Right now, as we are all staying home to slow the spread of COVID – 19, Chicago Friends School students, teachers, and families are maintaining community and learning from home. Chicago Friends School’s small size and flexibility, its commitment to individual learning, and strong community are all helping us to keep going during these times.
Even before the March 14th closing order, our school leadership was preparing. We surveyed our families so we could better understand if everyone had the basics needs required to begin studying at home. Teachers, already intimately aware of each child’s learning needs, were preparing plans for distance learning. Once it was known that we would be closing our doors temporarily, our community come together and to take action. School parents worked to make sure that everyone who needed a laptop could get one from the school’s supplies. Parents picked up school lessons for their students, borrowed books from our library, and met with teachers. Our head of school began a weekly parent call to answer questions and concerns and simply provide a forum for parents for any emotional concerns they have throughout our school closing. One parent set up a fund for other families in the school who were struggling with basic expenses.
Chicago Friends School students continue to learn and connect with each other. Our TEACHERS have provided steadfast leadership, a full curriculum, and social support to students in classrooms. From day one, they have jumped in to fill every need: creating lesson plans for online learning; setting up google classroom accounts; to checking in with individuals and small groups to check on learning. Extracurricular classes, a weekly lunch bunch, and student government are also continuing, as are some whole-school fun outlets such as virtual field trips, and a whole school dance party.
Chicago Friends School is still welcoming new students into our virtual classrooms. We are also available to meet with prospective students for the next school year.
Consider joining our community. Email us at admissions@chicagofriends.org or attend one of our many virtual admissions events to learn more about enrolling in our virtual online classroom for the remainder of the school this school year.