This is the COVID-19 update for Friday, March 4. Going forward, we will no longer be posting a regular update on Fridays. However, we will continue to communicate any important information regarding COVID whenever it is necessary. You can also visit our COVID-19 Update Center at any time for the latest information.
This week’s updates:
- On Monday, our schools shifted to a mask-optional environment, including on buses. Thank you to everyone for respecting the masking preferences of others and continuing to show kindness as we go through this transition. You can review school mitigation protocols on our website or by contacting your school.
- Students who are SHIELD testing do have to wear a mask only when they turn in their samples. Please make sure you student has a mask on your school's testing day (Tuesdays for RTMS and Euclid, Wednesdays for Indian Grove and Prairie Trails).
- There are several in-person events scheduled throughout the upcoming month. If attending, please do your best to maintain social distancing when possible. We will attempt to set up a space that allows for social distancing between families, but cannot guarantee that this will always be practical. We also understand that not everyone will be comfortable attending in-person events just yet. In many instances, there will be an available livestream feed for which your school will send out a link.
- The River Trails Park District is no longer requiring indoor masking, as of February 28. This also applies to any student enrolled in Kid Squad.
- Remember that we are no longer contact tracing, but schools will send notifications when there is a positive case. Please continue monitoring your child for symptoms and keep them home from school if they are not feeling well. Even if symptoms are mild, or possibly unrelated to COVID, err on the side of caution.
- Take-home breakfast bags will no longer be available due to changes to the USDA meal program. Your school will communicate with you regarding a start date for students being able to eat breakfast at school. Breakfast will continue to be provided to all students at no charge.
- While cases continue to drop, the CDC is still recommending vaccination for anyone 5 years of age and older. They also recommend a booster for anyone who is at least five months removed from their second dose. Visit vaccines.gov to find a vaccine location.
- SHIELD testing is continuing at each of our schools. If you have previously opted your child out of weekly testing and wish to opt back in, please fill out and submit this form. You will only be notified if your child tests positive, but can also see the results yourself by signing up for the SHIELD portal.
- Students who are SHIELD testing do have to wear a mask only when they turn in their samples. Please make sure you student has a mask on your school's testing day (Tuesdays for RTMS and Euclid, Wednesdays for Indian Grove and Prairie Trails).
- You can still inform the district that your child has been vaccinated by submitting a vaccination form. If you do not have a Google account, please submit your child’s vaccination information directly to your school’s office. You can also inform the district if your child received a booster shot.
- Our COVID-19 dashboard is updated daily with the number of students and staff who test positive. This dashboard is updated as results are provided and may be adjusted retroactively.
As mentioned, we will continue sending updates whenever it is necessary. Do not hesitate to call either the district office or your school if you have any questions.