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Update  11-17-2021:  PORTA Art Room Fire

11/17/2021

 
The vast majority of the building is overwhelmed with the smell of smoke and most of the building has soot damage of some nature.  We have partnered with an extreme Response Team from ServPro who have evaluated the building and are planning to cordon off specific areas to reduce spread of the smoke smell and will also implement air scrubbers to help reduce the smell.  We have also had an air quality team involved today (11/17) who will monitor air quality and perform forensic analysis throughout the restoration process to ensure everyone is safe.  
Insurance companies were notified early yesterday morning and adjusters have been assigned and we are currently waiting for approval from those organizations to begin full retoration efforts.  We hope to have the approvals by the end of today, November 17, 2021.  Depending on the specific area, restoration efforts might include removal/replacement of ceiling tiles and cleaning from top to bottom of that room, to mild cleaning and placement of air scrubbers to reduce odor.  All HVAC ducts and units will be cleaned.  Furniture, carpeting, cloth seating will all be evaluated and either cleaned or replaced.  
We have been told to expect a team of 50 to 70 workers completing the restoration in the next 10 to 12 days, with the goal of allowing students to return to in person learning on November 29th.  Restoration will continue beyond the 29th especially in the immediate area of the current art room and shop areas.  As we get closer to the 29th, we will have a better understanding of classrooms that are available for use in these areas and will create a plan to ensure we have adequate teaching and learning spaces for our students and staff.

Our insurance company will have a Cause and Origin expert in the district today or tomorrow to determine cause for the fire and once they have their investigation completed restoration and remodeling work will begin on the Art room.  

7-12 Grade students will begin remote learning on Thursday November 18, 2021 with the goal to return to in person instruction on November 29, 2021.  Students will follow their normal schedule and login to “Google Meets”.  If connectivity is an issue please contact your building principal and continue to monitor your student email accounts for more updates.  

At this time the pool is fully accessible, if you have questions in regards to lessons, rental, lap swim or water-aerobics please contact Rachel Frost. 

The Tentative plan will be to move the Fall Play to the weekend of December 4, 2021, rather than this coming weekend.

​

PORTA Jr/SR High Affected by Classroom Fire overnight on November 16, 2021

11/16/2021

 
Good Afternoon, As you know we have had a significant fire in the building, mainly contained in the HS Art room, but we have smoke and soot damage throughout the majority of the building.  In an abundance of caution, we will need to move to a “Full Remote” schedule for grades 7-12 beginning Thursday of this week and plan on returning to school for in person learning on November 29th if clean up goes as planned.. Remote learning will follow a regular bell schedule. PORTA Central and Petersburg Elementary will continue attending in person.  We will have a technology and personal item pickup day beginning Wednesday November 17, 2021.  Students may ride the bus to school to retrieve belongings and technology and we will transport you back to home following your pickup.  Students who transport themselves may come to the building from 8:15 Am to Noon to pick up technology and personal items from their lockers in preparation for remote learning.  While we are very limited on the number of hotspots we have available, if connectivity is an issue for your family we will try to accommodate your students in some fashion if necessary.  Please check your email for additional information from Mrs. McMahan regarding instructions for remote learning.

All events/Teams/Activities will be contacted by their coaches and sponsors for information about performances, practices and competitions, moving forward.  

The Board of Education meeting for tonight has been moved to Petersburg Elementary Cafeteria.

​

Transportation Services impacted by Covid

11/8/2021

 
While the district's Covid-19 statistics are good and in fact we didn't have a new case of Covid in our staff in a full month's time, we have just recently been impacted by Covid positive cases in our Transportation Department.  As such, we ask that you be patient with our PORTA Transportation team over the next week to 10 days as we are working on a very limited staff.  Pick-up and drop-off times might be affected and some routes might need to be combined or changed as the week progresses depending on availability of staff. Currently, all routes are covered but it is very possible that we may need to combine routes and/or alter pick-up and drop-off times in the future, if we have additional Covid Quarantine issues.  We would encourage you to transport your students to and from school if you are able and are concerned about the uncertainty of your drop-off and Pick-up times.  Moving forward if we feel you will be impacted we will notify you as soon as possible so that you are aware of any changes. 
Thank you in advance for your patience.

