Another week has passed and as usual I would like to share some information that is important as we continue through our school year.  To begin, our “test to Stay” program has continued to perform as expected. We have had as high as 53 students at any given time in the program and the overwhelming majority of those utilizing the program have been able to stay in school without quarantine. As a reminder, the Test to stay program is separate from the weekly saliva based program known as “Shield”.  We have successfully enrolled approximately 300 students/staff in the Shield program and hope to start collecting those samples/tests late next week. As always, our goal is to keep students in school and out of quarantine and so far our programs are meeting our needs.  
Our Covid positive rates are higher than the halfway point last year for our students, but quarantine rates are lower.  In staff, our Covid Positive rates are relatively low and as of Thursday Evening we only had 1 staff member in quarantine. 
Moving forward, if we can continue to maintain low Staff infection/quarantine rates and can continue the “Test to Stay '' program we will be able to maintain our current and traditional calendar.  
Which leads to a rumor that has been circulating recently about the State of Illinois moving back to all remote learning.  While I am not Nostradamus, I have not heard or been given any indication that the Governor is contemplating shutting schools down and moving to “all remote” learning.  While our daily routine of working through the Covid issues is very daunting, we have found ways to stay the course and I believe the vast majority of districts are also finding themselves in a similar situation.  We are ecstatic to be able to offer full days/full weeks and all the normal school activities and do not want to move away from these practices. So, it is my sincere wish that rumors are just rumors and we can expect to continue as we are for the foreseeable future.  I am sure that some of the rumors we have heard relate to the fact that we are moving into the first holiday of the school year and many are concerned about those activities that may spread the Covid Virus, so please be careful and keep your families safe, but have a great weekend.  
If the unthinkable happens please understand that we will prepare for that eventuality and within days of any announcement the district will have a plan in action, technology access issues resolved and learning taking place.  Again, everyone “knock on wood” we do not want to have to move into the wrong direction and it is not in our plans to do so.

I would like to share a plea to all of our community members.  One area of grave concern for our district is the lack of substitute teachers and drivers.  if you can help us out by subbing as a teacher or driver we would be extremely grateful. If you have family or friends that might be able to fill our sub positions please share this info with them and ask them to contact the school district if they are interested.  Even if we can utilize someone for one day a week that will go a long way in insuring we can continue to have full weeks/days and uninterrupted educational opportunities.

We will use the Superintendent's Blog to help answer questions about Covid-19 testing and Quarantine through the Q and A section below, which can also be found on the District website, along with other Covid materials.  Web Link to Covid Materials .  
As we receive questions we will add to this page to help everyone stay informed.

Thank you.

​COVID Testing Info/FAQ
 
Test to Stay is only an option if exposure took place at school and both parties are masked at time of exposure. Test to Stay is NOT an option for someone that was exposed outside of school or unmasked. (ie-household member, friend or family member outside of home.)
 
Test to Stay- consent must be given prior to testing iif your student is identified as a close contact. You will have to give consent to the nurse and another staff member. This consent will be for the 4 tests needed for Test to Stay only.
 
If, in the future, your student would need a nasal swab you will be contacted prior to testing and consent would have to be given again. A nasal swab will NEVER be done without your permission.
 
If at any time the student develops symptoms after exposure they would no longer qualify for Test to Stay. They must stay home and contact their doctor.
 
Test to Stay - if day 1, 3, 5, or 7 falls on a day that saliva testing is being done and your student is already opted in for this they will have the option to do saliva testing or nasal swab. The other 3 tests will be performed w/ a nasal swab since the other is only done once a week.
 
The SHIELD saliva testing form only needs to be returned if you want to OPT-IN for weekly saliva testing. If you do not wish for your student to participate in the program DO NOT fill out the form. You may just throw it away.
 
If you signed up for weekly saliva testing am I also giving consent for BinaxNOW (nasal swab) testing?
No. The consent form is ONLY for weekly saliva testing. 

​Greetings PORTA Bluejays,
 
I would like to offer some information about the current mask mandate in an attempt to inform all of our families and community members of the facts revolving around this very sensitive issue.
It is obvious some community members do not believe that the Governor has the authority to mandate mask wearing in schools and that the School Board has the authority to circumvent the mandate and School Code.  Unfortunately, this is untrue, in a communication from the State Superintendent all district Superintendents were notified that the “Executive Order has the full force of law and that for those districts who choose noncompliance school accreditation will likely be revoked pursuant to 23 Ill Admin Cod 1.20.  In fact, ISBE has already revoked school accreditation for this very issue in one school district in Chicago and has sent numerous other letters to school districts who have openly defied the mask mandate.  All of the districts are now on probationary status until they rectify the code violation and in 60 days will lose accreditation in not rectified.
To further clarify, if a school district’s State accreditation is revoked, the district cannot levy taxes, receive State or Federal Funds, participate in IHSA/IESA activities or offer a diploma to a graduating senior. Defying the current mandate also allows insurance companies the window to deny overage to the district and school board members.  (Board Attorney Advice)
So, moving forward, I believe it is safe to say that many Board of Education members, administration and staff sympathize with the attitude to defy this latest mandate, but it is obviously not in the best interest of students and our community to knowingly place district resources and state recognition at risk.
It has been our goal all summer to return to school full days and 5 days a week and we have developed a plan that will allow the district to do so and have a great deal of latitude when making determinations on who must quarantine in the case of close contacts and positive COVID cases. We are finalizing plans to offer voluntary weekly saliva-based testing through a program called “shield”, which then allows the district to conduct a “test to stay” testing regime.  In the latest “test to stay” program students who are following guidelines and have had a close contact with a positive case may opt for the “test to stay” program.  Those students will be able to test on subsequent days (1,3,5, and 7) after the contact and if those tests are negative the student is not quarantined.  If on day 5 the student tests positive we will quarantine but will start that quarantine period as of the initial close contact, reducing the number of student absent days.  The idea is to stop long term quarantine related to close contacts.  Too many were quarantined under last year’s guidelines and never were infected with the virus.  We believe this is a very good way to reduce your time away from work and your students time away from school and it all is contingent of following the current guidelines in place.
On August 19, 2021 the board will be asked to approve our safe return to school plan which includes following the current mask mandate, if that mandate changes in the future the plan will be amended to meet current guidelines.  Student attendance will begin on August 17, 2021 and all students, staff and visitors to the district will be required to follow current Covid-19 mitigation rules, masking included.
The PORTA administration and staff ask, implore our families to please provide a mask for your students. We do not want to be placed in an adversarial position with the students and families, whom we love and respect.  In the instance we have students who refuse to wear a mask, we will offer the opportunity to change their mind and then will treat the issue s a dress code violation, ultimately leading to removal from the building.  Obviously, we do not want to do that, we want our students in class every day, learning.  Please help us meet our goals, we will be as understanding as possible but will enforce all current mandates.

