April 30, 2021
A MESSAGE FROM YOUR SUPERINTENDENT
The School Board met last night to seat our new Board members and make a decision regarding a remote learning model for next school year (for families who want that option). Here are updates on both items, as well as an announcement about our administrative team:
New School Board
Last night, we administered the oath of office to new Board members Kevin Bull and Jennifer Ciok and returning Board members Vicki Chung and Eileen Kowalczyk. They were elected on April 6 to serve four-year terms. They join Board members Kimberly Fay, Jennifer Kobus, and Rachael Rothrauff. The Board also once again selected Eileen Kowalczyk to serve as president and selected Kimberly Fay as vice president. Virginia Webster was re-appointed as secretary. As you know, our School Board members have the important responsibility of guiding our District and making decisions that affect students, staff, and the community. It’s a demanding job, and that’s never been more true than the past year. We’re always grateful when community members are willing to serve in this capacity, especially now, as we continue to deal with the realities of the pandemic. So please join me in welcoming our new Board members and thanking the entire Board for their service and leadership,
Last night we also honored outgoing Board members Brian Maye and Gerry McCluskey, who are stepping down at the conclusion of their terms. Brian has served for four years and Gerry for six. They have both been dedicated Board members, providing thoughtful perspectives on many of the important decisions they have been part of. On behalf of the entire District, we thank them for the countless hours they have volunteered and for helping to move the District forward in a positive way!
Fall Learning Model
Next school year, we plan to continue full-time in-person learning. But we know there are still some families who want to continue remote learning (6.2 percent of current remote students, according to our recent survey). So we presented the School Board with three potential remote models for next year. One model is a blended approach – this is what we recommended, and a majority of Board members approved. So we will offer a remote model next year that entails the following:
- Remote sections will be offered when enrollment numbers are high enough to designate a teacher. If enrollment in a section is not high enough to warrant a dedicated remote teacher, a concurrent learning model will be implemented. Concurrent learning is similar to our current livestream model, but it includes significant improvements designed to enhance the experience for remote students. For example, technology upgrades such as web cameras and interactive flat screens/carts in classrooms have concurrent learning. Also, instructional assistants will be hired for additional support, and there will be focused professional development for concurrent teachers.
- We will communicate approximate ranges necessary for fully remote sections when remote families receive their 2021-2022 enrollment form, which will be emailed to families next May 7 and close on May 13.
- Families who choose to sign up for remote learning will be asked to make a one-year commitment to that model. We recognize that this will be challenging for some, but it is necessary because we will likely not have enough space for students to move from one class to another once sectioning is finalized. Also, this year we have learned the importance of consistency in teacher assignments throughout the school year.
- A benefit of this model is that it is a flexible approach that provides two potential options for those who desire remote learning. It is also our most fiscally responsible option, which means we can use more ESSER (Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief) funding to support learning and address learning loss, as well as meet students’ social emotional needs.
- On Wednesday, May 5, at 6 p.m., we will hold an informational Zoom session for families who want more information on remote learning for next year. The link will be emailed to all families of current remote students on Monday.
- Registration for the 2021-2022 school year begins this Monday, May 3. Emails will be sent with additional information.
- You can visit this link to find more details about remote learning plans for next year, as well information about survey results, ESSER funding, and the upcoming timeline.
Administrative Change
Adam Parisi, assistant superintendent of finance and operations, has accepted a position in another school district, effective June 30. We have posted his position and plan to conduct a thorough search for a qualified candidate to fill this important role. Adam has provided financial and operational expertise and guidance throughout the five years he has been with the District. He has played a key role in carefully allocating the District’s resources, planning for the referendum, and maintaining and improving our facilities, including the addition at Fairview and current work at Lions Park. We wish him well in his new role.
Dr. Elaine Aumiller
Superintendent of Schools, Mount Prospect School District 57