Dist. 62: Algonquin Middle opening still question mark
As the opening day of school nears, Des Plaines Elementary District 62 is still investigating alternative sites for Algonquin Middle School in case the construction work there cannot be done by Aug. 23.
The district has released a statement saying all elementary schools are expected to open as expected on Aug. 23.
And while they hope Algonquin Middle School will too, officials say they will have a decision in place Aug. 11,
"On that date, we expect to have a plan in place for Algonquin, as well as an update for all District 62 parents and staff about what to expect during those first weeks of school," the statement reads. "This includes information about what work remains to be completed, any changes in process or protocol related to pickups and drop-offs, school food service, extracurricular activities, etc. Information will be sent to all parents electronically and posted on our District website."
The three-week strike by the Chicago Laborers District Council and Local 150 of the International Union of Operating Engineers has delayed summer construction projects all over the Chicago area. Crews returned to work July 20, and have recently begun working seven days a week in District 62, officials said.
Algonquin School parents in particular will get more detailed information during the mandatory registration sessions on Aug. 11, from 8-10:30 a.m. and again from 4-8 p.m. at Orchard Place School, 2727 Maple St. The information also will be sent to parents electronically and in the mail.
"We are actively involved in contingency planning that includes potentially restricting access to certain portions of the (Algonquin) building where construction is ongoing and utilizing other sections of the building where work has been completed," the statement said.
"Our top priority will be to ensure the safety and integrity of the academic environment for both students and staff, and we will take all necessary precautions. Our contingency planning for Algonquin includes the identification of potential alternative learning sites for some students should the building not be approved for use by Aug. 23.
"We have cast a wide net and have been contacted by and explored a number of potential venues. We will consider only those sites that can be adapted for a quality educational experience. Our criteria will include safety, appropriateness and ability to be adapted to support teaching and learning, and proximity to Algonquin Middle School.
"Should an alternate site be utilized, construction on Algonquin Middle School will continue at an accelerated pace with the goal of returning all students and staff to this facility at the earliest possible date when safety can be ensured."
District 62 has posted responses to some frequently-asked-questions on its website, www.d62.org, and will update them as decisions are made. Questions about construction projects at District 62 schools that aren't answered on the website, can be e-mailed to build@d62.org.