Dear Parents,
Classes and all after school activities for CPS schools are cancelled tomorrow, October 17th, and indefinitely, as the board and the Chicago Teachers Union have not come to an agreement for a fair contract. While this information was announced earlier by news outlets, I was waiting on official word from CPS before sending out any information.
We understand that this can be a stressful situation for families, and want to assure you that there are many viable options for childcare available throughout the city. CPS has set plans to provide students with a safe place during the day to stay warm and receive breakfast and lunch at the school. However, supervision at the school will be limited to administration (myself and Mr. Rhodes), lunchroom staff, and central office staff only.
If you decide to send your child to South Loop School, please register them here, to help plan and receive additional support if needed. Please note: ALL students (PreK-8th grade) must report to the 1601 S Dearborn location. The school day will be 8:30-3:30 for all PreK-8 students. This is not a regular structured school day. Students are not required to come in uniform. Please be advised, that students in multiple age groups may be combined, depending on enrollment and supervision. We will provide students with productive and engaging activities throughout the day.
I understand cancelled classes are concerning and disruptive to your child’s learning. However, I am confident once school is back in session, we can resume our engaging instruction with minimal setbacks.
We truly appreciate your understanding and patience during this time. If you have questions or concerns during this time, feel free to email myself or Mr. Rhodes.
Sincerely,
Principal Shelton
Other Childcare Options
Below are a few other camps and childcare options. All of these options will be available for the duration of the strike. We will continue to post on the website as we hear of more options.
Youth Guidance
Youth Guidance will be providing day camps, off site at Willow Creek Community Church at 1319 S. State St. This day camp will be available every day that school is not in session from 8:30am-5pm. Lunches and snack will not be provided, so please send your child with both. You must register ahead of time. The price is $50/day. Please follow this link for more information and for the registration link.
Chicago Public Libraries
Chicago Public Libraries will also be open, along with a limited number of parks, Safe Haven sites, and other community partner sites. To find CPS and non-CPS sites near your home that will welcome students during a potential work stoppage, please use our site locator.
Camp Shedd
The Shedd Aquarium is offering “Camp Shedd”. Register one or more children here. The Camp is from 8-3pm and after care from 3-5pm is included.
XS Tennis Village Sports Camp
XS Tennis Village will be offering a camp from 8-4pm – $40/day. Drop-ins are welcome, but you can call to register at 773-548-7529.
Windy City Fieldhouse
Supervised Open Gym will be offered. Full day, or half day (morning/afternoon) sessions are available. Please provide a snack, water, and lunch (if going all day) for your child. The cost is $35/half day or $50/full day. Register here.
Hyde Park Neighborhood Club
Hyde Park Neighborhood Club is offering Your Solution for CPS Strike Days – HPNC Care Camp. There is extremely limited space and pre-registration is required. Register here.