Dear Superintendents: 

I know many of you are in a difficult position. The pandemic has required us to navigate changing circumstances and guidance. I deeply appreciate your leadership and the courage and integrity you have shown in tremendously challenging times. Many of you have requested clarity on the action the Illinois State Board of Education will take to enforce the universal indoor masking requirement, and this communication seeks to provide that clarity. 

As you know, Executive Order 2021-18, which went into effect last Wednesday, requires that all students, staff, and visitors wear masks indoors in all P-12 schools in Illinois. Governor Pritzker took this action after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended it. 

The purpose of the universal indoor masking requirement is to ensure all students can safely attend school in-person this fall. We know that consistent and correct mask use is the simplest, most effective way to keep students safely in school, where they can learn and grow to their fullest potential. Masks work best when everyone wears one. Research conducted by the CDC found that schools are safe when they have prevention strategies in place, as documented in the updated guidance from ISBE and the Illinois Department of Public Health.

The Delta variant is causing a surge in cases and hospitalizations, and masking is a critical strategy to protect students’ access to in-person learning and to keep students, staff, and the community around them safe. We don’t throw our umbrella away in a rainstorm because we’re not getting wet. We have to keep our umbrella up until the storm passes. 

The executive order has the force of law. I understand the pressure some school and district leaders may be facing from community members, and I will provide you with every support to understand, communicate, and comply with the order.

However, noncompliance is not an option. I will not compromise the health and safety of students or staff, nor will I risk even one child’s life. 

Local boards of education, schools, and school districts do not have the authority to deny the Governor’s Executive Order requiring universal indoor masking in schools. Doing so not only puts students’ health and safety at risk but also opens the district to extraordinary legal liability – potentially without any insurance to cover damages. I strongly recommend that each district consult with its legal counsel and insurer to fully understand the repercussions.

Further, ISBE has and will use its regulatory authority, pursuant to 23 Ill Admin. Code 1.20, to ensure school districts protect students and staff; if school districts fail to do so, this risks State recognition.


A district would have multiple opportunities to remedy the deficiencies that present a health hazard or a danger to students or staff before becoming unrecognized. A district would first have its recognition status changed to “On Probation” and would be asked to submit a corrective action plan. Failure to address the deficiencies would lead to nonrecognition, meaning total loss of access to state funding and loss of the school's ability to engage in any Illinois High School Association and Illinois Elementary School Association athletic competitions.

These are not steps anyone at ISBE wishes to take nor should these steps be necessary. School districts have the moral and legal obligation to follow public health requirements and guidance to keep their students and staff safe. 
Wearing a mask is simple, safe, and easy. I know it can be uncomfortable sometimes, but so are football helmets and seatbelts. Sometimes we have to bear a little discomfort for the sake of safety and because it’s the law. 

We have so many important issues to face as we start the school year, and we want to start the year off with positivity for all our students. I ask that you respect that there is a mask requirement, communicate this to your school communities, and celebrate the return to in-person learning. 

Thank you for your partnership and support.


Sincerely,  


Dr. Carmen I. Ayala 
State Superintendent of Education 
Illinois State Board of Education 

 We are two weeks from beginning a new school year and as you all know we are constantly watching guidance from CDC, IDPH, ISBE and our local Sangamon/Menard County Health Department.  Currently, the CDC's recommendation can be found "here".  In short, In-person learning should be the priority for all schools and as such we will be returning 5 days a week and full days.  This is consistent with the message we have shared beginning in the late Spring.  Additionally, masks are required/mandated while in the school building and classroom for all teachers, students and visitors regardless of vaccination status.  Social distancing of 3 ft for those wearing masks is recommended and for those who are not masked a 6 ft social distancing  is recommended.  The district will continue the sanitation program instituted last school year and will also offer testing regimes for those families who choose to be regularly tested or need to be tested as a result of exhibiting symptoms.  Masks are required on buses by both students and drivers.  Lunch and breakfast distribution will be similar to school year 20-21 but with more options for students rather than a grab and go style meal and all lunches and breakfast meals will be free. 
While masking and vaccinations are extremely personal issues, there are specific benefits to both when considering quarantining of students and time lost in the classroom and for parents who are working.  We are required to contact trace once an exposure occurs here at school.  When we begin that process we will look at that particular classroom or other instructional space and determine who has been vaccinated and who were wearing masks and were a safe distance from the covid positive person.  In all of these cases students who are either vaccinated or masked appropriately will not need to be quarantined.  Only those who are unvaccinated or unmasked during that contact period will need to be  quarantined.  In an effort to reduce quarantine for students who have been exposed we are investigating a rigorous testing regime that includes "saliva" testing on a voluntary weekly or bi-weekly basis.  This testing has the ability to reduce the number of students who are quarantined as they effectively can "test out of quarantine", something that was not available to Illinois students in the 20-21 school year. While we are just learning about this new testing opportunity we are optimistic that many families will want to opt into this testing as a reassuring piece of mind for those who have been tested.  Again, the benefit is fewer days in quarantine and fewer lost working days for students and families.

