Important COVID-19 Announcements



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Fenton Updates


 The Fenton High School campus remains closed to the public until further notice, with only a few exceptions outlined on this page. All classes are diverted to E-Learning activities. All events are cancelled or postponed.

Please utilize the links below to navigate the variety of information contained on this webpage:




Free Meal Distribution
Drive Thru Food Pickup

Families in need can drive through Fenton’s bus lane  to receive boxed meals during the following hours
  • 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Monday, March 23 through Friday, March 27

    •
  • 10 a.m. until 12 p.m. Monday, March 30 through Friday, April 3

 The free meals are open to everyone. You do not need to have children enrolled at Fenton.


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March 25, 2020

Wednesday Words Update:
Fenton’s Priorities, Spring Break, Parent Homework



Dear students, parents, staff and community.


Thank you for doing your part in flattening the curve by staying at home (it saves lives), social distancing, and washing your hand. In addition, please take care of your mental and physical health.

Thank you essential businesses and services: Police Stations, Fire Stations, Hospital and Clinics, Gas stations, Transportation Services, Grocery Stores/Food Banks, and Post Offices.

Fenton’s priority remains the same:

Priority 1 - Feed and care for the safety, health, and welfare of our students and families. We will continue to distribute food until this crisis is over, which includes Spring Break. We have distributed 3,000 meals since we have closed the school. Shout outs to Arbor Food Service, Officer Matt Nelson, and administrators who are making this happen.

Priority 2 - Provide for continuity of learning via E-learning. Huge shoutout to our teachers. We salute your creativity, flexibility, and engaging lessons.

Priority 3 - Communicate clearly and in a timely manner. We will continue to send messages like this throughout the week. In time of crisis, I believe the more communication about pertinent crisis information the better.

Students
Students thank you for staying engaged, collaborating with your peers and teachers, and staying connected. Your educational responsibility is doing your school work as best you can. In time of crisis, we need you to do your part even when it is difficult and/or your friends are telling you not to.

If your tasks are difficult, talk to your parents, guardian, counselor, or one of your teachers. We will assist. I’m also asking all of you to stay positive on social media and limit your use. Spend time with your siblings, parents, and guardians by talking, playing, and helping around the house and/or apartment.

Parents
Thank you for your support and patience. We know this is a difficult time. We are committed to providing your children the best education we can provide at this time. I encourage you to talk, spend time, and love your children through this difficult time. Personally, I have three loud and energetic teenage boys at home, and after a stressful day at work it is so easy to sit down and checkout by watching television or yelling at them for being obnoxious. I try to fight these urges by changing my mindset before I step inside the house. I’m proud to say that my daughters are much more civilized and have higher levels of soft skills than my sons.

Parent Homework: due date weekend.
Please complete the United States Census 2020. It took me twelve minutes to complete the census for my family of eight. The results of the 2020 Census will be used to direct billions of dollars in federal funds to local communities for schools, roads, and other public services. It will help our community prepare to meet transportation and emergency readiness needs. Lastly, it will determine the number of seats each state has in the U.S. House of Representatives and our political representation at all levels of government. Information you submit is confidential.

Spring Break
Next week is Spring Break, a time of rest and relaxation. There will be no E-Learning work assigned during Spring Break (March 30 - April 3). Outside of food distribution times, the Fenton campus is closed. Please stay at home.

When Will School Reopen?
We do not know. We are working with the State of Illinois, Illinois State Board of Education, DuPage Public Health Department, DuPage Regional Office of Education, and DuPage superintendents. The bottom line is that we will open the school when it is safe for students and staff. Unfortunately, the Curve has not flatten and COVID-19 cases are rising. Nine days ago, there were no positive cases of COVID-19 in DuPage. Currently, there are 19 positive cases. Please be patient. Fenton will continue to deliver the three priorities described above.


In closing, thank you for your continued support. Stay at home, it saves lives. We are all in this together.


Let’s GO BISON!

James Ongtengco, Superintendent



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March 22, 2020

COVID-19 Update: Our Plans for E-Learning & Meal Distribution



Dear Fenton Families,

Happy Sunday! We all need to do our part by staying at home, social distancing, washing your hands, and taking care of our physical and mental health. We need to flatten the curve one step at a time and we must adjust to this new normal.

We salute the grocery workers, healthcare providers, first responders, and all of the folks in the front line of this pandemic.

Week one of school closure is over and we look forward to the next two weeks. Below is a summary of how the next two weeks will look like regarding food distribution and E-learning.

Week of March 23rd

  • E-learning continues for students.

