Classes in the third quarter at Evanston Township High School will continue to be remote, at least initially, as they have been for the first two quarters, according to information on the ETHS website.
Winter break begins Dec. 20, and students will return to e-learning on Jan. 4.
By continuing its Enhanced E-learning into the third quarter, ETHS is prioritizing the health and safety of students and staff, the statement on the high school’s website stated.
The statement also stated, “We continue to monitor the guidance of the Illinois Department of Public Health and other infectious disease experts. This guidance is considered in particular as it relates to teen populations and our high school of more than 4,000 students and staff.
“The fluid nature of the pandemic, especially during the winter months, requires continued flexibility with planning at ETHS. Planning is not contingent on an ideal set of circumstances, but rather is adapted to the current conditions.”
It is possible that conditions will permit in-person learning in the fourth quarter, the statement said, but cautioned, “While metrics are a factor, there is not a specific ‘formula’ for making a transition during second semester. The mitigation efforts in the state/region and the guidance of the Illinois State Board of Education and Illinois Department of Public Health are also among the factors.”
ETHS officials regularly evaluate how and when to bring back students and staff in a hybrid environment, and “the goal as always, is to return to ETHS in-person with a regular, predictable schedule while minimizing the spread of COVID-19 in our community.”
The notice promised at least a 30-day notice of plans to transition to a hybrid model.
Here is other information from the notice on the website:
· “Health experts emphasize the importance of low spread of COVID-19 to keep students safe in schools. If ETHS is able to move to a hybrid model during the second semester, the actions we take today and during winter break (December 19-January 3) will be critical in order to sustain the model.
· “NorthShore Health Center, an ETHS partner, is sharing a resource that provides suggestions about how to help keep our communities safe. Please see their COVID Safety Promise for more information.
· “In November, ETHS reminded students and families about Academic Support programs and how to stay connected through the first semester, which ends December 18. With third quarter starting remotely on January 4, It is also important to use the tools and resources available. Students are encouraged to reach out early and often to get the best possible start.
· “Continue to seek balance and monitor your wellbeing. These are challenging times and we know that this is not easy. ETHS will continue to offer resources such as the ETHS Virtual Mindfulness Studio Wednesdays & Fridays, 6th & 7th period, ETHS mindfulness coach request, Rebel Human website, ETHS Virtual Calming Room, social work referral, social emotional learning check-ins, and more to support students, families and staff.