A compilation of "snackable" news, announcements, and important reminders!
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!
In-Person Learning Update
On Monday, Superintendent Horton shared an important update regarding In-Person Learning with the D65 community. Per his update, there will be a phased-in return for students to school buildings. Provided that there are no setbacks in our current health conditions, D65 anticipates the first day of school for the first phase to be November 16. Higher priority was placed on certain student groups who were deemed to benefit more from a return to in-person learning, as recommended by guidance from the Illinois State Board of Education.
In this phase, PreK-5 grade students who requested in-person learning and meet three or more of the criteria mentioned in Dr. Horton’s update will return to school buildings. All middle schools students will continue with remote learning at this time. Weekly updates will continue to be shared with our community.
Bessie Rhodes Drama Specialist Receives Illinois Theatre Association Award!
A huge congrats to Bessie Rhodes Drama Specialist, Anne Negri (headshot below), on receiving the 2020 Illinois Theatre Association Award of Excellence in Creative Drama! She was nominated for the award by a fellow colleague. Ms. Negri received her award in the association's virtual gala on September 26. Way to go, Ms. Negri! Keep on being a fantastic creative.
eBooks for Families Workshops!
Our wonderful team of librarians will host virtual workshops for families to learn about available eBooks and Audiobooks! A second round workshop for K-2 grade students will be held October 13 from 6-7 PM and for middle school students and families from 4-7:30 PM. For 3-5 grade students and families, a second workshop will be held October 14 from 6-7 PM, along with a workshop for middle school students and families from 4-7:30 PM. Join them on any night to become familiar with Destiny Discover, Hoopla, Sora, and more! Happy reading!
D65’s African American, Black, and Caribbean Family Group (ABC) is hosting its first meeting of the school year, a virtual kickback, on Friday, October 16 at 6:45 PM. Wear your favorite t-shirt and come prepared for an evening of connection, networking, and fun as the kickback will help inform families on ABC’s mission and upcoming plans for the school year, as well as how they can become involved with the group!
High Five! September Recipient: Ms. Nicole Sanchez!
We wanted to take the time to recognize our last recipient for the High Five! Celebrating Excellence in District 65 staff recognition program, Ms. Nicole Sanchez, paraprofessional at Willard Elementary! Ms. Sanchez has been a part of the D65 family for 12 years and was nominated by one of her colleagues who shared, “Nicole is an essential part of our school. She goes above and beyond to support the students and works collaboratively with the teachers. She is always advocating for the students' needs. I can't thank her enough for being a great colleague and an amazing paraprofessional who cares for our students.” Thank you, Ms. Sanchez for all of your hard work and dedication to your students!
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!