    •
  • Meal distribution from 10:00 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday.

 


Week of March 30th

  • Spring Break

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  • No E-learning for students. It is a time of rest, relaxation, and a time to take care of our physical and mental health.

    •
  • Meal distribution from 10:00 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday.

 


Let’s Go Bison!

James Ongtengco, Superintendent



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March 21, 2020

COVID-19 Update: FAQs on Stay at Home order



Dear Fenton Families,

On Friday, March 20th, Governor Pritzker issued Executive Order 2020-10 requiring all Illinoisans to stay in their homes to prevent the further spread of COVID-19. As you have seen, this situation is evolving rapidly. We want to provide you transparent and timely information. Below is a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) from the governor’s office regarding the stay at home order.

Locally, we served 1,350 meals and 70 weekend food packages for our students on Friday. This week in total we distributed approximately 2,500 meals. Fenton will continue to distribute meals between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. Monday through Friday next week. I want to take a moment to thank our administrators who are working around the clock to serve and support our students, staff, and families. I also want to thank all of the doctors, nurses, hospital staff, and volunteers who are giving their own lives to save others. And for our civic leaders who have to make important decisions. Let’s support these folks by doing our part: staying at home, social distancing, washing our hands, and taking care of our mental and physical health.

Let’s Go Bison,
James Ongtengco, Superintendent


Frequently Asked Questions



When does the order take effect?
The order will take effect Saturday, March 21st at 5 p.m.

Where does the Stay at Home order apply?
The Governor’s executive order includes the entire State of Illinois. Unless you work for an essential business or are doing an essential activity, you should stay home.

Is this mandatory or just guidance?
This order is mandatory. To help prevent the further spread of COVID-19 in Illinois and protect our friends, neighbors, and vulnerable populations, please stay home.

How will this order be enforced?
Staying home is critical to reducing the spread of COVID-19 in your community. The Illinois State Police will work with local law enforcement to enforce this order. Adhering to the order will save lives and it is the responsibility of every Illinoisan to do their part.

Will the Illinois National Guard be enforcing this order?
No. The Illinois National Guard will be supporting logistics, transportation, and medical response efforts. The Guard will not be enforcing this order.

Can I pick up meals being provided by my child’s school?
Yes. Schools that provide free food services to students will continue on a pick-up and take-home basis. However, if you are experiencing symptoms or are currently in isolation, you should stay at home and follow the guidelines provided by your physician.

I work in an essential service. How will the police know I’m allowed to be outside my house?
Law enforcement officials will not stop residents who are on their way to or from work or who are out for necessities, like going to the pharmacy or getting groceries or just taking a walk. Illinoisans should abstain from all nonessential activities. Adhering to the order will save lives and it is the responsibility of every Illinoisan to do their part.

Will grocery stores be open?
Yes, essential services will still be operational including, but not limited to:
  • Grocery stores
  • Gas stations
  • Pharmacies
  • Police stations
  • Fire stations
  • Hospitals, clinics and healthcare operations
  • Garbage/sanitation
  • Public transportation
  • Public benefits (i.e. SNAP, Medicaid) hotlines
A full list can be found in the executive order at coronavirus.illinois.gov

How can I get medical care if I need it?
If you are feeling sick, call your doctor, a nurse hotline, any telehealth hotline set up specifically for COVID-19 (check with your insurance company) or an urgent care center. Do not go to an emergency room unless necessary. Nonessential medical care like eye exams and teeth-cleaning should be postponed. When possible, healthcare visits should be done remotely. Contact your healthcare provider to see what tele-health services they provide.

What is the guidance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities?
State Operated Developmental Centers, Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities and Community Integrated Living Arrangements will continue to provide care. All in-home direct care staff are considered essential staff and should continue to support individuals in the home setting.

If you have any specific questions about your support and services, please reach out to your provider or Individual Service Coordination (ISC) Agency. To receive updated information on DDD services, please sign up for our email database, or to update your contact and service information, please visit www.DHS.Illinois.gov.


What if I still have to go to work?
Unless your work is an essential function (i.e. healthcare provider, grocery store clerk, first responder), you should stay home. If you have been designated essential by your employer, you should continue to go to work and practice social distancing.

What if I think my business should be closed but I’m still being asked to operate?
Essential businesses will remain open during the Stay at Home order to provide services that are vital to the lives of Illinoisans. Those businesses include, but are not limited to, pharmacies, certain government offices, day care centers that provide care for the children of essential employees, and restaurants providing take-out meals. If you work for an essential business, you should continue to practice social distancing and should stay at home outside of work hours. If you believe your business is nonessential but are still being asked to show up to work, you may discuss with your employer.

