Good afternoon,

Please see attached for Local School Council virtual meeting agenda for Wednesday, Sept. 16 at 5PM.  

We have an open parent representative spot on the council.  If you are interested in running, please reach out to our chair, Conor Sullivan at skinnernorthlsc@gmail.com.  Please see the agenda.
​
Have a great day,
Katie

​Good afternoon!  I hope everyone is doing well.  I have been so inspired this week by the flexibility, creativity and hard work of our students, parents and staff.  There are so many things this school year that are out of the norm, but we are adjusting with patience and kindness towards one another and learning new inventive ways to connect and learn.  


This sense of moving forward even amid challenges goes along well with our hashtag for the year.  Each year we have a theme to help encourage our students and community and create a shared connection.  The 2020-2021 theme is #whatisyourimpact.  We want to encourage our students, staff and community to think about how they can positively impact their own learning, classroom community, school community and the world around them.  Everyone can be a changemaker and we want our students to see this in themselves.  Check out our staff video rolling out this year's hashtag.   

Thanks to Friends of Skinner North, each student will receive a Skinner North #whatisyourimpact t-shirt.  Details on how to pick up are included below.  Shoutout to Zofia, an 8th grader, who created the design!

Please read below for a few updates and reminders.

Have a wonderful weekend,
Katie & Derrick
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Materials Pick, Technology and T-shirt Pick Up- We will continue to have materials pick up times for families.  Teachers may also have materials to assist in student learning for pick up.  This would be communicated directly by the teachers.  All students have a t-shirt waiting for them.  You may pick up a #whatisyourimpact t-shirt during material pick up times, which are from 8:30-3:30 on any school day.  (In addition, some 7/8th graders did not receive the sensory tools (stress ball and tube) provided by FoSN and if you would like a paper copy of the back to school packet, you can pick these up during the pick up times.)  If you are in need of technology, reach out to Mr. Kimbrough directly (dkimbrough@cps.edu).  Please use the front buzzer.  A staff member will come to you as no one but staff is allowed into the building at this time.  Masks are required.

First Week Survey - Please complete this survey and return to the school by Sept. 30.  You do not have to list your income, but the form helps inform school funding.  

Weekly Plan - We posted the first week plans on the remote learning website.  Moving forward teachers will have weekly plans posted directly on their websites.  To access their sites go to http://www.skinnernorth.org/remote-learning-2020-2021.html. (Please note that:  Specials plans are integrated into the homeroom teachers plans.)

Family Income Information Form (FIIF) -  Please complete this form and return to the school by Sept. 30.  You do not have to list your income, but the form helps inform school funding. 

Attendance Excusal Protocols -   Remember attendance is taken daily for students during remote learning.  To learn more, review our attendance section in our school handbook.  Please note:  to excuse an absence a call to the school (773-534-8500) or a signed excusal note that is mailed/faxed to the school is allowable. (We cannot accept electronic signatures.)  The excuse must be one that is allowable per CPS and ISBE (see handbook for details).

Office Hours - The school is open daily from 8:30-3:30.  Please feel free to call.  Mr. Santillan, our techco, is available to troubleshoot tech issues during the day.

Derrick and Katie will also have virtual office hours on Tuesdays and Fridays from noon to 1.  You can connect via this link:  meet.google.com/tcs-pwur-qgh or join by phone ‪(US) +1 609-429-5796‬ PIN: ‪678 085 736‬#

SNUG Fall Forum - Join us on Wednesday, October 7 at 6:30 for our Skinner North Upper Grade Committee sponsored forum.  It will include a presentation about selective enrollment high school and academic center application processes.  Ms. Jacobson, our school counselor, will be presenting.  Thank you to SNUG for organizing!  Use the following to log into the virtual event.  


Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86837582300?pwd=ME02ZHRyTS9Yc3puNld1VS84ZGM5QT09
Meeting ID: 868 3758 2300
Passcode: Da6Z8c 

Skinner North Question Corner.  We will select and answer questions each month. We encourage you to submit your questions.  We want to create a space where everyone feels comfortable asking questions. 
Note:  When you submit a question, you agree to have your question published and sent to the newsletter listserv (names will not be included).  We will try to respond to all questions submitted, but some may not be answered/published.   If you have an immediate concern or question, please always feel free to email.
Please submit your questions at https://goo.gl/forms/yc3mMfMpT6HDjOUi1.  

Good afternoon,


We are excited to welcome you to the 2020-2021 school year.  It is definitely a unique one as we are starting with remote learning.  This will be a year of flexibility and a year of modeling this for our students.  We will need to continuously think about how we are showing compassion and understanding to one another. As a community, these concepts will make us stronger and best able to support our students both social-emotionally and academically.  


As always we are here if you have any questions.  


Please read below for important updates and information.
Have a wonderful day,
Katie and Derrick
_____________________________________________________________


Preparing for a successful first day of school on Tuesday, September 8 - Make sure to review the this document, which has helpful first day information, and the steps below:

1. Need a device? - If your student needs a device, contact Mr. Kimbrough at dkimbrough@cps.edu.
2. Need internet access? - Families can check their eligibility and explore other affordable internet service options at cps.edu/getconnected. 
3. Need student login or forgot password? - If a student does not have a CPS username and password, please see these account set up instructions or forgot password informational sheet. 
4. Have a question? - Contact the school at 773-534-8500. We will also have a Google Meet available for questions during the first day. Connect to our Google Meet at: meet.google.com/tcs-pwur-qgh or call (‪US‬) ‪+1 609-429-5796 with PIN: ‪678 085 736#‬
5. Remember Attendance will be taken. - Students need to log in to cps.edu/portal with their CPS username and password every day and participate in synchronous sessions. Although we’re learning at home, students’ schedules should mirror a normal school day. 

Skinner North School Handbook - Please review our School Handbook for information around policies, procedures and other details for the 2020-2021 school year.  You can access the handbook at: http://www.skinnernorth.org/uploads/4/1/0/1/41014239/skinner_north_parent_handbook_2020-2021.pdf.  