The PORTA FY 2022 Return to learn plan can be found below and a public comment page is made available as well. A link to the safe return plan can also be found here and will guide you to the PORTA Website.
Thank you for all your support.

​PORTA CUSD 202
Plan for Safe Return to In-Person Instruction and Continuity of Services
August 2, 2021
To comment on this Plan use the following form: Comment Form
To open schools for in-person instruction required strict health and safety protocols which created barriers and limitations to teaching and learning.  Recognizing that students across remote and in-person settings faced significant academic, social, emotional, and mental health challenges as a result of the interrupted education and the trauma caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. Congress made emergency funds available to local school districts to prevent, prepare for, and respond to COVID-19.  Most recently, funds available through the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act require that school districts develop a Plan for Safe Return to In-Person Instruction and Continuity of Services.  As such, this plan has been developed in accordance with the ARP Act and the Illinois State Superintendent of Education declaration of July 9, 2021; is aligned with guidance provided by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC); and addresses adjustments needed in response to evolving COVID-19 pandemic circumstances. 
 Opportunity for the public to provide input will be provided from August 3-10, 2021 through a web-based comment platform.  Upon request, this plan will be provided in an alternative format accessible to parents who are individuals with a disability as defined by the ADA.  This plan will also be made publicly available on the district’s website.  School strategies in this plan may be removed based upon local conditions, levels of community transmission (i.e., low, moderate, substantial, or high), local vaccine coverage, use of screening testing to detect cases in K-12 schools, and consultation with local public health officials to determine the prevention strategies needed.  School officials will communicate any changes in plans to staff members, students, and parents through the district’s regular communication platforms.
Maintaining the Health and Safety of Students, Educators, and Other Staff
In accordance with the Illinois State Superintendent of Schools July 9, 2021 declaration, all PORTA CUSD 202 schools will be open fully for in-person learning for all student attendance days for the 2021-22 school year.  Remote instruction will only be made available for non-vaccinated or vaccine ineligible students who are under quarantine as directed by the local health department or the Illinois Department of Public Health. The district will be prepared to adjust educational and athletic programming as necessary throughout the year. Absent an order from the Illinois State Board of Education and/or the Illinois Governor’s Office, PORTA 202 schools will be in operation in accordance with the CDC’s updated (July 9, 2021) Guidance for COVID-19 Prevention in Kindergarten (K)-12 Schools, also adopted by the IDPH on July 9, 2021.  These guidelines include the following:
 
1.    Mask Use
·  Mask use is mandated/Required for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status.  Mask use is recommended outdoors during activities (e.g., participating in outdoor play, recess, physical education, sports, extra curriculars) that involve sustained close contact with other people who are not fully vaccinated, particularly in areas of substantial to high transmission.
·  Unless exempt by CDC Order, passengers and drivers are required to wear a mask on school buses.
·  We will continue to monitor the health and wellbeing of our students and staff and adjust accordingly if needed. Everyone should be prepared to wear masks if our local metrics warrant that need. 
 
2.    Physical Distancing
·  To the extent possible within school and classroom structures so that it does not exclude students from full day in-person learning, school staff will help students commit to physical distancing as much as possible by modeling and reinforcing physical distancing of a minimum of 3ft, of distancing wherever possible. 6ft. of distancing is encouraged.
·  Maximizing physical distance as much as possible when moving through food service lines and while eating indoors.  Aside from the cafeteria, additional spaces for mealtime seating will be utilized when available and feasible. All Student meals will be free for the 2021-2022 school year in accordance with USDA reimbursements. Meal Patterns will return to 2019-20 guidelines and extra items will be allowed for purchase at the Jr/Sr high Level. 
·  Physical distancing measures will be done in an equitable manner that does not perpetuate tracking (e.g., separating people into fully vaccinated and non-fully vaccinated cohorts).
 
3.    Contact Tracing in Combination with Isolation and Quarantine
·  Students and staff who have symptoms of infectious illness, such as influenza (flu) or COVID-19 and who are unvaccinated, should stay home and contact their healthcare provider for testing and care. 
·  Individuals in our school environments who show symptoms of COVID-19 should report to health care professional’s office to be either sent home.   Parents should ensure that ill students are picked up from school promptly after being notified.  Ill students will not be allowed to utilize the school bus to return home.  
·  Students and staff who are not fully vaccinated should quarantine after a recent close contact to someone with COVID-19.  Fully vaccinated people who were in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 but do NOT have COVID-19 symptoms do not need to quarantine or be tested.  Quarantine decisions will be made and communicated by Menard and Sangamon County Health Department officials.
·  Student absences related to a COVID-19 isolation or quarantine will be recorded as excused.  To ensure continuity of services, school work missed during such an absence can be requested and made up in accordance with the school’s policy (refer to student handbook); social, emotional, mental health, or other needs will be provided in accordance with a student’s IEP or 504 Plan.  Parents of students who have social, emotional, mental health, or other needs outside of an IEP or 504 Plan should contact their child’s principal to discuss needs.  Remote instruction will only be made available for non-vaccinated or vaccine ineligible students who are under quarantine as directed by the local health department or the Illinois Department of Public Health.
·  Absent COVID-related leave days previously provided by Federal law, staff absences related to a COVID-19 isolation or quarantine will be recorded in accordance with the district’s sick leave policy and related professional negotiations agreements.  
·  To the extent allowable by privacy laws and other applicable laws, school health care professionals will continue to collaborate with Health Department officials to confidentially provide information about people diagnosed with or exposed to COVID-19, including making notifications to staff and parents as soon as possible regarding those who were in close contact of someone in the school who tested positive for COVID-19.
·  Students and staff suspected of having COVID-19, whether they were tested or not, are to follow the CDC guidelines and Menard/Sangamon County Health Department guidelines to determine when they can return to school.
 
