Geneva

Q. Where can I find the updated school calendar?
An updated District calendar was approved by the Board of Education on Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2020, and is posted on the District website at this link. The plan includes these important updates: 

•    State-allowed Remote Planning Days (RPDs) will be applied as 6 half-days on the calendar.
•    Any half-days scheduled on the 2020-21 District calendar will be an off-site learning day for all K-12 students (A & B students will learn from home those days). The updated A/B schedule can be found at this link.
•    Staff will utilize the remainder of those days for planning, collaboration, and professional development.
•    The learning activities provided to K-12 students on those off-site learning days may vary by grade level, and moving forward all schools will be communicating further information to families about the specific learning schedules and expectations.

The District will continue to communicate additional details with families. Please stay tuned to the District website and 304 Connects. Thank you.

Q. What can I expect from my child’s teacher if my student is absent due to COVID-19-related circumstances??
It is important to note that we have always had student absences of varying lengths; during this unprecedented year, our default practice will be to treat student absences as would in any typical year. Teachers will continue to push out assignments, and students who are feeling well may access and complete any work that comes their way. Additionally, teachers can save work for students to complete upon their return, and if students are part of the in-person learning setting, they can continue to access any work provided for off-site learning days via Microsoft Teams. ?

Q. What is a teacher’s availability if we have questions during the school day?
In our hybrid A/B plan, teachers are working hard during the school day supporting both their on-site students and providing learning activities for off-site students. Teachers may not be available to communicate with parents during the regular hours of the school day because their focus will be on supporting students during this time. Our teachers will do their best to follow up with families and students as they have done in a typical year.  

In the meantime, if a student or parent needs technical support, we have the following supports in place: First, please check for answers to your questions on the 1:1 Troubleshooting Guide. To request additional help, a student may open a Web Help Desk Ticket, or a parent may email Home Access Center Support and describe the issue. An alternative, especially for younger students, is to open a Web Help Desk Ticket by using your child's login information. 

Q. Has Geneva 304 considered a shared learning platform that all students will be expected to use?
Yes, Geneva 304 is utilizing Microsoft Teams as the common starting point for all K-12 students and teachers. Teams will be the one-stop shop for students to:

Today, a message was emailed to families via 304 Connects with a preview of what that experience will be like for students. Please see a copy of that message at this link. Next week, all students will be receiving a student checklist from their teachers containing important steps they will need to take to set up their Teams app. Also, email instructions have been sent to families for conducting 1:1 device updates for grades 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, 11 and 12. After you complete this update from home, students' 1:1 devices will automatically launch Microsoft Teams upon startup, for your convenience! (Devices provided to students in grades K-3, 6 and 9 already have this feature installed.)

To watch the sneak preview video for Elementary School Students, click here. (Para ver en español, haga clic aquí)

To watch the sneak preview video for Middle School Students, click here.

To watch the sneak preview video for High School Students, click here.

Q. Where can I find a copy of the A/B In-Person schedule?
Please see the most recent version of this schedule at this link.

Q. Where can I find the updated school calendar?
The District calendar that was approved by the Board of Education on Monday, Aug. 10, 2020, is posted on the District website at this link. Please note the new first day of school for students K-12 is now Monday, Aug. 31. The first day of school for the Geneva Early Learning Program is Wednesday, Sept. 2. The District will continue to communicate additional details with families. Please stay tuned to the District website and 304 Connects. Thank you.

Q. Where can I find the joint statement regarding updates to the Back Together 304 plan?
The communication that was sent today can be found at this link. It also has been emailed via 304 Connects, posted on the home page of the District website, and on its Facebook and Twitter pages.

Q. Will middle school Accelerated & Enrichment classes be offered in the Online-Only Learning model?
Yes, online accelerated Language Arts and Math classes will be offered at the middle school level.  

Q. Will elementary Accelerated & Enrichment classes be offered in the Online-Only Learning model?
Yes, elementary A/E students who are enrolled in the Online-Only Learning model will have the opportunity for enrichment in reading and acceleration in math.  Such opportunities may include differentiation, small-group enrichment, and some self-paced work and may not be provided by an A/E teacher. Additional details regarding online-only A/E programming at the elementary level will be determined once final enrollment in Online-Only Learning has been established.

Q. In addition to the information provided on this page, where can I get more details about the In-Person Learning and the Online-Only Learning options?
The Back Together 304 Learning Plan for 2020-21 has been posted to the website at this link. This document provides a framework for the overall plan, organized by each option. We also encourage families to review the Back Together 304 webpage, which includes all recent District 304 communications, family resources, and state guidance. 