Skinner North Remote Learning Website - Visit our remote learning website at http://www.skinnernorth.org/remote-learning-2020-2021.html.  This site is an information hub.  You can find general information as well as class/subject specific information and links.  Teachers have websites, which will include weekly plans that are uploaded on Thursday evenings for the coming week.

2020-2021 Skinner North Staff Directory - Get to know our fabulous Skinner North Staff by reviewing our staff directory.  You can access at:  http://www.skinnernorth.org/uploads/4/1/0/1/41014239/skinner_north_staff_directory_2020-2021.pdf.

Updated Skinner North Directory - Please see the following link (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1SWk1aGBuUUKGusndNi7U8u4XQ2fUQF0egkgJKVNjIag/edit?usp=sharing) for the second edition of our school directory.  Parents opt to have their information included.  If you need to make edits, submit them at https://forms.gle/njCZXksBJMBmYU3R9.  In addition, for the convenience of parents. we are adding homerooms to the directory.  (We had previously emailed asking families to let us know if they did not want their students homeroom included in the directory.  We will be adding homerooms throughout this week and next. When updated, they will be reflected in the link.)

Supply Pick Up - You may still pick up student supplies, technology or back to school kits at the school.  No one is allowed to enter the building, but between 8:30-3:30 on school days you may buzz at the main door and a staff member will assist you.  Masks must be worn.  If you feel you are missing anything from your back to school bag, please contact Mr. Kimbrough (dkimbrough@cps.edu), he can assist further.

Creating a Calm Down Spot at Home - Students received sensory tools in their back to school bags thanks to FoSN!  We wanted to share two sheets to help support the use of these tools and social-emotional learning:  Coping Skills for Kids and Creating a Calm Down Spot at Home.

Student, Family and Staff Privacy -  Please remember remote learning is a unique situation for our families and students.  Typically, we are not in each other's homes or living situations.  We must respect each other’s privacy as much as possible during remote learning. Learn more about how to best respect and protect one another’s privacy during remote learning here. And as a reminder, our Acceptable Use Policy outlines the district’s rules for staff and students interacting on digital platforms.

Please note: Guests and outside visitors are prohibited from joining virtual classes.

Increasing the number of meal sites across the city - Beginning Tuesday, September 8, the district will have more than 450 meal sites for the 2020–21 school year. Students, parents, or guardians may pick up free meals at the nearest school from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please find the nearest meal distribution site using this map which will be updated this Friday with the latest set of meal sites. If families are unable to visit a meal site in-person, the district will continue to provide free delivery for those who need additional support.

Calendar Update - Schools will be closed on November 3 in observance of Election Day. Classes will now be in session on Veterans Day, November 11. See https://www.cps.edu/globalassets/cps-pages/calendar/sy2020-2021-academic-calendar-english.pdf for the updated CPS school calendar.

GoCPS Application Updates - The district recently released updates for the coming selective enrollment high school and elementary school procedures. (Please note that Winter 2019 refers to Winter scores during the 2019-2020 school year.) Please go to https://go.cps.edu/about-gocps/2020-process-changes to view the changes/updates.

J@School Update - J@School has served as our after care provider in the past.  They are hosting community child care.  If interested in learning more, go to https://jatschool.jccchicago.org/community-child-care/.


SNUG Updates - Skinner North Upper Grade (SNUG) now has its own email (SNUGCPS@gmail.com) and calendar.  The SNUG google calendar will display SNUG events and serve as a place for current SN middle school families (5th-8th) to post physical and virtual meetups to aid at keeping students connected. If you would like access to the SNUG calendar, please email your gmail address to SNUGCPS@gmail.com and identify the name and grade of your student.  (If you would also like to be added to the SNUG REMIND APP distribution list, please state so in your email.)  Thereafter, you will be invited to the SNUG google calendar and will have: (a) the ability to invite the SNUG calendar to a meetup (i.e., create a meet up) and (b) access the details of all events on the calendar to find a meet up that suits your family. 


Because this calendar has the potential to house many events and meet ups, please abide by the following rules when creating a meet up:


a. Title field of the meet up should follow this format: 
  - Grade of student organizer / grades invited / subject of event or meet up.  For example, if my 8th grader wanted to let 8th graders know he will be rollerblading at Humboldt Park, the calendar post should read:  8th /  8th / Rollerblading @ Humboldt Park. 

b. Always use the location field to add a physical address or denote the meeting is virtual.  If the meet up is physical, identify exact location of the meet up in the details field.  For example- in the Humboldt Park example above:  Meet at tennis courts just west of California @ Evergreen.   

c. Always include a start and stop time for the event/meet up.  

d. In the details field share what you would want to know before committing to allow your child to go to a meet up, including but not limited to, name of organizer and phone number. 

Dear Skinner North Parents and Families,

As we begin our school year, we want to ensure that every child is prepared to successfully start and
navigate remote learning. One item that is considered a staple for your child’s success during this time
is having access to their own technology. To kick off the school year, we have designated days where a
back to school packet can be picked up for your child(ren). Within the packet, there will be a book, the
school planner (grades 2nd through 8th), sensory items, technology (if requested), and in some cases
grade specific items. As in the Spring, tech pick-up days have been organized – in accordance with clear
guidance from the district – that will allow you to pick-up packets from the school as safely as possible.
Listed below is the schedule for tech pick-up days. In order to pick-up items, we are asking that you
proceed to Door 3, which is located near the school auditorium. All items will be located and shared
with you at that entrance. No one will be allowed to enter the building. While there are designated
days for grade levels, please feel free to make adjustments that might work better or combine days in
cases where you have children in multiple grades.

Homeroom Assignments: A designated area at Door 3 will provide you with a listing of your child(ren)’s
homeroom, along with other pertinent information for the start of the school year. School personnel
will also be available to answer any questions you may have.
Grade Level Date and Time Location in School
7th and 8th Grades
7th graders in homeroom 308 will take home
a guitar for the 1st quarter. Parents must
sign a musical agreement upon pick-up.

