Superintendent's Weekly Update 2/5/2021

 


Hello,

I hope that everyone is well and survived the cold and the snow. Although it is still cold out and we still have weeks of winter ahead of us, the days are getting longer and March is around the corner. Next week is our final week before entering the February vacation. I will include the travel advisory below as a reminder for people who may travel. Our numbers in Douglas have continued to decline which is fantastic, but we must continue to exercise good judgment by avoiding large gatherings, always wearing a mask when in public, frequent hand-washing, and sanitizer. By doing our part we can stay open for in person learning. Thank you for what you do, your vigilance has allowed for us to stay open.

Travel Advisory:

Attached in a link to the travel advisory information by the Governor for those who may travel. 

https://www.mass.gov/info-details/covid-19-travel-order

Snow Days:

I have been asked a few times this week about traditional snow days versus remote learning days. I hope to provide some clarity around those two. Last year, DESE allowed some schools to pilot “remote days'' in lieu of a traditional snow day. After the pilot, the decision was made not to expand beyond the pilot year. However, this year, since many schools are either in some form of a hybrid or remote learning model, this option was allowed for the 2020-2021 school year across the Commonwealth. To be clear, I love a snow day and the joy that is associated with it. However for every snow day we have, that extends the school year further into June. Are traditional snow days still an option for the remainder of the school year; absolutely! The decision will be made based on the timing of the storm, the total snow accumulation anticipated, and additional factors. Hopefully, we will not have to worry about snow for the remainder of the year.

State of the Schools:

Please be on the lookout for information from each principal about the state of the schools meetings next week. They will provide to you and update on what we have done and where we are going for the remainder of the year. It will also allow for you to be able to ask questions to each principal. 

Distinct report card:

Every year DESE sends out a report card to schools and communities. They write, “Families and communities are critical partners to a district's success. Just as a student's report card shows how they are performing, the district report card shows how a district is performing in multiple areas. It shows the district's strengths and the challenges that need to be addressed to ensure the district is meeting the needs of all students.” We will look at the data this provides us and begin to make the necessary changes and improvements. Many of these changes will be highlighted in the work our Blueprint Committee is working on. Below is a link to the report card.

https://reportcards.doe.mass.edu/2020/DistrictReportcard/00770000


COVID Data

Attached is a link to our COVID Dashboard along with guidance and information for families. Link To COVID Dashboard  guidance for families 

Have a “Super” weekend!

Paul

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