DIOCESE LETTER ON SCHOOL CLOSINGS

Catholic Schools
835 North Rush Street
Chicago, IL 60611-2030
tel 312.534.5200 fax 312.534.5295
schools.archchicago.org

March 13, 2020

Dear Catholic School Parents and Guardians,
Due to the prevalence of COVID-19 (coronavirus) in the greater Chicago area, the Archdiocese of Chicago is announcing a system-wide closure of Catholic schools, effective Monday, March 16. This decision applies to all Catholic schools in Cook and Lake Counties operated by the Archdiocese of Chicago. Catholic schools not operated by the archdiocese, such as those governed by religious orders, will make decisions individually.

This decision extends to all regular operations of our Catholic schools, including all extra-curricular activities, social events and other school-related gatherings.

At this time, we have not determined how long this closure will last. We are in close communication with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Illinois Department of Public Health, and other agencies managing the public health response to the COVID-19 epidemic. We will make an announcement when we have determined a date to reopen.
We will perform extra cleaning of our facilities while school is not in session.

During this closure period, Catholic school students will be asked to complete academic work through electronic learning (“e-learning”) or alternative learning. You should expect communication from your school’s principal on how e-learning or alternative learning will take place.

I encourage you to continue to pray for God’s grace throughout this time of uncertainty. Let us pray for the health and wellbeing of our Catholic school community and all our brothers and sisters affected by the epidemic.

Yours in Christ,

Jim Rigg, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Catholic Schools
Archdiocese of Chicago