Monday, August 31st
Last Name:
A - K: 10 AM - 12:30 PM
L - Z: 1:00 - 3:30PM

Door 3 - near auditorium

5th and 6th Grades
6th graders in homeroom 303 will take home
a ukulele for the 1st quarter. Parents must
sign a musical instrument agreement upon
pick-up.

Tuesday, September 1st
Last Name:
A -K: 10 AM - 12:30 PM
L - Z: 1:00 - 3:30PM

Door 3 - near auditorium

3rd and 4th Grades Wednesday, September 2nd

Last Name:
A -K: 10 AM - 12:30 PM
L - Z: 1:00 - 3:30PM

Door 3 - near auditorium

1st and 2nd Grades Thursday, September 3rd

Last Name:
A -K: 10 AM - 12:30 PM
L - Z: 1:00 - 3:30PM

Door 3 - near auditorium

Kindergarten Friday, September 4th
Last Name:
A -K: 10 AM - 12:30 PM
L - Z: 1:00 - 3:30PM

Door 3 - near auditorium

If you child needs a device, please complete the following: https://forms.gle/BtF3sKPkMjHJaKVp6. For families
with more than one child at Skinner North, we recommend that each child have their own piece of technology. ,
whether it is personal or from the school.
During Pick-up: All members of our school community must follow these guidelines during tech pick-up days:
 Only one person may approach the entrance to pick up materials (unless you are picking up for multiple
students), and we recommend it is a parent or guardian. During this time, you must maintain at least six
feet of space from others in order to practice proper social distancing while on school property.
 You must bring a cloth face covering to wear while interacting with school staff.
 There will be an area to use hand sanitizer, if needed.
 You should not pick up items under the following circumstances:
o You are ill.
o You have been ill with COVID-19 and your symptoms first appeared less than 10 days ago.
o You have been ill with COVID-19 and have had a fever or respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough,
shortness of breath) within the last 72 hours.
o You are awaiting COVID-19 test results.
o You have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 14
calendar days.

In respect of everyone’s safety, we ask that when you pick up your child’s items, please remember to maintain
social distancing and not prolong your time at the school.
All items picked up will be placed in a bag labeled with your child’s name. When you arrive at school, please come
to Door 3, which is near the school auditorium.
We are committed to making this process as safe as possible and, as always, we are here to support you, your
child, and our Skinner North community in any way we can.
Town Halls - Derrick and I will be hosting town halls for families in order to review the CPS School Reopening 2020
Final Framework and other key information for the start of school. These will be hosted virtually by grade band on
Thursday, August 27 and Friday, August 28. Please see the list for your student's grade and Google Meet log in. If
you are unable to attend your student's grade band, you may attend another (information around schedules may
be slightly different). Dates are also available at http://www.skinnernorth.org/calendar.html where you can easily
add them to your calendar.
 Kindergarten - Thursday, August 27 at 5PM - meet.google.com/orv-cojt-vnr or call (US) +1 806-410-2583
PIN: 349 780 284#
 1st and 2nd Grade - Thursday, August 27 at 6:30PM - meet.google.com/orv-cojt-vnr or call (US) +1 806-
410-2583 PIN: 349 780 284#
 3rd and 4th Grade - Friday, August 28 at 8AM - meet.google.com/khc-eyag-tds or call (US) +1 662-912-
6414 PIN: 233 046 209#
 5th and 6th Grade - Friday, August 28 at 5PM meet.google.com/nkj-yfyh-kap or call (US)+1 631-946-
7074 PIN: 686 658 498#
 7th and 8th Grade - Friday, August 28 at 6:30 meet.google.com/fos-detk-ikw or call (US)+1 443-606-
2183 PIN: 216 895 212#
If you have any questions, please contact Derrick Kimbrough, Assistant Principal at dkimbrough@cps.edu.
​
Katie and Derrick

​Happy Friday!  I hope everyone is doing well.  We are excited as the school year is quickly approaching and we received guidance from CPS in regards to remote learning.  This is allowing us to finalize plans for the fall.  That being said, we will have a number of updates in the coming days/weeks.  Please be on the lookout for our emails.  See below for some important information.

Have a wonderful day,
Katie and Derrick
----------------------------------------------
Town Halls - Derrick and I will be hosting town halls for families in order to review the CPS School Reopening 2020 Final Framework and other key information for the start of school.  These will be hosted virtually by grade band on Thursday, August 27 and Friday, August 28.  Please see the list for your student's grade and Google Meet log in.  If you are unable to attend your student's grade band, you may attend another (information around schedules may be slightly different).   Dates are also available at http://www.skinnernorth.org/calendar.html where you can easily add them to your calendar.

• Kindergarten - Thursday, August 27 at 5PM - meet.google.com/orv-cojt-vnr or call (‪US‬) ‪+1 806-410-2583‬ PIN: ‪349 780 284#‬
• 1st and 2nd Grade - Thursday, August 27 at 6:30PM - meet.google.com/orv-cojt-vnr or call (‪US‬) ‪+1 806-410-2583‬ PIN: ‪349 780 284#‬
• 3rd and 4th Grade - Friday, August 28 at 8AM - meet.google.com/khc-eyag-tds or call (US‬) ‪+1 662-912-6414‬ PIN: ‪233 046 209#‬
• 5th and 6th Grade - Friday, August 28 at 5PM   meet.google.com/nkj-yfyh-kap or call (‪US‬)‪+1 631-946-7074‬ PIN: ‪686 658 498#‬
• 7th and 8th Grade - Friday, August  28 at 6:30   meet.google.com/fos-detk-ikw  or call (‪US‬)‪+1 443-606-2183‬  PIN: ‪216 895 212#‬

LSC Principal's Report - Please see attached for the principal's report from our August Local School Council Meeting.

