It has been an interesting week for all of us. We don’t have exact numbers but estimate about 80-90% of our students or their parents came to clean out lockers and take home items on Wednesday and Thursday. We appreciated that people came in, got what they needed to, and then left in a timely manner so we could follow the CDC’s guidelines on social distancing.
I am proud of our district’s staff. Many of our staff assisted our custodians in preparing the classrooms and other areas of the building for cleaning. Our custodians have been hustling to keep and maintain clean facilities. Operation Backpack organizers worked together to provide additional food items for families.
With schools being closed, many families are noticing just how much food it takes to provide three meals a day at home! Good news – we have finalized and posted details about our FREE meal program for all children under the age of 18 that starts Monday. We are starting with sack lunches/breakfasts that can be picked up at the two elementary buildings plus stops around Vinton, Shellsburg and Garrison. We will monitor whether we need to increase (or decrease) the number of pick-up locations. Please help spread the word about this opportunity.
We are adjusting our Central Office times moving forward. Starting Monday, we will be open from 9-2 although we ask that you call or email before coming to the office. All other buildings are closed to the public at this time. Our playgrounds and athletic facilities remain open at this time; please keep in mind that it would be impossible to keep them disinfected.
Some teachers have provided materials and resources for students to continue their learning. Next week, we will have more items posted on our website to support our families.
Continue to check this page for additional updates!
One of the best things I heard this week came from one of our staff members who said, “We’ll get through this together, just not next to each other.” He said it was a line from the Three Stooges but it seems to fit today.
Respectfully,
Mary Jo Hainstock
Superintendent