Q. Will GHS students who select Online-Only Learning have the opportunity to take courses beyond the standard list of core academics and graduation requirements?    
The district is exploring ways to provide Online-Only Learning students with additional courses beyond the core classes that have previously been shared. Some additional elective and accelerated offerings will be available to Online-Only students. Once families have selected their learning option, the district will evaluate the master schedule and notify online-only families what additional courses will be available.    

Q. How will fees be affected for families who select In-Person Learning?
Families of students who select In-Person Learning will be responsible for all fees for the 2020-21 school year as previously shared with families during the registration process. While a discounted fee structure was evaluated, the resources needed to provide quality instructional experiences and safe learning environments during this unique experience outweigh the consideration.

Q. What will elementary recess look like?
Students will participate in recess during their In-Person Learning days. Masks will not be required when students are outside if appropriate distancing can be maintained. Playground equipment will not be used due to cleaning/disinfecting requirements. Students will have to wash their hands upon returning to the building.  

Q. If my child participates in In-Person Learning and receives special education services, what is the number of in-person attendance days?
If you choose the In-Person Learning Option for your special education student who receives special education services through a Learning Behavior Specialist/Special Education Teacher, Vision Teacher or Hearing Teacher, this child will attend school in-person daily (5 days per week). This will ensure that s/he receives the services that are listed on her/his Individualized Education Plan.

The District is encouraging parents/guardians to elect the In-Person Learning Option for their special education student so that students can work on all IEP goals, make progress in the general education curriculum, and receive services listed in their IEP. Additionally, guidance from the Illinois State Board of Education strongly encourages daily in-person learning occurs for students who receive special education services.

If you have further questions regarding the In-Person or Online Only Learning Options for students who receive special education services, please contact the following staff:

Q. What is a teacher’s availability if we have questions during the school day?
Teachers are working hard during the school day and may also be supporting other students throughout the day. Our teachers will do their best to follow up with families and students as they have done in a typical year.  

In the meantime, if a student or parent needs technical support, we have the following supports in place: First, please check the online 1:1 Troubleshooting Guide. To request additional help, a student may open a Web Help Desk Ticket, or a parent may email Home Access Center Support and describe the issue. An alternative, especially for younger students, is to open a Web Help Desk Ticket by using your child's login information. 

Q. Where can I find the updated school calendar?
The District calendar that was approved by the Board of Education on Monday, Aug. 10, 2020, is posted on the District website at this link. Please note the new first day of school for students K-12 is now Monday, Aug. 31. The first day of school for the Geneva Early Learning Program is Wednesday, Sept. 2. The District will continue to communicate additional details with families. Please stay tuned to the District website and 304 Connects. Thank you.

Q. In addition to the information provided on this page, where can I get more details about the In-Person Learning and the Online-Only Learning options?
The Back Together 304 Learning Plan for 2020-21 has been posted to the website at this link. This document provides a framework for the overall plan, organized by each option. We also encourage families to review the Back Together 304 webpage, which includes all recent District 304 communications, family resources, and state guidance.

Q. Has Geneva 304 considered a shared learning platform that all students will be expected to use?
Yes, Geneva 304 is utilizing Microsoft Teams as the common starting point for all K-12 students and teachers. Teams will be the one-stop shop for students to:

Today, a message was emailed to families via 304 Connects with a preview of what that experience will be like for students. Please see a copy of that message at this link. Next week, all students will be receiving a student checklist from their teachers containing important steps they will need to take to set up their Teams app. Also, email instructions have been sent to families for conducting 1:1 device updates for grades 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, 11 and 12. After you complete this update from home, students' 1:1 devices will automatically launch Microsoft Teams upon startup, for your convenience! (Devices provided to students in grades K-3, 6 and 9 already have this feature installed.)

To watch the sneak preview video for Elementary School Students, click here. (Para ver en español, haga clic aquí)

To watch the sneak preview video for Middle School Students, click here.

To watch the sneak preview video for High School Students, click here.

Q. Will families need to complete and submit mandated physical exams, dental exams, or eye exam forms prior to the beginning of school?
Yes. Regardless of whether you select In-Person Learning or Online-Only Learning for your student(s), all students must have their school physicals, be up to date on their vaccinations, and have all dental and eye exam forms submitted by their state-required due dates. For additional information about grade-level specific health requirements, please visit the Health Services page. The state exclusion date for physical and immunization requirements is Oct. 15, 2020. Proof of an appointment will be accepted as long as the appointment is occurring prior to Oct. 15. The state due date for dental examination is May 15th of the school year.

Q. Will middle school Accelerated & Enrichment classes be offered in the Online-Only Learning model?
Yes, online accelerated Language Arts and Math classes will be offered at the middle school level.  