Kindergarten Parent Social!  - Do you have an incoming kindergartener, and are you interested in meeting the other parents in the class?  Put the kids to bed, and join our Zoom Kindergarten Parent Social at 8pm on Friday, 9/4.  Everyone can introduce themselves, chat a bit in small groups, and then we will leave some time for Q&A.  Register for the zoom here:  https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMtc-uhpj4pEtU7ZcbojlVF33T4sk4JCNSN

 
Attention new Skinner North Parents! -  Interested in meeting other parents joining Skinner North for the first time this year?  Come to our New Parent Social (for grades other than kindergarten) on Sat, 9/5, at 8pm.  Everyone can introduce themselves, chat a bit in small groups, and then we will leave some time for Q&A.  Register for the zoom here:  https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZckdeuprTooE9ywCdeTyLifR8tzDTpGojpV 


Announcement from Dr. Magnuson - I am excited to announce that my family will be adding a new member around Thanksgiving.  I am expecting a baby girl at that time.



CPS Child Supervision Survey - CPS and the City of Chicago are surveying families to better understand who may need help this fall finding a safe space for their children during traditional school hours.  As we assess parental needs throughout the city, we are evaluating opportunities to provide potential support with child supervision for families who have school-age children under 14 years of age. Families who live in high-need communities or transitional housing will be prioritized.


Beginning of the Year Required Forms - Please see the following link (https://www.cps.edu/globalassets/cps-pages/services-and-supports/health-and-wellness/student_health_school_forms_booklet_engish_2020-2021.pdf) for the student health and school forms booklet. These can be submitted electronically, mailed or dropped off (starting the week of 8/31) at the school. (The health related forms typically are not due until mid October.)

​Good morning!  I hope everyone is doing well.  Please see below for a few updates.  We are still waiting on finalized guidance on remote learning from the district.  Please be on the lookout for future updates with further details.


Have a wonderful day,
Katie

--------------------------------------------------
Supply Lists - All updated supply lists are now posted on the website at http://www.skinnernorth.org/supply-lists.html.  (If you pre-ordered supplies, do not feel you need to get anything further.)

 

Supply order pick up (Reminder) -  For those who pre-ordered supplies, these supplies will be available for pick up the week of 8/31.  You can come to the school any day that week between the hours of 8 and 3:30.  Social distancing protocols will be followed and masks must be worn.   

*If unable to pick up during the windows in this email, please email Derrick Kimbrough (dkimbrough@cps.edu) to find an alternative time.

Student Fees and 8th Grade Fees (Reminder)- Please see attached for the LSC approved student fees list.  Due to uncertainty this year and economic impact of COVID-19 on our families, we want to ensure that families know student fees are entirely optional.  You can pay online at https://magic.collectorsolutions.com/magic-ui/Login/cps-22591-skinner-north.  (Attachment included with a breakdown of fees.)


Vaccination Van - Chicago Public Schools is partnering with 
mobile health care providers to bring vaccinations closer to home.  Some locations may also provide school physicals.
Please see https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yN_AcFoqYGi0C-qM6Ktyq0uHl-bXtRYojlcri15Bb08/edit?usp=sharing for dates and locations.  Mobile Care Chicagowill hold the following events from 10am to 2 pm.  Parents should CALL FOR AN APPOINTMENT to 773-247-9736 ahead of time. Walk-ins might be accommodated, but appointments are preferred to keep the social distancing right.

Local School Council Meeting Agenda - We have a LSC agenda on Wednesday, August 19 at 8AM.  Please see attached for the meeting agenda.  Login information is on the agenda and here:

Time: Aug 19, 2020 08:00 AM Central Time (US and Canada)
Join from PC, Mac, Linux, iOS or Android: https://voya.zoom.us/j/96545675176
    Password: 244723
Or iPhone one-tap :
    US: +13126266799,,96545675176#  or +13017158592,,96545675176#
Or Telephone:
    Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
        US: +1 312 626 6799  or +1 301 715 8592  or +1 646 876 9923  or +1 669 900 6833  or +1 253 215 8782  or +1 346 248 7799  or 833 548 0276 (Toll Free) or 833 548 0282 (Toll Free) or 877 853 5247 (Toll Free) or 888 788 0099 (Toll Free)
    Meeting ID: 965 4567 5176
    Password: 244723
    International numbers available: https://voya.zoom.us/u/adQHWhiRGM

VGood morning,

I hope everyone is doing well.  Things have been changing quickly this summer and we so appreciate everyone's flexibility and willingness to help.  We now know we will be doing remote learning for the fall.  We will continue to send updates via email and post on our website at http://www.skinnernorth.org/latest-news.  The fall will look different than the spring and also different than a typical school year.  Our goal is to keep everyone up to date and have clear communication as to best work together.  We are currently waiting on district guidance on some aspects of remote learning and we will send more clarity around instruction and expectations for the fall in the next few weeks.  Keep a look out for our emails or check the website.  Please read below for a few updates and ways to connect.

Have a wonderful day,
Katie 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------

Directory - Please see the following link (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1SWk1aGBuUUKGusndNi7U8u4XQ2fUQF0egkgJKVNjIag/edit?usp=sharing) for the first edition of our school directory.  Parents opt to have their information included.  Please review if you need to make an edit or add your information and do so by Thursday, August 20.  Submit edits at https://forms.gle/njCZXksBJMBmYU3R9.  We will send an updated version after that point. 

In addition, for the convenience of parents. we would like to add homeroom to the directory.  Please let us know by emailing me, kmagnuson@cps.edu,  by August 20 if you do not want your students homeroom listed in the directory.

Classroom Assignment -  Classroom assignments will be posted on Parent Portal by the week of August 31.  Please note we do not take classroom placement requests.


Technology Request for the Fall - Please let us know if your students need a device (Chromebook) for the fall by completing the following form:  https://forms.gle/BtF3sKPkMjHJaKVp6.  If you have one from the spring, please feel free to hang onto this.  We will have tech pick up days the week of 8/31.  You can come to the school any day that week between the hours of 8 and 3:30.  Social distancing protocols will be followed and masks must be worn.


Supply Lists - Teachers are making some adjustments to supply lists.   All of the list will be posted the week of August 17 at http://www.skinnernorth.org/supply-lists.html.  (If you pre-ordered supplies, do not feel you need to get anything further.)
 

Supply order pick up -  For those who pre-ordered supplies, these supplies will be available for pick up the week of 8/31.  You can come to the school any day that week between the hours of 8 and 3:30.  Social distancing protocols will be followed and masks must be worn.   