145 Illinois School Districts, Including PORTA, Named in Macoupin County Lawsuit.

10/21/2021

 
Good Morning PORTA Family,

As you probably know, PORTA is one of 145 school districts named as defendants in a lawsuit filed in Macoupin County by Tom DeVore representing parents in each of those districts. It is our understanding that a hearing has been scheduled on a temporary restraining order for November 5, 2021. The restraining order focuses on the mask mandate and extended quarantine of students.  Until we learn the outcome of that hearing on November 5, 2021 the PORTA return to learn plan will remain in place and all current mandates will continue to be followed. When we learn the outcome of the temporary restraining order we will comply with those findings.  
In the meantime, it has already become evident that some of our community members are choosing sides and expressing their views of the proceedings. We welcome diverse perspectives on this very controversial issue and support our community in all their different views. We also ask that divergent sides remember to respectfully agree or disagree with each other and remember that your views, opinions and words are part of your children’s daily perspective and we all need to be aware of our students' mental and physical well-being.  We all have experienced stressors beyond the norm and those same issues impact our students and we need to be vigilant in protecting them from that stress.  Help students understand in a calm and intelligent manner that it is important to support your personal rights and beliefs and as U.S. Citizens we have the duty to weigh those rights vs common good.  Each of us has our own answer to those questions and it is important that our students are able to reason their beliefs as well, in a safe environment.  
As we learn more we will share that information and regardless of the outcome will continue to find ways to keep our students in school, learning, playing and enjoying PORTA Schools.  If you are interested in the actual filed lawsuit you can find it at this link, “Macoupin County Litigation”.

Have a great weekend

October 15, 2021 Update....Shield Saliva-Based Testing Program Information.

10/15/2021

 
October 15, 2021 Update 

At the beginning of this school year we announced that we could offer saliva based testing at school on a weekly basis through the University of Illinois Shield program. We collected information and had a confirmed start date of September 9, 2021. Unfortunately, Shield was overwhelmed with responses and were unable to process many districts’ requests because of lack of staffing, planning and general covid related issues.  On Friday, October 15th I was notified by Shield that they are preparing to begin our testing program.  The district will meet with Shield Staff on Wednesday October 20th to set a date to begin testing.  I apologize for the delay in this voluntary program and understand that your family may have second thoughts about participating in the saliva based covid testing program. Please remember the Shield program is separate from our “Test to Stay” Program.  If you have already indicated that you were interested in the Shield testing program and would prefer to opt out please email your school nurse or building principal to let them know.  If you originally did not opt into the program and wish to at this juncture please do the same and contact your school nurse or principal.  
Currently, our Covid statistics are very good, only two in quarantine and 3 positive cases, all of which had no contact with students so no students in test to stay at this time.  We are less than a ½ % of students and staff quarantined or positive.
The district’s test to stay program has been a tremendous success and has kept students in the classroom at a very high rate.  We want to thank our families for working with us through these difficult times. We understand the levels of stress everyone is under and appreciate the efforts by all.  We hope that we will have some relief from those stressors in the near future and families can once again enjoy the simple pleasures of the upcoming holiday seasons without having that nagging feeling of covid in the background.
Please take care and have a wonderful weekend.

Illinois Law requiring access to Feminine Products in all Restrooms!!

9/22/2021

 
By the time this Blog becomes available to all parents and community members I am sure we will all be very aware that Illinois schools are being required to provide Feminine products in School district restrooms regardless of the gender of those restrooms.  For a number of years, school districts in Illinois have been tasked with providing adequate facilities for all students including transgender students.  In most cases, districts have offered alternative settings, restrooms designated as unisex and allowing access to facilities that best meet the needs of the individual student.  In May of this year the Illinois Legislature passed the legislation shared below, requiring free Feminine sanitary products be made available in all restrooms used by students grades 4-12.   As such, school districts across Illinois are adding feminine product dispensers in all restrooms, PORTA has also recently completed installing dispensers in required restrooms at the Jr/Sr High.  We apologize for the distraction this will cause within our community.  At this time we are required to meet this latest law and will continue to follow the Laws of Illinois to the best of our ability.  While we know, there are strong opinions on this matter we would encourage you to reach out to your legislators to express your personal opinions on Public Act 102-0340.  Thank you.