Q. Will elementary Accelerated & Enrichment classes be offered in the Online-Only Learning model?
Yes, elementary A/E students who are enrolled in the Online-Only Learning model will have the opportunity for enrichment in reading and acceleration in math.  Such opportunities may include differentiation, small-group enrichment, and some self-paced work and may not be provided by an A/E teacher. Additional details regarding online-only A/E programming at the elementary level will be determined once final enrollment in Online-Only Learning has been established.

Q. Will GHS students who select Online-Only Learning have the opportunity to take courses beyond the standard list of core academics and graduation requirements?    
The district is exploring ways to provide Online-Only Learning students with additional courses beyond the core classes that have previously been shared. Some additional elective and accelerated offerings will be available to Online-Only students. Once families have selected their learning option, the district will evaluate the master schedule and notify online-only families what additional courses will be available.    

Q. How will fees be affected for families who select Online-Only Learning?
Families of students who select Online-Only Learning will be responsible for paying their assigned grade-level registration and technology fees. No additional fees beyond general registration and technology fees will be collected, although fees for extra-curricular activities, athletics and graduation will be assessed. All refunds for fees already paid beyond registration and technology fees will be applied to a student’s PushCoin account in the coming weeks. We thank you in advance for your patience as we work through the management of this process.

Q. Will technical support be available for families who choose the Online-Only learning option?  
The District will continue to provide technical support to students regardless of their learning setting  - In-Person Online-Only, or Remote Learning - throughout the school year. Support generally takes three forms: in-person or direct support while in school; remote support by technicians; self-service troubleshooting by students, parents, and staff.  Parents out more about these options as listed under “1:1 Technology Tips” by visiting our website.    

Q. Will technical support be available in the event that we return to full Remote Learning?
Yes. Support will primarily be via remote or self-service troubleshooting. Physical repairs may be resolved via a curbside process as guidelines allow.    

Q. How will students’ social-emotional and mental health needs be addressed?  
Students will have access to support. Students can seek out support and teachers can, as always, advocate for a student who demonstrates a need. For our families who select Online-Only learning, social-emotional support will be available through District staff and community resources.  

Q. If we have children in different grades who are both enrolled in Online-Only Learning, will they need to share a device?  
Regardless of whether students are enrolled in In-Person Learning or Online-Only Learning, each student in each grade K-12 will be provided with their own devices for this school year. Additional communication about student devices will be provided to families as we near the start of the school year.   

Q. Will students enrolled in the online-only learning option be allowed to participate in extracurriculars, and athletics?
Students who opt out of in-person learning and enroll in online-only learning may participate in the available extracurricular activities and athletics presuming that all health and safety protocols can be followed.  Please note that the district will not be able to provide transportation to such activities for online-only students.

Q. My child has an IEP, will I have the option to elect the in-person or the online option?  
Current ISBE guidance encourages school districts to engage special education students in in-person instruction on a daily basis.  If a parent chooses the online learning option, the student’s team will develop an Individual Remote Learning Plan that outlines the services that will be provided to the student during online learning.      

Q. What criteria should I use when screening my child for days when they will be learning on-site?
All parents/guardians of In-Person Learning students shall use the following self-screening list prior to entering a school bus or a school building. Keep your student home and report the absence if ANY of the following circumstances is true within 24 hours of your student’s on-site day:
 

Symptoms to screen for: Below are the most up-to-date criteria from the Illinois Department of Public Health and the CDC. It is important to note that these symptoms are subject to change, and it is incumbent on the parent to stay updated on the latest symptoms.

Please read all the information related to symptom screening at this link.  

Q. Do I send my student to school if they are experiencing symptoms on the checklist, but I know they are related to a pre-existing condition, such as seasonal allergies?
If your student has a pre-existing condition, such as seasonal allergies or headaches, which may be similar to COVID like symptoms, it is important to provide documentation from your primary care provider, identifying what their preexisting condition is and how it typically presents (what symptoms are typically shown with your child's condition.) Please be aware that if a child presents with what appears to be a change from their baseline condition, they may be sent home and recommended to see the doctor to rule out other possible causes of symptoms. A note identifying your child's baseline health should be submitted at the beginning of this school year. Further physician guidance may be requested anytime symptoms are of concern.

Q. What is the basis for the symptoms listed in the daily self-certification process?
Geneva 304 has been advised to follow the list of symptoms provided by the Kane County Health Department, which may be more inclusive than lists provided by other health agencies. Please note this list is still subject to change, and Geneva 304 will communicate any changes to families via 304 Connects email and the District website.