Can I order food/groceries?
Yes, grocery delivery will be available as well as meal-delivery, drive through, and take-out options.

A certain service is essential for me, but the Governor didn’t include it, what do I do?
The Stay at Home order was issued to protect the health, safety and well-being of Illinoisans. While some businesses like fitness centers and salons will be closed, essential services will always be available. For a full list of businesses that will still operate during the order, visit coronavirus.illinois.gov.

Will public transportation and ridesharing be available?
Public transportation and ridesharing should be used for essential travel only. When possible, walk or drive yourself.

Will roads in Illinois be closed?
No, the roads will not be closed in Illinois. You should only travel if it is essential to your work or health.

Can I take a flight out of state?
Planes and any other form of travel should only be used for essential purposes.

What if my home is not a safe environment?
If it is not safe for you to remain home, you are able and urged to find another safe place to stay during this order. Please reach out so we can help. You may call the domestic violence hotline at 1-877-863-6338 or contact your local law enforcement.

What about homeless people who can’t stay at home?
The administration wants to protect the health and safety of all Illinoisans, regardless of where they live. State agencies are partnering with community organizations to provide funding and resources to ensure our homeless population has safe shelter.

Can I visit friends and family?
For your safety, as well as the safety of those in your community, you should remain at home to help fight the spread of COVID-19. You may visit family members who need medical or other essential assistance, such as ensuring an adequate supply of food.

What about my pet?
You are allowed to walk your dog and seek medical care for your pet should they require it. Be sure to practice social distancing while out on walks, maintaining at least 6 feet from other neighbors and their pets.

Does the Stay at Home order mean I can’t take my kids to the park?
State parks will be closed during the Stay at Home order. Families will still be able to go outside and take a walk, run, or bike ride but should continue to practice social distancing by remaining 6 feet away from other people. Playgrounds are closed because they pose a high risk of increasing transmission.

What is the difference between the Stay at Home order and social distancing?
Social distancing is an important first step in preventing the spread of a disease like COVID-19 that allows people to go about their daily activities while taking extra health and safety precautions. The Stay at Home order requires people to remain in their homes unless they have an essential job or are doing an essential task like going to the grocery store or walking a pet.

Can I leave home to go to religious services?
Large gatherings, such as church services, will be cancelled to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Can I leave home to exercise?
Yes. Outdoor exercise like running or taking a walk is perfectly acceptable; however, exercise gyms, fitness centers and associated facilities will be closed to reduce the spread of coronavirus. While exercising outside, you should still practice social distancing by running or walking at least six feet away from other people.

Can I go out to do laundry?
Yes. Laundromats, dry cleaners and laundry service providers are considered essential businesses that will remain open. However, if you are experiencing symptoms or are currently in isolation, you should stay at home and follow the guidelines provided by your physician.

Can I take my child to day care?
If you are considered an essential worker under the Order, you can take your child to a day care that is licensed on an emergency basis for the purpose of childcare for essential workers. Licensed day care homes for up to 12 children will be closed but may reopen as an unlicensed day care home for up to 6 children.



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March 20, 2020

COVID-19 Update:Stay at Home order



Dear Fenton Families,

On Friday, March 20th, Governor Pritzker issued an executive order requiring residents to “stay at home” effective Saturday, March 21 at 5:00 pm, through the end of April 7. As part of the Governor’s order, he announced that school will remain closed, with a new tentative reopening date of April 8. We recognize that this development may raise questions about the impact on students, staff, and families as well as the school’s vital role of providing meals to students and families while schools are closed. We anticipate further guidance and details from the Illinois State Board of Education next week.

During this stay at home order, essential school personnel may still report to work as long as they are practicing social distancing. We want you to know the governor’s office has assured school districts that school personnel involved in providing meals will not be in violation of the governor’s executive order and that we can, and should, continue with our program, which has had a tremendous impact in making sure our students are not going hungry while school is closed.

In addition, the governor has made it clear that, while he’s serious about using social distancing to slow the spread of COVID-19, he wants residents to still be able to work, shop at grocery stores, put gas in their cars, take walks outside and get medication from the pharmacy. Rest assured, we are committed to doing our best to provide meals and deliver continuity of education.

Please use this opportunity to focus on staying safe and helping to slow the spread of the virus. As always, thank you for your patience and support as we all work through the COVID-19 Pandemic. As you have seen, this situation is evolving rapidly. As events unfold, we will continue to communicate in a timely and transparent manner.


Go Bison!

