Virtual Learning To Begin School Year For Deerfield District 109

DEERFIELD, IL — Though the intent is to eventually offer in-person instruction in some form this fall, Deerfield District 109 will begin the 2020-2021 school year with remote learning. The board of education approved the recommendation of administration Monday with the first day of "109 Online" set for Aug. 19.

"We will form a supplementary committee to determine, monitor, and evaluate the evolving health and safety conditions," the district said in a letter to parents. "A remote learning option will always be available for the entire school year for families that wish to partake in it."

In June, the district stated its intention was to start the year in-person. A reopening committee of more than 70 administrators, teachers, parents, students and community partners worked over the last few weeks to consider several scenarios — including full in-person learning and a hybrid of in-person and remote learning — before making a selection.

"We knew that whatever decision we reached would be met with significant disappointment, frustration, and even cause hardships for many in our community," the letter reads. "When it came down to it, it is our belief that remote learning is the safest and most sustainable option at this time. School just wouldn’t be the same in-person right now with all of the necessary protocols needed, and the risks of potential exposure. A teacher wouldn't be able to console a crying child. Wearing face coverings all day as adults is hard enough, and there seems to be universal agreement that it would be immensely harder for students."

Related:
Illinois Teachers Union Says School Year Should Start Online
Highland Park, Deerfield Districts Plan For Return To School