Q. What actions should be taken by students/staff sent home with COVID-like symptoms?
Based upon the most recent CDC and IDPH guidelines, the Geneva School District has established procedures to ensure that students and staff who become sick at school or who arrive at school sick are sent home as soon as possible. Anyone who is sick will be separated from well students and staff until they can be sent home. Each school will have a designated quarantine area. Any area used by the individual who is sick will be cleaned and disinfected per the CDC and IDPH guidelines. Staff will utilize PPE outlined by the CDC for standard and transmission-based precautions. Ongoing illness and attendance communication will be occurring with school personnel.

Any person who has been in close contact will receive notification of possible exposure and be given guidelines to contact their health care provider or the Kane County Health Department, and will likely be advised to quarantine for 14 days.  

 

A close contact is defined as having been within 6 feet of the individual (with or without face coverings) for at least 15 minutes throughout the course of a day. The period of close contact begins 2 calendar days before the onset of symptoms (for a symptomatic person) or 2 calendar days before the positive sample was obtained (for an asymptomatic person). If the case was symptomatic (e.g., coughing, sneezing), persons with briefer periods of exposure may also be considered contacts. Close contacts may be required to remain in quarantine at home for 14 calendar days starting from the last day of contact.

If the school has been notified that a student or staff member has been identified with a positive case of COVID-19, communications will be sent to parents/guardians and staff of that school from the nurse office or administrative office with the Kane County Health Department. The purpose of the communication is to advise the school's parents/guardians and school staff of the need for increased disease surveillance out of an abundance of caution. The District will maintain confidentiality relative to the identity of any suspected case of a student or employee to the extent possible.

Q. If a confirmed or probable COVID case is identified in a classroom, or on a school bus, who will be considered close contacts that need to be quarantined for 14 calendar days? Will this include the entire classroom or all the students on the bus?
Exposure in a classroom should be limited to everyone with whom the confirmed or probable COVID case had close contact, within 6 feet, for at least 15 minutes throughout the course of a day. Exposure on a bus must include everyone who sat within 6 feet of the confirmed or probable COVID case for 15 minutes or longer. A possible approach to identifying close contacts on a bus would be to include persons who sat 3 rows in front and 3 rows behind the confirmed or probable COVID case (this is why the bus routes will have seating charts).

Q. If the close contact and the COVID case were both wearing their cloth face coverings when the exposure occurred, is the close contact still required to be quarantined?
Yes. While there is strong evidence that face coverings significantly reduce the risk of infection, the likelihood for transmission cannot be ruled out.

Q. Is a physician’s note required to return to school after a ‘close contact’ to a case completes 14 calendar days in quarantine?
Persons who remain asymptomatic throughout 14 calendar days of quarantine do not need a physician’s note to return to school. During the quarantine period, a contact tracer will be closely monitoring the contact to confirm they remain asymptomatic (do not develop symptoms).

Q. What is the definition of an outbreak in schools?
The KCHD, through case investigation, will determine when an outbreak is occurring. An example might be when two confirmed cases of COVID-19 infections occur within 14 calendar days of each other in individuals in the same classroom. This is because the cases would be epidemiologically linked (known exposure to) with respect to place (same classroom) and time (within 14 calendar days). This would prompt an investigation by the health department that may result in recommendations for testing and quarantining all students/staff in the affected classroom.

Q. Will families need to complete and submit mandated physical exams, dental exams, or eye exam forms prior to the beginning of school?
Yes. Regardless of whether you select In-Person Learning or Online-Only Learning for your student(s), all students must have their school physicals, be up to date on their vaccinations, and have all dental and eye exam forms submitted by their state-required due dates. For additional information about grade-level specific health requirements, please visit the Health Services page. The state exclusion date for physical and immunization requirements is Oct. 15, 2020. Proof of an appointment will be accepted as long as the appointment is occurring prior to Oct. 15. The state due date for dental examination is May 15th of the school year.

Q. When are face masks required?
As required by Illinois Department of Public Health, except while eating and during band, face masks must be worn at all times in school buildings and on school property, even when social distance is maintained. This includes all school settings such as at the bus stop, arrival, dismissal, hallways, classrooms, and/or on the bus. Face masks MAY not be required during a supervised outside activity (example: PE or recess) if social distance is maintained (if individuals remain 6 feet apart from each other) under teacher direction. (There will be some limited medical exemptions; please question and answer below from July 17.)  