James Ongtengco, Superintendent



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March 18, 2020 

Wednesday Words Update:
E-Learning, meal distribution, and tech assistance



Dear students, parents, and staff,

Thank you, thank you for supporting each other during these last few days. Let’s continue to stay connected, staying positive, and looking out for folks that need our help. Fenton is committed to supporting our students, parents, staff, and communities. We will continue to communicate with you on a timely manner.

E-learning and Meals: On Monday, our student participation via E-learning was 96% and we served 300 meals. On Tuesday, 96% of our students participated in E-learning and we served 200 meals. We assisted students with Chromebook and WIFI hiccups. This Friday, we are giving more food per student so they have food for the weekend. A colossal SHOUTOUT to our students, staff, administrators, District 2, and the Bensenville and Wood Dale Food Pantry!

Students: Regarding E-learning, please follow the E-learning protocol. Attendance will be taken each day. Our teachers will continue to have an on-line presence and assignment each day. Therefore, stay engaged, connected, and do your best.

Parents: Fenton will continue to serve boxed food and provide technical assistance. Please have a space for your student to do their work, and a schedule for them each day. Most importantly, talk to them about their feelings and their day. At the Ongtengco household, I have four kids on E-learning. From 9 a.m. to noon they are doing school work and/or engaged in learning. Afterwards, they have lunch, do chores around the house, and play outside with their siblings. When I get home, we have dinner and discuss how the day went.

We encourage students and families to: 
  • Avoid excessive media coverage of COVID-19.

    •
  • Take care of their bodies. Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep.

    •
  • Make time to unwind and remind yourself that strong feelings will fade. Try to do some other activities you enjoy to return to your normal life.

    •
  • Spend time outside - fresh air and exercise is one of the best things you can do over the next few weeks.

  • Connect with others like your teachers. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with friends or family members. Maintain healthy relationships.

  • Use your technology and social media for good purposes - support one another and show that you care for one another.

    •
  • Maintain a sense of hope and positive thinking.

    •
  • Keep following the practice of washing your hands regularly and covering your cough or sneeze.



If you have a general question, please email fentonhelp@fenton100.org
If you need assistance with student Chromebooks, please email Chromezone@fenton100.org

Boxed food will be distributed at Fenton’s Drive Thru from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. this week, and from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. next week.

As a member of a larger community, Fenton continues to work with the State, Bensenville and Wood Dale Municipalities, DuPage Regional Office of Education, DuPage Public Health Department, and School Districts 2 and 7. Through deliberate cooperation and unity, we will get through this.


Sincerely,

James Ongtengco, Superintendent



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March 16, 2020

COVID-19 Update: Act of God & E-Learning



Dear students, parents, and staff:

I hope you are all doing well during this challenging time.

One of our goals during this time of crisis is to stay connected with students. Today, we distributed over 200 meals to our students and their families. I expect this number to grow and we will be ready to assist.

We’ve heard some questions regarding the Governor’s declaration that all public schools will close in what are designated as Act of God Days. In summary, Act of God Days are used by school districts when a situation poses a threat to the health and safety of students. Act of God Days are counted toward the school calendar as a student attendance day, and are not required to be made up.

Due to COVID-19, schools are closed and school districts will utilize these Act of God Days on their school calendars. As an Illinois public school district and as directed by the governor, Fenton will continue student learning/continuity of learning during this time through E-Learning.

We ask our students and parents to do their part and to continue to support each other and our school.


Go Bison!

James Ongtengco, Superintendent


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March 14, 2020

COVID-19 UPDATE: Social Distancing, Boxed Food

Good Morning Fenton Families:


I know that everything yesterday moved quickly and there are many questions out there about what comes next for our school community. Please expect to receive more digital communication in the coming days. 


Please take time to read the messages that come your way.


Yesterday’s decision to cancel school for the next few weeks came together very quickly. We have been operating with guidance from the DuPage County Regional Office of Education and the experts at the DuPage County Health Department (their information related to COVID-19 can be found here). They have been explaining to us the CDC guidelines for COVID-19, and how they work to keep us safe. 


The strategy across our community and the State is social distancing.  We ask that you take the following actions based on recommendations by the CDC and the DuPage County Health Department:

  • Avoid gathering in public places - especially in close proximity to others.

  • Avoid close contact with those who are sick.

  • Try to keep 6-10 feet between yourself and others - give yourself space.

  • Be at home as much as possible.

  • Try to limit who you and your children interact with to the same people you typically are around.

  • Students and families should not:

    • Gather in large groups -- this is a time to be close with those who are closest to you.

    • Visit each other’s homes or having sleepovers.