4.     Handwashing and Respiratory Etiquette
·  School staff will monitor and reinforce frequent handwashing and respiratory etiquette by
 
·         continuing to teach handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds;
·         assisting young children with handwashing;
·         reminding everyone in the facility to wash hands frequently;
·         using hand sanitizer when handwashing is not possible;
·         continuing to teach respiratory etiquette (e.g., covering coughs and sneezes)
 
5.    Facility and Transportation Cleaning, Disinfection and Ventilation
·  School teaching staff, custodial staff and transportation staff will continue to clean surfaces daily, and between classes to the extent possible.  To further reduce the risk of spreading infection, these staff will also use disinfectants to disinfect spaces occupied by someone who tested positive for COVID-19 within the last 24 hours.
·  When possible and as circumstances allow, staff may open doors and windows, and/or allow for activities, classes, or lunches outdoors.
·  When it does not pose a safety or other risk, transportation staff may keep vehicle windows open at least a few inches to improve air circulation as feasible.




6.    Promoting Vaccination
·  Working with the Menard/Sangamon County Health Department, a COVID-19 vaccine clinic, available to anyone in our area 12 years of age and older, was held at PORTA Jr.-Sr.  High School on June 4 (2nd dose date of Clinic July 2nd). Additional clinics will be added as demand for the vaccine increases.
·  Respectful of peoples’ varying levels of vaccine confidence, those who want to get vaccinated against COVID-19 can contact the Sangamon/Menard County Health Department to find out where they can get vaccinated in our community.
 
7.     Disabilities or Other Health Care Needs
·  Parents of students who need accommodations, modifications, or assistance related to COVID-19 safety protocols, disabilities, underlying medical conditions, or weakened immune systems should contact their student’s case manager or building Principal to discuss the need(s).
·  Staff members who need accommodations, modifications, or assistance related to COVID-19 safety protocols, disabilities, underlying medical conditions, weakened immune systems, or a sincerely held religious belief or practice (covered by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964) should contact their school’s principal to discuss the need(s). Staff members with weakened immune systems are advised to contact their healthcare professional about the need for continued personal protective measures after vaccination.
 
8.     Visitors
·  Nonessential visitors, volunteers, and activities involving external groups or organizations with people who are not fully vaccinated are discouraged from visiting schools.
 
9.    Collaboration with Public Health Officials
·  District officials will continue to collaborate and consult with the Menard/Sangamon County Health Department officials throughout a pandemic on various logistics and decision-making including, but not limited to, quarantines, school health and safety protocols, screening testing, contact tracing, vaccine clinics, and emergency school closings.
 
10.   Plan Review
·  This plan will be reviewed no less frequently than every six months and revised as appropriate after seeking and considering public input.  Revisions will address the most recently updated safety recommendations by the CDC, provided in an alternative format accessible to parents who are individuals with a disability as defined by the ADA, and made publicly available on the district’s website.
 
Other notifications:
·  Students will be issued individual devices (Chromebooks or IPads) should the need for school closure at any point arise, and/or should students need to be quarantined.
·  Athletic programs will run as normal with full activity fees charged and admission charged at indoor, home sporting events. The NFHS system will continue to be utilized for those who wish to view from home.
·  Field trips and fundraisers will resume as normal. 
·  HS absences due to a documented local health department quarantine or isolation order will not count when calculating semester exam exemptions.   
·  Locker rooms will be utilized for PE.

​

PORTA DISTRICT #202 REGISTRATION AND FEES FOR 2021-22

PRE-K THROUGH 6TH GRADE
Registration for the 2021-2022 school year will be held on Thursday, July 29th from 12:00-7:00p.m. and Friday, July 30th from 7:00a.m.-11:00a.m. at PORTA Central. Registration packet pickup will be Thursday, July 22nd from 9-11a.m. and 5:00-7:00p.m. at PORTA Central as well.   School supply lists will be sent home with report cards.  Supply lists will also be available on the PORTA web page this summer.  Parents of students who will be moving out of the district are asked to contact the school office as soon as possible.  Your cooperation in preparing for the 2021-2022 school year is greatly appreciated.
.
JR.-SR. HIGH REGISTRATION held in the High School Library

July 29th noon to 7
July 30th 7-11 new students only on this day

** NEW STUDENTS FOR GRADES 7-12 PLEASE CALL THE JR-SR HIGH SCHOOL OFFICE  TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT FOR REGISTRATION ON JULY 30TH  (217-632-3216)

REGISTRATION FEES:
Kindergarten        $55.00                Driver Education    $150.00
Grades 1-6        $55.00                Sr.High Band        $30.00
Grades 7-12        $75.00                Sr. High Choir        $25.00
Parking Fee        $25.00                Sr. High Band/Choir     $40.00
Jr. High Industrial Arts    $10.00                Technology Fee        $35.00
Jr. High Band        $23.00            
Jr. High Choir        $17.00                 J.H. P.E. T-Shirt    $7.00
                                