Q. What are the approved face masks at Geneva 304?
The purpose of face masks is to protect each other from respiratory droplets produced when we cough, sneeze, talk, or raise their voice (example: while shouting or singing). District 304 is requiring the use of cloth face masks or medical masks. Current IDPH and CDC guidance recommends the use of cloth face masks or medical masks that fully covers the mouth and the nose and fit securely around the face. The use of masks with exhalation vents or valves are not allowed based on current IDPH and CDC recommendations. The use of face shields can be used as an additional layer of protection and must be worn in addition to a cloth face mask or medical mask. Face shields cannot be worn in place of a cloth face mask or a medical mask. Other face coverings such as “gaiters,” bandanas, athletic face coverings, or neck warmers may not provide an adequate level of protection (source control) and will not be allowable face masks in Geneva schools based on a review of IDPH and CDC guidance.  

We are encouraging you to begin the conversation with your students regarding wearing a mask in school. We have added some new resources to the Back Together 304 webpage to help you through these conversations.  

Q. Will students be provided with masks?
Families should plan to provide masks for their students. To help supplement this requirement, however, Geneva 304 will be distributing one multiuse mask to each student enrolled in In-Person Learning, which District has recently received through a grant provided by the Illinois State Board of Education. Buildings will distribute one mask to each student when they attend in-person at the beginning of the school year. Each school and bus will have a supply of disposable masks on hand for students who have forgotten theirs. The district will have a limited supply of masks to provide to our low- income students if needed. The District has a limited supply of face shields that will be made available for select staff and students. Face shields may not be used in lieu of face masks per updated guidance.

Q. Will bus riders need to wear a mask while on the bus?  
All students must wear a mask while entering the bus, during transportation, and while exiting the bus.      

Q. Are exceptions for face coverings permissible for special education students with identified needs, such as those with significant communication disorders, sensory needs, hearing impairments or other health conditions?    
Yes. The IDPH appreciates that there may be a small minority of individuals who have a medical contraindication to using face coverings. The District will utilize the CDC’s list of medical impairments that may exclude a student from face masks. These exceptions will be considered based on each child’s medical needs and special education needs.  If deemed necessary, the child’s team will determine how to supplement face masks while maintaining health and safety measures. In cases where individuals need facial visualization for instruction and communication, IDPH recommends video instruction to promote social distancing. If video instruction is not available or appropriate, face shields may be used with the understanding that they have not been deemed effective for source control. As such, heightened attention and adherence to 6-foot social distancing is critical for individuals using face shields There are a wide variety of face coverings which the district may explore as potential reasonable accommodations. Other potential reasonable accommodations which the district may consider include not requiring a face covering, but requiring additional PPE coverings for other staff working with the student, utilizing intervention strategies such as working with a student to increase their tolerance to a face covering, utilizing a face shield, or requiring additional social distancing measures.

Under the Federal Summer Food Service Program, ALL Geneva 304 students are eligible to receive free meals from the school district through Dec. 31, 2020. To read the complete message from the District on Sept. 30 regarding this program and how it affects students in each learning setting, please click here.

This program is designed to support families during the ongoing pandemic. Beginning Monday, Oct. 5 and while this program is in effect (until Dec. 31), any student receiving a meal will NOT have their account charged. Additionally, any PushCoin account that was charged for meals between Aug. 31 and Oct. 2 will be credited for meals that meet the program requirements. There is no need for you to request a credit; the Business Services team will do this automatically in the coming weeks. 

Yes, because this is a temporary program, the District will continue to accept applications for free meals and fee waivers throughout the year. For more information on the application process, please contact the Business Office at 630-463-3030.

Q. What is the process for students to order their lunch each day?
The Grab and Go lunch options available for fall 2020 will follow a new plan that prioritizes the health and safety of our students and staff. Food service will be offering a "Geneva Grab Bag" with three daily lunch options. All meals include a fruit and vegetable, which may be subject to change due to supply issues. 

Elementary students will be provided time and support from teaching staff to place their lunch orders by completing
the following: 

Starting Oct. 5, middle and high school students will no longer be ordering their lunch in the morning. They will be eligible to simply pick up a meal of their choice. These free meals will not be tracked in PushCoin. In addition, students may be able to purchase a second entrée or an a la carte item when available from the Sodexo staff for a charge. These additional items will be tracked in PushCoin. 

Sodexo's No. 1 priority is to feed the children. There will be extra lunches and/or drinks available at each school. 

Under parents' tab on the district website, click on "lunch program" and then click from the menu options. Here is the direct link to that page: https://www.geneva304.org/LunchProgram.aspx

Please feel free to contact Cynthia Anderson at [email protected] or 630-463-3648.

At a contact-free pickup point. Such as their table or designated pickup spot, in the lunchroom.

