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Spring 2020 Communications
June 2020 – A message from the School Board
The end of the school year is always a time for celebration. It’s a time to acknowledge the growth of students, academically and emotionally, mark transitions, and greet the coming of summer. This year, those celebrations looked and felt very different. With the outbreak of COVID-19, our students left school a few days shy of Spring Break and never returned to their buildings. They learned from – and connected with – their teachers and their friends – via screens. They said goodbye virtually, or from the edge of their driveways, waving as a parade of teachers drove past.
The global health crisis wasn’t the only challenge faced by our district this year. A much-needed referendum failed in the fall, resulting in millions of dollars of budget cuts and the loss of many outstanding educators and staff. As a Board, we feel the responsibility and grieve the impact of these departures with our community. Superintendent Clint Christopher announced he was leaving, returning to Iowa to be closer to his family. Individually these were all significant hurdles. Combined, they could well have been overwhelming.
It’s a testament to the students, staff, families and this community that they didn’t. The attention of our staff every day was focused on serving our students. This is the heart of who we are and what we do as a school district. No matter what was going on outside the classroom, our teachers and staff continued to deliver the excellent education our students deserve and our community expects.
In March, with little warning, this same team pivoted to a distance learning model in a matter of days. Was it perfect with such short notice? No. But as the weeks progressed they adapted, finding ways to connect with students to make sure they had the support they needed not just for academic growth, but also that much-needed human connection.
Last month, the School Board completed its search for the next superintendent of Eastern Carver County Schools. We couldn’t be more excited or proud to name Lisa Sayles-Adams as our unanimous choice, selected after a rigorous interview process from a strong slate of candidates. Lisa’s background, her commitment to academic excellence, and her vision for a community growing stronger together made her the obvious choice. We can’t wait for you to meet her in the days and weeks ahead.
Of course, the big question on everyone’s mind is what school will look like in the fall. District teams are hard at work planning for multiple scenarios pending the Governor’s recommendations, which he will announce in late July. Once those are announced we will communicate district plans so everyone is ready to go once school starts.
In times of adversity, true character is revealed. This community has rallied behind its schools, its teachers, its students. Whether it was finding new and creative ways to celebrate our amazing Class of 2020, supporting the district Angel Fund to continue to provide meals for children in need, or showing love to staff on social media, it’s clear you care. As we look to an uncertain fall, that community spirit and care will be needed more than ever. Together, we’ve got this.
Jeff Ross, Ph.D., Board Chair
on behalf of the ECCS Board
April 23, 2020 — A message from the Superintendent
To ECCS students, parents, and guardians:
Today, Governor Walz announced that we will not be returning to school in person this year. I know this is not the news that we wanted to hear, but I want to reassure you that we are going to continue to support you in every way we can. The district has been hard at work planning in the event of an extension of the school closures.
We know that grading and assessment has been an ongoing source of concern for parents and students alike. Please visit the new grading page on our distance learning site for more information about what that will look like for the remainder of the year.
There are also some calendar changes to allow our teachers and staff additional planning time so they have the resources they need to ensure they are supporting students in their learning. Find Calendar Changes here.
In the days ahead, we’ll be communicating plans for graduation and other important events. You’ll also hear from your school about how to pick up items that still remain in buildings and return materials and resources.
I know this has been an incredibly challenging time for your family and everyone in our community. This is not how any of us planned for our school year together to end. What I have seen over the last several weeks is a community that cares deeply for each other, and I urge you to continue to demonstrate all the ways you are #ECCSStrong. As we move forward with distance learning, know that we are working hard to improve the process and identify more ways to engage our students and connect them with each other, and their teachers, even if it has to be through a screen.
Our learning continues. Meals will continue to be provided for families in need. We will still support each other, in ways big and small. This community of students, families, teachers, and staff is remarkably resilient. I am grateful for each and every one of you. Hang in there.
Stay safe, stay healthy, stay home, and keep smiling. We’ve got this.
Clint Christopher
Superintendent
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
A los estudiantes, padre y tutores de ECCS:
Hoy, el gobernador Walz anunció que no volveremos a la escuela en persona este año. Sé que esta no es la noticia que queríamos escuchar, pero quiero asegurarles que vamos a seguir apoyándolos en todo lo que podamos. El distrito ha estado trabajando duro en la planificación en caso de una eventual extensión de los cierres de escuelas.
Sabemos que la calificación y la evaluación han sido una fuente constante de preocupación para padres y estudiantes por igual. Visite la nueva página de calificaciones en nuestro sitio de educación a distancia para obtener más información sobre cómo se verá durante el resto del año: AQUI
También hay algunos cambios en el calendario para permitirles a nuestros maestros y al personal tiempo de planificación adicional para que tengan los recursos que necesitan para asegurarse de apoyar a los estudiantes en su aprendizaje. Puede leer más sobre los cambios de calendario AQUI.
En los próximos días, estaremos comunicando planes para la graduación y otros eventos importantes. También escuchará de su escuela sobre cómo recoger artículos que aún permanecen en los edificios y devolver materiales y recursos.
Sé que este ha sido un momento increíblemente desafiante para su familia y para todos en nuestra comunidad. No es así como ninguno de nosotros planeó que terminara nuestro año escolar juntos. Lo que he visto en las últimas semanas es una comunidad que se preocupa profundamente el uno por el otro, y le insto a que continúe demostrando todas las formas en que es #ECCSStrong. A medida que avanzamos con el aprendizaje a distancia, sepa que estamos trabajando duro para mejorar el proceso e identificar más formas de involucrar a nuestros estudiantes y conectarlos entre ellos y con sus maestros, incluso si tiene que ser a través de una pantalla.
Nuestro aprendizaje continúa. Se seguirán brindando comidas a las familias necesitadas. Todavía nos apoyaremos mutuamente, en formas grandes y pequeñas. Esta comunidad de estudiantes, familias, maestros y personal es notablemente resistente. Estoy agradecido por todos y cada uno de ustedes. No se rindan.
Mantente a salvo, mantente saludable, quédate en casa y sigue sonriendo. Sí se puede.
Clint Christopher
Superintendent
April 21, 2020 — A message from the School Board
Dear ECCS families, staff, and community,
As I write this, we are in the fourth week of distance learning, and I wanted to reach out once again to tell you how tremendously proud and grateful I am for the work each and every one of you has done to support our learners. Times of adversity tend to reveal character, and it’s clear that this community is one of strength, dedication, and care. This is not a perfect system – there is simply no way to replicate the classroom experience from afar – but together we continue to make it work better for our students.
To our teachers and other staff – thank you for doing everything you can – going truly above and beyond – to keep our students on track. To our parents and families – thank you for your patience, your partnership, and your support of your students and our district. To our broader community – thank you for your messages, your lit porch lights, your donations, and all the ways you are showing the students and staff of this district what they mean to all of us.
In the midst of all this, the search for our next superintendent continues. I want to reassure you that this process is on track, and moving forward. A slate of candidates will be presented to the Board early next month, and there will opportunities for community participation and feedback as part of that process. Admittedly, that will look different than it might have a few months ago, but the interview process is a public one and we will work to communicate that as transparently as possible.
As I communicated earlier this year our district has a clear direction, and our commitment to personalized learning and helping each learner achieve their personal best is unwavering. We know who we are as a district and where we are headed, and we will find the next individual to lead our great district.
We have an outstanding team at Eastern Carver County Schools, and that has never been more clear than right now. Each of you is a valuable player, and partner, in this work. Thank you, on behalf of the entire Board, for your continued dedication to and support of our students. Together, we’ve got this.
Jeff Ross, Ph.D.
Chair, ECCS Board
Estimadas familias, personal y comunidad de ECCS,
Mientras escribo esto, nos encontramos en la cuarta semana de aprendizaje a distancia, y he querido comunicarme una vez más, para decirles lo tremendamente orgulloso y agradecido que estoy por el trabajo que todos y cada uno de ustedes han hecho para apoyar a nuestros alumnos. Los tiempos de adversidad tienden a revelar el carácter, y está claro que esta comunidad es de fortaleza, dedicación y cuidado. Este no es un sistema perfecto, simplemente no hay forma de replicar la experiencia del aula a distancia, pero juntos seguimos haciendo que funcione mejor para nuestros estudiantes.
A nuestros maestros y demás personal, gracias por hacer todo lo posible, yendo realmente por encima y más allá, para mantener a nuestros estudiantes en el camino correcto. A nuestros padres y familias: gracias por su paciencia, su colaboración y su apoyo a sus estudiantes y a nuestro distrito. A nuestra comunidad más amplia: gracias por sus mensajes, sus luces de porche encendidas, sus donaciones y todas las formas en que les está mostrando a los estudiantes y al personal de este distrito lo que significan para todos nosotros.
En medio de todo esto, la búsqueda de nuestro próximo superintendente continúa. Quiero asegurarles que este proceso está encaminado y avanza. Una lista de candidatos se presentará a la Junta a principios del próximo mes, y habrá oportunidad para la participación y retroalimentación de la comunidad como parte de ese proceso. Es cierto que se verá diferente de lo que podría haber sido hace unos meses, pero el proceso de la entrevista es público y trabajaremos para comunicarlo de la manera más transparente posible.
Como lo comuniqué a principios de este año, nuestro distrito tiene una dirección clara, y nuestro compromiso con el aprendizaje personalizado y ayudar a cada alumno a lograr su mejor esfuerzo personal es inquebrantable. Sabemos quiénes somos como distrito y hacia dónde nos dirigimos, y encontraremos a la siguiente persona para dirigir nuestro gran distrito.
Tenemos un equipo excepcional en las Escuelas del Condado de Eastern Carver, y eso nunca ha sido más claro que en este momento. Cada uno de ustedes es un jugador valioso y socio en este trabajo. Gracias, en nombre de toda la Junta, por su continua dedicación y apoyo a nuestros estudiantes.
Juntos, lo lograremos.
Doc. Jeff Ross
Presidente, de la Junta de ECCS
April 9, 2020 Email to K-12 Parents
ECCS Families:
As we move into week two of distance learning, we continue to be grateful for your partnership and support as we work together to support our students. This has been a learning process for everyone, including our teachers. To help support them as they continue to adapt to the challenges and opportunities of the virtual classroom, Monday, April 13th will be a modified learning day.
Instructional staff will use the day to make any needed adjustments to ensure long-term success as distance learning continues. They will work individually and collaboratively to plan and prepare learning materials for the weeks ahead.
Monday is not a day off. As on any other day, students will receive learning plans from their teacher intended to be independent activities and/or practice. Their teachers will just be unavailable that day to answer questions or return emails. It’s similar to when they have a substitute teacher in class.
