Middle Matters
Week of January 10, 2022
In This Issue
Highlights from this week's Middle Matters:
- Important Upcoming Dates
- Illinois Youth Survey-ALL 8th GRADE FAMILIES
- Information about Acceleration Opportunities in D97
- Race Conscious Dialogues - Join Brooks Parents/Caregivers 1/20, 1/27, 2/3 and 2/10
- Face Mask Reminder
- Questions regarding COVID-19: Contact our School Nurse
- COVID-19 Quarantine Protocols Updated as of 1/4/22
- Submit Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination After Second Dose (Repeat)
- Qualifying for Remote Learning (Repeat)
- ILLINOIS SHIELD TESTING UPDATED (Repeat)
- District 97 Cold Reminders (Repeat)
- PTO Sponsored Anderson’s Bookshop Virtual Book Fair (Repeat)
- GBMS Yearbook Information (Repeat)
- Middle School Clubs Meeting Days and Times (Updated weekly)
- OPEF Vex Robotics In-House League Information (Repeat)
- YEMBA Inc. news (Repeat)
- Student Announcements (Updated weekly)
- From the Library (Updated weekly)
Highlights from GBMS PTO
- Business Meeting
- Fill the Fridges: January 9th through January 15th
- Donation to GBMS PTO
- Connect with GBMS PTO
- Buy GBMS Spirit Wear
Highlights from District 97
- Bullying Report Form Link (Repeat)
- Live Streaming of GBMS Athletic and Music Events (Repeat)
- District 97 Weather Guidelines and E-Learning Plan for 2021-22 (Repeat)
- Spectator Opportunities (Repeat)
- GBMS Student Spectator Opportunities (Repeat)
- Partnership with D97 and DePaul University - Care Coordinator (Repeat)
- School Supply Reminders (Repeat)
- Water Bottle Reminder (Repeat)
- Back to School Information and COVID-19 Safety Mitigations (Repeat)
- COVID-19 Symptom Checklist and Instructions for Symptomatic Students (Repeat)
- Responding to Positive COVID-19 Case (Repeat)
- Qualifying for Remote Learning (Repeat)
- Rules for Bikes, Scooters and Skateboards (Repeat)
- Social Work Team (Repeat)
- Travel Advisory Recommendations (Repeat)
- Office Phones and Dropping off Items at Brooks (Repeat)
- Stay Home When Sick (Repeat)
- Allergy Safe Information (Repeat)
- SY21-22 School Calendar (Repeat)
- School Physical and Immunization Information (Repeat)
- How to Report Student Absence (Repeat)
- Tech Support (Repeat)
Community Partner News
- Kids Unlimited Winter Programs 2022
- Kids Kloset at First United Church
- Friday Night Place
- Little Huskies Wrestling
- Strengthening Families Program
- SMART LOVE FAMILY SERVICES
- NAMI
- Leyden Family Service
- THRIVE
If you have questions about the upcoming school year, please don’t hesitate to contact me at acapuder@op97.org. You can also contact my Executive Coordinator, Ms. Latrina Hurst, at lhurst@op97.org or (708) 524-7636.
Our administrative team is also available to help answer your questions.
Angelica Love Curriculum & Instruction AP (6th grade, Teams 7.1 & 7.2)
Antoine Bland Curriculum & Instruction AP (8th grade, Teams 7.3) abland@op97.org
Stacie Klein Culture & Climate AP sklein@op97.org
IMPORTANT DATES
Monday, Jan 10 - A Day; Tuesday, Jan 11- B Day; Wednesday, Jan 12- A Day; Thursday, Jan 13- B Day; Friday, Jan 14 - C Day
Monday, January 17th - No School
Thursday, February 3rd Noon to 7:45pm Parent-Teacher Conferences
Illinois Youth Survey-ALL 8th GRADE FAMILIES
Dear 8th Grade Families,
The week of January 31st 8th grade students will be given the Illinois Youth Survey in their Advisory/Design class. The survey results are used by both Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and Illinois Department of Human Resources (IDHS) in program planning and evaluation. The survey also collects information about school climate, safety, and important contributing factors to youth risk behaviors that can impede learning.
Here is a link to the parent letter that includes additional details about the survey and opt out information.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact Antoine Bland (abland@op97.org)
Thanks,
Antoine Bland
Information about Acceleration Opportunities in District 97
Looking ahead to the spring, District 97 is preparing to implement the Single Subject and Whole Grade Level Acceleration process for students eligible for acceleration in the 2022-23 school year.
