Changes to COVID-Related Measures at Illini West High School District #307

Yesterday, Judge Grischow ruled on a lawsuit filed by more than 700 parents across the state that challenged state-mandated COVID-19 mitigations. The ruling implemented a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) that ruled on:

1. IDPH Emergency Rules

2. ISBE Emergency Rules

3. Issues related to lawsuits filed by both parents and teachers.

As a result of the TRO, the following is effective immediately and until such time as there is a trial pending the merits of the case or the TRO is modified or dissolved:

1. Use of masks for students and teachers is not required except during the terms of a lawful order of quarantine issued from Hancock County Health Department, in accordance with the IDPH Act.

2. Weekly negative test results for staff in order to occupy the school building are not required.

3. Exclusion of school district personnel or students for specified periods of time if the teacher or student is deemed a "close contact" of a confirmed probable COVID-19 case will not occur without due process to that individual unless the local health department has deemed the individual a close contact after following the procedures outlined in 20 ILCS 2305 and 77 Ill. Adm. Code 690.1330.

On page 16 of the TRO, Judge Grischow stated the COVID-related policies of each school district will have to be addressed on a case by a case basis, be subject to school district's policies that were presented to the school board at a public meeting, and subject to public comment, as well as the Open Meetings Act.

Illini West met this requirement and all requirements of the TRO with the mask optional Return to School plan approved by the School Board at its August meeting, with the exception of the transportation masking requirement which is hereby suspended during the TRO. As such, Illini West will revert immediately to this plan for all COVID-related issues not specifically addressed in the TRO, until such time as there is a trial pending the merits of the case or the TRO is modified or dissolved.

This plan meets the due process requirements outlined in the TRO for close contact and quarantine of students and staff by stating it will follow Hancock County Health Department guidelines.