WELCOME TO THE FAST 5
A compilation of "snackable" news, announcements, and important reminders!
What's Happening in District 65? The Fast 5 is sent weekly in English and Spanish to staff, families, and community members. Don't want to receive the Fast 5? Unsubscribe by clicking the link at the bottom of this email. Happy Reading!
1
In-Person Learning Update
This week, Superintendent Horton shared an important update regarding In-Person Learning with the D65 community. Per his update, the launch of our hybrid learning model has been delayed beyond January 19. Additionally, an advisory group of medical professionals, staff members, and parents will be formed to provide additional guidance on health and reopening and in-person learning metrics.  An update from these conversations will be provided to our community on Wednesday, January 20. Further information and updates on in-person learning is forthcoming and will be made available to staff and families as soon as possible.

2
Join our Thought Exchange - January 4-13!
From January 4-13, D65 is inviting all community members to share their voice as part of its first virtual Thought Exchange! As the District plans for the future and works to address financial challenges on the horizon, all residents are encouraged to submit their thoughts on the priorities that are most impactful for our students and schools. In addition to adding your own thoughts to the conversation, you can also review and rate the ideas contributed by others. The information gathered will be used to inform decision making and help facilitate a transparent budget planning process. 

Interested participants can participate in the virtual conversation in over 60 different languages via their web browser, by downloading the ThoughtExchange mobile app (download from the app store and enter the code 193-281-336) or text the code 193-281-336 to the phone number 728-55 to receive a link to participate.

3
BPAC Meeting - January 11
Our Bilingual Parent Advisory Committee (BPAC) invites our bilingual and multilingual families to attend the first meeting of the new year! The next meeting will be held on Monday, January 11 at 6 PM and will cover information about the ACCESS test and why it is important. Be sure to register ahead of time and come prepared with any questions you may have! Zoom link information and session details are available in the image below.

4
District 65 Family Center Awarded LENA Start Grant!
Last month, we shared the exciting news that the District 65 Family Center earned Blue Ribbon Affiliate status from Parents as Teachers National Center, Inc (PATNC). Well, the good news just continues to greet the D65 Family Center team! In addition to the prestigious endorsement from Parents as Teachers, the D65 Family Center has been awarded a two-year LENA Start grant, in partnership with the Evanston Public Library. LENA Start, an evidence-based community program designed to engage families, helps parents and caregivers by increasing conversations with their children during their most formative years. Free LENA Start classes are available for parents and caregivers of children ages 0-3. We are continuously impressed with the D65 Family Center! Congrats again, team!

5
Complete the Mental Health Survey for the City of Evanston today!
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Evanston is partnering with District 65 to feature a new awareness initiative, "Mental Health is Essential," to highlight the support and resources available to Evanston residents. The city wants to know how Evanston residents are handling the pandemic and the effects it may have on mental health. A 5 minute survey has been made available in English and Spanish for all Evanston residents to complete. Make your voice and feelings heard today!
Curbside Meal Pick-Up
Now Available!

Breakfast and lunch will be available to every child during Remote Learning. Meals may be pre-ordered (by Fridays) and picked up curbside for the week on Mondays at several locations. For more information and details, click HERE.
Join our #D65ReturntoLearn Hashtag Challenge!

Celebrate the start of the new school year by sharing your photos and videos and including the #D65ReturntoLearn hashtag on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!
Evanston/Skokie School District 65