Joliet Public Schools District 86 is seeking community input for the use of new federal funds as the school district finalizes plans for the return to full in-person learning for the upcoming 2021-2022 school year. Unless state or health guidance change, all District 86 students will return to school on August 18, 2021.
Superintendent Dr. Theresa Rouse presented a comprehensive reopening plan for the 2021-2022 school year at the June 9th Board of School Inspectors Meeting. The plan includes ideas to utilize the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER III)/American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding. The plan focuses on four areas to ensure the safety of District 86 students and staff, as well as address unfinished learning that may have occurred during the COVID-19 global pandemic.
The four areas of focus include Academic and Digital Learning Supports, Social/Emotional Supports for Students and Staff, Health/Safety Resources, and Capital Improvements. The District seeks parent and employee feedback by July 13, 2021 as plans are finalized for the ESSER III/ARP funding. The District is estimated to receive approximately $29 million that must be spent by September of 2024.
“We encourage everyone’s input as we work towards returning to school,” said Superintendent Dr. Theresa Rouse, “Thank you for your continued support as we navigate our way through the COVID-19 pandemic.”
A copy of the current plan, including the proposed use of the government funds, and feedback forms are available on the school district’s website at www.joliet86.org/students-parents/return-to-learn/. All suggestions will be reviewed in preparation for the grant application to be filed.