    • Share food or drink.

    • Compete in team sporting activities -- use this time to train individually or with someone in the home.

  • Students and families should:

    • Avoid excessive media coverage of COVID-19.

    • Take care of their bodies. Take deep breaths, stretch or meditate. Try to eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep.

    • Make time to unwind and remind yourself that strong feelings will fade.

    • Try to do some other activities you enjoy to return to your normal life.

    • Spend time outside -- fresh air and exercise is one of the best things you can do over the next few weeks.

    • Connect with others. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with friends or family members. Maintain healthy relationships.

    • Use your technology and social media for good purposes -- support one another and show that you care for one another.

    • Maintain a sense of hope and positive thinking.

    • Keep following the practice of washing your hands regularly and covering your cough or sneeze.

On Monday, our students will continue their learning via E-Learning. Also, we are preparing boxed food (grab-and-go style) and will distribute to students Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. for the next two weeks at Fenton.

We ask that you partner with us in “flattening the curve,” and helping to stop the outbreak even before it gets into our school community. Please set the example for our children through your actions and put the safety of everyone above our own valued experiences.

I appreciate our partnership in keeping our students and community safe and healthy.

More to come…


James Ongtengco, Superintendent



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March 13, 2020

Important COVID-19 Announcement (School Closure)



To The Fenton Community:

To safeguard the health and wellness of all students and staff, and in an abundance of caution to limit the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) illness in our community we have decided to move to E-Learning for all students beginning Monday, March 16.

This decision is a serious one not one we are making lightly. We are fully aware of the complications that this will cause in the lives of our students, their families as well as our faculty and staff. We believe however, that as a public school we share in the responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff and the larger Fenton community.

To prepare for what we expect to be a prolonged closure
  • E-Learning Days will begin on Monday, March 16 and will tentatively continue until Spring Break.

    • The purpose of an Emergency E-Learning Day is to continue learning opportunities for students in the event that school needs to close. Teachers and students will use the district’s 1:1 technology resources to provide students with relevant, meaningful and manageable assignments that students can engage in when school has been canceled. More information can be found on the Fenton E-Learning Page.

  • On Monday, March 16 our teachers and staff will continue to work collaboratively preparing for the likelihood of an extended number of e-Learning days.


  • Spring Break will still be observed March 30 to April 3.

  • We will continually assess the situation and communicate to our community any plans for returning to school on April 6.

Here are important details all families should know:
  • We are confident that our students will continue to learn and grow. We have a comprehensive e-learning plan that was approved by the Regional Office of Education and we will work hard to make that plan a success Please visit our -Learning Days web page at https://www.fenton100.org/resources/virtual_backpack to familiarize yourself with the plan.

  • Teachers will be using our learning management systems Google Classroom and Google for Education to facilitate our e-learning days.

  • Attendance will be taken each day, and daily instructions, directions, and activities will be provided by each teacher.

  • During this time, all co-curricular and extra-curricular activities, including athletics, and clubs will be postponed or cancelled until further notice. For further information please contact your coach or club sponsor.

  • Students may stop by the school between the hours of 9 a.m. and 1 p.m., Monday through Friday, March 16 to March 20, and March 23 to March 27 to collect items they may have left at school, receive a prepared meal and get assistance with their Chromebook.
While we have not been notified of any staff or students being diagnosed with COVID-19, we believe it is better for schools to close sooner rather than later to slow the spread of the disease.

We will continue to share information and update our community throughout the days and weeks ahead. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate these challenging times.


James Ongtengco, Superintendent



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Technology Assistance
Chromebook












For assistance with Chromebooks, please email Chromezone@fenton100.org.

If a student needs to swap out a Chromebook or replace a missing power adapter, stop by campus between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Monday through Friday.

If you have questions and don't know who to contact, please email fentonhelp@fenton100.org.



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What if my child does not have internet access?
Comcast is offering 2 free months to new customers that qualify. There is nothing new applicants have to do to take advantage of the offer for two free months of service. If someone qualifies for Internet Essentials using existing qualification criteria they will automatically receive their first two months of service for free (not including taxes). After two months they will continue to be billed at regular Internet Essentials rates unless they disconnect their service. You can apply by clicking here.


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Fenton Board of Education
In order to approve timely expenses and provide updates as a group, the Fenton Community High School District 100 Board of Education will hold a brief March 25 meeting. However, the preceding Finance/Facilities meeting has been canceled. Similarly, the student recognition and most staff presentations segments of the main meeting are also canceled. The exact agenda can be found on our Board of Education webpage.


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