District 97 believes that all students should be challenged and supported to develop to their maximum potential. For students who demonstrate they may benefit from accelerated placement, we provide opportunities to participate in an instructional setting that is usually reserved for students who are older or in higher grades than the child. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Single subject acceleration
- Whole grade acceleration
In accordance with the Illinois Accelerated Placement Act, District 97 has continued to refine procedures to ensure equitable access to acceleration opportunities for all students. New this year: all students who are grade eligible to take the Illinois Assessment for Readiness (IAR) must participate in the assessment in order to be deemed eligible for acceleration. The IAR is a critically important measure in determining the mastery of grade level standards and must be considered by the school team along with other sources of data.
Referrals for single-subject and whole-grade acceleration will be accepted from March 1 to May 15 of each school year. The general process is outlined HERE.
Information about the District 97 Accelerated Placement Program, including definitions and timelines, can be found at http://www.op97.org/acceleration. We will send additional communication to families as we near the opening of our referral and application windows next year. Additionally, Family Acceleration Night will be held Wednesday, February 7, 2022, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This information session will provide an avenue for families to share questions as well as receive information about the acceleration process. Please find additional information in the information session flyer.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact us by visiting our Let’s Talk page (bit.ly/D97LetsTalk) and clicking the button labeled “Acceleration.”
Join other Brooks Parents / Caregivers for Race Conscious Dialogues!
Brooks DivCo invites Parents / Caregivers of Brooks students to participate in a Brooks-only session of Race Conscious Dialogues. The Race Conscious Dialogues (www.raceconsciousdialogues.org) are designed for white-identifying people to deepen awareness of identity, power and privilege, then develop tools for anti-racism work. The dates for this session are Thursdays from 6:30-9:00 PM on 1/20, 1/27, 2/3, & 2/10. Click here for more information: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/winter-2022-brooks-thursday-evenings-tickets-205676412687 RCD is a local nonprofit and community resource. Please reach out to raceconsciousdialogues@gmail.com for more information.
Face Mask Reminders
Wearing face masks consistently and correctly is a key strategy to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our schools. Below are a few important reminders for students, staff and families:
- The face covering should cover the mouth and nose at all times, including while riding a school bus. The CDC Use of Face Coverings provides helpful explanations about the use and care of face coverings.
- Bandanas, masks with valves and gaiters are not allowed in District 97 schools, as they allow for leakage of aerosolized droplets.
- District 97 expects all students and staff to bring and wear their own cloth or disposable masks whenever possible and appropriate. Anyone who forgets their reusable mask will be provided a disposable mask. If possible, students should keep a second cloth mask with their belongings.
QUESTIONS REGARDING COVID-19: Contact our School Nurse, Ms. Radogno
(708) 524- 3058 or nradogno@op97.org
COVID-19 Quarantine Protocols Updated as of 1/4/22
On December 30th, 2021, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced that it is adopting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) recommendation to reduce the number of days for isolation and quarantine for the general public. However, IDPH also stated that schools should continue to follow the guidance for schools that was previously issued.
According to the Oak Park Department of Public Health, the state is currently working to update the guidelines for schools. Until that time, District 97 will maintain its existing protocols for isolations and quarantines, with one exception (see below).
Quarantine Length for Unvaccinated Close Contacts Reduced to 10 Days
Prior to the CDC update earlier this week, the Oak Park Department of Public Health was planning to reduce the quarantine length for unvaccinated close contacts from 14 days to 10 days. We are implementing this change immediately once we return from winter break on Tuesday, Jan. 4.
Below is a summary of the the district’s quarantine and isolation requirements, per the local health department:
IF YOU TEST POSITIVE FOR COVID-19
All Students and Staff, Regardless of Vaccination Status
Isolate for at least 10 days from onset of symptoms.
Return to school after 10 days AND 24 hours with no fever AND improvement of symptoms.
IF YOU WERE EXPOSED TO COVID-19 (CLOSE CONTACTS)
Fully Vaccinated Students and Staff
Asymptomatic
No missed school, work or activities (submit proof of vaccination to the school nurse to avoid quarantine).
Get tested 5 days after exposure.
Wear a mask around others.
Symptomatic
Quarantine until symptoms subside.
School nurses will clear students/staff to return to school (testing may be required, per state exclusion guidance).
Unvaccinated Students and Staff
Quarantine for 10 calendar days after exposure
Closely monitor for symptoms and notify your healthcare provider and the school nurse if symptoms develop.
Individuals may not return until they have been cleared by their school nurse.