As a reminder, this Friday, April 10 is a planned day off on the district calendar so your child(ren) will not receive any new assignments from their teachers.
Again, we appreciate your support, your patience, and your partnership as we navigate through this together. We are committed to continuing to deliver exceptional, personalized learning to our students, and this day will help us better do that work.
To help our staff understand what’s working for you and your family and what isn’t, we are asking you to complete a short questionnaire. If you have multiple students feel free to complete one for each of them. We are also asking students to complete a similar questionnaire if they so choose. Students in grades 6-12 will receive the voluntary questionnaire link in their school email on Monday.
We have included the link to the student questionnaire and are asking those parents of elementary students willing to provide feedback to please complete it with your child.
Parent survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CP78SRL
Student survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CB22QRB
Elementary Materials Pick-Up Options: As part of their planning on the 13th, some elementary schools or grade-level teams may have additional physical materials students need to continue distance learning. If that’s the case for your child(ren), your school will communicate with you directly about when and how to pick up what is needed.
Thank you again for all you are doing to support your child(ren)’s learning. We know these are difficult times, but we will get through them together. Enjoy your long weekend, stay safe, and stay healthy!
Familias ECCS:
A medida que avanzamos en la segunda semana de aprendizaje a distancia, seguimos agradecidos por su colaboración y apoyo mientras trabajamos juntos para apoyar a nuestros estudiantes. Este ha sido un proceso de aprendizaje para todos, incluidos nuestros/as maestros/as. Para ayudar a apoyarlos mientras continúan adaptándose a los desafíos y oportunidades del aula virtual, el lunes 13 de abril será un día de aprendizaje modificado.
El personal de instrucción usará el día para hacer los ajustes necesarios para asegurar el éxito a largo plazo mientras continúa el aprendizaje a distancia. Trabajarán individualmente y en colaboración para planificar y preparar materiales de aprendizaje para las próximas semanas.
El lunes no es un día libre. Como en cualquier otro día, los estudiantes recibirán planes de aprendizaje de su maestro/a destinados a ser actividades y / o prácticas independientes. Sus maestros/as simplemente no estarán disponibles ese día para responder preguntas o devolver correos electrónicos. Es similar a cuando tienen un maestro/a sustituto/a en clase.
Como recordatorio, este viernes 10 de abril es un día libre planificado en el calendario del distrito por esa razón sus hijos/as no recibirán nuevas tareas de sus maestros/as.
Nuevamente, apreciamos su apoyo, su paciencia y su asociación mientras navegamos juntos por esto. Estamos comprometidos a continuar brindando un aprendizaje excepcional y personalizado a nuestros estudiantes, y este día nos ayudará a hacer mejor ese trabajo.
Para ayudar a nuestro personal a comprender qué funciona para usted y su familia y qué es aquello que no, le pedimos que complete un breve cuestionario. Si tiene varios estudiantes, siéntase libre de completar uno para cada uno/a de ellos/as. También estamos pidiendo a los estudiantes que completen un cuestionario similar si así lo desean. Los estudiantes en los grados 6-12 recibirán el enlace del cuestionario voluntario en el correo electrónico de su escuela el lunes.
Hemos incluido el enlace al cuestionario del estudiante y les pedimos a los padres de estudiantes de primaria que deseen proporcionar comentarios que lo completen con su hijo/a.
Encuesta para padres: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CGFFYGZ
Encuesta estudiantil: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/CHNXBCL
Opciones selectivas de materiales elementales: Como parte de su planificación el día 13, algunas escuelas primarias o equipos de nivel de grado pueden tener materiales físicos adicionales que los estudiantes necesitan para continuar el aprendizaje a distancia. Si ese es el caso de su (s) hijo/a(s), su escuela se comunicará con usted directamente sobre cuándo y cómo recoger lo que se necesita.
Gracias nuevamente por todo lo que está haciendo para apoyar el aprendizaje de sus hijos/as. Sabemos que estos son tiempos difíciles, pero los superaremos juntos. ¡Disfrute de su largo fin de semana, manténgase seguro y saludable!
March 25, 2020 Update on Distance Learning
Dear Eastern Carver County Schools Families,
Today we learned that the Governor has closed Minnesota schools through May 4, 2020. While we had hoped to come back from spring break face-to-face, we have spent the past few weeks preparing for this moment. Our distance learning plan will begin on Monday, March 30.
This is going to be a learning process – and an adjustment – for all of us, teachers, students, and parents alike. We’re in this together, and we’ll get through it together, but that’s going to require some patience as we work through the inevitable challenges in the process.
Here’s what we need you to know:
School- and Teacher-Specific Communication About Distance Learning
You will receive communication from your school(s) yet this week. Starting on Monday, March 30, you will receive communication from your student(s) teachers about what distance learning will look like. This will include information about systems, structures and routines. As time passes and both teachers and students adapt and learn how to better use distance learning, these systems will likely evolve. Changes will be part of regular communication between schools and parents.
Parents enrolled in StormHawks half-day and full-day preschool programs will receive a separate email in the next few days about Early Childhood Program Distance Learning Plans.
Response Time
We know, especially as distance learning gets underway, that you’ll likely have questions. Being responsive and supportive of our families is a top priority. The goal of our teachers will be to respond on the same day to questions received between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Questions received after 3:00 p.m. will most likely be answered on the next distance learning school day.
