D70 Students To Return To Schools Next Week

LIBERTYVILLE, IL — The District 70 school board on Monday voted to reopen schools in a hybrid learning model.

Students who've opted for the hybrid model will start returning next week, while others will stay remote. Kindergarten through second grades will begin school on Monday, and third through fifth grades will get back to in-person instruction on Nov. 12. On Nov. 17, sixth through eight grade students will return.

The move goes against a recent recommendation by the Lake County Health Department for schools to make an "adaptive pause" and opt for remote learning amid a surge in COVID-19 cases.

• Remote Learning Recommended Amid Rising Lake Co. Coronavirus Rate

The rolling average number of daily new cases in the county has consistently been above the threshold for what is considered "substantial" community spread of the virus — 14 cases per 100,000 people — for weeks. As of Tuesday, there was an average of 39 new cases per 100,000 people, according to the latest IDPH data.

According to the return-to-school metrics, a virtual learning model is suggested anytime the seven-day rolling average daily incidence rate tips over 14 cases per 100,000. Hybrid learning is permitted under the metrics at the "moderate" level — whenever the rate is between seven and 14 daily new cases per 100,000 residents.

While presenting the recommendation of the superintendent's reopening advisory committee, which was tasked with ways to reopen during the pandemic, Superintendent Matthew Barbini acknowledged cases would likely continue to rise. He said a laser-like focus on social distancing, wearing masks and washing hands is needed to successfully return to, and continue with, in-person school, adding that following those steps is how "we can effectively learn to live with COVID-19."

Barbini said District 70 would continue to partner with the Lake County Health Department and adhere to their guidance when cases or an outbreak occurred at D70 schools.

"I don't think it's going to be an if, it's going to be a when," he said. "We have to go into any type of reopening plan, our hybrid plan, etc., with eyes wide open ... we might have to be prepared to pivot and go to remote learning for a school or schools in the district."

Statements from several parents read at the meeting showed mixed feelings regarding a return to in-person school. Several parents chastised district leaders for going against health experts' advice.