We appreciate your support in following these guidelines. Please refer to our previous message for additional steps you can take to assist us with a safe return to school January 4th and beyond.
CDC and IDPH Guidelines for Schools Regarding Isolation and Quarantine
Earlier last week, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) published new guidance for schools that reduces the number of days for isolation and quarantine. On Friday 1/7, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) announced that it plans to align with this guidance and updated regulations and documents will be released soon. Until we receive that updated guidance, we will continue to follow our existing protocols for quarantine and isolation. We will update you as soon as we are able.
Submit Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination After Second Dose (New Info)
According to the Centers for Disease Control and state/local health officials, fully vaccinated individuals do not have to quarantine due to potential COVID-19 exposure as long as they are asymptomatic. Additionally, achieving a high rate of vaccination will strengthen our overall safety plan and will put the district in the best possible position to reconsider other mitigations as conditions improve in our community.
To help us reduce any unnecessary quarantines and accurately track our student vaccination rate, District 97 requests that families submit proof of vaccination for their students as soon as they have received their second dose. There are two options:
IF YOU HAVE A GOOGLE ACCOUNT: Fill out a brief Google Form and upload a copy of the student’s vaccination card. CLICK HERE to access the Brooks vaccine form.
IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A GOOGLE ACCOUNT: Email a copy of your student’s vaccination card to Nurse Nancy Radogno (brooksnurse@op97.org). Please include the child’s full name and grade.
Students Who Participated in Clinics at District 97 Schools
If your student completed their vaccine series at one of the school-based clinics, a staff member should have taken a photo of their vaccination card following the second dose.
If your child's card was documented, no further action is needed.
If your child's card was not scanned or photographed, or if your child did not receive their second dose at a school clinic, please email a copy of the card to your school nurse.
If you have any questions, please contact Nurse Radogno. Thank you for your support and partnership in keeping our schools safe!
Qualifying for Remote Learning (Repeat)
GBMS REMOTE LEARNING FOR EXCLUDED and QUARANTINED STUDENTS ONLY
If your student is instructed to quarantine or be excluded due to awaiting test results, as determined by the Oak Park Health Department, due to being positive for COVID-19 or considered a close contact, your student will have a “window into the classroom,” or passive learning for the remote learning structure. District 97 will utilize the following procedures for students participating in remote learning beginning Sept. 13:
- Your student will follow their regularly scheduled classes, clicking on each course in Canvas to find the class zoom link and the associated assignments.
- Teachers will be responsible for turning on only the audio during the Zoom session. If a teacher is using the whiteboard or presenting, the camera will be turned on only for that portion of the lesson.
- Students who join the class remotely will not be able to raise their hand, participate in any class discussion, or use the chat feature.
- If there are physical materials that need to be picked up, you will be notified by email that your student has materials available in the main office.
- Teachers may choose to be available to quarantined students during their personal planning period or after school and be paid at the contracted hourly rate of $35 per hour for that time. Teachers will submit a timesheet to their building principals after the quarantine period is over. Since your student has numerous teachers, teachers are letting me know if they are available to provide support either after-school or during their plan time (which if it is a core teacher would coincide with your student's elective class or if they are an elective teacher would coincide with a time your student is in a core class). Once I know if there is a teacher available, an email will be shared with you so additional support can be coordinated.
**Please note Remote Learning is only available to students who have been quarantined. Students who are sick or absent for reasons unrelated to confirmed or probable COVID-19 cases, as determined by the local health department, will not be permitted to participate in remote learning. Please see our Back-to-School Plan for further details.
Illinois SHIELD Testing (Repeat)
Brooks Middle School weekly SHIELD testing dates will be on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Students will be tested on either Wednesday or Thursday depending on the day they have their Advisory/Design class.
- 6.1, 6.2 and 6.3 Students will test on1/13
- 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3 Students will test on 1/12
- 8.1, 8.2 Students will test on 1/12 and 8.3 Students will test on 1/13
- Pilot Home Kit samples should be turned in first period on 1/13.
Students should not eat at least 60 minutes prior to providing their saliva sample. Please keep in mind these times may be adjusted if needed.
Only Families who student tested positive for COVID-19 will receive an email notification within 24 to 48 hours of the testing day.
Additional information about SHIELD testing is included below.
District 97 Cold Reminders (Repeat)
Update: Outdoor Social Time During Winter Months
With winter officially upon us, we want to share a few important updates/reminders for families:
*NEW in 2021-22: This winter, students will be permitted to go outside for social time when the wind chill or temperature is 15 degrees or higher. The district utilizes the Wind Chill Chart developed by the National Weather Service.
It is important that students dress in warm layers when cold temperatures are expected. Students should remember to bring hats, gloves/mittens, scarves, coats, snow pants and boots. It is recommended that families label these items with their children’s names
Our staff will carefully monitor students while outside and take the necessary steps to ensure students are appropriately clothed/prepared for the cold weather, watching out for signs of frostbite and other cold-related issues.
In order to preserve our COVID-19 safety protocols, schools will not be able to allow students to enter their buildings early in cold weather. Please arrive at the designated time of 8:50am and ensure that students are dressed in warm layers.
Virtual Book Fair Order! (Repeat)
GBMS YEARBOOK (repeat)
21/22 GBMS Yearbook will be developed by our Yearbook Club and printed using TreeRing.com. Interested in buying a yearbook? Use this link to get started (if needed passcode: 1014096931934358). Some other things that are great about TreeRing is that you can do the following:
- upload and share photos with the Yearbook Club Editors and the school community
- design custom pages for your own yearbook
- send and request digital signatures
- add memories to your custom pages
Questions about the yearbook? Contact Mrs. Pabellon at mpabellon@op97.org or TreeRing directly at (877) 755-TREE. Here's to another great year!
Middle School Clubs Starting and Meeting Days/Times
Lunch Color Eating First: YELLOW (1/10- 1/14)
Social Justice Club/Rubix Cube Club: The next Social Justice Club meeting will be Thursday, January 13th and the next RUBIX CUBE Club will meet on Friday, January 14th. Both clubs meet from 3:30-4:30p. For more information, contact Mrs. Stigger in room C405, or email nstigger@op97.org.
We create
We share
We perform
Please complete the linked form to register for the Oak Park Education Foundation's Spoken Word Club, hosted at the Oak Park Art League located at 720 Chicago Ave)! Club will meet there in person every Tuesday, from 4 pm to 5:30 pm and will be led by our poet-artist Mo Santiago and at least one other OPEF staff member or D97 teacher/Spoken Word Coach (Miles Lee / John Colucci). Please fill out this registration or scan the Spoken Word Club QR Code in your Language & Literature classroom
Extra-Curricular Choirs: ***If you would like to audition after winter break, contact Mr. Blackman in D105 or email him at fblackman@op97.org ****
- Downbeat (7th and 8th graders) meets Tuesdays and Fridays at 8am
- Fledgelings (all grades) meets Thursdays at 8am.
If you’re curious about what we do/sing, check out our concert!
- Famous former members of these groups* :Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Emma Watson, Denzel Washington, Gerald Ford, Prince, 3 of the Beatles (we don’t like to brag about which ones), LeBron James, etc. *no evidence has been collected proving these people were members of the groups but we’re, like, pretty sure they were in the groups at some point
For more information regarding the:
BRAVO Announcements
6th Grade rehearsals are underway for SEUSSICAL THE MUSICAL - rehearsals are Monday only this week
Dance Class, Hour to Empower Podcast and Improv will meet on Tuesday at 3:30pm as usual
JTF meets on Monday this week
Stage crew will also meet on Tuesday after school
The Brooks In-House VEX Robotics League is fast approaching! Scan the QR code to apply!
Where: Brooks Middle School Room D201/202
When Mondays from 1/15/2021 - 2/28/2022 from 3:30-5:00p
Coaches: Paula Spring (on sabbatical D97 elementary teacher), Latonia Baker
What: The In-House VEX League is a partnership with OPEF with D97 Middle Schools as an intramural club that provides a safe space for less experienced students to learn more about designing and coding robots, before diving into the more time-consuming school competitive league.
To apply: Application
Youth Mentoring Programs
- YEMBA Mentoring Empowerment Program meetings will begin on Wednesday, November 17th after school in the 3rd floor B-wing.
You can attend the meeting and then take home any permission slips to be signed.
- YEMBA S.T.A.R.S. Program will begin on Thursday, November 18th after school in the 3rd floor B-wing.
Please click below to view the YEMBA Parent google presentation
Student Announcements
FROM THE LIBRARY:
Weekly Featured Novel (NEW):
Rules by Cynthia Lord (and oldie but a goodie) Click on the link to read more about the book: https://kids.scholastic.com/kids/book/rules-9780439443838/
- Log in to your Destiny catalog account
- Use your district username & password WITHOUT the @stu.op97.org
- Find the book you want, click on the title, and click on “HOLD”
- VIDEO: HOW DO I PLACE A LIBRARY HOLD?