Attendance
As with a “normal” school day, the expectation remains that all students attend school via distance learning on a daily basis. This does not mean that a school day in your house looks like it would at school; you know best the timeframe that works for your student(s) and family. You will be asked to confirm that your child is attending and participating in distance learning every school day. If your child is unable to participate on a given day due to illness or other family reasons, we ask that you notify the school in the same way you would for an absence from school.
- Kindergarten – parents will receive an email on the first day of distance learning from your school communicating the attendance procedure for kindergarten students.
- Grade 1-12 students – Guidance for using the attendance system is available here. [Student Directions for the Distance Learning Attendance System] Student will “Mark Attendance” each school day between 6:00am-11:59pm on the Chromebook or Personal Device from the link [https://apps.district112.org/attendance/]. This link will be provided on the student landing page as well as from teachers within their Google Classrooms.
- As a reminder, parents must call in their students if they don’t “attend” on a specific day. If you do not report your child absent, you will receive a follow-up call from your child’s school.
Setting Up Routines and Structures
We know that routine is important, whether at home or at school. Creating structure at home is one of the best things you can do to support your children in their learning during this time. Teachers will be providing guidance around schedules and expectations tailored to grade level and courses. We have also provided resources on supporting distance learning at home to support your family with this process.
Tech Support
We know there may be questions or hurdles around access to technology or other technology-based needs. We’ve provided a number of resources here. For other support, contact your child’s teacher or school office directly.
Additional Resources
We have compiled a number of resources to support families in distance learning, access to meals, and other areas here:
- Distance Learning: http://www.district112.org/academics/distance-learning/
- COVID-19 Information: http://www.district112.org/district-information/covid-19-information/
- ECCS Strong: http://www.district112.org/eccs-strong/
Nutrition Services
We will continue to provide meals through the long-term closure to any children under the age of 19 who need them. Meals will be distributed at Clover Ridge Elementary and Riverview Terrace from 11:30-12:30 on Mondays and Wednesdays or by delivery upon request. On Mondays, we will distribute meals for Monday and Tuesday, and on Wednesdays we will distribute meals for Wednesday-Friday. If families have already requested delivery, that request carries over and they do not need to contact us again. Families can contact us at with questions for to request delivery at 952-556-6150 or at Nutrition@District112.org
As we started off this message, we want to reiterate that we are in this together, and we will continue to support you as we embark on this distance learning together. In most cases, a distance learning day will not look like a traditional school day, and we know you are all juggling multiple roles in this moment. If you have questions or need assistance at any time, our school secretaries, support staff, and principals will continue to be available. Please feel free to reach out to your school at any time. We’re here for you.
Take care, and stay healthy.
Clint Christopher
Superintendent
________________________________________________________________________________
25 de marzo de 2020
Queridas Familias de las Escuelas del Condado de Eastern Carver:
Hoy nos enteramos de que el gobernador ha cerrado las escuelas de Minnesota hasta el 4 de mayo de 2020. Aunque esperábamos regresar de las vacaciones de primavera y vernos cara a cara, hemos pasado las últimas semanas preparándonos para este momento. Nuestro plan de aprendizaje a distancia comenzará el lunes 30 de marzo.
Éste será un proceso de aprendizaje y un ajuste, para todos nosotros, maestros/as, estudiantes y padres por igual. Estamos juntos en esto y lo superaremos juntos, pero eso requerirá un poco de paciencia mientras trabajamos en los desafíos inevitables del proceso.
Esto es lo que necesitamos que sepa:
Comunicación específica de la escuela y el/la maestro/a sobre el aprendizaje a distancia
Recibirá comunicación de su (s) escuela (s) esta semana. A partir del lunes 30 de marzo, recibirá comunicación de los/las maestros/as de su (s) estudiante (s) sobre cómo será el aprendizaje a distancia. Esto incluirá información sobre sistemas, estructuras y rutinas. A medida que pasa el tiempo y tanto los/las maestros/as como los estudiantes se adaptan y aprenden a utilizar mejor el aprendizaje a distancia, es probable que estos sistemas evolucionen. Los cambios serán parte de la comunicación regular entre las escuelas y los padres.
Los padres inscritos en los programas preescolares de medio día y día completo de StormHawks recibirán un correo electrónico por separado en los próximos días sobre los planes de educación a distancia del programa de la primera infancia.
Tiempo de respuesta
Sabemos especialmente que a medida que avanza el aprendizaje a distancia, es probable que tenga preguntas. Ser receptivo y solidario con nuestras familias es una prioridad. El objetivo de nuestros/as maestros/as será responder el mismo día a las preguntas recibidas entre las 9:00 a.m. y las 3:00 p.m. Preguntas recibidas después de las 3:00 p.m. probablemente serán respondidas al siguiente día escolar de aprendizaje a distancia.
Asistencia
Al igual que con un día escolar “normal”, la expectativa sigue siendo que todos los estudiantes asistan a la escuela diariamente a distancia. Esto no significa que un día escolar en su casa se vea como en la escuela; usted conoce mejor el marco de tiempo que funciona para su (s) estudiante (s) y su familia. Se le pedirá que confirme que su hijo/a asiste y participa en el aprendizaje a distancia todos los días escolares. Si su hijo/a no puede participar en un día determinado debido a una enfermedad u otras razones familiares, le pedimos que notifique a la escuela de la misma manera que lo haría en caso de ausencia de la escuela.
