West Central Reporter

West Prairie Schools are prepared for an extended closure of schools and have been preparing for several weeks. 

West Prairie CUSD 103 Superintendent Carol Kilver told the McDonough County Voice that her district had begun preparing for an extended closure before Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced it on March 31 and will follow the guidelines issued by his office.

Teachers have used telephone conferences and other technology to stay connected with students and their families. They have been creative with their lesson plans and Kilver is supportive of that.

“West Prairie is a very healthy organization,” Kilver told the McDonough County Voice. “The ability to quickly respond and adapt is a true sign of this health.”

She also encourages students and families to think beyond the work being distributed to students. West Prairie teachers have been posting their lessons on the district’s website for students to access.

One of the options she’s been suggesting is that students and families keep a record of their experiences throughout this time to give to future generations.

“Writing is the highest form of ‘brainpower,’ so educators encourage writing,” Kilver told the McDonough County Voice. “A great deal of history has been lifted through journaling (Anne Frank, prisoners of war, presidents, etc.) This journaling and documentation create what historians call ‘primary sources.’ Primary sources are very beneficial in creating the full social impact of the historical situation or experience. The fact that students could contribute to history should motivate many to ‘tell your story.’”

She’s also encouraging students and family members to focus on what they can control, to ask for help when they need it, and o communicate with people during and after the pandemic.

“Just remember 90% of daily friction comes from tone of voice,” Kilver said, reported the McDonough County Voice. “Asking for help in a manner that gets a result is important. Try not to let the way you ask to override the need."