News from the District (9/1/22)
New Website Launches Today
The District launched a redesigned website today. Our goal is to improve both the user experience and design of the site for families, staff, prospective employees and prospective residents. We will continue to refine and add additional features this fall. If you are experiencing any challenges or need help navigating the website, please contact help@winnetka36.org.
The Winnetka Public Schools Excessive Heat Procedures
Should there be a period of excessive heat in Winnetka, the District will use the following guidance:
Excessive Heat Procedures (Day 1)
If the heat index (combination of heat + humidity; also known as “Real Feel” on accuweather.com) is between 95-103༠ as reported on accuweather.com for the hours between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. on a given school day, the following Excessive Heat Procedures will be put into place for the District’s buildings
Keep overhead lights to a minimum if possible.
Teachers will limit all physical activity in the classroom.
School nurses and staff will watch for any warning signs of heat distress.
Outdoor, shaded areas will be utilized for learning as much as possible.
Please refer to chart from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA)
Excessive Heat Procedures (Day 2)
If the predicted heat index is between 95-103༠ for the hours of 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. the day immediately following the first day of a heat index between 95-103༠, a Remote Learning Day will be implemented for that second day.
Parents, students and staff will be notified via Blackboard and the district website of the Remote Learning Day by 9:00 p.m. the previous evening.
Excessive Heat Procedures (Day 3 and subsequent consecutive days predicted heat index between 95-103༠)
Remote Learning Days will be implemented.
Parents, students and staff will be notified via Blackboard and the district website of the Remote Learning Day by 9:00 p.m. the previous evening.
For any day a heat index is predicted to be 103༠ or above, a remote learning day will be called, meaning protocols for Day 2 action will be followed.
2022 Downsized Capital Improvement Plan: Referendum
At the August 16 Meeting, the School Board approved a resolution to move forward with placing a $59.4MM referendum on the November 8, 2022 ballot. If this referendum should pass, it would help to fund $82.6MM in necessary projects at all 5 schools:
Updated safety components, including secure entry vestibules
Upgraded HVAC systems to improve air quality, air flow, temperature control and energy efficiency
Accessibility for all students, staff and visitors that complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Electrical wiring and panel upgrades to support technology and improve energy efficiency
Plumbing replacements to address fixtures that have reached the end of their useful life
The addition of a multipurpose room/cafeteria at Hubbard Woods
Removal of the temporary trailers at Crow Island and the subsequent addition of three permanent classrooms
Repurposing of the current gym to serve as a multipurpose room/cafeteria and the subsequent addition of a gym at Crow Island
Extension of the useful life of existing facilities and proactive reduction of costly emergency repairs
This letter from the Board and Superintendent was shared on Wednesday, August 17 with the community.
To view the presentation video, please click here.
To view the presentation slides, please click here.
In an effort to ensure that our community is well-informed, we look forward to hosting Informational Sessions on the following dates (all are welcome):
Virtual:
Tuesday, Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m.
Please click the link below to join the Zoom webinar:
https://winnetka36.zoom.us/j/86171947365?pwd=Z0YxQ0E5SkZvSklSWUE4UldxcjcyZz09
Passcode: 738688
In person:
Weds., Sept. 21 at 6:30 p.m. (Crow Island--followed by tour)
Sat., Oct. 8 from 9-10 a.m. (Hubbard Woods--followed by tour)
Monday, October 17 at 9:30 a.m. (Crow Island)
Wednesday, Oct. 19 at 6:30 p.m. (Hubbard--followed by tour)
Wednesday, Oct. 26 at 6:30 p.m. (Crow)
Virtual:
Tuesday, Nov. 1 at noon
Please click the link below to join the Zoom webinar:
https://winnetka36.zoom.us/j/88014741432?pwd=UGkrRzRvVG5pQlJMR2RJOHZvSHB3QT09
Passcode: 164472
Health Form Reminder
Insurance for Student Devices (Deadline is September 2, 2022)
Students in grades K-8 have the option of purchasing iPad insurance coverage at a cost of $25, for accidental damage or a lost/stolen device. Click here for cost comparison. Coverage may be purchased up until the end of the day on Friday, September 2, 2022. After that date it will no longer be available for current students to purchase. Click here to sign up.
Bus Registration Re-Opens on September 6:
If you have not registered and paid for the bus yet for this school year there is still time to do so. Registration for bus service will reopen on Tuesday, September 6th. An email will be sent with the link to register your child along with the bus routes and stops.
Parent Education Sessions from District Partner Family Action Network (FAN):
For upcoming events, access FAN’s website here.
Follow us on Social Media!
Please follow the District via the following social media platforms in order to see day-to-day happenings and more.
Facebook and Twitter: @Winnetka36
Instagram: @WinnetkaPublicSchools