Des Plaines District 62 superintendent recommends remote learning to start school year

Des Plaines Elementary District 62 Superintendent Paul Hertel announced Wednesday that his administration will recommend the coming school year begin with exclusively remote learning.

"We know this may be a disappointment for our families that were planning to return to in-person instruction this fall. However, this decision is based on the safety of all students, staff and families," he wrote.

The recommendation will be formally made at a virtual meeting of the school board at 7 p.m. Monday. For details on how to participate in that meeting, visit www.d62.org.

Hertel said a remote learning guide for families would be shared Monday morning. During the week of Aug. 10, families will receive a welcome-back letter from their principal along with additional information.

The staff will return to work for an institute day on Aug. 12. Students in grades 1 to 8 will begin school remotely Aug. 17, while those in the Early Learning Center and kindergarten will return remotely Aug. 19.

"None of us have ever navigated through a worldwide pandemic," Hertel wrote. "We have never experienced anything like this in our lifetimes. However, our focus remains on supporting, educating and empowering children in a safe and nurturing environment."