muy consciente de la urgente necesidad de comunicarse con las familias sobre qué esperar el próximo año escolar y anticipamos lanzar nuestro propio plan de transición la semana del 13 de julio.

Nuestro equipo del distrito ha estado discutiendo opciones y obteniendo los suministros y materiales necesarios para cumplir con los requisitos de seguridad y salud. Esta guía acelerará esas conversaciones y acciones, y estoy seguro de que nuestro distrito presentará un plan que prioriza la salud y la seguridad de nuestros estudiantes mientras mantiene un entorno de aprendizaje dinámico.

Por favor, complete un cuestionario que nos ayudará en nuestros esfuerzos en este enlace: https://rb.gy/gwmrt0. Gracias nuevamente por su paciencia, comprensión y flexibilidad, ya que todo nuestro distrito navegará una situación juntos esta primavera que ninguno de nosotros podría haber imaginado.

Estaré en contacto pronto. Mientras tanto, manténgase a salvo y disfrute de su verano.

Dr. Tim Truesdale -  superintendente de distrito

Pandemic EBT Application Available

The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) launched the Pandemic EBT application for families on May 1 at https://abe.illinois.gov/abe/access/. P-EBT is a new special benefit that can help families buy food for their school age children who would normally receive National School Lunch Program (NSLP) free or reduced-priced meals when schools are in session. All families with school age children who attend schools approved for Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) are eligible for the benefits as they receive NSLP meals at no charge.

Families that currently receive SNAP benefits do not need to apply for P-EBT benefits. These additional P-EBT benefits will be loaded into Illinois LINK EBT accounts along with regular SNAP benefits. Families who do not currently receive SNAP benefits but do have children who receive NSLP free or reduced-priced meals will need to apply directly with IDHS. The fastest way for families to receive benefits is to complete the application for P-EBT available online (Click “Apply for Benefits” at the link.) A paper application in English and Spanish is also available and can be submitted by email to DHS.FCS.PEBT@illinois.gov. IDHS created a flyer to help families with the application process. We are asking NSLP sponsors to share this flyer with their families.

ISBE is working in partnership with IDHS to ensure that this validation is available for all NSLP sponsors, both public and non-public. Thank you to all the schools that participate in the NSLP for submitting data by the April 17 deadline. We are asking that you please continue to verify that count, so that all families who are eligible can access the additional financial support provided by P-EBT. Instructions for this crucial verification can be found online.

If NSLP sponsors need assistance with the data submission/update, please email the ISBE Nutrition Department at cnp@isbe.net. If families need technical assistance with the application, please direct them to email IDHS at DHS.FCS.PEBT@illinois.gov.

Nutrition Department, Illinois State Board of Education
100 N. First St., Springfield, IL 62777
cnp@isbe.net,www.isbe.net/nutrition

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Aplicación de EBT Pandémica disponible

El Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Illinois (IDHS) lanzó la aplicación de EBT Pandémica para familias, el 1 de mayo en https://abe.illinois.gov/abe/access/. P-EBT es un nuevo beneficio especial que puede ayudar a las familias a comprar alimentos para sus niños que normalmente recibirían comidas gratuitas o de precio reducido a través del Programa Nacional de Almuerzos Escolares (NSLP) cuando las escuelas están en sesión. Todas las familias con niños en edad escolar que asisten a escuelas aprobadas para la Disposición de Elegibilidad de la Comunidad (CEP) son elegibles para los beneficios ya que reciben comidas NSLP sin cargo.

Las familias que actualmente reciben beneficios de SNAP no necesitan solicitar los beneficios de P-EBT. Estos beneficios adicionales de P-EBT se cargarán en las cuentas de Illinois LINK EBT junto con los beneficios regulares de SNAP. Las familias que actualmente no reciben beneficios de SNAP pero tienen niños que reciben comidas gratuitas o de precio reducido de NSLP deberán aplicar directamente con IDHS. La forma más rápida para que las familias reciban beneficios es completar la aplicación de P-EBT disponible en línea (haga clic en "Solicitar beneficios" en el enlace). También hay una aplicación impresa en inglés y español que puede enviarse por correo electrónico a DHS.FCS.PEBT@illinois.gov. IDHS creó un volante para ayudar a las familias con el proceso de solicitud. Estamos pidiendo a los patrocinadores de NSLP que compartan este volante con sus familias.

ISBE está trabajando en asociación con IDHS para garantizar que esta validación esté disponible para todos los patrocinadores de NSLP, tanto públicos como no públicos. Gracias a todas las escuelas que participan en NSLP por enviar datos antes de la fecha límite del 17 de abril. Le pedimos que continúe verificando ese conteo, para que todas las familias que son elegibles puedan acceder al apoyo financiero adicional provisto por P-EBT. Las instrucciones para esta verificación crucial se pueden encontrar en línea.