Send funds to school with student put in drop box, office or give classroom teacher. Funds will get deposited into the students’ PushCoin account.

At this time, students will only be able to order and receive one drink and/or lunch.

Q. Where will students eat their lunch?
Multiple spaces will be designated as lunch areas. Students may be assigned a specific table/seat. The maximum amount of individuals in one space will not exceed 50. Social distancing will be implemented in accordance with ISBE guidelines.      

Q. How will lunch tables be sanitized?  
All tables will be cleaned and disinfected after each lunch period.  

Q. How will families receive meals if they qualify for the Illinois Free Lunch Program?  
Geneva CUSD 304 will continue to support families with children who qualify for the Illinois Free Lunch Program while learning from home either as Online Only Students or on remote attendance during the A/B schedule. 5 lunches will be made available during a weekly pickup. 

These Free Lunches can be picked up every Monday(*) from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at Geneva High School in the GHS Bus Lane on the corner of McKinley and Center Street. If the weather is Hot or Raining, this pick-up will be relocated inside the door leading to the GHS Gymnasium.

Every Lunch will include an entrée, fresh fruit, fresh vegetable, milk or water. The following will be some of the items available for pickup:
Chicken patties, pizza, chicken tenders, beef patties, all beef hot dogs, bagels, waffles, or pancakes with breakfast sausage, uncrustable sunbutter & jelly  or uncrustable pb & j sandwich. Cooking instructions will be provided. Sandwich items will come with buns.

If you need more information, please call or email Rick Herwaldt, The Geneva304 Food Service General Manager, at 630-463-3827 or [email protected]..

Starting Oct. 5, free meal pickup will also be available to all students through Dec. 31, 2020, as communicated in this message.

Q. What are the safety expectations for riding the school bus this year?
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Geneva CUSD 304 has updated its rules for school bus riders in accordance with guidance from the Illinois State Board of Education and the Illinois Department of Public Health. Parents/guardians, please review the following expectations with your student(s) who may be riding a Geneva 304 bus this school year, either during either daily routes or as part of athletics:

These expectations are in addition to the typical bus rider expectations, which are posted on all Geneva 304 buses and can be found on the Transportation section of our website here. Questions can be directed to Mary Dunmead, Director of Transportation, at [email protected] or 630-463-3005. Thank you.

Q. Will students self-certify prior to getting on the bus?  
Yes. The District has instituted a self-certification process for all students who will plan to ride the bus. To read about the daily symptom screening process, click here.      

 Q. How many people will be on a bus?  
Ridership will not exceed 49 students on any route at any time.      

 Q. Will bus riders need to wear a mask while on the bus?  
All students must wear a mask while entering the bus, during transportation, and while exiting the bus.      

Q. How will buses be sanitized?  
All buses will be disinfected after each high school, middle school and elementary bus route    

 Q. Will students be assigned a specific seat on the bus?  
Students will be assigned a specific seat on the bus. Students who live within the same household will be required to sit together.      

Q. How will buses be cleaned?  
Buses will be disinfected after each route. Buses will be thoroughly cleaned weekly.

Q. When are face masks required?
As required by Illinois Department of Public Health, except while eating and during band, face masks must be worn at all times in school buildings and on school property, even when social distance is maintained. This includes all school settings such as at the bus stop, arrival, dismissal, hallways, classrooms, and/or on the bus. Face masks MAY not be required during a supervised outside activity (example: PE or recess) if social distance is maintained (if individuals remain 6 feet apart from each other) under teacher direction. (There will be some limited medical exemptions; please question and answer below from July 17.)  

   

Q. If a confirmed or probable COVID case is identified in a classroom, or on a school bus, who will be considered close contacts that need to be quarantined for 14 calendar days? Will this include the entire classroom or all the students on the bus?
Exposure in a classroom should be limited to everyone with whom the confirmed or probable COVID case had close contact, within 6 feet, for at least 15 minutes throughout the course of a day. Exposure on a bus must include everyone who sat within 6 feet of the confirmed or probable COVID case for 15 minutes or longer. A possible approach to identifying close contacts on a bus would be to include persons who sat 3 rows in front and 3 rows behind the confirmed or probable COVID case (this is why the bus routes will have seating charts).

Q. Will students enrolled in the online-only learning option be allowed to participate in extracurriculars, and athletics?
Students who opt out of in-person learning and enroll in online-only learning may participate in the available extracurricular activities and athletics presuming that all health and safety protocols can be followed.  Please note that the district will not be able to provide transportation to such activities for online-only students.

Q. How will desks be cleaned in between class periods, before, and after lunch?
Each classroom will be equipped with cleaning supplies to be used after classroom use. Lunchrooms and eating areas will be cleaned by custodial staff after each lunch period. All classrooms and high touch areas will be cleaned nightly.    