ATHLETIC FEES    H.S.        Jr.High    
Athlete’s 1st Sport    $45.00        $40.00
Athlete’s 2nd Sport    $45.00        $40.00
Athlete’s 3rd Sport    Free        Free
MAXIMUM OF $250.00 PER FAMILY
BREAKFAST PRICES        LUNCH PRICES
Grades K-6        $2.00        Grades K-6    $2.75    Extra Milk       $.35
Grades 7-12        $2.50        Grades 7-12    $3.00      Adult        $3.50
STUDENT INSURANCE        School Time Coverage        
Grades K-6                    Free                
Grades 7-12                    Free    
Grades 9-12 Tackle Football Coverage-Provided by the District            
ATHLETIC COUPONS
Coupons may be purchased at the H.S. Office    H.S.- $30.00       Jr. High - $20.00
Ten coupons to be used in that current school calendar year.  No refunds.  One coupon
for each person entering contest. 
FAMILY AND STUDENT PASSES
Family Pass Jr. High-All Year        $60.00        Adult Pass Sr. High – Fall     $25.00
Student Pass Jr. High – All Year        $15.00        Family Pass Sr. High–Winter    $75.00  
Family Pass Sr. High – Fall        $50.00        Student Pass Sr. High-Winter    $20.00
Student Pass Sr. High – Fall         $15.00        Adult Pass Sr. High-Winter    $40.00

ATHLETIC TICKET PRICES        H.S.        Jr. High
Adults                        $5.00        $3.00
Students                    $3.00        $2.00
Seniors                        $3.00        $2.00

​

The PORTA School District, in cooperation with the Illinois National Guard, Menard and Sangamon County Health Departments, will be offering the second round of a Covid-19 vaccine clinic at our High School campus on July 2, 2021. There is no cost for the vaccine.
Pfizer will be the vaccine utilized at the July 2nd clinic, which will allow ages 12 and up to participate.  This is a follow up clinic to a June 11, 2021 clinic and is scheduled at the same location and during the same time schedule. While this clinic is designed for follow-up vaccinations we will have limited availability for initial vaccinations as well.  
Appointments will be from 9:00 to 11:00 AM.
To Qualify for This clinic you must be 12 years of age or older and a legal guardian must be present during the vaccination for students 17 and under.
PLEASE READ:
If you are insured, please bring proof of insurance. The health Department will bill an administrative fee to cover some of the costs for the services they offer at the vaccine site. However, insurance is not required to receive the vaccine.
If possible, wear a short sleeved shirt to ensure vaccine is easily administered.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
You need to wait at least 14 days from your last vaccination (i.e. flu vaccine) to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. This means you are not eligible until day 15 after your last vaccination.
Before you schedule your second dose, ensure you have waited the appropriate amount of time (see your blue card). If appointment times are unavailable, please wait until additional time slots become available. If you come too early, you CANNOT get your second dose.
If you want to reduce your time waiting, you can go to SCDPH and fill out the consent form online and bring it (Consent form can be found below or on scdph.org under COVID-19 Vaccine Info [Orange Button] seen below scheduling). Consent form is to be filled out for both 1st dose and 2nd dose appointments.
 
Entry to the clinic will be through the Main entry doors on the South side of the School and confined to the commons area. Participants will be temperature scanned before entry and must wear a mask. Please bring ID, proof of insurance/Medicare, and any necessary medical paperwork to verify eligibility. A legal guardian must be present for any student under the age of 18, vaccinations will be offered to 12 years and older.
To register for an appointment, please call any PORTA District building office between 8:30 and 3:00 weekdays at 217-632-3803.  Please make a note of the time of your appointment as reminders will not be sent.
Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment.
 
Consent Form Link:  https://scdph.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/COVID-19-Consent-Form-002.pdf
Pfizer vaccine information:  https://scdph.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Pfizer-BioNTech-COVID-19-Vaccine-EUA-Fact-Sheet-for-Recipients-and-Caregivers.pdf

The PORTA School District, in cooperation with the Illinois National Guard, Menard and Sangamon County Health Departments, will be offering a Covid-19 vaccine clinic at our High School campus on June 11, 2021. There is no cost for the vaccine.
Pfizer will be the vaccine utilized at the June 11 clinic, which will allow ages 12 and up to participate.  A follow up clinic will be scheduled for July 2, 2021 at the same location and during the same time schedule. 
Appointments will be from 9:00 to 2:00 PM.
To Qualify for This clinic you must be 12 years of age or older and a legal guardian must be present during the vaccination for students 17 and under.
PLEASE READ:
If you are insured, please bring proof of insurance. The health Department will bill an administrative fee to cover some of the costs for the services they offer at the vaccine site. However, insurance is not required to receive the vaccine.
If possible, wear a short sleeved shirt to ensure vaccine is easily administered.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
You need to wait at least 14 days from your last vaccination (i.e. flu vaccine) to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. This means you are not eligible until day 15 after your last vaccination.
Before you schedule your second dose, ensure you have waited the appropriate amount of time (see your blue card). If appointment times are unavailable, please wait until additional time slots become available. If you come too early, you CANNOT get your second dose.
If you want to reduce your time waiting, you can go to SCDPH and fill out the consent form online and bring it (Consent form can be found below or on scdph.org under COVID-19 Vaccine Info [Orange Button] seen below scheduling). Consent form is to be filled out for both 1st dose and 2nd dose appointments.
 