Si los patrocinadores de NSLP necesitan asistencia con el envío/actualización de datos, envíe un correo electrónico al Departamento de Nutrición de ISBE a cnp@isbe.net. Si las familias necesitan asistencia técnica con la aplicación, envié un correo electrónico a IDHS a DHS.FCS.PEBT@illinois.gov.

Departamento de Nutrición, Junta de Educación del Estado de Illinois

100 N. First St., Springfield, IL 62777

cnp@isbe.net, www.isbe.net/nutrition

 

General Questions

What is the return to school plan for the fall of 2020?

District 201 schools will begin the year in full remote learning. Students will attend all of their classes online, daily. Teachers will have office hours in the middle of the day, each day, except Tuesdays. Schools will be open for students who need Internet access, a quiet and safe place to learn, or need the routine of reporting to school to be successful.

Unfortunately, we cannot predict how long IDPH restrictions, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, will be in place. Our ultimate goal is to have students back to in-person learning when it is deemed safe to do so. The district’s goal is to return to in-person instruction as soon as it is safe to do so in consultation and compliance with IDPH and CCDPH guidelines.

What will be the plan for student orientation days?

Orientation days are intended for students to meet their teachers, ensure their laptops are functioning properly, and to learn how to access remote learning for each of their classes. Over the three days of orientation, a student will attend one half day with no more than 17% of students scheduled to be in the buildings for each half day session and approximately 5-6 students, at most, in each class. Details will be provided by the schools in the next week.

Will I still be able to volunteer in my student's school? 

At this time visitors are restricted from the schools, so in-person volunteers will not be permitted until further notice. Parents who would like to help may contact the schools to inquire about other ways to volunteer their time.

Will there be a choice of remote learning spring semester?

Each school will provide information and discuss with parents options for students who are not able to attend school in person when we are able to resume in-person instruction.

Will Morton students have district devices for use at home?

Morton is a 1:1 district, so every student is issued a laptop. Students who have technology issues will have access to the TSI program for assistance. Click here for details.

What if I have additional questions?

Your child’s school is prepared to answer your questions and provide supports necessary for your child to be successful. Contact your child’s dean, counselor, assistant principal or the principal and we will help you.

Fine Arts, PE and English Learners Education

What's the district's plan for Art Education? 

As always, the wellness of our students is the highest priority for our district. Art programs in our district provide students with the opportunity to develop and or expand their understanding and confidence with such skills as problem solving, physical and cognitive skills, and development of motor and language skills. Furthermore, Art programs challenge them to think and use color, layout, perspective, and balance to represent and express their ideas: all techniques that are necessary in presentations (visual, digital) of academic work. Students will receive more information on course work and materials during upcoming scheduled orientations.

What's the district's plan for Music Education? 

As always, the wellness of our students is the highest priority for our district. Music programs in our district provide students with the opportunity to develop and expand their understanding and of such skills as problem solving, physical and cognitive skills, and development of social emotional skills. Furthermore, Music programs challenge them to think creatively while helping them to develop the self-confidence needed throughout their academic and personal careers. Students will receive more information on course work and materials and instruments during upcoming scheduled orientations.

What's the district's plan for Physical Education? 

The overall wellness of students continues to be a high priority for our district. Physical activity can support students’ overall health and well-being and help reduce stress and anxiety. Students will be expected to participate in both physical and cognitive activities that promote overall wellness.

How will English Learners be supported during remote learning?

Students schedules have been made to connect English Learners with teachers who are qualified to support students who are acquiring English. The School for Biliteracy content courses will be delivered to enrolled students to develop content knowledge and academic Spanish language. Multilingual lab classes have been identified to provide additional supports for students that will help them navigate the learning platforms, expectations, organization and social emotional learning. Additionally, teachers have participated in professional development this summer to learn effective curriculum planning and pedagogy that supports learning in the remote setting. Biliteracy coaches, who serve as part of the instructional coaching team, will collaborate with teachers to address student learning needs. Finally, additional school materials will be provided to students to ensure that they are prepared for success.   

Extracurricular

Will students participate in fall sports?

On July 30, 2020, the IHSA issued its decision on fall sports. Only Golf, Swimming/Diving, Girls Tennis and Cross Country will compete this fall. The IHSA has modified the sports seasons, moving some sports to winter and spring, and adding a summer season for some sports. See details here. The athletic department will provide further details to student athletes, as well.

What is the tryout schedule for fall sports?

Monday, August 10th  the following sports will be conducting tryouts: Girls Cross Country, Boys Cross Country, Girls Tennis, Girls Swimming and Boys and Girls Golf. For the full tryout schedule and procedure, visit the Morton Athletic page.

If my student participates in remote learning, will they have access to extra-curricular activities? 

Extracurricular programs are a vital part of our educational program, and one of the most important ways for our students to show their #MortonPride. The district plans to conduct any extracurricular activities that can be conducted remotely. The schools are working with activity sponsors to develop plans for clubs and activities. Details on how to participate in activities and clubs will be provided to students when school begins.

 

What is the remote learning schedule for Morton 201 students?

