Covid-19 School Closure Updates-Archived

Covid-19 School Closure Updates

March 16th, 2020

Good Evening Parents,

Much information has emerged over the past two weeks nationwide, statewide, and locally regarding the coronavirus (Covid-19). At this time, there are not any people who have tested positive for Covid-19 in the counties where most of our students reside (Washburn, Sawyer, Barron, or Rusk). We do understand that does not mean it may not be present in our communities and are aware of that. Our custodial staff worked hard today disinfecting areas while teaching staff and lunch staff were busy coming up with plans that are shared below. As of this evening, we do plan to have school and the after school CASE program both Tuesday, March 17th and Wednesday, March 18th. As parents/guardians, you do have the ability to make the decision whether to send your child to school or keep them home.

Classroom teachers spent the day and evening brainstorming and discussing options for students. Grades are still going to be calculated and work will be required.

For high school students, decisions include:
- Students will begin receiving assignments on Monday, March 23rd through Google Classroom, a format they are all familiar with and have used in the past. This will be a format for receiving fourth quarter assignments so work must be completed and returned.
- Third quarter will end tomorrow, March 17, 2020 (about a week earlier than expected). Students will have time to turn in assignments through Friday, March 20, 2020 via their
chromebooks.
- Students will have time to “check in” with their teachers on Tuesday (tomorrow) in regards to their grades and request assistance, as needed.
- On Wednesday, March 18th, students will be introduced to their fourth quarter classes and all assignments sent home will be fourth quarter assignments.
- Add/Drop slips for 4th quarter are due Wednesday the 18th at 8:00am.

For middle school student, decisions include:
- Friday, March 20, 2020 will be the end of the quarter. All homework and assignments must be turned in by that time.
- Students will receive assignments digitally beginning Monday, March 23rd through Google Classroom, a format they are familiar with and have used in the past.
- Teachers may set up Zoom (face-to-face) conferences with parents and students. More information will follow.

For elementary students, decisions include:
- Teachers will provide packets to students tomorrow for the next couple weeks. Please check your child’s backpack. If your child is not in attendance, please stop in during school hours and pick up your packets.
- Students will bring home extra coats/hats/mitten tomorrow. Please empty their backpacks.

Special education teachers and specialists will support students through communication with classroom teachers and families.

Lunchroom staff will be offering breakfast and lunch to students who receive free and reduced lunch and the Food Pantry will continue to send bags. Mrs. Hrdlicka will be calling you to check your interest and to figure out the best way to get food to your homes.

Finally, if you have technology issues (5th-8th grades) over this extended time off, please connect with a classroom teacher and they will either help solve it or get tech services involved.

In closing, this is a tough and challenging time for everyone. Please be patient as we all figure out how to best assist you and your children. If questions arise, please call or email.

Sincerely,

Diane Johnson, Superintendent