- Kindergarten: los padres recibirán un correo electrónico el primer día de aprendizaje a distancia de su escuela comunicando el procedimiento de asistencia para los estudiantes de kindergarten.
- Estudiantes de 1º a 12º grado: la guía para usar el sistema de asistencia está disponible aquí. [Instrucciones para estudiantes para el sistema de asistencia de aprendizaje a distancia] El estudiante “marcará la asistencia” cada día escolar entre las 6:00 a.m. y 11:59pm. Este enlace se proporcionará en la página de destino de los estudiantes, así como de los maestros dentro de sus Aulas de Google. [https://apps.district112.org/attendance/
- Como recordatorio, los padres deben llamar a sus estudiantes si no “asisten” en un día específico. Si no informa que su hijo/a está ausente, recibirá una llamada de seguimiento de la escuela de su hijo/a.
Establecer rutinas y estructuras
Sabemos que la rutina es importante, ya sea en casa o en la escuela. Crear estructura en casa es una de las mejores cosas que puede hacer para apoyar a sus hijos/as en su aprendizaje durante este tiempo. Los/las maestros/as proporcionarán orientación sobre horarios y expectativas adaptadas al nivel de grado y cursos. También hemos proporcionado recursos para apoyar el aprendizaje a distancia en el hogar para apoyar a su familia con este proceso.
Apoyo técnico
Sabemos que puede haber preguntas u obstáculos en torno al acceso a la tecnología u otras necesidades basadas en la tecnología. Hemos proporcionado una serie de recursos aquí Para otro tipo de apoyo, comuníquese directamente con el maestro de su hijo/a o la oficina de la escuela.
Recursos adicionales
Hemos compilado una serie de recursos para apoyar a las familias en el aprendizaje a distancia, el acceso a las comidas y otras áreas aquí:
- Aprendizaje a Distancia: http://www.district112.org/academics/distance-learning/
- COVID-19 Información http://www.district112.org/district-information/covid-19-information/
- ECCS Strong: http://www.district112.org/eccs-strong/
Servicios de nutrición
Continuaremos brindando comidas a través del cierre a largo plazo a cualquier niño/a menor de 19 años que las necesite. Las comidas se distribuirán en Clover Ridge Elementary y Riverview Terrace de 11: 30-12: 30 los lunes y miércoles o mediante entrega con previa solicitud. Los lunes, distribuiremos comidas para lunes y martes, y los miércoles distribuiremos comidas para miércoles a viernes. Si las familias ya han solicitado la entrega, esa solicitud se transfiere y no necesitan contactarnos nuevamente. Las familias pueden contactarnos al con preguntas para solicitar la entrega al 952-556-6150 o en Nutrition@District112.org
Cuando comenzamos este mensaje, queremos reiterar que estamos juntos en esto, y continuaremos apoyándoles mientras nos embarcamos en este aprendizaje a distancia juntos. En la mayoría de los casos, un día de aprendizaje a distancia no se verá como un día escolar tradicional, y sabemos que todos están haciendo malabares con múltiples roles en este momento. Si tiene preguntas o necesita ayuda en cualquier momento, nuestros secretarios escolares, el personal de apoyo y los/las directores/as continuarán disponibles. No dude en comunicarse con su escuela en cualquier momento. Estamos aquí para usted.
Tengan cuidado y manténganse sanos.
Clint Christopher
Superintendente
________________________________________________________________________________
Video in Somali
Part 1 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FrmpjNiID9s
Part 2 – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqmoU2WqF28
March 23, 2020 Message from the School Board Chair and Superintendent
Eastern Carver County School District Families, Students, and Staff:
Most of us have heard by now these wise words from Fred Rogers (Mr. Rogers), “When I was a boy and I would see scary things, my mother would say to me, ‘Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.’” We bring this up again because over the past week, time and again, we have seen the helpers showing up in our community. They wear many hats, but we are especially proud of the work done by our schools – every single member of District 112 – to make sure we have plans in place to continue to educate our students, feed them, and make sure they have access to other resources necessary for their health and well-being.
These are difficult, uncertain times, but adversity often reveals the strength and heart of those around us. Thank you to all of our staff, students, parents and community members for all of your help. Last week, our teachers and the staff who support them stepped up to make sure our district is ready to continue to educate our students, each and every one, in the event of a long-term closure of our schools. Our Community Education staff was hard at work making sure that childcare would still be available for essential personnel so that the work of caring for and protecting those who are ill or vulnerable continues even in crisis. Our Nutrition Services and Transportation staff were making sure food was available to anyone who needed access to nutrition and a smile. And those are just a few examples of what was going on in our district’s buildings to make sure we continue to meet the needs of our students in a rapidly changing environment.
Through it all, our community has also rallied in all the best ways, offering support through volunteering, donations, and other means. We are truly #ECCSStrong, and we couldn’t be prouder to be the board chair and superintendent, parents, and community members in this district.
In the days and weeks ahead there will no doubt be challenges. We are in this together, as the larger Eastern Carver County Schools community and family, and together we will get through it. The district has a plan, the teachers are ready, administrators and support staff are ready, and working in partnership with our families we will navigate these unchartered waters and we will be stronger at the end of it.
We are so thankful for all the hard work that has readied us for this moment, and know we will continue to rise to the challenge as we work together to continue to show up for our kids, our community, and each other.
Together, we’ve got this.