Oak Park Public Library Opportunities:
- Teen Events Calendar
- Coming up in January:
Wednesday, January 12 @ 5:30pm (Virtual): TechGirlz Workshop: Infographics: Tell Your Story With Graphics. Grades 5-8. Click here to register.
Sunday, January 16 @ 4pm (Virtual): Leading Edge Teen Advisory Board. Ages 13-17. Apply to join the Leading Edge Teen Advisory Board and/or click here to register as a guest.
Wednesday, January 26 @ 5:30pm (Virtual): TechGirlz Workshop: Podcasting. Grades 5-8. Click here to register
PTO Weekly Communication
PTO Business Meeting
Join us (virtually) on Monday, January 10 at 6:00 for our PTO Business meeting. We will be discussing our budget, our Diversity and Inclusion plans, and fundraising! Zoom information:
https://mcmastercarr.zoom.us/j/98717390653
Meeting ID: 987 1739 0653
Fill the Fridges
WHAT:
- Fill the Fridges: The D97 PTO Council is partnering with all of the D97 PTOs and the Suburban Unity Alliance's Oak Park Community Fridge Program to organize a 5-week-long food drive to nourish the lives of those individuals who need assistance right now.
- People interested in donating food can send it or bring it to Brooks. There are guidelines as to what can be donated and proper fridge etiquette: Guidelines — Oak Park Community Fridge
WHY:
- We believe the community is focused on supporting one another in various ways, especially in providing essential needs such as food.
WHEN:
- During the first five weeks of 2022, each D97 school will be partnered with another school for one week to be responsible to Fill the Fridges (we plan to fill both fridges daily).
- Hatch Elementary School and Brooks Middle School: will Fill the Fridges from January 9 to January 15
WHERE:
We will need volunteers to pick up the food from Brooks to drop off at the Oak Park Community Fridge Locations. If you are interested in volunteering, please sign up: Fill the Fridges
- Carnival Grocery Store Parking Lot: 824 S. Oak Park Ave. Oak Park IL
- Euclid Avenue United Methodist Church Parking Lot: 405 S. Euclid Oak Park IL
QUESTIONS:
If you have any questions, please reach out to your DivCo team at Brooksmiddleschooldivco@gmail.com
Please Consider a Donation to the PTO
As the calendar year draws to a close, please consider making a donation to the Brooks PTO. Since March 2020, we have been unable to raise money to support our mission through our primary fundraiser, the weekly Starship Restaurant lunch program, because of D97 Covid-related protocols. As a result, we have had to either scale back or eliminate funding of need-based scholarships, teacher grants, and other enrichment activities.
While we continue to look for other ways to raise much-needed funds until we are able to resume the Starship lunch program, we would be appreciative of any donations in the meantime. Donations may be made on our website. Please note that the Brooks PTO is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization and a donation receipt for tax or matching purposes will be provided. Thank you!
Connect with the Brook’s PTO
Connect with PTO
Follow us on FaceBook at @gwendolynbrookspto, or email us at gwendolynbrookspto@gmail.com.
Order your Brooks Spirit Wear
Support the PTO, a local black-owned business, and get awesome Brooks Spirit wear all at the same time! Brooks Spirit wear can be ordered at any time visiting the Brooks section of the Shabby Fly website. Order will be shipped to your home!
2020 - 2021 District News and Information
D97 Academic Acceleration (Repeat)
Similar to last year, the referral window for families seeking single subject or whole grade acceleration opens on March 1 and closes on May 15.
Please visit our D97 website for more information.
2021-22 District 97 Family Handbook (Repeat)
Click here for the updated 2021-22 District 97 Family Handbook, which contains general information about the district and its procedures. Please note that some of this information may be subject to change due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please email d97feedback@op97.org if you have any questions.
Additionally, if you would like to request a hard copy of the handbook, please contact the school office.
School Year 21-22 Meal Information (Repeat)
Due to the ongoing pandemic, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved key waivers that allow school districts to continue serving free meals to all children. This means that all District 97 students are eligible to receive breakfast and lunch free of charge for the entire 2021-22 school year!
NOTE: Families DO NOT need to complete the Free/Reduced Meal Application in order for their students to receive free meals. However, families seeking to qualify for school fee waivers or other state programs MUST complete the application. We encourage all families who currently qualify to take a few minutes to complete the application as soon as possible.
More information on the D97 food service program, including breakfast and lunch menus for our elementary and middle schools, is available here.