*If unable to pick up during the windows in this email, please email Derrick Kimbrough (dkimbrough@cps.edu) to find an alternative time.

New Student Mixer (Non-KDG) - Middle School New Student Virtual Meet-Up:  New students to Skinner North in grades 6th through 8th are invited to take part in a new student virtual meet-up on Wednesday, August 26th from 1:00 to 2:30 p.m.  There will be opportunities to meet and learn more about the school from a student's perspective.  Please email Derrick Kimbrough at dkimbrough@cps.edu if you plan to attend.  Once you RSVP, you will receive a link for the virtual session.

Debate Team Information Meeting
Ms. Cox and Mr. Williams (Zuri's dad) are asking any middle school students (6-8) who are interested in debate to complete this form. There is going to be an informational GoogleMeet on Tuesday at 10:00 AM.  We will be sending out the meeting link via interested students' CPS emails.  The debate topic this year is criminal justice reform.  If you have questions about the debate team, please feel free to reach out to Ms. Cox at mecox1@cps.edu.  We are always looking for parent judges!

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Tm5RkqIh6NTHd3-ulULzTvc9_LQP2r1YvKsBTC76tAA/edit

Kindergarten Round Up - Kindergarten round up is going to look different this year.  Teachers will be reaching out to schedule 10 minute "get to know you" sessions with families.  We will also have classwide KDG virtual morning meetings the week of August 31.  More details will be sent to KDG families in the coming weeks.  

Enrollment Documents - If you have been waiting to drop off hard copies of enrollment materials, you can do so the week of starting August 26 between the hours of 8 and 3:30.  We need to see the originals of  proof of birth (i.e. birth  certificates) and proof of address (i.e. lease, utility bills).  You can also pay student fees in person if you are not comfortable doing e-pay.  

Back to School Picnic - We are working on plans for a replacement to this.  Further communication will be sent about the virtual logistics.

Student Fees and 8th Grade Fees- Please see attached for the LSC approved student fees list.  Due to uncertainty this year and economic impact of COVID-19 on our families, we want to ensure that families know student fees are entirely optional.  You can pay online at https://magic.collectorsolutions.com/magic-ui/Login/cps-22591-skinner-north.


Local School Council Meeting Dates -   Please see http://www.skinnernorth.org/local-school-council-lsc.html for information about our LSC.  This includes agendas/minutes, meeting dates and members. We set meeting dates with the various needs of our families in mind.  The meeting times are staggered throughout the year, so we have 8AM, 5:00PM and  6:30PM start times.  All meetings until at least December will be held virtually.  Login information will be included in the agendas we send out.  Our next meeting is Wednesday, August 19 at 8AM.


Virtual Office Hours - If you have any questions,feel free to email or  you can also call during our virtual office hours.  A staff member is available on Google Meet during the listed hours of the school day.    
Tuesdays - 8:30-9:30AM and 1:30-2:30PM
Wednesdays - 8:30-9:30AM
Thursdays - 1:30-2:30PM

Connect using the following directions:   
Digital Office Hours:  Join digital office hours through Google Hangouts Meet at:  meet.google.com/tcs-pwur-qgh, Meeting ID meet.google.com/tcs-pwur-qgh, or via Phone at (‪US‬)‪+1 609-429-5796‬ PIN: ‪678 085 736#‬

Non-Digital Office Hours: We will have a staff member available by phone during above stated office hours.  Call via phone at (‪US‬)‪+1 609-429-5796‬ PIN: ‪678 085 736#‬. Students or parents can call this number to ask any questions they have for school staff.

Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) SNAP Benefits - IDHS 4980 -Apply for P-EBT SNAP Benefits. This is a special benefit that can help you buy food for school-age children 3 to 17 years old and 18 to 22 years old (in high school), who would receive National School Lunch Program free or reduced-priced meals when schools are in session.  For more information please go HERE. This is also the link you can share with your families  

Good afternoon,


We hope everyone is doing well.  We wanted to ensure everyone received CPS' reopening "framework" proposal that was shared today.  The district is looking for feedback, so please use this link to do so.  The plan can be directly accessed at https://cps.edu/coronavirus/Pages/covid19.aspx and the email that was sent is below.  We, as a school staff, are working to plan around the proposed parameters to ensure the safety of our students and community.  I know there is a lot of uncertainty and this can be stressful.  Our goal as always is to work together to best support our students and community.  (Please note:  In the coming weeks, we will seek parent feedback/input on ways to best support and schedule i.e. Pods, siblings, etc.  Please be on the lookout for our emails.)   

Please use the feedback link (https://www.surveygizmo.com/s3/5727707/CPS-ReOpening-Feedback) to provide your perspective and/or participate in a virtual community gathering: See schedule and registration information below to join a virtual community gathering to discuss CPS’ reopening plans.Date: Monday, July 27, 2020
Time: 9–10:30 a.m. 
Language: English
Registration Link: https://cpsreopeningconversation1.eventbrite.com 


Date: Tuesday, July 28, 2020
Time: 4–5:30 p.m.
Language: Spanish
Registration Link: https://cpsreopeningconversation2.eventbrite.com 

Date: Wednesday, July 29, 2020
Time: 9–10:30 a.m.
Language: Spanish
Registration Link: https://cpsreopeningconversation3.eventbrite.com 

Date: Thursday, July 30, 2020, 
Time: 4–5:30 p.m.
Language: English
Registration Link: https://cpsreopeningconversation4.eventbrite.com

Date: Friday, July 31, 2020
Time: 9–10:30 a.m.
Language: English
Registration Link: https://cpsreopeningconversation5.eventbrite.com 
Have a great day,
Katie

---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Chicago Public Schools <info@cps.edu>
Date: Fri, Jul 17, 2020 at 11:50 AM
Subject: Preliminary framework to reopen schools in a safe and responsible manner/Marco preliminar para reabrir las escuelas de una manera segura y responsable
To: <kmagnuson@cps.edu>



July 17, 2020


Preliminary framework to reopen schools in a safe and responsible manner

Dear CPS Families, 

In March, we made the difficult decision to close our school buildings in order to keep our communities safe and slow the spread of COVID-19. In the ensuing months, our educators completely transformed how they provide instruction; our students gave up proms, athletics, and graduations; and you supported your children in more ways than ever before. Our shared sacrifices helped flatten the curve in our state and allowed us to evaluate reopening schools in the fall. Today, we are sharing a preliminary reopening framework that is aligned to the strongest guidance from public health officials and will help us prepare to reopen schools if it is safe to do so on September 8. 

