In-Person Instruction is Suspended for Remainder of the School Year Dear CPS Parents and Families, Last Friday, Governor Pritzker announced that in-person instruction will be suspended for the rest of the school year in Illinois to further slow the spread of COVID-19. We understand this is difficult news to hear, but we support the governor’s decision to protect the health and wellness of all Illinoisans. So while our school buildings may be closed, our teachers will continue to teach and our students will continue to learn. The important work of educating your child will not stop, and you will continue to hear from us regularly for the remainder of the scheduled school year. We know this is a tough time, but Chicago Public Schools (CPS) will be here to support you every step of the way.  Here are some things to keep in mind as we continue moving forward together. Remote learning will continue through the end of the school year. This extended closure will not prevent us from providing your child with the quality education they deserve. Robust remote learning plans will continue through June 18, 2020—the last day of scheduled classes. Your child’s school will continue providing high-quality learning options that meet your family’s needs. Visit cps.edu/remotelearning for the most up-to-date information on remote learning and to access valuable learning resources. If your school is providing remote learning online and your child needs a device, please contact their principal. Please see these best practices for important information about privacy and confidentiality when engaging in virtual learning. Your involvement is key to ensuring your child puts forth their best effort. Please take advantage of the resources offered by your school, including remote office hours with your child’s teachers. Please utilize Parent Portal to monitor your child’s progress. Click here for more information on Parent Portal and contact your child’s school with questions. Grab-and-Go meals will be available for the rest of the school year. Even as schools remain closed, we are committed to providing free, healthy meals for the rest of the school year. To date, we have served more than five million meals, and families in need can pick up grab-and-go meals at more than 270 meal sites around the city. To find a meal site near you, please visit cps.edu/mealsites. You can pick up three days worth of meals for your child at any site from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday through Friday. We recognize there are a number of outstanding questions regarding the end of the school year, including grading in quarter four, grade advancement, and requirements for graduation. We are working to quickly answer these questions and will update you as soon as possible. None of us could’ve imagined that the final stretch of our school year would look like this, but just as we’ve done since this journey began, we will work together to pull each other through. We are here for you, and we will come out stronger on the other side. Please stay safe, healthy, and connected.   Sincerely, Janice K. Jackson, EdD      LaTanya D. McDade Chief Executive Officer       Chief Education Officer Chicago Public Schools       Chicago Public Schools