COVID-19 Update 3-19-20
March 19, 2020
March 20, 2020
I just wanted to provide an update of what’s transpired since Governor Reynolds made the recommendation Sunday evening that school districts in Iowa suspend classes for four weeks. On Monday, the legislation waived the days and hours requirement, which means that these days missed will not have to be made up. Locally, we’ve made the decision to provide “Distance Learning” while our buildings are closed, which will begin district-wide on Monday, and you can read more about that below.
My hope is that we will all be together again on April 13; however, we are also planning beyond that just in case. As you know, this is a very fluid situation.
Classes/School-Related Activities
At this point, we are planning for classes to resume on April 13. Any school-related program, activity, sporting practices/events are canceled, postponed, or suspended during this four week period. I’m using all three of those words because those details need to be worked through.
Concurrent Enrollment Classes
Guidance from the state regarding concurrent enrollment courses taught on-site (Mr. Ehlke’s Entrepreneurship class, for example) is unclear at this time. Online CCE classes from NIACC continue uninterrupted for now.
Food Program
As you already know, the district has set up a “grab and go” lunch and snack for students that began today. The State allowed the Summer Food Program, which is a free program, to go into effect during this period of time when the school district is shut down due to COVID-19.
Distance Learning Overview
With our strong emphasis in technology and outstanding staff, we will begin this journey, as we feel this is best for our students (and parents). You’ll be getting emails from teachers with the activities/assignments included. Some families with multiple students will be hit pretty hard with a larger number of emails. We understand this can be a burden, however, it’s the best way for each teacher to communicate with you and your child(ren).
Although we cannot require student participation in distance learning and the work they do cannot become part of their grade during a time of school closure, it is in every student’s best interest to continue learning, so they are ready for the next level or next grade.
Students who are Pre-K, Kindergarten through third grade will receive paper packets. These do not need to be returned. The overall goal is to provide students with some structure and to stay on track. The focus will be reviewing essential skills already covered and introduce new skills as we move along.
For grades 4-12, we will primarily use an online communication model with videos, resources, projects, and assignments being shared electronically with students. In some grade levels and subject areas, paper copies may also be utilized, but these will generally be “one-way documents,” meaning we will send them home to your student, but we do not intend to get them back.
Other Information
- Technology Questions: those with technology questions or needs should contact Mr. Ryan Welch at rwelch@nkvikings.com
- Resources
Thank you for your patience! We will continue to communicate and please feel free to reach out with any questions.
Michael R. Crozier, Superintendent