Entry to the clinic will be through the West Event entry doors on the Southwest side of the School and confined to the gymnasium. Participants will be temperature scanned before entry and must wear a mask. Please bring ID, proof of insurance/Medicare, and any necessary medical paperwork to verify eligibility. A legal guardian must be present for any student under the age of 18, vaccinations will be offered to 12 years and older.
To register for an appointment, please call any PORTA District building office between 8:30 and 3:00 weekdays at 217-632-3803. This is a first come, first confirmed, basis. Please make a note of the time of your appointment as reminders will not be sent.
Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment.
 
Consent Form Link:  https://scdph.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/COVID-19-Consent-Form-002.pdf
Pfizer vaccine information:  https://scdph.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Pfizer-BioNTech-COVID-19-Vaccine-EUA-Fact-Sheet-for-Recipients-and-Caregivers.pdf

MEMORANDUM
TO: Local Health Departments
FROM: Communicable Disease Section
RE: Interim Public Health Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People

Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated the Interim Public Health
Recommendations for Fully Vaccinated People in non-health care settings. In summary, fully vaccinated
people no longer need to wear a mask or physically distance in any non-healthcare setting, except
where required by federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules, and regulations, including local
business and workplace guidance. IDPH is working to adjust existing guidance documents in response.
Guidance for healthcare settings remains unchanged at this time and can be found at Updated
Healthcare Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations in Response to COVID-19 Vaccination. In
addition, employees and residents of congregate settings, such as correctional facilities and homeless
shelters, should continue to mask. Similarly, schools should continue to follow the CDC’s school
guidance until more people and children are vaccinated.
The CDC’s guiding principles for these updates are:
• Indoor and outdoor activities pose minimal risk to fully vaccinated people.
• Fully vaccinated people have a reduced risk of transmitting SARS-CoV-2 to unvaccinated people.
• Fully vaccinated people should still get tested if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
• Fully vaccinated people should not visit private or public settings if they have tested positive for
COVID-19 in the prior 10 days or are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.
The following recommendations for fully vaccinated persons are as follows:
• Resume activities without wearing masks or physically distancing, except where required by
federal, state, local, tribal, or territorial laws, rules and regulations, including local business and
workplace guidance
• Resume domestic travel and refrain from testing before or after travel or self-quarantine after
travel (For now, masking is still required on planes, buses, trains and other forms of public
transportation.)
• Refrain from testing before leaving the United States for international travel (unless required by
the destination) and refrain from self-quarantine after arriving back in the United States

• Refrain from testing following a known exposure, if asymptomatic, with some exceptions for
specific settings (e.g., employees or residents of homeless shelters and detention facilities)
• Refrain from quarantine following a known exposure if asymptomatic
• Refrain from routine screening testing if feasible
For now, fully vaccinated people should continue to:
• Get tested if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms
• Follow CDC and health department travel requirements and recommendations

The Covid 19 Vaccination Clinic scheduled to be held at PORTA High School on May 5, 2021 has been cancelled due to low participation levels.  We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused. 

In alignment with the CDC, 14-day quarantine continues to be the recommended period. Options acceptable to the CDC include:
 
A. Students may return to the classroom after 10 days of quarantine and a negative test taken on or after day 10.
 
B. Students may return to playing sports after 14 days of quarantine.
 
C. In accordance with CDC’s latest guidelines, if IgG antibodies are present they may return without quarantine. It is important to rule out the presence of IgM and any ongoing symptoms. It is important to use standard labs for antibodies testing and not home kits.
 
D. A student who has been fully vaccinated* does not require quarantine unless symptoms develop. If symptoms develop, the student must isolate immediately and be tested.

​
* Fully vaccinated is two weeks after the second dose of Moderna or Pfizer vaccine and two weeks after the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
 

DATE:         April 19, 2021
 
TO:             Sangamon-Menard Schools
 
FROM:       Gail O’Neill, Director of Public Health
 
SUBJECT:  Return of Students from Quarantine
 
 
Regional School Superintendents requested that the Sangamon County Department of Public Health allow student-athletes to return from quarantine at 10 days after exposure to COVID-19 rather than after day 14. They said that surrounding counties around us are less restrictive.
 
On December 2, 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released guidance for establishing quarantine timelines for contacts of persons with SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/science/science-briefs/scientific-brief-options-to-reduce-quarantine.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fmore%2Fscientific-brief-options-to-reduce-quarantine.html
 
Subsequently, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) adopted the guidance.  On December 17, 2020, IDPH released updates to the quarantine guidelines for local public health authorities to determine and establish quarantine options based on risk factors. https://www.dph.illinois.gov/sites/default/files/IDPH%20Quarantine%20guidance1.14.2021_0.pdf
 
Due to increased cases in the 0-19 population within Sangamon and Menard Counties, the Sangamon County Department of Public Health requires enhanced surveillance of the students before returning to school. Sporting activities have been the source of much of the increase in cases in our area.
 
After checking with several similar communities, we found that we are not the only ones adhering to the guidance provided by IDPH. Others have adhered strictly to the IDPH guidelines of 14 days of quarantine for student-athletes and the quarantine of members of both opposing teams if there is a positive person who has exposed either team. After much discussion with medical consultants, we offer the following directions regarding quarantine of student-athletes in sports.
 
In alignment with the CDC, 14-day quarantine continues to be the recommended period. Options acceptable to the CDC include:
 
A. Students may return to the classroom after 10 days of quarantine and a negative test taken on or after day 10.
 
B. Students may return to playing sports after 14 days of quarantine.
 
C. In accordance with CDC’s latest guidelines, if IgG antibodies are present for the athlete, they may return to play without quarantine. It is important to rule out the presence of IgM and any ongoing symptoms. It is important to use standard labs for antibodies testing and not home kits.
 