Be it enacted by the People of the State of Illinois, represented in the General Assembly: Section 5. The School Code is amended by changing Sections 10-20.63 and 34-18.56 as follows: (105 ILCS 5/10-20.63) Sec. 10-20.63. Availability of menstrual feminine hygiene products. (a) The General Assembly finds the following: (1) Menstrual Feminine hygiene products are a health care necessity and not an item that can be foregone or substituted easily. (2) Access to menstrual feminine hygiene products is a serious and ongoing need in this State. (3) When students do not have access to affordable menstrual feminine hygiene products, they may miss multiple days of school every month. (4) When students have access to quality menstrual feminine hygiene products, they are able to continue with their daily lives with minimal interruption. (b) In this Section: "Menstrual hygiene products" "Feminine hygiene products" means tampons and sanitary napkins for use in connection with HB0156  menstrual cycle. "School building" means any facility (i) that is owned or leased by a school district or over which the school board has care, custody, and control and (ii) in which there is a public school serving students in grades 6 through 12. (c) A school district shall make menstrual feminine hygiene products available, at no cost to students, in bathrooms of every school building that are open for student use in grades 4 through 12 during the regular school day the bathrooms of school buildings. (Source: P.A. 100-163, eff. 1-1-18; 100-863, eff. 8-14-18.) (105 ILCS 5/34-18.56) Sec. 34-18.56. Availability of menstrual feminine hygiene products. (a) The General Assembly finds the following: (1) Menstrual Feminine hygiene products are a health care necessity and not an item that can be foregone or substituted easily. (2) Access to menstrual feminine hygiene products is a serious and ongoing need in this State. (3) When students do not have access to affordable menstrual feminine hygiene products, they may miss multiple days of school every month. (4) When students have access to quality menstrual feminine hygiene products, they are able to continue with ​their daily lives with minimal interruption. (b) In this Section: "Menstrual hygiene products" "Feminine hygiene products" means tampons and sanitary napkins for use in connection with the menstrual cycle. "School building" means any facility (i) that is owned or leased by the school district or over which the board has care, custody, and control and (ii) in which there is a public school serving students in grades 6 through 12. (c) The school district shall make menstrual feminine hygiene products available, at no cost to students, in bathrooms of every school building that are open for student use in grades 4 through 12 during the regular school day the bathrooms of school buildings. (Source: P.A. 100-163, eff. 1-1-18; 100-863, eff. 8-14-18.) Section 99. Effective date. This Act takes effect upon becoming law

PORTA School Breakfast and Lunch Program and Impact of COVID!!

9/16/2021

 
09-16-2021

Dear PORTA Families,


PORTA is participating in the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Seamless Summer Option, which is under the School Nutrition Programs, for the entirety of the 2021-22 school year. This means that our school provides complete meals at no cost to all students! This program provides additional support and flexibility for our district to continue serving meals to children while maintaining safety measures and managing the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

One of the impacts that the COVID-19 pandemic is having nationwide is that schools are having challenges in receiving all of the foods and products that they need. There are a variety of reasons for this challenge, including everything from a lack of availability of popular food items, to labor shortages, to delivery issues. These changes may lead to last-minute menu changes and product substitutions. Be assured our staff are working through these challenges in order to provide your children with a balanced, healthy meal. We do ask for your patience and understanding as we do our best to meet the needs of your children.

Menus are always posted on our district website . Menus Link

Please contact me with any questions at 217-632-3803.

Sincerely,

Matt Brue
Superintendent
PORTA CUSD 202

PORTA Weekly Information Sharing Opportunity.

9/3/2021

 
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.

Parent and Staff Information August 27, 2021

8/27/2021

 
Good Evening PORTA Bluejays.   

As we close out the second week of school I wanted to remind everyone that we will be offering the Shield Testing program on a voluntary basis for students and staff with an anticipated start date of September 9th.  We have asked for everyone to return the Shield Consent Form by today, Friday August 27th but will extend the deadline until Tuesday August 31, 2021.  If at a later date you may become interested in the Shield testing program you can opt in at that time and as soon as the provider has all of the required information testing can begin for those late arrivals.  We estimate we have 300 participants opting into the program at this time and look forward to the implementation.  Additionally, we have already begun our “Test to Stay” Program and as of Thursday 35 students were taking advantage of the program.  We had a self-contained elementary classroom take advantage of the “Test to stay program” and completed their final test today.  All students in the classroom had negative results throughout the testing and as a result those 15 students were not forced to miss 14 days of school due to quarantine, saving a total of 210 attendance days in a single classroom.  We are excited to give families the opportunity to keep their students in school rather than in quarantine and hope we can continue providing you this valuable resource. We are grateful that we are able to have access to the free Binax testing kits provided to us by the Sangamon/Menard County health department.  The district receives no compensation for testing students, but does gain by ensuring students are in class rather than in quarantine. We are also thankful for our three amazing nurses who have been tasked with testing our students. Please remember to be kind to our nurses who are working extremely hard to help our students and at times have to deliver unwelcomed news that is extremely stressful. 
You may have heard on Thursday that the Governor implemented a vaccination mandate for K-12 school employees and those who choose not to be vaccinated must test on a weekly basis.  While this was a surprise to our staff, we have the ability to test our non-vaccinated staff members on site, with either the new Shield Program or our Binax testing kits, so that everyone can stay in compliance.  Staff members who wish may also complete the Shield Consent Form and participate in the program.
I wish all of our families and staff a happy and relaxing weekend, we look forward to serving our community throughout the rest of this school year and let's all hope for a peaceful weekend and week ahead.

