Springfield SD 186 board renews three‑year e‑learning plan allowing up to five remote instruction days

The Springfield Public School District 186 Board of Education voted Jan. 5 to renew a districtwide e‑learning program, approving a resolution that permits the district to use up to five e‑learning days per school year for inclement weather or other events that make buildings unsafe. The renewal extends the program for three years through the 2027–28 school year and passed by a recorded roll call of seven aye votes.

The plan, staff said, is intended for days when students cannot safely travel or when facilities sustain damage; it is optional and not a mandate. The resolution requires the district to verify clock hours of instruction, ensure access (electronic or written) for all participating students, and provide appropriate learning opportunities and communications for families and staff. Staff noted the district will work with the regional superintendent’s office (Shannon Verholtz) on the plan submission and implementation.

Parent Florence Williams urged the board during the public hearing to consider broader online options for students with disabilities, saying that for some pupils an online environment is a necessary accommodation to access their Individualized Education Program. "If I'm able to complete his education online, my son [in a low‑stimulus environment] is supported by his IEP," Williams said. The board member overseeing the hearing offered to have district staff reach out to Williams the following day to discuss her child's needs.

Board members asked procedural and historical questions during discussion. Staff clarified that the district previously submitted e‑learning plans to the Illinois State Board of Education, but that is no longer required; current practice is to coordinate with the regional office. The board also emphasized that even if the district uses the five e‑learning days it must still rely on scheduled emergency days on the calendar as needed.

The resolution emphasizes measures to ensure equity of access and to account for staff duties (noting an agreement addressing cafeteria and secretarial coverage on e‑learning days). The plan’s three‑year term will require renewal at the end of the 2027–28 school year.

The board approved the resolution during the meeting’s action items; staff will submit the adopted plan to the regional contact and follow up with community outreach and communications to families about how the district will implement e‑learning when it is used.