D. A student who has been fully vaccinated* does not require quarantine unless symptoms develop. If symptoms develop, the student must isolate immediately and be tested.
 
* Fully vaccinated is two weeks after the second dose of Moderna or Pfizer vaccine and two weeks after the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
 
All shortened quarantine periods require additional criteria to be followed. Key points to highlight include:

• Correct and consistent mask use (including within homes)
• Social distancing
• Hand hygiene
• Daily monitoring of symptoms of COVID-19 illness
• Avoid large crowds

 
As the legal public health authority, our staff will assess the processes in place for daily monitoring, proper testing, and any additional exposures. 
 
Thank you for your patience during this unique period in our community.  We truly appreciate the collaboration.

The PORTA School District, in cooperation with the Illinois National Guard, Menard and Sangamon County Health Departments, will be offering a Covid-19 vaccine clinic at our High School campus on May 5, 2021. There is no cost for the vaccine.
At this point the vaccination in use will be Pfizer for all initial vaccinations, but regardless if you need your first or second shot you may attend this clinic. If it is your second shot, you must inform us which shot (Moderna or Pfizer) you first received to pre-order the correct 2nd dose. (Bring your vaccination card for the 2nd dose.) A follow up clinic will be scheduled for either May 26th or May 27th at the same location and during the same time schedule. 
Appointments will be from 9:00 to 2:00 PM.
To Qualify for This clinic you must be 18 years of age or older.
PLEASE READ:
If you are insured, please bring proof of insurance. The health Department will bill an administrative fee to cover some of the costs for the services they offer at the vaccine site. However, insurance is not required to receive the vaccine.
If possible, wear a short sleeved shirt to ensure vaccine is easily administered.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
You need to wait at least 14 days from your last vaccination (i.e. flu vaccine) to receive a COVID-19 vaccine. This means you are not eligible until day 15 after your last vaccination.
Before you schedule your second dose, ensure you have waited the appropriate amount of time (see your blue card). If appointment times are unavailable, please wait until additional time slots become available. If you come too early, you CANNOT get your second dose.
If you want to reduce your time waiting, you can go to SCDPH and fill out the consent form online and bring it (Consent form can be found below or on scdph.org under COVID-19 Vaccine Info [Orange Button] seen below scheduling). Consent form is to be filled out for both 1st dose and 2nd dose appointments.
 
Entry to the clinic will be through the West Event entry doors on the Southwest side of the School and confined to the gymnasium. Participants will be temperature scanned before entry and must wear a mask. Please bring ID, proof of insurance/Medicare, and any necessary medical paperwork to verify eligibility.
To register for an appointment, please call any PORTA District building office between 8:30 and 3:00 weekdays at 217-632-3803. This is a first come, first confirmed, basis. Please make a note of the time of your appointment as reminders will not be sent.
Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment.
 
Consent Form Link:  https://scdph.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/COVID-19-Consent-Form-002.pdf
Pfizer vaccine information:  https://scdph.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Pfizer-BioNTech-COVID-19-Vaccine-EUA-Fact-Sheet-for-Recipients-and-Caregivers.pdf
​

​On April 6, 2021, three seats for the PORTA Board of Education will be open for election.  During this election four candidates are running for those three (3) seats.  Incumbants are Jeff Smith and Jeremy Garner and new candidates are Jackie Brant and Tracy Thornton.  We would like to share biographical information on the candidates and invite everyone to attend a "Meet the Candidate Night" on March 24th beginning at 7:00 PM and ending at 8:30 PM.  During the "Meet the Candidat" event candidates will have an opportunity to share the reasons they are running for the Board of Education and will take questions during the Q and A session.  We look forward to everyone attending our event on March 24th at 7:00 PM in the HS Auditorium. 

If you would like to join remotely please follow this link.  meet.google.com/ugj-eqwp-ybv

​On April 6, 2021, three seats for the PORTA Board of Education will be open for election.  During this election four candidates are running for those three (3) seats.  Incumbants are Jeff Smith and Jeremy Garner and new candidates are Jackie Brant and Tracy Thornton.  We would like to share biographical information on the candidates and invite everyone to attend a "Meet the Candidate Night" on March 24th beginning at 7:00 PM and ending at 8:30 PM.  During the "Meet the Candidat" event candidates will have an opportunity to share the reasons they are running for the Board of Education and will take questions during the Q and A session.  We look forward to everyone attending our event on March 24th at 7:00 PM in the HS Auditorium.  

​Jackie Brant was born in Paris, IL and spent her childhood between there and locations in California, Connecticut, and the Chicago suburbs. She ultimately returned to Paris as a young adult and called it home until she, and her family, moved to Petersburg in 2013.  During her life, Jackie’s career has been focused on helping others, with roles in customer service, healthcare and, recently, work in the public school system.  She is married to Joshua Brant, Cyber Security Strategist at LRS in Springfield, IL.  Together, they have five children in the PORTA school district: Jacob, a junior, Johnnie, a 7th grader, twins Jillian and Joseline, Kindergarteners, and Joshua Jr. (JD), a preschooler. 
 
After arriving in 2013, Jackie quickly acclimated to Petersburg and became involved in multiple organizations and activities.  She obtained her paraprofessional license and joined the PORTA school district as an individual aide just a few months after moving to town.  She left that position in 2014 to be a stay-at-home mom after her twins were born.  In 2019, she returned to the district as a substitute teacher.  In addition to her duties as a mom and working within the school district, Jackie also has a home baking business, Morning Glory Cakes, where she specializes in custom baked goods. 
 