Jeff Ross, Ph.D., ECCS Board Chair
Clint Christopher, ECCS Superintendent
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March 17, 2020 Update & voicemail message
Yesterday, the district communicated via email, important information about distance learning in the event of a long-term school closure. Parents should have received a follow-up email from your school today.
We want to remind families of the following:
- All students should make sure they have their chromebooks, chargers, and any textbooks or other school materials they might need.
- Schools will be open Wednesday, March 18 and Thursday, March 19 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Friday, March 20 from 8:00 am to noon for students to retrieve any items they might need.
- If students do not have access to a home computer, Chromebook, or don’t have regular Internet access at home, please contact your school principal.
This is a rapidly evolving situation and the district will continue to communicate updates via email, the district website, and social media, so please be sure to check your messages regularly.
March 16, 2020 Update
Families of Eastern Carver County Schools,
District teachers and staff are hard at work preparing to implement distance learning in the event of a long-term school closure in response to the COVID-19 virus. That distance learning plan could go into effect as soon as – but no earlier than – March 30th, when we are scheduled to return from Spring Break. To be clear: there is no expectation for students to engage in distance learning until that time. Families will receive further communication from the district, your schools, and your classroom teachers as these decisions are made.
In order to support distance learning, all students should have the following resources available to them at home:
- Chromebook and charger for Grades 1-12, or a home device that supports the Chrome browser
- Current classroom textbooks (if not online accessible)
If students do not have access to a home device or district-issued Chromebook, or there is no regular Internet access at home, families are asked to contact their school principal so accommodations can be made to provide resources that ensure access to educational materials.
On Tuesday, March 17th your school or individual teachers will communicate with families if there are additional resources to support learning that need to be picked up from school. These materials, along with items listed above, will be available between Wednesday, March 18th (8:00 AM – 4:00 PM) and Friday, March 20 (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM). These resources could include novels, learning packets, etc. If families are unable to pick up materials they should contact the school for an alternate plan.
The district has created a distance learning plan in the event of a long-term closure. Click here for the full plan. This plan will continue to provide students with new learning while sustaining previous learning. The learning activities provided will be connected to student learning goals and outcomes to keep them on track. Learning activities will be meaningful and important to student learning goals/outcomes. It does not mean that students will be working on academics for the same duration as a face-to-face school day. Teachers will do their best to provide instruction that meets the needs of as many of our learners as possible and provides routine and structure for both students and families.
If there is long-term closure and the distance learning plan is enacted, the district will notify parents, and teachers will follow up with specific communication around how to access learning materials moving forward.
As a district, providing our students with exceptional, personalized learning is second only to our commitment to keeping our students safe. We are grateful for your partnership and support as we balance both of those priorities.
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Los maestros y el personal del distrito están trabajando arduamente preparándose para implementar el aprendizaje a distancia en caso de un cierre de las escuelas a largo plazo en respuesta al virus COVID-19. Este plan de aprendizaje a distancia podría entrar en vigencia tan pronto, pero no antes, del 30 de marzo, cuando tenemos programado regresar de las vacaciones de primavera. Para ser claros: no hay expectativas de que los estudiantes participen en el aprendizaje a distancia hasta ese momento. Las familias recibirán más comunicación del distrito, sus escuelas y los maestros de su salón de clases a medida que se tomen estas decisiones.
Para apoyar el aprendizaje a distancia, todos los estudiantes deben tener los siguientes recursos disponibles en casa:
- Chromebook y cargador para grados 1º – 12º, o un dispositivo doméstico que admita el navegador Chrome
- Libros de texto actuales del aula (si no es así, está disponible en línea)
Si los estudiantes no tienen acceso a un dispositivo en su domicilio o una Chromebook emitida por el distrito, o si no hubiese acceso regular a Internet en el hogar, se les pide a las familias que se comuniquen con el director de su escuela para que se puedan hacer arreglos para proporcionar recursos que aseguren el acceso a materiales educativos.
El martes 17 de marzo, su escuela o bien los maestros/as de manera individual se comunicarán con las familias si hay recursos adicionales para apoyar el aprendizaje que deberán ser recogidos en la escuela. Estos materiales, junto con los artículos enumerados anteriormente, estarán disponibles entre el miércoles 18 de marzo (8:00 a.m. a 4:00 p.m.) y el viernes 20 de marzo (8:00 a.m. a 12:00 p.m.). Estos recursos pueden incluir novelas, paquetes de aprendizaje, etc. Si las familias no pueden recoger materiales, deben comunicarse con la escuela para obtener un plan alternativo.
El distrito ha creado un plan de aprendizaje a distancia en caso de un cierre a largo plazo. Haga clic aquí para ver el plan completo. Encuentre aquí el programa completo. Este plan continuará brindando a los estudiantes un nuevo aprendizaje mientras mantiene el aprendizaje previo. Las actividades de aprendizaje proporcionadas se conectarán con los objetivos y resultados de aprendizaje de los estudiantes para mantenerlos en rumbo. Las actividades de aprendizaje serán significativas e importantes para los objetivos / resultados de aprendizaje de los estudiantes. No significa que los estudiantes trabajarán en lo académico por la misma duración que un día escolar presencial. Los maestros harán todo lo posible para proporcionar una instrucción que satisfaga las necesidades de la mayor cantidad posible de nuestros alumnos y que proporcione rutina y estructura tanto para los estudiantes como para las familias.
