COVID Update for 2/25

COVID Update for 2/25

This is the COVID-19 update for Friday, February 25. There is a reminder about our vaccine clinic tonight and upcoming mitigation changes. As always, you can visit our COVID-19 Update Center for the latest.

This week’s updates:

  • On Monday, February 28 we will officially shift to a mask-optional environment at all of our schools. Masks will still be required on buses, due to a federal mandate. Please talk with your child about your personal masking expectations. Our staff will not be able to monitor whether each student is following their family’s masking preferences. Also, please reinforce the importance of treating all individuals with respect and kindness.
     
  • If your child is enrolled in Kid Squad through the River Trails Park District…they are also shifting to a mask-optional (but recommended) environment on Monday, February 28.
     
  • We have several resources to help with any questions you may have about our new mitigation plan. This includes Dr. Wagner’s February 16 communication, a Frequently Asked Questions page about the adjustments, and an updated list of all our current COVID protocols. Do not hesitate to call your school or the district office with any additional questions.
     
  • A final reminder about our vaccine clinic tonight at River Trails Middle School, 3:30-6:30 p.m. If your child is receiving a second dose, your assigned time is the same as it was for the February 4th clinic. You will also need to complete another consent form, which you can download and fill out prior to attending. Also, you can still sign up for a booster shot by visiting https://kordinator.mhealthcoach.net/vcl/1642008919914.
     
  • Please continue to be diligent about keeping your child home from school if they are not feeling well. Even if symptoms are mild, or possibly unrelated to COVID, err on the side of caution.
     
  • A reminder that everyone 5 years of age and older is eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccination. Everyone 12 years of age and older is eligible for a booster shot.
     
  • SHIELD testing is continuing at each of our schools. If you have previously opted your child out of weekly testing and wish to opt back in, please fill out and submit this form. You will only be notified if your child tests positive, but can also see the results yourself by signing up for the SHIELD portal.
     
  • Once your child is fully vaccinated (two weeks after second dose), they can be exempted from weekly saliva testing. You will need to inform the district that your child has been vaccinated and can do so by filling out this form. If you do not have a Google account, please submit your child’s vaccination information directly to your school’s office.
     
  • Is your child boosted? If you have already submitted their initial vaccine verification, you can submit their booster information by filling out this form.
     
  • Meals can be provided for any student who is quarantining due to a positive COVID case. If interested, call 224-612-7675. Families will be able to pick up meals at River Trails Middle School, or have them delivered.
     
  • Our COVID-19 dashboard is updated daily with the number of students and staff who test positive or are in quarantine due to exposure. This dashboard is updated as results are provided and may be adjusted retroactively.

We will continue sending updates throughout the week when it is necessary. Do not hesitate to call either the district office or your school if you have any questions.