Dear District 58 Families,
I hope everyone is having a great weekend filled with fun and relaxation. The purpose of this letter is to update you on court rulings that took place yesterday in Sangamon County. Please read the following article from NBC 5 that summarizes the decision.
District 58 was not a party to these lawsuits, and the Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) is less than 24 hours old. Given the lack of class certification and ambiguity in the language of the ruling, we are currently seeking clarification and need more time to process all of this information. I have received several messages from parents on both sides of this issue asking that we immediately remove the mandate and others stating that it needs to stay in place (there are many different interpretations of the TRO). A motion has been filed for a stay to be put in place this weekend while the decision is being appealed, and the Governor has indicated that the decision will be appealed. This issue is now being processed through the courts, which is where these types of legal decisions must be decided.
I write to ask for your patience and understanding as our district navigates the latest changes to the COVID-19 guidance and rules for Illinois schools.
At this time, we are in the process of reviewing the judge’s decision and will communicate with you as soon as possible regarding whether this ruling impacts District 58 students and staff members.
Until then, I ask for your patience as we review this decision.
Thank you for your continued support of our students and staff.
Sincerely,
Dr. Kevin B. Russell
Superintendent of Schools