May 22, 2020   

 

As we approach our last week of the 2019-20 school year, May 26-29 (observing Memorial Day on Monday), I would like to share some information related to several areas that we will be focusing on:    

 

Connection and Conclusion: It is important that we end the year with our students feeling positively about their school experience. Teachers will be focused on relationships with students while bringing closure to the school year. This includes finishing up the learning and completion of assignments. In addition, your child's teacher may provide additional directions and activities for this week. Please look for communication from your child’s classroom teacher.    

 

Collection and Housekeeping Items: Each school has provided information regarding the process for safely collecting student belongings. Schools also will communicate the details regarding the return of district-issued 1:1 devices for students in 5th, 8th and 12th grades. All students, except those currently in grades 5, 8, and 12 will keep their school-issued devices over the summer. Students in grades 5 and 12 will receive communication from their school regarding the specific dates to return devices. Students in 8th grade will keep their devices until mid-summer, when there will be additional information about a return in July. More information can also be found on the District's Frequently Asked Questions page.     

 

Reflection and Planning Ahead: As we plan ahead for next year, we are interested in learning about our students’ experiences with remote learning. The District will be reaching out to students in grades 3-12 next week; we encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings with us.     

 

Celebration: The achievements of our graduates, and the years of service from our retirees, deserve celebration. Our middle school and high school leadership teams are thoughtfully organizing virtual celebrations for the promotions and graduations of our 8th- and 12th-graders. We wish our Vikings the best as they embark on the next chapter in their lives. In addition, the District invited our 2020 retirees to participate in a celebratory video to honor and thank them for their many years of service. Please join us in celebrating all our retirees, including those featured in the video at this link!   

 

We will continue to communicate with you in the days, weeks, and months ahead. Thank you for your continued patience, flexibility and support.     

 

Dr. Kent Mutchler    

Superintendent of Schools