Q. How will buses be cleaned?  
Buses will be disinfected after each route. Buses will be thoroughly cleaned weekly. 

Q. What cleaning and disinfecting procedures will be implemented and how will they be monitored?  
Cleaning and disinfecting procedures will be taken from the CDC guidance along with using EPA approved COVID-19 products. These procedures will be monitored by the O&M Supervisors and cleaning consultants.

Students will participate in their daily schedule with health and safety protocols in place.

Face coverings are required at all times while anyone is in a school; this includes our classrooms during instruction, hallways, bathrooms, etc. Staff and students may remove face coverings outside when social distancing can be maintained. We will be utilizing the outdoors as space and weather allows. We know that wearing a face covering throughout the school day will be difficult for some, and we will continue to work on building mask tolerance for students and redirect as necessary.

Starting to practice building mask tolerance at home will greatly benefit this transition at school. Please feel free to check out the video links below to songs and social social stories about mask wearing and staying safe and healthy. We use song and social stories at GELP to teach new skills in a consistent and fun way!

Students will not share classroom supplies/materials.

Common areas will be disinfected regularly daily, and throughout the day.

As a general rule, adult visitors and guests will be discouraged from visiting schools during the school day prior to Phase 5 (this includes parent volunteers). Visitors who are permitted will be required to complete a self-screening prior to entering the building.   

All field trips, assemblies and school events are being postponed until the district can re-evaluate later in the school year. This includes field trips, first-day-of-school gatherings/activities, concerts, holiday parties, etc.

Q. When can I expect additional communication from the District about the start of the 2020-21 school year?
We are committed to providing regular updates to Geneva 304 families through our email service, 304Connects. All information will also be posted on the Back Together 304 webpage. If you are not currently subscribed to 304Connects, please complete the online form at this link. If the form says you are already subscribed but are having trouble receiving emails, please see our "Email Troubleshooting Tips" on this page.

Q. How will the District communicate regarding confirmed or potential cases of COVID-19?  
Any person who has been in close contact will receive notification of possible exposure and be given guidelines to contact their health care provider or the Kane County Health Department, and will likely be advised to quarantine for 14 days.  
 
A close contact is defined as having been within 6 feet of the individual (with or without face coverings) for at least 15 minutes throughout the course of a day. The period of close contact begins 2 calendar days before the onset of symptoms (for a symptomatic person) or 2 calendar days before the positive sample was obtained (for an asymptomatic person). If the case was symptomatic (e.g., coughing, sneezing), persons with briefer periods of exposure may also be considered contacts. Close contacts may be required to remain in quarantine at home for 14 calendar days starting from the last day of contact.

If the school has been notified that a student or staff member has been identified with a positive case of COVID-19, communications will be sent to parents/guardians and staff of that school from the nurse office or administrative office with the Kane County Health Department. The purpose of the communication is to advise the school's parents/guardians and school staff of the need for increased disease surveillance out of an abundance of caution. The District will maintain confidentiality relative to the identity of any suspected case of a student or employee to the extent possible.

Q.  What technology support is available while my child is learning from home?
Support over the summer will be on a limited basis.  We encourage families to use the 1:1 Troubleshooting Guide as a first step to help resolve the issue.  If the problem persists, a support ticket may be opened at this link.

Q. If we have children in different grades who are both enrolled in Online-Only Learning, will they need to share a device?  
Regardless of whether students are enrolled in In-Person Learning or Online-Only Learning, each student in each grade K-12 will be provided with their own devices for this school year. Additional communication about student devices will be provided to families as we near the start of the school year.      

 Q. Will all students, K-12, be issued a device by the District?  
All students attending Geneva schools will be assigned a 1:1 device that they will use whether in-person or off-site.  

Q. Will families be provided with training on technology tools and resources that will be utilized for remote instruction?  
There will be training resources available on how to use and get started with common instructional tools and platforms (e.g. Microsoft Teams).  Instructional coaches and facilitators are developing student-based resources to support the use of these tools.  

Q. Will WIFI hot spots be available for student use?
Hot spots will continue to be available as needs are identified.  The District had provided many families with hot spots during the spring school closure and those families still have them in their possession.    

