Dear HGSD Parents, Staff and Community, May 1st, 2020
Thank you so much for your continued dedication, patience, and compassion during our closure. We realize that for many of you, you are finding a routine and settling into the new norm. However, for others this remains a struggle and at times things can be overwhelming. Please continue to do the best you can. I want to reiterate a few points from my last communication:
- While virtual learning will continue for the remainder of the school year we want you to focus on the essential learnings. I continue to share this message with staff. We do not want to overwhelm students, parents, or teachers with unrealistic expectations. Everyone wants the best for his or her child/student, focus on what is essential.
- K-6th grade: Stay engaged but please pick and choose what you complete. The right balance is different for every household and grade level. Teachers have worked hard to focus on essential learning. If you are struggling, please reach out to them.
- 7th grade through Seniors: Our older students who are more independent are more able to get assignments completed and returned. If you are having any issues, please reach out to your classroom teacher or building principal for help. We want every student engaged in learning during this closure.
The two biggest questions that are still concerns are graduation and summer school. In both cases we are working on options that we may be able to implement. We did just receive notice that summer school can be virtual for all students. We are investigating that option. Regarding graduation, Mr. Fritz is working on possible options and has surveyed the seniors. If we are only allowed to have groups of 10 or less, graduation becomes more challenging to organize. A virtual option of graduation is also being studied.
There has been some question regarding the lawsuit filed with the supreme court and how that could affect schools being closed. Regardless of how that suit goes, there is no indication from any state agency that schools would reopen prior to June 30th. If the lawsuit is successful and the Safer-at-Home order is changed, the Department of Health Services would likely rewrite the order, keeping school buildings closed.
Our team is also working on plans for collecting and picking up your child’s desk, locker belongings in a safe manner. Please watch for details. In addition, we are starting to look at how we will reopen in September and how we can keep everyone safe. We will follow the guidance we receive from the county health department in drafting our plans.
Thank you to all of our essential workers who are coming into our buildings and keeping things going. Cleaners, maintenance and office staff have been doing a wonderful job keep us operational. Thank you so much for your work.
We sincerely miss seeing your children and our staff. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help or support at any time.
Sincerely, Chris Peterson, Scott Fritz, Heather Zizis, Jason Cole, and Tracy Bandt