Dupage Policy Journal

If you’re a resident of Wheaton and are concerned about students and what may happen during this school year, the organizers of the “We Stand for Students” rally want to see you in Memorial Park on Tuesday.

The rally will be held at 6:30 p.m. at Memorial Park, 208 W. Union in Wheaton and is expected to draw families from Wheaton South, Wheaton North, St. Charles North, Glenbard West, Glenbard South and Hinsdale Central. 

Community members, parents and students are coming together to raise awareness of the social and emotional impacts of e-learning in the face of continued distance learning due to the COVID-19 crisis.  

Experts will speak out about the impact that e-learning and the pandemic have had on students’ emotions and mental health. They also will address the issues that school plans have not yet taken note of. 

Students and community leaders are expected to speak as well. Students will share their experiences and concerns they have regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, their educational experiences during the past few months, and concerns regarding their education and how the pandemic is affecting them and their future. 

The Illinois State Board of Education has issued guidance on how school districts should approach students returning to the classrooms.  The state board has strongly encouraged in-person instruction but has allowed districts that cannot follow the requirements of the Illinois Department of Public Health to implement blended learning days with a mix of in-person and remote instruction.