Our preliminary framework is rooted in science and was developed in accordance with guidance released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, CDPH, and the Illinois State Board of Education. We’ve heard from families that they are eager to resume their child’s education but in a manner that minimizes the health risks posed by COVID-19. To strike this fine balance, we are preparing for a scenario in which it is safe to begin the 2020–21 school year with a hybrid learning model where students will learn at school and at home. This hybrid model would allow students to follow proper social distancing guidelines by effectively cutting the number of students in a classroom in half and ensuring students can access high-quality in-person instruction from caring teachers. And because our public health situation continues to evolve, our framework is designed to adapt to changing public health conditions and easily transition to full at-home learning should COVID-19 cases begin to rise.

While we intend to bring students back if it is safe to do so, we also understand that some families will prefer to keep their children home. In recognition of the unprecedented nature of this pandemic and the need for flexibility, every parent will have the option to opt out of in-person instruction and learn from home full time.

School buildings will look different this fall
It is clear that school will feel different this year. Following public health guidance, school buildings will welcome half of their normal student body into the building on any given day. Staff and students will complete daily symptom screeners before coming to school, have their temperatures taken before entering the building, and wear face coverings. Students will come to school for only a few days a week.

Supporting these measures requires a considerable investment, which we are fully committed to making. To ensure the safest possible learning environments, we have purchased more than 1.2 million reusable cloth face masks to support every student and staff member, 42,000 hand sanitizer dispensers, more than 40,000 containers of disinfectant wipes, 22,000 infrared thermometers, hospital-grade disinfectant sprayers, and additional PPE for specialty roles. We’re also hiring approximately 400 additional custodians to help carry out stringent cleaning and disinfection protocols every day in every school. 

Learning from home will also look different this fall
Based on guidance from ISBE, students learning at home will have a minimum of five hours of instruction or assigned work per day, and attendance will be tracked. Teachers will design activities and assignments that could include pre-recorded lessons, independent work to build skills, and digital curriculum resources. Students will access assignments through Google Classroom as part of a wider transition to Google platforms. Additional details on new learning expectations and improvements will be provided in the final reopening framework.

Social distancing will be critical to keeping students and educators safe
Students will be assigned to pods of approximately 15 students and, along with a designated group of teachers, will stay together for as long as the hybrid learning model is in place. This pod model reduces potential viral transmission, allows us to conduct rapid contact tracing, and reduces the need to disrupt learning for the school community if a case of COVID-19 is identified. 

In order to ensure proper social distancing, the majority of K–10 students will split their time between learning at home and learning at school. Students will learn at school with their teacher, and they will use their time learning at home to complete assignments and access digital curriculum. Under a 2-1-2 hybrid schedule model, each student pod will spend the same two consecutive days each week learning at school, the same two days learning independently at home, and each Wednesday they will participate in real-time virtual instruction with their classroom teacher. This model will allow students, staff, and families to maintain a stable weekly schedule while affording educators necessary time to plan for various instructional needs.

We’re differentiating the amount of in-person instruction students will receive based on their age and developmental learning needs. Pre-K students will go to school every day while high school juniors and seniors will learn at home due to the complexity of their schedules and the inability to maintain small, stable pods when schedules differ to such a great degree. Diverse learners, English Learners, students in Career and Technical Education programs that need access to specific resources, and high school juniors and seniors who need additional academic and social and emotional support will be prioritized for in-person instruction based on the capacity of each school. 

We will prioritize the social-emotional wellbeing of our students
Our reopening framework goes far beyond academics. It prioritizes the social-emotional needs of our students, many of whom have experienced trauma from the impact of COVID-19 on their communities and the demonstrations in our country following the murder of George Floyd. Easing our students’ anxiety and building supportive learning environments will be critical to their success this coming school year. Beginning in August, we will offer additional mental health interventions and supports, introduce grief curriculum, expand small group trauma interventions, and introduce classroom-based activities for managing stress and anxiety. 

Our reopening framework honors our commitment to equity
To follow through on the equity promise set forth in our Five-Year Vision, Success Starts Here, our reopening framework also takes into account the unique needs of our most vulnerable populations, including our English Learners and students with diverse learning needs. We are working on a plan to bring many of these students back into the classroom during all in-person instruction days, and we remain committed to providing all children with the supports and resources they will need to be successful during this challenging time.

In the coming weeks, the district will be finalizing our plans for implementing a high-quality hybrid learning model. We need your input on how best to resume school in a responsible manner. Please review the reopening framework and complete the reopening survey by July 31, 2020. Following an extensive public engagement period, we will release our final plan for the reopening of schools during the first week of August. And in late August, when we will have greater clarity on the public health situation at the time school is about to begin, we will make a final determination about whether we can welcome students back into school buildings a few days a week or have students learn-at-home full time. 

Despite this new reality, we are confident in the ability of our educators, families, and partners to work together to provide all CPS students with a robust, high-quality education. 

It will take all of us working together to make this school year a success and uphold necessary health and safety protocols in our schools. Everyone can help ensure schools are able to safely reopen in the fall by continuing to practice social distancing, wearing masks, and following the latest guidance from our public health officials. We hope you will unite with us in these efforts. We thank you for your input, patience, and flexibility. We value your partnership and look forward to hearing from you in the coming weeks. 

