Putting the Pieces Back Together
CHSD117 Doing Our Part - 

This summer has been unlike any other in history.  Summers are traditionally a very busy time for schools as they welcome new families to theDistrict, hire new staff, perform repairs and upgrades to facilities, continually refine curriculum to meet the needs of students, and prepare for the return of inquisitive students in the fall.  While all of this is occurring, the District is also doing its part to provide needed in-person instruction and experiences for students and families.

The transition from Phase 2 to Phase 3 of the Restore Illinois plan gave the District an opportunity to begin putting the pieces of educational programming and student experiences back together.  The Drivers Education Department was the first group of teachers to begin providing in-person instruction in the month of June.  Nearly 130 students were unable to complete their behind the wheel requirement during the spring returned to both Antioch and Lakes and completed their prerequisites for a driver’s license. 

Through the sacrifice of all of us, the State, fortunately, continued to improve and is now in Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois Plan, which allows up to 50 people in a space.  Following the guidance of the Illinois Department of Public Health, and direction from the Illinois High School Association, the District’s Athletics Departments welcomed back over 800 student-athletes for in-person summer camps and physical conditioning on July 6th, 2020. Similarly, our award-winning Fine Arts program has plans to welcome back elements of our marching bands.

Lastly, the District welcomed a select group from the incoming Freshman Class of 2024 to participate in the District’s Summer Freshman Academy this past Monday, July 13th, 2020.  Nearly 120 freshman students benefitted from the in-person enrichment program.   

 District 117  has been able to gradually provide valuable in-person programming this summer to over 1,000 students since June 1st because of the collective efforts of our staff, families, and communities.  We are in partnership with you to help ensure the safe return of our student body this August. 

In Partnership,

Dr. Jim McKay

Superintendent