Q. Has Geneva 304 considered a shared learning platform that all students will be expected to use?
Yes, Geneva 304 is utilizing Microsoft Teams as the common starting point for all K-12 students and teachers. Teams will be the one-stop shop for students to:
Start their day
Access their class resources or school information
Participate in online meetings with their teachers
Perform other routine tasks such as ordering lunch or indicating their attendance
Today, a message was emailed to families via 304 Connects with a preview of what that experience will be like for students. Please see a copy of that message at this link. Next week, all students will be receiving a student checklist from their teachers containing important steps they will need to take to set up their Teams app. Also, email instructions have been sent to families for conducting 1:1 device updates for grades 4, 5, 7, 8, 10, 11 and 12. After you complete this update from home, students' 1:1 devices will automatically launch Microsoft Teams upon startup, for your convenience! (Devices provided to students in grades K-3, 6 and 9 already have this feature installed.)

To watch the sneak preview video for Elementary School Students, click here. (Para ver en español, haga clic aquí)
To watch the sneak preview video for Middle School Students, click here.
To watch the sneak preview video for High School Students, click here.

Q.  My child is entering Kindergarten or will be a new student starting in the 2020-21 school year. When can we expect to be issued a device?    
Device assignments will be made at the start of the new school year.  

Q. My child has an IEP, will I have the option to elect the in-person or the online option?  
Current ISBE guidance encourages school districts to engage special education students in in-person instruction on a daily basis.  If a parent chooses the online learning option, the student’s team will develop an Individual Remote Learning Plan that outlines the services that will be provided to the student during online learning.      

Q. If my child participates in in-person instruction, will s/he receive the services on her/his IEP?    
Special education services will be delivered as indicated on the student’s IEP.   Should services need to be adjusted, the student’s case manager will contact the parent.  More information will be provided regarding the number of in-person attendance days for students who receive special education services.      

Q. My child has a 504 plan, how will the district accommodate this if I choose the online option?  
It is strongly encouraged that students who qualify for services under Section 504 and receive accommodations on a Section 504 plan participate in in-person instruction. If a parent chooses the online learning option, the student’s team will review the 504 plan to determine which accommodations can be put in place during online learning as some accommodations may not be reasonable or appropriate during online learning (e.g. – sitting close to the teacher, allowing breaks, etc.).    

 Q. If a parent chooses the online learning option for their child, do we need to have an IEP/504 meeting?    
No.  If a parent of a student with an IEP or 504 plan opts out of in-person instruction, an IEP meeting is not required.  However, an Individual Remote Learning Plan will be developed to identify your child’s individual services that will be provided through the online learning model.      

Q. If a parent opts out of in-person learning, will their child have familiar service providers?  
No. There is no guarantee of having a familiar service provider for online learning services.      

Q. My child receives services through a Mid-Valley program or private placement, what options does my child have?  

The district is in collaboration with all serving schools. Students receiving services through these service providers will follow the guidance and expectations of each program (e.g. New Pathways, Metro Prep, Guiding Light, etc.). The district will ensure that each student has the necessary technology and access to appropriate platforms to deliver instruction and related services via in-person and remote settings. Parents will be asked to sign a notice regarding potential risks of privacy and FERPA for all online engagement when accessing non-district platforms.      

Q. Are exceptions for face coverings permissible for special education students with identified needs, such as those with significant communication disorders, sensory needs, hearing impairments or other health conditions?    
Yes. The IDPH appreciates that there may be a small minority of individuals who have a medical contraindication to using face coverings. The District will utilize the CDC’s list of medical impairments that may exclude a student from face masks. These exceptions will be considered based on each child’s medical needs and special education needs.  If deemed necessary, the child’s team will determine how to supplement face masks while maintaining health and safety measures. In cases where individuals need facial visualization for instruction and communication, IDPH recommends video instruction to promote social distancing. If video instruction is not available or appropriate, face shields may be used with the understanding that they have not been deemed effective for source control. As such, heightened attention and adherence to 6-foot social distancing is critical for individuals using face shields There are a wide variety of face coverings which the district may explore as potential reasonable accommodations. Other potential reasonable accommodations which the district may consider include not requiring a face covering, but requiring additional PPE coverings for other staff working with the student, utilizing intervention strategies such as working with a student to increase their tolerance to a face covering, utilizing a face shield, or requiring additional social distancing measures.      

Q. Will students be evaluated in person?
Yes. If you have consented to an initial evaluation or re-evaluation of your child, any evaluations which require face to face assessments will be completed in-person. Your child’s team will ensure that all measures are in place to complete the evaluation safely and effectively.      

Q. Will IEP and 504 Meetings be held in person?  
IEP and 504 meetings will continue to be held remotely via Microsoft Teams to the greatest extent possible during the school year.  However, parent(s)/guardian(s) can request in-person meetings should this be a preference.  Please note that any in-person meetings will be required to follow safety measures at all times such as the use of face masks, social distancing measures, etc.