Sincerely,

Janice K. Jackson, EdD            LaTanya D. McDade        
Chief Executive Officer            Chief Education Officer
Chicago Public Schools            Chicago Public SchoolsMarco preliminar para reabrir las escuelas de una manera segura y responsable

Estimadas familias de las CPS:

En marzo, tomamos la difícil decisión de cerrar nuestros edificios escolares para proteger nuestras comunidades y frenar la propagación de COVID-19. En los meses consiguientes, nuestros educadores cambiaron completamente la manera de impartir clases; nuestros estudiantes perdieron la oportunidad de participar en el baile de graduación, las actividades deportivas y la ceremonia de graduación; y usted apoyó a sus hijos de maneras que nunca había hecho antes. Nuestros sacrificios compartidos han ayudado a aplanar la curva en nuestro estado, y nos han permitido evaluar seriamente la reapertura de escuelas durante el otoño. Hoy nos complace compartir con usted nuestro marco preliminar para la reapertura que sigue las directrices de los funcionarios de salud pública, y que servirá como guía para reabrir las escuelas en caso de que sea seguro hacerlo el 8 de septiembre. 

Hemos desarrollado nuestro marco preliminar basándonos en datos científicos y las guías publicadas por el Departamento de Salud Pública de Chicago (CDPH, por sus siglas en inglés), los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades y la Junta de Educación del Estado de Illinois. Hemos incluido los comentarios de los padres de familia sobre reanudar las clases de una manera que minimice los riesgos de salud relacionados con COVID-19. Para lograr este equilibrio justo, proponemos empezar el año escolar 2020-21 con un modelo académico híbrido donde los estudiantes aprenderán en la escuela y en casa. Con este modelo híbrido, se reducirá efectivamente a la mitad el número de estudiantes por aula, y los estudiantes podrán participar en clases presenciales. Nuestro marco está diseñado de manera que podamos adaptarnos a las actuales condiciones cambiantes de salud pública, y hacer una transición de manera fácil a un modelo de aprendizaje en casa por tiempo completo si los casos de COVID-19 empiezan a aumentar.

Si bien planeamos el regreso de los estudiantes a la escuela, también entendemos que algunas familias preferirán mantener a sus hijos en casa. Reconociendo la naturaleza sin precedentes de esta pandemia y la necesidad de ser flexibles, todos los padres podrán optar por no participar en clases presenciales y sí aprender en casa por tiempo completo.

Se implementarán nuevas medidas en los edificios escolares para el otoño.
Este año se sentirá diferente estar en la escuela. De acuerdo con las guías de salud pública, se permitirá la asistencia de solo la mitad del cuerpo estudiantil de cada escuela en un día determinado. El personal y los estudiantes deberán completar diariamente en casa evaluaciones médicas para detectar síntomas antes de acudir a la escuela; someterse a la toma de temperatura antes de ingresar al edificio; y usar cubierta facial. Los estudiantes sólo asistirán a la escuela unos cuantos días a la semana. 

Para cumplir con estas medidas se requiere una inversión considerable, lo que estamos completamente comprometidos a hacer. Para garantizar entornos académicos lo más seguro posible, hemos adquirido más de 1.2 millones de mascarillas de tela faciales para cada estudiante y miembro del personal; 42,000 dispensadores de desinfección para manos; más de 40,000 contenedores de toallas de desinfección; 22,000 termómetros infrarrojos; rociadores desinfectantes para uso en hospitales; y equipos de protección personal (PPE, por sus siglas en inglés) adicionales para funciones específicas de limpieza. También contrataremos casi 400 conserjes nuevos para que limpien y desinfecten de manera exhaustiva cada escuela todos los días. 

También se implementarán nuevos métodos de aprendizaje en casa para el otoño.
De acuerdo con las directrices de la Junta de Educación del Estado de Illinois (SBE, por sus siglas en inglés) los estudiantes participarán en clases remotas o trabajos asignados por un mínimo de cinco horas al día, y se les tomará asistencia. Los maestros crearán actividades escolares y asignarán trabajos relacionados a lecciones que han sido grabadas previamente; a trabajo independiente que desarrollan las habilidades; y a recursos del currículo digital. Los estudiantes accederán a las tareas a través de Google Classroom, como parte de una transición más amplia a las plataformas de Google. En el marco definitivo para la reapertura se detallarán nuevas expectativas y mejoras académicas.

El distanciamiento social será crítico para garantizar la seguridad de los estudiantes y los maestros. 
A los estudiantes se les asignará equipos pequeños (conocido en inglés como pods) de aproximadamente 15 estudiantes, y un grupo de maestros. Cada equipo permanecerá con sus maestros designados con tal de que se siga el modelo de aprendizaje híbrido. Este modelo de equipo reduce la posible transmisión del virus; nos permite realizar un rápido rastreo de contactos; y reduce la necesidad de interrumpir las clases si se presenta un caso de COVID-19. 

Para mantener un distanciamiento social adecuado, la mayoría de los estudiantes de kínder al 10.º grado (K-10) dividirán su tiempo entre aprender en casa y en la escuela. Los estudiantes aprenderán en la escuela con su maestro, y en la casa completarán tareas y accederán al currículo digital. Según este modelo de horario híbrido 2-1-2, todos los equipos de estudiantes aprenderán en la escuela durante los mismos días consecutivos de cada semana; aprenderán independientemente en casa durante los mismos dos días; y cada miércoles participarán en clases virtuales en tiempo real por tres horas junto con sus maestros. Este modelo les permitirá a los estudiantes, el personal y las familias mantener un estable horario semanal, y al mismo tiempo, les brindará a los maestros el tiempo necesario para planificar las clases. 

El número de estudiantes que participarán en clases presenciales se basarán en su edad y sus necesidades particulares de desarrollo académico. Los estudiantes de pre-kínder acudirán a la escuela todos los días. Mientras que los estudiantes de 11.º y 12.º grado aprenderán en casa, debido a la complejidad de sus horarios escolares y a la inhabilidad de mantener equipos pequeños y estables cuando tienen horarios tan diferentes. Se les dará prioridad para que participen en clases presenciales (basado a la capacidad de cada escuela) a los siguientes grupos: estudiantes de educación especial; estudiantes de inglés; estudiantes en programas de Educación Profesional y Técnica (CTE, por sus siglas en inglés) que necesitan acceso a recursos específicos; y estudiantes de 11.º y 12.º grado que necesitan apoyo académico y social y emocional adicional.

