Families of VDELC,

Happy New Year!

It is hard to believe we are already planning for the 2021-2022 school year. In preparation for online registration, parents who are interested in the Kindergarten Dual Language program must attend an informational meeting to learn about the available class options. Presentations will be conducted in English and Spanish on February 18th at 6:00 pm via Google Meets. To be eligible to attend Kindergarten during the 2021-2022 school year, children must be (5) years old on or before September 1, 2021.

VDELC will also begin accepting applications for our tuition preschool program on January, 29th, 2021. In addition to the long-standing grant-funded preschool program, which is open to 3-5-year-olds who qualify through a preschool screening process, two other program options are available to interested parents. A Dual Language program for four-year-olds is offered, as well as the tuition-based preschool program. Details about the programs can be found on the Verda Dierzen Early Learning Center website starting January 19th.

As we begin 2021, I would like to take time to reflect on the first half of the school year. Even though this school year is different than those in the past, and the students have yet to enter their school, I know they are receiving exceptional instruction in their current learning environment. Thank you for helping them each day get onto their computers and into their virtual classrooms. Without their grown-up's help, it wouldn't be possible. You are all very much appreciated.

Fondly,

Dr. Tricia Bogott and the VDELC Staff

District 200 has worked with and is following the recommendations and guidance of our county, state, and federal professional health organizations in preparation of dealing with the Coronavirus (COVID-19). We have continued to update our emergency plans and to take precautions to ensure student safety and the safe operations of our schools. We will continue to take our lead from professional health organizations as the situation remains fluid.

McHenry County, state and national health agencies regularly update their websites with current information. For up-to-date information about cases in McHenry County and Illinois, and questions concerning the virus, please see the following sites:

• McHenry County Health Department
• Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH)
• Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
• McHenry County School Metrics Dashboard

In preparation for when we are able to move to a hybrid model, parents need to set up an account in PowerSchool (our student information system). When we are able to open the schools to students, parents will be required to complete the symptom self-assessment prior to their children being able to come to school and/or boarding busses. All staff members coming into a building are also requirement to complete this assessment. This self-assessment is in an electronic format and it is located in PowerSchool

Please set your account up today. Here is the link to PowerSchool:

• PowerSchool Parent Portal

Our Technology Department has provided some helpful tips for log-in and set-up on Chromebooks.

Chromebook Devices (Grades PreK-8 and Grades 11-12)

District 200 families who experience problems with a Chromebook, need help with passwords, or who have other technology-related questions or concerns, are asked to reach out directly to the D200 Technology Department. District technicians are working hard to help keep our digital learning running as smoothly as possible, and will respond to emails sent to the following address:

techsupport@wcusd200.org

District 200 will continue to provide free meals to ALL D200 students, regardless of free, reduced-price, or paid status.

• Breakfast and lunch will be available for pick-up between 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m., Monday - Friday at the following schools: Verda Dierzen, Olson, Woodstock High School, and Woodstock North High School.

• Menus will be posted at www.woodstockschools.org/food.
  
  
• In addition, D200 buses will deliver to 10 regions in the area. A listing of all stops is linked below. Buses will arrive at the scheduled time and will remain at the stop for approximately 5-8 minutes before leaving for the next stop.
  
  
• Parents can determine their region by viewing the region maps, and/or the listing of stops in each region. If you are unsure about your region, please contact the Transportation Department for clarification (815.338.4777).

Food Distribution Regions: https://www.woodstockschools.org/Page/1962

For more information, see the Food Department's Newsletter at: https://www.smore.com/8h43j-free-meals-for-d200-families?ref=email

Verda Dierzen Early Learning Center

#campusconnection

The KINDNESS CLOSET is open and ready for patrons. Inside the Kindness Closet are all types of items for families in need. We have some toiletries, clothing, and shoes for the entire family. Please feel free to contact the school during school hours. All are welcome.

“KINDNESS IS REALIZING THAT WE’RE IN THIS TOGETHER.” ~ RAKtivist

2045 N. Seminary Avenue Hours: 8:00 a.m - 4:00 p.m.

Woodstock, IL 60098 Phone: 815-338-8883

Please contact Cristina Mazzanti, Parent Educator, if you have any questions.

815-338-8883, Ext. 7965

Other Kindness Closets in District 200:

Woodstock High School

Woodstock North High School

Northwood Middle School

Mary Endres Elementary School