Dear Carrier Mills-Stonefort Students, Parents/Guardians, and Community Members:
Due to a written ruling from Judge Raylene Grischow of Sangamon County, Illinois, on Friday, February 4th, Governor Pritzker’s executive orders and IDPH/ISBE requirements regarding masking, testing, and tracing are “null and void.”
Masks will no longer be required in our schools; however, masks are still recommended to be worn inside the schools as well as the continuance of all other layered mitigations in accordance with our 2021-2022 Return to School Plan. Federal Transportation guidelines still require masks to be worn while on all school transportation, including extra-curricular activities.
CDC guidelines will still be followed for students/staff who test positive for COVID-19 and we still want anyone that is sick to stay home. Close contacts of students and staff will not need to continue to quarantine unless directed by the local health department. We will continue with the current mitigation strategies of social distancing when possible, cleaning, and hand sanitation. Free testing and free masks will still be available for those that are interested.
Keep in mind, this entire change of status is the result of a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) and has already been appealed by the Governor’s Office to the Fourth Appellate Court of Illinois for a decision. We will keep you apprised as the fluid situation continues to evolve.
We ask the Carrier Mills-Stonefort CUSD #2 community to support and encourage those who continue to wear a mask as a personal choice or because of a personal medical reason. Certain mitigations may need to be put into place to support the needs of those who are at high risk due to a medical condition.
This decision will be evaluated on a weekly basis. As we have during the entirety of the pandemic, we will make decisions that are best for the safety and well-being of our students. We promise to continue to do everything we can to keep our schools open to In-Person Learning.
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Carrier Mills and Stonefort parents and communities for their support. Our district would not have been able to accomplish what we have during the pandemic without the patience and support of our parents and families. Thank you for helping our district make it through this unprecedented and difficult time.
Please contact your building administrators if you have any questions.
Your Partner in Education,
Mr. Bryce K. Jerrell (Superintendent)