District 41 Opts For Fully Remote Learning To Begin School Year

GLEN ELLYN, IL — Glen Ellyn District 41 has reversed course on its former reopening plans and will reopen with fully remote learning for the 2020-21 school year. The change comes after a special Aug. 6 board of education meeting on the topic.

Students will attend school remotely for five hours each day, according to a letter to parents from Superintendent Dr. Melissa Kaczkowski.

Initially, the district had opted for a hybrid learning model that included onsite and online instruction. Kaczkowski wrote that District 41 plans to transition to a hybrid model "when it is safe and logistically possible to do so."

In the letter to parents, Kaczkowski acknowledged challenges of e-learning, saying, "We understand that a full remote learning plan is going to be a challenge for many families who were planning for the blended AM/PM model. These are unique and challenging times for all and each family/staff member has a different set of circumstances."

Principals are expected to contact families soon with more information about class assignments and schedules. District 41 is set to start school Aug. 21.