2 weeks after school starts: some Champaign students still without a classroom, parents want answers

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WCIA) — While students and staff members in the Champaign School District started their school year on Aug. 12, many kids are still at home without an assigned classroom.

The student registration deadline was May 1st, but many families weren’t able to sign up by that time, and signed up over the summer. Now, some of those parents have big questions as they scramble to find a place for their kids to learn.

One mom who registered her students late this year received a letter that stated that the start date for all late registrations would be Aug. 20, eight days after the rest of the district. However, as of Aug. 28, they still do not have a classroom.

WCIA reached out to the district and asked how many students still do not have a classroom, and when families can expect a resolution.

Champaign Schools provided this statement in response:

We are so pleased that families continue to choose Unit 4 Schools. We are working continuously to get students registered. The registration process involves several factors, including adjusting the number of students in our classrooms, assigning homeroom and class schedules, classroom materials, student Chromebooks, furniture, and updating bus routes to ensure exceptional learning experiences for students.

The District hosted multiple registration events leading up to and into the new school year. We have registered hundreds of students in this late cycle. Student assignment specialists are working overtime and we have hired additional temporary staff to assist us with the late registration process. To minimize inconvenience to our families registering late, we ask that they visit our website prior to their appointment to see what documents are required for registration. If they don’t bring proper documentation, it can delay the process.

We ask our families for patience as we work as quickly as possible to get students registered and in the classroom.

Champaign School District

WCIA replied to the statement to follow up on the original questions asked regarding the number of students impacted and when they will be assigned a classroom. The district said it can not provide more information to answer these questions at this time.

Another parent said she knows more students were recently added to her son’s fourth-grade class at Carrie Busey Elementary.

If you have questions about the registration process, Champaign Schools has a registration guide on its website.

WCIA will update this story as we continue to learn more.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCIA.com.