Please note that Breakfast will not be served before school. However, if a student arrives to school without breakfast, they can let their 1st period teacher know. The teacher will contact our school nurse and she will arrange for them to come to the commons to get something to eat. Students will miss some class time.
2021-22 Frequently Asked Questions for Back to School Plan (Repeat)
District 97 has created a 2021-22 FAQ page based on the top questions we have received over the past few weeks. Topics include ventilation, remote learning, vaccination and travel.
Our back-to-school plan is linked below and can also be found, along with other COVID-19 resources and information, by going to https://www.op97.org/back-to-school.
District 97 has developed a comprehensive back-to-school plan to keep our students and staff healthy and safe while they learn in person five days a week. Our approach implements data-informed response measures that are aligned with the most up-to-date scientific research and best practices for K-12 schools. The plan also reflects rising concerns about the transmissibility of the Delta variant, the resurgence of COVID-19 cases, and the fact that the majority of our students (Pre-K through sixth grade) are not yet eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.
Below is a brief overview of some, not all, of the safety mitigations that will be in place for the beginning of the 2021-22 school year. New procedures are starred (*).
- Full-Day, In-Person Instruction for All Students: Per state guidance, remote learning will only be provided only if a student is placed in quarantine by the health department or if students qualify as medically fragile.
- Universal Masking: Masks will be required for all students and staff, regardless of vaccination status. Distanced mask breaks will be provided.
- Weekly Screening Testing: District 97 will partner with SHIELD Illinois to provide weekly testing to all students in Pre-K through eighth grade. This is a non-invasive saliva test that will be conducted on site during the school day. Testing is optional but strongly recommended. No action is necessary to participate. CLICK HERE to learn more about SHIELD testing. CLICK HERE for FAQ related to SHIELD Illinois.
- Updated Quarantine and Contact Tracing Procedures: At the direction of the Oak Park Department of Public Health, unvaccinated individuals who have been exposed to someone with COVID-19, or who test positive for COVID-19, must quarantine/isolate from school for a period of 10-14 school days. Students and staff may return after following the protocols outlined in our plan. As of today, quarantining is no longer required for vaccinated individuals unless they are symptomatic. The CDC and IDPH have also updated their close contact definition for classroom students, which we hope will minimize disruptions to in-person learning this year.
- Physical Distancing: We will make every effort to maintain as much distance as possible between students—at least 3 feet—in classrooms and during lunch.
- Cleaning and Disinfecting: Staff will perform regular school cleaning and disinfect all high-touch surfaces daily. The full classroom disinfection process will occur weekly.
Wanting to confirm information you've heard regarding our schools? (Repeat)
Oak Park District 97 is committed to providing accurate and timely information. Our new Fact Checker will be updated consistently based upon common questions and concerns to ensure you have access to the key facts that interest you most.
Text Messages from District 97 (Repeat)
District 97 uses the notification system BrightArrow to communicate with families via email and phone calls. This year, we have started using periodic text messages to send reminders directly to parents' cell phones. In order to receive text messages, parents must opt in by texting YES to 87569. Once you have subscribed, you will receive a text confirmation.
Texts may appear from District 97 from 87569 or a phone number with a 424 area code (you may wish to save them to your contacts).
Wellness Check-in Program (Repeat)
The district-wide wellness check-in program, which was an initial crisis response to the pandemic, will not continue in its current format during the new Hybrid schedule. Please reach out to your school's school psychologist or social worker if you have social-emotional concerns about your child. If your child is experiencing an immediate mental health crisis, please call the Thrive 24hr Crisis Hotline at 708-383-7500. You may also refer to this local resource guide created by the Community Mental Health Board of the Oak Park Township.
Repeated Topics from Past Week's Middle Matters
Bullying Report Form (Repeat)
PLEASE NOTE: District 97 extends a special thank you to former Brooks Middle School student Shawn C. for building the foundation for the bullying form. We would also like to thank our middle school students and administration team for their valuable feedback.
Live Streaming of GBMS Athletic and Music Events (Repeat)
For more information regarding live streaming, please click here.
District 97 Weather Guidelines and E-Learning Plan for 2021-22 (Repeat)
As we head into the winter months, we want to remind everyone of our school closing guidelines, along with our new E-Learning Plan for the 2021-22 school year. These are the guidelines we would follow if we had to close school due to inclement weather or other emergencies. CLICK HERE for details >
GBMS Student Spectator Opportunities (Repeat)
In order for a GBMS student to attend a game, one of the APs will be in the ticket booth stationed outside the lunch room.
- Students must pick up a ticket on the day of the game during lunch
- We will take down the student's name and give you a ticket to present for admission to the game.
