Remote Learning At Central, South Not Expected

HINSDALE, IL — Hinsdale High School District 86 does not expect its schools to go to remote learning next month, despite a recent increase in coronavirus cases, the superintendent said Wednesday.

In a public statement, Superintendent Tammy Prentiss noted the surge in the pandemic. She urged residents to wear masks, practice social distancing, get vaccinations and booster shots, and participate in virus testing.

"I am not suggesting that anyone needs to alter or cancel their holiday plans, nor am I foreshadowing a shift to remote learning when we return in January," Prentiss said. "At this point, we fully intend to welcome everyone back into our buildings on Jan. 3."

But she said the district would continue to follow guidance from county and state agencies and the governor's office when it comes to deciding how to combat the virus. The district, she said, would take no virus-related measures without consulting the school board.

"We will keep you apprised of any news or updates we receive over the next two weeks from the organizations referenced above, as well as any discussions we have or actions we take in response," Prentiss said.

According to the district's coronavirus dashboard, 81 percent of Hinsdale Central students are vaccinated, while 58 percent are at Hinsdale South. The number is 65 percent at the Transition Center. Meanwhile, 95 percent of the district's staff is vaccinated.

Like most schools, coronavirus cases are up at Central and South. Last week, Central and South had, respectively, 50 and 47 new coronavirus cases among students. Ten employees were also diagnosed.

In the last few days, the University of Illinois and Illinois State University announced their campuses are going remote for the first two weeks of classes in January. At the same time, most public schools have stayed with in-person learning.

If public schools decide to go remote — even for a few weeks — that is likely to spark local debates.