Remote Learning  Schedule
Time	Daily
7:45 - 8:35	Zero Period
8:45 - 9:35	Period 1
9:40 - 10:30	Period 2
10:35 - 11:25	Period 3
11:25 – 12:30	Teacher Office Hours, Meal Pickup, Break/Work Time
12:30 - 1:20	Period 4
1:25 - 2:15	Period 5
2:20 - 3:10	Period 6

View/Download PDF of the Remote Learning Schedule

How can I help my child succeed during remote learning?

1. Know the schedule and when your child will attend class 
2. Reserve a space in your home that is comfortable and interruption free 
3. Ask your child about the virtual class set up and class expectations 
4. Use the family’s home language to discuss and ask questions about your child’s learning 
5. Help your child be physically ready for school (ex. Eat a balanced diet, keep a regular sleep schedule and engage in physical exercise)  
6. Encourage and support your child, but don’t perform tasks for your child 
7. Pay attention to your child’s social emotional well-being and mental health.  Reach out to your child’s counselor for additional supports. 
8. Remain calm.  We are all learning as we go! 

 

 

Health and Safety

What health and safety measures are you implementing?

Whether during remote or in-person learning, District 201 is implementing all IDPH guidelines for health and safety. Every classroom has a hand sanitizer dispenser and disinfecting spray. Face coverings will be provided to students and staff. Social distancing will be enforced with a 6-foot distance between students in classrooms whenever possible. Gatherings will be limited to 50 or under in accordance with current guidelines. Increased and more frequent cleaning and disinfecting protocols are in place in the schools. Isolation spaces are available in case someone develops symptoms while in the school and needs to be evaluated or wait to be taken home. During remote learning all persons entering the schools will have temperatures taken and will be screened for symptoms. Meals will be grab and go to prevent students from having to congregate for meals.

Will students be required to wear a mask?

Yes.

What if my child can't wear a mask for medical reasons?

The school will work in consultation with parents and medical providers on situations for students unable to wear a face covering.

What happens if a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19?  

When a positive case of COVID-19 is reported to the school, the school will review the case, consult with the county health department, determine home isolation timelines, and notify those who may have experienced exposure. If a possible case of COVID-19 is discovered, the same protocol will apply. Individuals with pending lab results for COVID-19 will not be allowed in school until the results are received and reviewed by the school. All information shared for the purpose of COVID- 19 contact tracing is strictly confidential. Parents and staff within the school will be notified and we will seek guidance from the county health department if a shutdown of a classroom or school is necessary. However, it is not expected that individual cases will result in shutdowns.

How will families be notified if there is a positive case in my child's classroom/school?

Any notifications to families regarding urgent individual circumstances will be made by telephone, followed by written notification. This includes notification if your child does not pass temperature and symptom screening, becomes ill during the day, or has potentially been in close contact with someone who either shows symptoms or tests positive for COVID-19. Notifications to families for schoolwide matters will be made by automated call/text, email, and/or the district web site, as appropriate.

When should someone stay home?

Only students and staff who are healthy should report to the buildings, whether during remote learning or any in-person instruction (hybrid or full). Students and staff with any of the following symptoms of COVID-19 must remain home:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• A measured temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or greater
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Nausea or vomiting
• Congestion or runny nose
• Known close contact with a person who has been diagnosed with COVID-19

 

How will school food service be handled? 

The following plan outlines meal distribution for students and families. This distribution plan has been approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture or USDA. Visit the foodservice page for more foodservice information.

During remote learning:

• Meal pick-ups will be available between 10:30am - 1:00pm.
  • Additional times at the schools are being considered, such as early morning.
• Students will pick up a breakfast and a lunch.
• Schools are identifying additional sites in the community for meal pickups. View/Download PDF of Breakfast and Lunch to Go Curbside Meal Pick-Up Locations.
• Further information will be provided as it becomes available.

What will the return to school plan look like for students in ASI (Adaptive Skills Instruction), FSI (Functional Skills Instruction) or Morton Transition Center?

 

Classes will begin Wednesday, August 19th. During the first three days, August 19th through the 21st, students will be able to attend one scheduled visit to their classroom virtually to meet their teachers to discuss how students will successfully participate remotely. Details will be provided to parents by the classroom teachers &/or the Special Education Department prior to August 19th. There will be NO bus transportation available until students begin the re-entry process.

 

Will my child’S IEP be followed? 

Yes. IEPs will be followed by staff. Students will receive the same amount of special education as specified by the IEP, provided by certified special education staff.  If you have concerns, please contact your child’s case manager. 

Will IEP meetings continue to be held?

Yes, meetings will be held before the due date, however, the meetings will be held virtually. You will receive information from the Special Education Coordinator at your child’s school.

 

 

If I have concerns regarding my child's social/emotional/learning needs, who should I contact?

If you have concerns regarding your child’s learning ability, you may contact your school’s Special Education Coordinator, or any psychologist in the building.