Si hay un cierre a largo plazo y se promulga el plan de aprendizaje a distancia, el distrito notificará a los padres y los maestros/as harán un seguimiento con una comunicación específica sobre cómo acceder a los materiales de aprendizaje en el futuro.
Como distrito, proporcionamos a nuestros estudiantes un aprendizaje excepcional y personalizado. Nuestro compromiso es mantener a nuestros estudiantes seguros. Agradecemos su colaboración y apoyo mientras equilibramos ambas prioridades.
March 15, 2020 PM Update
District 112 Families:
This morning, Governor Walz asked school districts across the state to temporarily close from Wednesday, March 18 – through Friday, March 27th to put in place plans for distance learning in the event a long-term closure is required. Given our district is already on spring break next week, we will be closing schools to students starting tomorrow, March 16. There will be no school for students March 16th through March 20th. In addition, Club Care is cancelled, half and full-day preschool and ECFE programs are cancelled.
District staff will be in schools this week to put in place our distance learning plan. You will receive communication early this week that outlines that plan and how we will connect parents and students with those resources to ensure education moves forward. Buildings will be open if students need to retrieve anything from their lockers.
We want to make sure our students continue to have access to food during this unplanned time off. Free lunches will be available to all students 18 and under at the Riverview Terrace Community Center and at Clover Ridge Elementary school Monday, March 16 through Friday, March 20. Lunches will be available from 11:30 am-12:30 pm curbside in both locations, to be picked up and taken home while minimizing contact. If your family is unable to get to one of these sites and need lunches, please contact our nutrition services, Nutrition@district112.org or 952-556-6150. We have supports in place to deliver meals and want to be all our students have access to meals.
Beginning March 18 and through the statewide school closure, Eastern Carver County Schools will offer childcare for children age 3 (as of 9/1/19) through 5th grade who are from families of healthcare workers and other emergency providers. If this applies to you and your family, please fill out the survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BTJGY93
The health and safety of our students, staff, and broader school community is our top priority and we will continue to work with our state and local health agencies and the state department of education to make sure we are aligned with their guidelines and recommendations. Thank you for your partnership as we work together to keep our community safe.
Clint Christopher,
Superintendent
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Esta mañana, el gobernador Walz pidió a los distritos escolares del estado que cerraran temporalmente las escuelas del miércoles 18 al viernes 27 de marzo para poner en marcha los planes de aprendizaje a distancia en caso de que se requiera un cierre prolongado. Debido a que nuestro distrito se encontrará en vacaciones de primavera la próxima semana, cerraremos las escuelas a estudiantes a partir de mañana, 16 de marzo. No habrá clases para los estudiantes del 16 al 20 de marzo. Además, Club Care estará cancelado, preescolar de medio y día entero y todos los programas de ECFE estarán cancelados.
El personal del distrito estará en las escuelas esta semana para implementar el plan de aprendizaje a distancia. Usted recibirá más información a principios de esta semana con los lineamientos del plan y sobre cómo nos pondremos en contacto con padres de familia y estudiantes con estos recursos para asegurarnos que la educación avance. Los edificios estarán abiertos en caso de que los estudiantes necesiten recoger cualquier cosa de sus casilleros.
Queremos asegurarnos que nuestros estudiantes continúen teniendo acceso a alimentos durante esta interrupción no planeada. Habrá almuerzos gratuitos disponibles para todos los estudiantes menores a 18 años en el Centro Comunitario de Riverview Terrace y en la escuela primaria de Clover Ridge del lunes 16 al viernes 20 de marzo. Los almuerzos estarán disponibles de 11:30 am a 12:30 pm en ambos lugares para ser recogidos y llevados a casa para minimizar el contacto. Si su familia no puede llegar a estos sitios y necesita almuerzos, por favor, póngase en contacto con servicios de nutrición en Nutrition@district112.org o al 952-556-6150. Contamos con el apoyo necesario para entregar los alimentos y queremos que todos los estudiantes tengan acceso a ellos.
Al comenzar con el cierre estatal de escuelas el 18 de marzo, las escuelas del condado de Eastern Carver ofrecerá cuidado infantil a niños/as de 3 años (de 1/9/19) hasta el 5º grado cuyas familias sean trabajadores de salud y otros proveedores de servicios de emergencia. Si esto aplica a su familia, por favor, complete este cuestionario: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BTJGY93
La salud y la seguridad de nuestros estudiantes, personal y comunidad escolar es nuestra prioridad y continuaremos trabajando con el estado, las agencias locales de salud y el departamento estatal de educación para asegurarnos de estar al margen con los parámetros y recomendaciones. Gracias por su apoyo y por trabajar con nosotros para mantener una comunidad segura.
Clint Christopher,
Superintendente
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March 15, 2020 AM Update
112 Families:
This morning, Governor Walz announced a new COVID-19 response plan for schools. More information about his press conference is here: https://mn.gov/governor/assets/EO%2020-02%20Final_tcm1055-423073.pdf. We know the Governor’s announcement this morning leaves you a number of questions about what that means for our district. District leadership is working right now on next steps, and will be providing an update to our community later today. Thank you for your patience as we navigate this together.
Familias de 112:
Esta mañana, el gobernador Walz anunció un nuevo plan de respuesta COVID-19 para las escuelas. Aquí encontrará más información sobre su conferencia de prensa: https://mn.gov/governor/assets/EO%2020-02%20Final_tcm1055-423073.pdf. Sabemos que el anuncio del gobernador de esta mañana los deja con un serie de preguntas sobre lo que esto significa para nuestro distrito. El liderazgo del distrito está trabajando ahora mismo en planear los próximos pasos, y esperamos comunicar con nuestra comunidad más tarde para ponerlos al corriente. Gracias por su paciencia mientras trabajamos juntos.