FAQ on Local COVID-19 Testing for Students and Staff

8/25/2021

 
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. 

August 24, 2021 Family Communication on Local Testing Programs for Covid.

8/24/2021

 
Good Evening, 

After a week of school has been completed I felt this would be a good time to focus on some answers to questions that have come to our attention in regards to Covid, Quarantine, Shield Testing and TEST To Stay.

To begin, all districts in the State of Illinois have guidelines to follow when we discover that a positive student or staff member has been in close contact with other students.  In general, as long as students/staff are wearing their masks and are not inside of 3ft for any 15 minute time period, no close contact has been made.  A vaccinated person has even less risk of being recognized as a close contact.  If it is determined a student has been in close contact with a positive case and has met all mitigation measures, we can offer “Test to Stay”.  “Test to Stay” gives us the opportunity to test on days 1,3,5 and 7 following a close contact and if those tests continue to be negative the student/staff stay in school.  If a student is not following mitigations and has a close contact that student must be quarantined according to guidance.   So, you might ask “How do we know if a person has been in close contact with a positive case?”  The simple answer is that we talk with the positive student/staff, their teachers and those who they may have been in contact with to ensure we are catching everyone who might have been compromised.  From that point we talk with the students/Staff and their families and determine the best course of action, which is hopefully “Test to Stay”.  
One source of confusion this year is the difference between “Shield testing” and the “Test to Stay” Program.  The Shield Program is a weekly saliva based test that parents and staff may opt into if regular testing is an option you are in agreement with.  Everyone should have received a form to opt into the Shield testing program late last week and those are due back to the schools this Friday.  All Shield testing will be conducted by University of Illinois associates. We plan to begin the saliva testing program on Sept 9, 2021.  If you would like access to the test to stay program please look to the District website, Supts Blog or at this link for the appropriate Shield opt in form.
The “Test to Stay "program is also a local testing program, but unlike the Shield Testing program, our nursing staff administers the rapid Binax test and can get results in about 15 minutes.  We are fortunate to have three trained nurses to help us complete this testing so that we can keep students in school rather than automatic quarantine.  The “Test to Stay” Program is a nasal swab test and like the “Shield” Test requires permission from the family.  In fact, we will ask that you express your desire for your child to take part in the “Test to Stay” Program to Two different staff members so that no mistakes are made. 
All of these programs are designed to keep staff and students in school learning and safe for full days, five days a week.  Having said that, this has been a challenging week for our staff, with a fair amount of positive cases, quarantine and students in the “Test to Stay” Protocol.   We continue to ask that you monitor your children’s health and if they are symptomatic please keep them home from school and ask to have them tested if you are uncertain what course of action to take.  Every time a student is sent to school with obvious symptoms our staff is forced to step into action and begin the process of determining who needs to be quarantined and tested.  All of which could have been prevented with just a little awareness of your students health.

Let's work together to keep everyone safe and in school.  Thank you
Covid Quarantine guidelines.

Voluntary Covid Testing Program and Test to Stay Program

8/19/2021

 
The PORTA District will offer regular Covid-19 testing for all students and staff this school year.  The Program is offered by the University of Illinois “Shield” Group and the actual test is saliva based.  This testing opportunity is not mandatory and we are offering the opportunity on a voluntary basis. We believe that regular testing will reduce the number of quarantine days for students who are in close contact with a positive case.  Additionally, early detection of the Covid virus will reduce spread from close contacts in our school setting.  As part of the testing program we are offering on a voluntary basis we will also be offering a “test to stay” program for those students and staff who have had close contacts and are following current Covid guidelines.  If a student/staff member has a close contact and meets social distancing/masking requirements we will offer to test that person on days 1,3,5 and 7 using our local nursing staff. If the student/staff member presents as negative the person can stay in school. If at any time the person presents as Covid positive quarantine will be necessary, but that quarantine will revert back to the close contact day, meaning fewer quarantine days for that particular person.  

We feel this program offers an opportunity to reduce the stress on families who are forced to quarantine and miss school and work.  While this will not stop quarantine for students and staff it is our hope that we will be able to keep students who are Covid negative in school even if they have had a close contact with a positive case.