- Student seats are marked with a blue dot on the bleachers closets to the entrance in the gym.
Middle School Spectator Opportunities (Repeat)
After reviewing best practices, discussing our safety plans with our local health department and considering student needs, we have decided to allow spectators at the following:
Athletic games (e.g., basketball)
BRAVO performances
Band, orchestra and choir performances (coming in December)
All of these events will follow strict safety guidelines, including:
Athletic Events
- Student spectators (6, 7 & 8th graders) may attend indoor athletic events at Brooks, vaccinated or not, if social distancing can be maintained
- If social distancing cannot be maintained, student spectators will be required to show either proof of full vaccination or a time-stamped negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test within 48 hours of the scheduled school event.
- Masks must be worn at all times for any and all indoor activities
Performing Arts Events (BRAVO, Choral and Instrumental Concerts)
- Student and adult spectators will need to show either proof of full vaccination or a time-stamped negative COVID-19 PCR or antigen test within 48 hours of the scheduled school event.
- Regardless of the event, masks must be worn at all times for any and all indoor activities.
Additionally, several extracurricular activities have been given clearance to operate onsite, including YEMBA, Vex Robotics (including mentors from OPRF) and PING (including mentors from OPRF).
We are grateful for the cooperation of our students and families, who have been doing a great job with all of our safety protocols this year. We hope to continue revisiting our mitigations as conditions improve and more of our community becomes eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. We will keep you updated on those discussions moving forward.
Partnership with D97 and DePaul University - Care Coordinator (Repeat)
Water Bottle Reminder (Repeat)
We ask that if possible to please send your student to school with a filled water bottle. There are no drinking fountains open, but we have water bottle filling stations in the school for our students to refill their water bottles when needed.
Back to School Information and COVID-19 Safety Mitigations (Repeat)
Social Work Team (Repeat)
- Abby Berman supports our 6th graders (aberman@op97.org)
- Hannah Boudreau supports our 7th graders (hboudreau@op97.org)
- Jen Olsen supports our 8th graders (jolsen@op97.org)
Travel Advisory Recommendations (Repeat)
That said, we ask for your renewed commitment to practicing all of the recommended mitigation protocols this weekend. The most effective way to minimize the risk of transmission is to avoid high-risk behaviors, including travel. Vaccinated or unvaccinated, we all have a responsibility to follow safety guidelines in order to reduce further spread of the virus. We are thankful for your continued commitment to keeping our schools and students safe over the holiday weekend and throughout the school year.
Office Phones and Dropping off Items at Brooks (Repeat)
Please note that our office staff sets the phone to go to voicemail from 8:30am to 9:15am daily. Please leave a message of your student's absence or you can email brooksattendance@op97.org. Our office staff will listen to voicemails to call back or direct calls as needed after 9:15am daily. We appreciate your patience and understanding. Please check out our GBMS Learning SY21-22 Information page, as your question is likely answered there.
Dropping off Items at Brooks for your Student
You may drop off forgotten items for your student in the main office. Please note that we will not call into your student's classroom, as it is a disruption to the learning for other students and the teacher in the classroom. Your student should plan to stop by the main office on their way to lunch or between passing periods, if they think you may have dropped off the forgotten item for them to retrieve. We appreciate your understanding.
Keep D97 Schools Allergy Safe - No Nuts Allowed (Repeat)
Please visit https://bit.ly/3j0KGTB to access information about the district’s food allergy management program, as well as tips and options for identifying food that is safe for snacks and field trips.
Nuts and nut products are not allowed in any District 97 schools during the 2021-22 school year. This includes products that are labeled “processed in a facility that shares equipment with nut products.” The shift to include lunch was necessary as many students may be eating their lunch in spaces other than the lunchroom due to COVID-19 protocols.
We appreciate your help in adhering to this preventative measure.
School Physicals and Immunizations (Repeat)
Incoming 6th-grade students and/or any new students who have transferred into District 97, MUST have a wellness physical and dental exam dated no less than one year prior to August 25th, 2021. Your child's physical must have been performed after August 25th, 2020 . Your child may not be admitted to school without these documents. Please submit the documents by mail or in person no later than August 25, 2021 to the following:
Gwendolyn Brooks Middle School
Attn: Health Office, Nurse Nancy Radogno
325 S. Kenilworth Ave
Oak Park, IL 60302
SPORTS PHYSICALS – The State of Illinois Office of Education requires that any student who wishes to participate in interscholastic sports MUST have an Athletic Physical Examination, dated no less than one year prior to the first day of the current school year, anytime after August 25, 2020. It is MANDATORY that your child have this physical before they will be eligible to try out or participate in any interscholastic activity.
