Hello Church Family
Last spring, we communicated we were remote learning, having a drive through end of the year celebration and more. Fall is here. What is the plan? According to Illinois, we are a “childcare center.” Centers were allowed to open in July, to serve those who work and need to stay employed. In order to execute and learn the NEW guidelines from the State of Illinois and DCFS, we planned and hosted two weeks of mini-camp in August. The children complied wonderfully. They do not care if a mask is on their face; they just want to play, socialize (distantly), color, explore and be TOGETHER. Teachers learned and practiced new procedures, and “tweaked” the plan. Pure joy! We had so much positive feedback, we proposed to the church Session to return to in-person learning with a resounding YES!
It has been a roller coaster (without being at Disney World!) We granted several teachers a leave of absence and hired new friendly faces, two of whom are members of First Pres. We had enrollment challenges; bleeding, then hemorrhaging, now stable. We are ready to open in person Tuesday, September 8 with 180 students! Teacher and family “Meet & Greet” events are taking place this week. Masks are the new fashion accessory, sanitizer our new friend, and hand washing and social distancing important protocol. We made a “what school will be like” videos for families and children to watch. All of this has been a positive experience for our families. If you wish to see the videos, email me. I would be happy to share them with you.
As school begins, please PRAY that our students and staff stay healthy, follow protocol, love learning and are safe.
With gratitude for this church community,
Sue Clary
Director of Westminster Preschool
