Late Thursday afternoon, the National Weather Service revised its weather forecast for Friday, June 11. The modified weather forecast now calls for elevated temperatures to reach 92 degrees with a heat index of 95 degrees by early afternoon. Out of concern for the safety of our students and staff, District 90 will be dismissing students on Friday, June 11, at Lincoln and Willard at 11:30 a.m. To remain in compliance with instructional requirements, teachers will provide directions for a brief asynchronous culminating activity that students can complete at home following the early dismissal.
AM Kindergarten and Inclusive Pre-School students will be scheduled for school tomorrow from 8:20 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. PM Kindergarten and Inclusive Pre-School students will attend class tomorrow from 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Any child who is unable to attend the amended session tomorrow is welcome to pick up the remaining classroom materials next week.
Several safety considerations were part of the rationale for this late decision, including the reduced number of areas at Willard and Lincoln that can accommodate rotating classes in and out of air-conditioned spaces due to social distancing requirements. The continued mandate that students and staff continue to wear masks while in school represents another safety element, along with the safety mitigation guidance that we refrain from using interior classroom fans. Combined with the elevated heat index, these safety factors compelled us to make the decision for early dismissal.
This decision was made based on the consideration for the safety of Lincoln and Willard's students and staff. In case of an emergency and when families cannot accommodate this early dismissal, Lincoln and Willard Principals, Mr. Godfrey and Ms. Wood are prepared to accommodate students who have to remain at school until the 2:30 p.m. dismissal time. Please also note that this early dismissal does not apply to students or staff at Roosevelt Middle School since the middle school is air-conditioned (as the elementary buildings will be in the coming year). Roosevelt students will be dismissed at 2:30 p.m. tomorrow as planned.