Priorizaremos el bienestar socio-emocional de nuestros estudiantes.
Nuestro marco para la reapertura abarca mucho más que lo académico. Éste prioriza las necesidades socio-emocionales de nuestros estudiantes, quienes muchos han experimentado traumas debido al impacto que COVID-19 ha tenido en sus comunidades, y debido a las manifestaciones en Estados Unidos tras el asesinato de George Floyd. Aliviar la ansiedad de nuestros estudiantes y crear entornos de aprendizaje acogedores será crítico para su éxito el próximo año escolar. Desde agosto, ofreceremos intervenciones y apoyos de salud mental; introduciremos currículos relacionados al manejo del duelo; aumentaremos las intervenciones de grupo reducido para el trauma; e introduciremos en el aula actividades para aliviar el estrés y la ansiedad. 

Nuestro marco para la reapertura honra nuestro compromiso con la equidad.
Para cumplir con la promesa de equidad establecida en nuestra Visión de cinco años, El éxito empieza aquí, nuestro marco para la reapertura también toma en consideración las necesidades únicas de nuestros grupos más vulnerables, como nuestros estudiantes de inglés y de educación especial. Estamos elaborando un plan para que muchos de estos estudiantes vuelvan al aula durante los días de clases presenciales. Además, aún nos comprometemos a proporcionarles a todos los niños el apoyo y los recursos necesarios para que tengan éxito durante este tiempo difícil.

En las próximas semanas, finalizaremos nuestros planes para implementar un modelo académico híbrido. Necesitamos su opinión sobre las mejores maneras de reanudar las clases de manera responsable. Le pedimos que revise el marco para la reapertura y que complete la encuesta sobre la reapertura antes del 31 de julio de 2020. Tras un período de interacción exhaustiva con el público, publicaremos nuestro plan definitivo para la reapertura de escuelas durante la primera semana de agosto. Y a finales de agosto, cuando tengamos más clara la situación de salud pública antes del comienzo de las clases, tomaremos una decisión final sobre si permitirles a los estudiantes acudir a la escuela unos cuantos días a la semana, o aprender en casa por tiempo completo.

A pesar de esta nueva realidad, confiamos en la capacidad de nuestros educadores, familias y socios para trabajar conjuntamente y proporcionarles a todos los estudiantes de las CPS una educación sólida y de alta calidad. 

Se requerirá colaboración para lograr un año escolar exitoso y mantener los protocolos de salud y seguridad en nuestras escuelas. Todos pueden contribuir a la reapertura segura en el otoño de las siguientes maneras: continuar la práctica del distanciamiento social, usar mascarillas y seguir las últimas directrices de nuestros funcionarios de salud pública. Esperamos que colabore con nosotros en estos esfuerzos. Como siempre, les agradecemos por su participación, paciencia y flexibilidad. Valoramos su colaboración y quedamos a la espera de sus comentarios en las próximas semanas. 

Atentamente,

Janice K. Jackson, EdD            LaTanya D. McDade
Directora Ejecutiva                  Directora de Educación
Escuelas Públicas de Chicago    Escuelas Públicas de Chicago

Good afternoon!  We hope everyone is doing well.  As we wait on further guidance from the district on what the fall will look like, we wanted to reach out to our families to give an opportunity to reflect on your experiences with remote learning and provide insight into your thinking about the fall.  We encourage you to complete this survey to help us further reflect and guide planning for next year.  As always, we so appreciate your partnership and perspective.


The survey is available at the above link or at:  https://forms.gle/PjLp7kxtx5gvDWLt8.

If possible, please complete the survey by Thursday, July 23.


Have a wonderful day,
Katie & Derrick

Dear Skinner North Community:

Thank you to everyone who joined us for the Single Story-Facilitated Workshops on race and racism, the Game Night in support of local, Black-owned restaurants, and/or the White Fragility Workshop. 


We are working towards forming a SEED cohort for our community in the coming school year. (SEED, which stands for Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity, is a series of facilitated monthly seminars designed to help participants create, develop, and implement strategies that foster respect for all people.) In continuation of our 'pre-work' for the SEED seminars, the next sessions in the Diversity Committee's Summer Workshop series are:


Beyond Black & White: Asian-Americans and Racial Justice
Tuesday, July 14th
6:30-8:00pm
If you haven't done so already, sign up here by July 12th to join a facilitated discussion about Asian-American experiences in the United States and the relationship of the Asian-American community to the current movement for anti-Black racial justice. (Attendance at previous or subsequent workshop sessions is welcome but not required.) 

Workshop Goals:

• Asian American parents are able to share their experiences of racism
• Participants have a historical and contemporary context for anti-Asian racism
• Participants understand the importance of focusing on anti-Black racism 
• Participants are aware of current work being done to address racism and anti-Black racism and ways they can be involved

Book Club: Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You
Dates TBD: 3 sessions from late July through August
We will be reading and discussing Stamped - a remix by Jason Reynolds of the National Book Award-winning book by Ibram X. Kendi.  Our Skinner North teachers will be reading the book in parallel, and many of our kids will be reading it in the fall.  We want to ensure everyone has access to the book, so please register here by July 12th and let us know if you are interested in getting a copy of the book from the Diversity Committee.
In order to create a space for learning, the summer workshop sessions are for grown-ups only.  We do invite all Skinner North parents and community members - including alumni and friends - to join any of these sessions.  You do not have to be White to discuss White Fragility. You do not have to identify as Asian-American to seek to better understand how members of that community might be experiencing recent events.  And we can all benefit from filling in the gaps in our knowledge of American history and how we got to the current moment.

Our school and others across the country are increasingly putting race and racism back into the curriculum from which it had been erased.  Because some of us have not had a chance to grapple with these topics in our formative years, we may feel ill-equipped to support our kids in their learning.  Our goal in this work continues to be supporting parents and other family members in preparing our kids to better understand the world around them and to become members of a diverse, global community.

If you have additional input or have another topic you would like to see us address, please reach out to us at sndiversity@gmail.com.

​