Jackie has volunteered in local VBS programs, summer lunch activities and children’s programs, and was a GROW mentor for several years through the Petersburg Church of Christ. She has been a member of the Town and Country Women’s Club since 2014 where she has participated in numerous volunteer opportunities, fundraisers, and community events. 
 
Message from the candidate:
 
As a mother of five children in the PORTA district, as well as a past employee, I am deeply committed to the success of our school system.  I bring a unique perspective to the board, having worked within the classroom for several years and having fostered numerous relationships with past and present staff members. I plan to use my position on the school board to continue my pursuit of helping others and to be an advocate for those within our school community.

Jeff Smith was born and raised in Petersburg, IL and has continued to live here with his wife, Tracy.  He graduated from PORTA High School in 1989 and from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana in 1992.  After graduating with a Bachelor’s of Science in Agricultural Economics, Jeff worked as a substitute teacher while continuing his career in the agricultural field.  Now, Jeff farms full time with his father on the family farm west of Petersburg.  Jeff has one son, Luke, who is currently a freshman at Illinois State University and two step-daughters, Carly and Avery who attend school in the PORTA school district.  Jeff has volunteered to coach many youth sports, including baseball, basketball, and soccer.  He has served as the treasurer of the Menard County Soil and Water Board. Jeff is currently the Vice-President of the PORTA School Board and also on the Menard County Farm Service Agency County Office Committee.


Message from the candidate-
While serving in the Porta school board the last six years, I don’t think there has ever been a year as challenging as they year 2020. I hope to continue to serve the community in providing our students with the best education possible with safety of our students and faculty at hand, all while trying to keep the taxpayers interest in mind. 
I understand these challenges and I’m dedicated to the people within the PORTA school district. 

Tracy Thornton

​Hello, my name is Tracy Thornton and I’m honored for the opportunity to be a candidate for the PORTA School Board. I have lived in Petersburg since 2000, owned and operated Styles N More with my wife Amy since 2003, and our son Billy attends school here at PORTA. I have been an active volunteer or sponsor of many local youth sports leagues, and organizations. I formerly served on the Central Illinois Workforce Investment Board which focuses on real world job training for displaced workers and currently serve on the Menard County Board of Review. As a business owner and father, I believe that I can be a valuable addition to our school board and I look forward to the opportunity to continue to serve this community.
​

On April 6, 2021, three seats for the PORTA Board of Education will be open for election.  During this election four candidates are running for those three (3) seats.  Incumbants are Jeff Smith and Jeremy Garner and new candidates are Jackie Brant and Tracy Thornton.  Over the next few weeks we will share biographical information on the candidates and invite everyone to attend a "Meet the Candidate Night" on March 24th beginning at 7:00 PM and ending at 8:30 PM.  During the "Meet the Candidat" event candidates will have an opportunity to share the reasons they are running for the Board of Education and will take questions during the Q and A session.  We look forward to everyone attending our event on March 24th at 7:00 PM in the HS Auditorium.  

One issue that invariabely causes confusion in the PORTA Board of Education races is the design of the Ballot.  Fortunately this year the ballot is very simple to understand.  For the first time in many years the Board Election is a true popular vote election, in that the top three vote getters will recieve the three board seats.  The Ballot this year is very simple to understand as all the candidates are on the same ballot question and the directions explain to vote for three of the four candidates.  In years past we have had candidates not earn a seat even if they received a higher number of votes because our school district elections are done so in voting districts. The School Board can seat no more than three board members from any one district.  If a voting district has three members seated who are not up for election and a candidate runs for a open seat but resides in the same district as the current three seated members, that candidate could not be seated even if they recieved the most votes in the election.
Fortunately, this election year there is no confusion, vote for your top three candidates and if they recieve the highest number of votes they will be your new Board of Education members.

​The PORTA Board of Education approved a recommendation from myself and the PORTA Education Association to begin full five day instruction with remote learning Wednesdays every other week, starting March 15, 2021.  Additionally, beginning March 15th, the A/B hybrid option will be discontinued and students/families will be asked to choose between full in-person and full remote options throughout the district.  Finally, the district will reinstitute and enforce current attendance/Absence policies, meaning that if a student has chosen to be in person and is not physically present at school that absence will be considered an absence regardless of their ability to sign-on remotely.  In the case, of students who choose to be fully remote, if they have not reported to individual courses as required they too will be considered absent and will have consequences consistent with district policy and procedures.  For those students who are in-person and have been quarantined by the district, we will continue to allow those students to remotely access courses without attendance consequences as long as they are signing in remotely into classrooms as expected. 
One might ask why the district has moved to make these changes during the 4th quarter. The simple answer is that we anticipate beginning the 2021-22 school year with a mandate to offer remote learning because pandemic related issues will remain and rules to mitigate those issues will still be in force.  As such, minimizing the options for students will allow the district to focus on student learning with minimal distractions.  Currently, allowing students multiple learning options and allowing students to move in and out of in-person and remote options reduces our teaching effectiveness.  In short, we are preparing to offer the most consistent and stable option for the vast majority of our students so that we can deliver the best educational opportunities to those students and help them and their families succeed.
 
In summary:  Beginning March 15th, we will have full five day instruction and every other Wednesday will be a full remote day (March 24, April 7, April 21, May 5 and 19 full remote). Students/families will be expected to choose between In-person learning or full remote options only, no A/B schedule and current attendance policies will be fully enforced.  If your student was on the A/B model or would like to move from full remote to in-person or Vice versa please contact your building administrator and inform them of your decision March 5th.
 
We hope everyone realizes that we are working diligently towards more normalization for our students and this is what we consider the final step in that process.