Update on COVID Response Planning

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During the recent winter break, California Gov. Gavin Newsom released a draft plan called Safe Schools for All. The goal of this plan is to further support California schools in returning students to classrooms starting with transitional kindergarten through second grade students as soon as possible, followed by additional elementary grade levels.

We have carefully examined the draft plan, and along with other school districts we are providing feedback to the state to ensure the needs of our students and staff are properly addressed. In light of a continuing surge in coronavirus cases regionally and nationally, for now, most instruction will continue to take place online until at least March 1, as we previously announced prior to winter break.

Our intention is to reopen our classrooms for in-person learning when it is safe to do so, as specified in our local 2020-21 School Opening and Safety Plan, which remains available at ngskmc-eis.net. We are prepared to implement that plan when COVID cases decline, having purchased personal protective equipment including face coverings, cleaning wipes, contactless thermometers, hand sanitizer and other supplies with the help of federal CARES Act funding designated for coronavirus relief.

While we believe the state’s draft Safe Schools for All plan is a good start, clearer statewide guidance would help to return students to classrooms throughout California. We and other school districts continue to advocate for a clear, statewide standard for COVID-related health issues in schools with a mandate for in-classroom instruction when the standard is met. Our school district leadership, including members of our Board of Education, also continue to advocate at the state and federal levels for ongoing resources and sound policies needed to ensure a safe return to all of our campuses.

In the meantime we will continue to provide all of the services that we have offered during the pandemic, and we will support distance learning in the best way possible.

We look forward to a safe and healthier 2021.

With appreciation,

-Jill

Jill Baker, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools