As you are all aware, the current recommendation from CDC, IDPH and LCHD is masking indoors for all individuals in K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status. Additionally, our legal counsel and insurance provider have stated that our best way to protect ourselves is to immediately follow the masking recommendations. That, combined with the fact that we have moved into substantial transmission in both Lake County and our local community, necessitates a masking change.
Beginning first thing Monday morning, masks will be expected at all times for staff, students, parents and visitors while on the bus and in the school building, regardless of vaccination status. The only exception is when eating/drinking. Masks are not required outside. Masks will continue to be available onsite should anyone forget to bring one.
This masking change is being made to support our goal to be together for in-person learning for the start of school and minimize any chance of required isolating or quarantining as a result of activities taking place before school begins. I also feel it is important for you to know now that our local health department will enforce a 14-day quarantine for close contacts in districts not masking. Shortened quarantine options and a new test-to-stay option are only available if students and staff are masked. While fully vaccinated individuals are exempt from quarantining at this time, we are highly recommending that everyone maintain at least 3’ of social distance as much as is possible from others in order to avoid inadvertent close contact.
These are our masking plans up to the start of the school year. The Board of Education, administration, and I are evaluating the guidance and continuing to monitor local health metrics before a final determination is made about masking and the start to the school year. The recommendation for this will be shared in full detail at the 8/10/21 Board of Education meeting. Whatever that decision is, we will formally evaluate all data available, minimally every two weeks, to determine if our mitigation measures remain appropriate. The hope is certainly that we can peel one mitigation layer back at a time. There will be more information coming soon.
While I know resuming mask wearing is not what we'd want, it is imperative the District remains responsive to the continually evolving guidance and health metrics, with the goal for all teaching and learning to remain in-person.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation. As always, please reach out with any questions, and know that I'm open to your feedback.
Local COVID Data
News Release: Lake County Back in Substantial Transmission
8/1/21
CDC thresholds and local data for Lake County
D114 Local Zip Codes Data from Northwestern University COVID Dashboard--ALL DATA INCLUDES ACTUAL AND PROBABLE CASES!
Quarantine/COVID Positive Data
D114 Text-A-Tip
United Way
Ways to access:
*Call 211 from any phone.
*Text your zip code to 898211
*Access the database via web at https://211lakecounty.org/
You can reach us at District Office at 847-973-4028. Feel free to email me with questions, ideas, or concerns at heather.friziellie@foxlake114.org. We are here to help, so don't hesitate to reach out for assistance!
With commitment to our students and families,
Heather Friziellie, Superintendent
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