To reiterate, this program is voluntary and we are excited to offer such an opportunity to our families.  Please read the attached “Shield” consent form and if you wish to participate please complete the form and return it to one of the district School offices by August 27, 2021.  The PORTA School District will not administer any Covid-19 testing without written permission from a student's family or in the case of an emergency we will ask the parent to confirm with two staff members that it is their wish that their student be tested.
​


Shield Consent Form


August 17, 2021 Communication and Thank you!!

8/17/2021

 
I wanted to start off tonight's Blog post with a heartfelt thank you to all of our families.  Our first day was exceptional, all of our students did their very best to follow current guidelines and more importantly brought a welcomed level of energy and excitement to our staff.  Thank you, thank you we can always count on our families here at PORTA you are amazing.  

Other good news, the bridge on Sheridan is completed and looks great. A big shout out to our county Highway department and all the professional contractors who completed the bridge project.  Very impressive.

Some reminders, Lunch and breakfast continue to be free of charge for this school year for all students and for the upper grades we are able to allow additional purchases of meals and entrees this school year.  We would like families who believe they will qualify for free/reduced lunch to make sure they are continuing to complete applications for those meals.  If for some reason the current program ends prior to the end of the school term we want to insure those families continue to receive meals they qualify for this year.

Please look for information on our “Shield Testing program” in the next few days.  We are finalizing those voluntary applications for families and will ask to have them completed and return by August 27, 2021.  Again, “Shield” is a saliva based testing program that is opt in only for our students and staff.  We do not recommend that vaccinated students and staff participate but they are free to do so if they wish.  We are excited to utilize the Shield program because it also gives us access to the test to stay program we feel will make a difference in our ability to keep students in school and out of quarantine.  Students do not need to participate in the weekly saliva based testing to benefit from the test to stay program.  Having the Shield program and following State Mitigation guidelines gives us the access we need to use “test to stay” for all our students and staff.

Thank you for a great first day, let's all hope for more great days to come.

Student Attendance begins August 17, 2021.  Information on current Mask Mandate!!

8/13/2021

 
​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.

Message From Illinois State Superintendent on Mask Wearing Mandate!!

8/12/2021

 
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 

UPDATED 8-4-2021    2021-22 Return to Learn Plan and Feedback Form

8/2/2021

 
 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.

​

Back to School Information:  Covid and Current Recommendations.

7/15/2021

 

The 2021-22 school year is upon us and everyone wants to know what will be the plan for returning to school this fall. 
While there is an awful lot yet to be determined at the State and Federal level, PORTA understands the importance of in-person learning and are planning to be in session 5 days a week, full days.  All students will be expected to attend in person learning and there will be very few incidences of remote learning offered. At PORTA Remote learning will revolve around two options:  1) Students who are not eligible for a Covid-19 vaccine and  (2) those students who are under order of quarantine by local public health department or IDPH.   For those students no eligible for a Covid-19 vaccination and who choose to learn remotely, an online program meeting the Illinois State Board of Educations requirements will be offered.  For those students who are under order of Quarantine for a 10-14 day period both remote and paper options will be made available to the student during their quarantine. 

Currently, ISBE and IDPH are following CDC guidelines on returning to the classroom, those guidelines can be found at the link below. It is refreshing to see that the CDC has a focus on the importance of in-person learning. In short the CDC is "recommending" anyone 2 and older wear masks if they are not vaccinated. That schools try to maintain three foot physical distancing whenever possible, maintain a good Covid testing program as well as a diligent sanitation plan to help stop any spread of Covid in the school setting. Masks are still required on buses at this stage. 
As we near the beginning of the school year we will continue to monitor CDC Guidelines and work closely with local health officials to insure we can get back to normal this school year. 



    ​https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/k-12-guidance.htmwww.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/k-12-guidance.htmll .



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

Registration Information:  Registration to be held on July 29 and 30, 2021

7/8/2021

 
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

​

Round Two for PORTA Pfizer vaccination Clinic, July 2, 2021

6/21/2021

 
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

Providing Basic School Supplies:  Menard County Back to School...School Supply Application.

6/10/2021

 
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Vaccination Clinic Available at PORTA High School on June 11, 2021 for ages 12 and older.

5/20/2021

 
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

Recent CDC guidelines for Mask Usage Has Little Impact on Illinois Schools!!

5/14/2021

 
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

May 5, 2021 Vaccination Clinic at PORTA High School is Cancelled.

5/3/2021

 
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. 

Guidance and Information on Quarantine Rules...A refresher.

4/29/2021

 
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Condensed New Guidelines for Quarantine Rules.  Please read, There are options other than a 14 day Quarantine!!

4/27/2021

 

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.
 
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