September 28, 2020
Dear Students, Parents and Caregivers,
As I write this update we are now 10 days from returning to school! I would like to provide a few more details to the work that is being done to prepare for your child(ren)’s return.
The district this last week and into next week has received or will be receiving several items to meet the requirements set forth by the Maine Department of Education. These materials will be distributed out to all schools and you will see PPE, plexiglass dividers, and visual signage to list just a few items. Hand sanitizer will be found in every classroom as well as cleaning and disinfecting supplies. Mid week we expect to provide information on the at home self screener that must be used daily by ALL students before starting their school day. It will be mandatory beginning Tuesday, September 8.
The Transportation department is working around the clock to plot the necessary bus runs. Please keep in mind this involves 15 different buses and gathering necessary information to accurately and safely transport the students. We expect early next week to be able to start sharing pick up and drop off times. If your situation changes please contact the appropriate school as well as the Transportation Director. Please note that we will NOT be using bus passes until further notice - this will strain the transportation department in this time of limited bus capacities.
We continue to work on the details of At Home Supported Learning. The Middle and High School have created plans that should be reviewed before making a final commitment. Please contact the middle school or high school directly to confirm your participation no later than Wednesday, September 2, 2020. Your commitment to At Home Supported Learning will last until the end of the first quarter and can be re-evaluated at that time.
At the elementary level, we will be posting the expectations early next week. We are looking to bring in a Teaching Principal to guide At Home Supported Learning students. More information will be out early next week so parents can make an informed decision. Please know that at this time the elementary program will be available Kindergarten through 5th grade only.
Finally, The Maranacook Schools anticipate being eligible for Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Projects totaling approximately $250,000 in 2020-21. More information about this year’s proposed projects can be found at https://core-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/documents/asset/uploaded_file/886651/Website__ESSA_Posting.8.2020.pdf. A summary of the year’s activities and goals is made at a public board meeting every year in June. Your input and questions regarding use of entitlement funds in RSU #38 is always welcome. Specific comments with regard to this year’s projects should be submitted by Thursday, September 6, 2020.
As always if you have questions or concerns please do not hesitate to communicate with our various schools or building administrators. We are looking forward to the return of our students! Have a great weekend!
Sincerely,
James Charette
Superintendent