Hall updates parents/guardians on recent school closure

Superintendent Lindsey Hall sent a message to Mahomet-Seymour parents and guardians Friday afternoon updating them on Gov. Pritzker’s announcement to cancel school until at least April 8, 2020. 

“We recognize that this development may raise questions about the impact on students, staff, and families as well as the school’s vital role of providing meals to students and families while schools are closed,” Hall wrote.

She added that school districts should receive more information from the Illinois State Board of Education. 

Earlier this week, Hall updated parents and guardians on what the first “Act of God” days meant to student attendance and expectations. 

The “Act of God” days do not have to be made up at the end of the school year and students cannot be required to complete school work during that time. Originally “Act of God” days were created for snow days or other natural occurrences that would prohibit students from attending schools.

“These are not instructional days, and schools are essentially closed down,” Hall said. “Students cannot and will not be graded or assessed on any work completed during this time.

In the March 20 email, Hall stated that only essential school personnel may still report to work as long as they are practicing social distancing. 

“We want you to know the governor’s office has assured school districts that school personnel involved in providing meals (and personnel who are carrying out other essential activities for our operation)  will not be in violation of the governor’s executive order,” she wrote. “We can, and should, continue with our food program, which has had a tremendous impact in making sure our students are not going hungry while school is closed.”

Hall assured parents that as the situation continues to unfold, she will continue to communicate with them.