Rochelle schools superintendent Jason Harper released the following message Friday morning in an effort to keep students, parents and guardians up-to-date on the plan for resuming to classes:

As of today (Friday, March 20), the plan for Rochelle schools is to resume classes on March 31; however the Rochelle Township High School administrative team must plan for a worst case scenario. It could mean, as it has in other districts and states, a closure of Rochelle schools for the rest of the school year. 

Please understand, I have no indication that is coming but it is reasonable to expect.

PARENTS/GUARDIANS:  It is going to be crucial for you to secure a working connection to the internet for your children should the mandated school closure continue past March 30. That is roughly 10 days away from now. It is possible, as we see in Kansas, that school will be closed for the rest of the year. 

Comcast is our strongest internet provider in Rochelle. Comcast is offering a deal:  

The coronavirus pandemic has caused closures to several schools and some people are working from home. Comcast is offering free internet for 60 days to help low-income families who may not have access to the internet at home through its Internet Essentials program. The website says to apply by April 30. To see if you are qualified to apply, click here or call 1-855-846-8376.

Parents and Guardians:  I realize this is simply not practical for all of our families, but it will be important for as many families as can afford to!

What will an extended mandatory closure look like? There are a lot of variables, but I promise you as we know more, I will communicate the information as responsibly and as efficiently as possible. 

Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Jason Harper, superintendent of Rochelle schools

As more information becomes available, that information will be sent to parents. Updates will also be posted here.