Return to in-person learning at Illinois schools looks likely for next academic year
CHICAGO - On Wednesday, the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) adopted a resolution that supports requiring in-person learning for the 2021-2022 school year, with limited exceptions for remote learning. The exceptions include students who are both ineligible to be vaccinated and under a quarantine order.
In addition, ISBE says it is up to the school districts if they want to offer additional remote learning exceptions.
"I think it's time for them to socialize, get back to a routine and be in-person," said parent Janine Schmeltz.
Schmeltz has two kids at Maine South High School in Park Ridge, who are currently remote learning. She says one is vaccinated and the other will be soon.
Right now, at Maine South High School, a little more than 50% of students are currently remote learning.
"We're ready for in-person learning to begin again in the fall," said Shawn Messmer, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Innovation with Maine Township High School District 207.
Messmer supports the announcement and says the district will remain flexible with remote learning.
"If members of our community have a need to remain remote, those students need that, we're going to do everything we can to make that a reality for them," Messmer said.
The Illinois State Board of Education says the next step is for the State Superintendent to make a final decision to return to full in-person learning. That is expected at the end of this school year.
"We encourage families to use the summer months to ensure that eligible children get vaccinated. The vaccines are safe, effective, and proven to protect you from getting sick. Vaccines are widely available throughout the state. And we are encouraging school districts to host vaccination clinics for eligible students and families," the Illinois State Board of Education said in a statement.
FOX 32 also asked the ISBE if the adopted resolution that was voted on requires students who would be returning to in-person learning to wear masks or get vaccinated. They issued the following statement:
"This resolution does not speak to those topics.
As we have from the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, ISBE is working closely with the Governor’s Office and the Illinois Department of Public Health to protect the health and safety of students and staff at Illinois schools. The Board is not currently issuing guidance mandating vaccines.
As stated in the Governor’s announcement on Monday, "In line with CDC guidance, the Illinois State Board of Education and Illinois Department of Public Health require masks in schools. The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services requires masks in daycare." (https://www2.illinois.gov/Pages/news-item.aspx?ReleaseID=23322)
We will continue to work closely with the Governor’s Office and the Illinois Department of Public Health to stay consistent with CDC guidance."
A spokesperson with Chicago Public Schools said, "We are pleased that ISBE is guiding districts to provide five days a week of in-person instruction. This is what the district has been working towards and there seems to be a consensus at all levels of government that opening schools full-time in the fall is a critical priority."