I would like to end the week by expressing my gratitude to our outstanding faculty for the innovation and creativity that they have shown in order to get MERSD Online up and running. Although we are enjoying connecting with our students and families virtually, nothing can take the place of the regular school day. We miss our day-to-day interactions with our students, and we look forward to the time when the campus is alive with energy again.
This week we have seen a few new developments that I’d like to share with you. I have also included a recap of key information previously shared.
Teaching & Learning- Remote Learning: This week the MA Department of Education issued new guidance for remote learning during the shutdown that includes provisions for special education services. Although MERSD Online already aligns with the majority of the recommendations, we will be thoroughly reviewing the guidance and making any necessary adjustments to our current program. We hope to have revised plans communicated by the end of next week and implemented the week of April 6th. Principals and Directors will be communicating school or department specific changes. In the interim, MERSD Online continues to provide Supplemental and Enrichment Activities to maintain skills and to keep students connected with their school community. The overall goal of our approach is to keep students in contact with the school and to maintain their skills during the closure. We are not trying to replicate the school day, but we are making our best effort to keep students engaged.
- MCAS: MCAS is currently postponed and potentially canceled. The MA Department of Education has applied for a federal waiver, and there is state legislation pending that will give the Commissioner of Education the authority to make the final determination.
- SATs & AP Tests: March/May SATs have been canceled; however, the June 6th SAT is still scheduled. The College Board is currently targeting administering AP tests during the make-up window, which is the last two weeks of May. There is more information about AP testing expected to be released on 4/3.
Student Needs
- Laptops and Internet access have been made available for all who need it.
- Free Lunch is available to all who need it.
- Pick-Up sites are currently in Gloucester (click here for information on locations). Open Table is working on adding locations
- MERSD has donated all perishables to help support the effort
- Weekly Grocery Support is available. Please click here for more information.
Operations
- The statewide school shutdown has been extended through May 4th.
- At this time no decisions have been made with regard to the end of the year student activities.
- The MA Department of Education will issue a determination in the coming week as to whether April vacation should be used for instructional time.
- We will not need to make-up any school days beyond June 23rd.
- All buildings are closed through at least May 4th per the Governor’s order.
- No access for students, staff, or the community.
- During the shutdown, buildings will be cleaned and sanitized.
- Construction at Memorial School continues unless guidance is revised at the state level.
Social Distancing: This is Not a Snow Day. It is very important that we do our part to adhere to the social distancing recommendations. If we each do our part, we may be able to shorten the duration of this public health emergency. This is a great resource for understanding why there is a need to close schools and what you can do to practice responsible social distancing while your kids are home. Social Distancing: This is Not a Snow Day
It is my hope that each of you remains healthy and safe during this unprecedented time.
Best wishes,
Pam