To access student health forms please visit http://www.op97.org/hr/health-requirements
**For any family having difficulty securing an appointment to get the physical completed, please email our School Nurse, Nancy Radogno, nradogno@op97.org.
STUDENT ATTENDANCE - How to Report Student Absences (Repeat)
Technology Support (Repeat)
Technical support will be available from school and district technology staff by accessing the Help Desk through email, helpdesk@op97.org. When an email is submitted, a Help Desk ticket is created and assigned to technology staff, who will be working throughout the day to address technology concerns. Our technology team can support District 97 devices and student online programs.
The Help Corner will features a frequently-asked question related to services and opportunities available for District 97 students and families. We will keep a complete list of these FAQs on our district website.
District 97 has created Community Resources Page. We also encourage families to stay connected through Facebook and Twitter. Additional updates can be found at:
Oak Park and River Forest High School District 200
District 97 also has a broad network of partner organizations that provide an array of supports and services for Oak Park residents. The Community Mental Health Board and Oak Park and River Forest Townships have also put together a COVID-19 Social Services Resource Guide, which is available at https://tinyurl.com/oprfguide.
Community Resources
Kids Unlimited Winter Programs 2022
Introduction to Executive Functioning January 27 – April 21
This 12-week program addresses executive functioning skills such as attention, impulse control, time management and organization. Children will be “Brain Explorers” as they learn about their brain and specific strategies to help improve specific executive functioning in school and at home. This program is ideal for children 9 to 11 years of age. There is a $25 material fee with this program. $625
Offered: Thursday 5:30-6:30
Teen and Tween Group (6th-8th grade) January 25 - April 19
This 12-week program provides tweens and teens with vocabulary and concepts to understand thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and social situations. They will learn tangible strategies to implement in everyday situations at home and school. Strategies for improving executive functioning are also provided. Target grades are 6th-8th grade, however other ages may be considered based on skill level. $600
Offered: Tuesday 5:30-6:30
Form to register: Registration Form from Kids Unlimited!
Kids Kloset at First United Church
(First United Church – 848 Lake Street, Oak Park)
Wednesdays from 3:00pm to 5:00pm
Saturdays from 9:00am to 11:00am
Enter through the west narthex door.
Come to the Kids’ Kloset to get great
cold-weather clothing
at the lowest prices possible!
Loads of winter coats!
Contact “susanzaruba@gmail.com”
If you need an alternative appointment.
Friday Night Place at Julian Middle School
Little Huskies Wrestling
SUPPORT4U
SUPPORT4U is a mental health resource for our students to anonymously text licensed mental health clinicians any time of the day for assistance or guidance. Students can text for any issue; typical reasons might include social issues, anxiety, depression, substance use, suicidal ideation, eating disorders, bullying, abuse, or any other mental health-related topic. The clinician’s goal is to steer the student to available resources in the school and community. To use, students just need to go to Support4U.live on their phone, click on the Gwendolyn Brooks Middle School logo and hit send. Help is just a text away.
Thrive Services and Programs
PHONE-BASED COUNSELING
Thrive is offering phone-based counseling, 24/7 crisis intervention services, medication management and, a free Thrive Check-In phone support line (Ext. 8) to address our community’s needs during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Call us at (708)383-7500. Our Front Desk team is also ready to assist you Monday-Friday, 9am to 2pm, with requests for referrals or new services and to reschedule or cancel an appointment.
Mental Health Resource, "Call4Calm"
Thrive is also a proud partner of the Illinois Call4Calm Text Line Service. Text “TALK” TO 552020 (or “HABLAR) for Spanish. The Illinois Call4Calm Text Line is not a crisis hotline, but is a source of support for anyone experiencing stress and in need of a listening ear.
And we know the COVID-19 pandemic can wear on every resource—from food and shelter to our emotional bandwidth and mental health. Fortunately, the Illinois Department of Human Services has launched a support line called Call4Calm that is reachable via text. Individuals who want to speak with a mental health professional can text the word “TALK” or “HABLAR” (for Spanish speakers) to 552-020. Within 24 hours, that individual will receive a call from a mental health professional employed by a local community health center.
People can also text other terms, like “unemployment” or “food” or “shelter” to the same number to receive information on how to navigate and access supports and services. Call4Calm is free, and individuals who use it can remain anonymous. We encourage you to share this resource with your students, families, and staff.