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March 13, 2020
District 112 Families:
We wanted to provide you with an update of the current COVID-19 situation in Minnesota and our district’s efforts in response. We know there is a great deal of anxiety in our community, about how this virus could impact us all, and we share your concern. This situation is changing rapidly, and we appreciate your patience as we continue to work with the MN Department of Health (MDH) and Minnesota Department of Education (MDE), as well as our federal and local health agencies.
At this time, there is no recommendation for widespread school closure. We are regularly communicating with MDH and MDE and should the recommendations of the state and local health agencies change, or should there be an impact to our school community, the district will immediately take action.
The strategy currently being recommended is social distancing, which includes minimizing the gathering of large groups. This slows the spread of the disease and is designed to increase protection of our most vulnerable populations. To ensure the safety of our students and staff, the district is implementing the following, through March 31:
- All large group events and activities, including school assemblies, will be canceled or postponed.
- All district field trips will be canceled.
- As of Saturday morning, 3/14, all evening and weekend Community Education programming and outside group use of district facilities will be canceled.
- Club Care, Full Day preschool, after-school youth enrichment, and targeted services programming will continue as scheduled as long as school is in session and during Spring Break (for students already enrolled).
The district will continue to evaluate the situation to determine whether an extension of the March 31st date is needed.
We know there is a possibility that schools will be closed, and district staff has been working hard to put plans in place to ensure continuity both of education and nutrition services in the event that closure is long-term. ECCS does not currently have a state-approved e-learning plan but newly released guidance from MDE grants us the leeway to move forward in preparing a distance learning plan in the event of COVID-19-related school closure.
Distance learning options will look different across age groups. In the event we do close, teachers will be in direct contact with families to give directions for accessing ongoing learning materials. The district is also working to make sure that students without regular access to the internet will be provided with the resources they need to continue their learning.
To support this work, there will be no school for students on Friday, March 20th. Also, there will be no Club Care, full-day preschool, half-day preschool, or ECFE classes on Friday, March 20. Staff will still report and use the day for planning day so they can implement distance learning following spring break should the Department of Health and Department of Education recommend a school closure. The district is also working on alternative plans should a cancellation happen before spring break.
We are continuing to update the public website at https://eccs.mn/covid19 with resources and answers to frequently asked questions, including spring break travel and what happens if a person is diagnosed.
Our commitment as always is to the health and safety of our students, staff, and larger community, and we continue to work with our local, state, and federal partners to make sure our policies are aligned with their recommendations. Thank you for working with us to keep our entire community as safe as possible.
Clint Christopher
Superintendent
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March 12 Update
As a district, the health and safety of our students and staff is of the utmost importance. We have been working with our state and local government partners and constantly monitoring the rapidly-evolving situation around COVID-19. Given updated guidelines from the Minnesota Department of Health on limiting large group activities we are postponing all scheduled school-related large events (concerts, etc.) until further notice. There is no recommendation impacting the school day and school will continue to be held.
For the evening of March 12, this includes the Clover Ridge Elementary Silent Auction and Fine Arts Night, Chaska Middle School East Showcase of Talent, Chanhassen High School band concert, Chaska High School choir concert, and Jonathan Elementary Choir concerts.
This is a fast-moving situation and we will provide a more complete update tomorrow after conversations with the Department of Health and Department of Education. Visit http://eccs.mn/covid19 for the latest information.
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March 9 Update
As many of you likely know, the second confirmed case of COVID-19 is here in Carver County. We don’t know what part of the county, but as part of its process, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) will do its best to contact anyone who came into contact with the individual so they can self-quarantine while monitoring their conditions. We continue to work closely with MDH and Carver County Public Health to assess the situation and determine next steps. Right now, we have no reason to believe there is any direct impact to Eastern Carver County Schools.
We understand this news brings an additional level of anxiety. Symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to both influenza and colds, which also heightens concern. It is important to communicate to children that, like many illnesses, most people who get sick will recover and be just fine. Like any virus, it is important to do the following:
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating, and after blowing your nose.
- Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing using a disposable tissue, or your arm or the crook of your elbow.
- Stay home from work, school, and activities when sick.
- Keep kids home from school and activities when they are sick
- Avoid close contact with anyone with flu-like symptoms
When calling your child’s school to report an absence due to an illness, please be as specific as possible about symptoms. This helps us track types of illnesses more effectively. As a reminder, we may ask for a doctor’s note when extended consecutive absences occur.
As we approach Spring Break, we know that many of you may be traveling, and encourage families to follow the information on the CDC website regarding travel, available at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html.
Our district leadership is in regular contact with officials from MDH, the Minnesota Department of Education, and Carver County Public Health. Right now, there is no need to cancel school events or activities. Should that change, we will notify parents as soon as possible.
We have created a page on our district website that includes our response plan – developed in coordination with Carver County – and additional resources. We will update that site as we get more information.
We will continue to closely monitor the situation, follow guidance from health officials and keep you informed, as needed, through our regular communication channels (email, text, phone, website and social media) of any impact to our schools.
Sincerely,
Clint Christopher
Superintendent
En Español translation
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March 2, 2020
Eastern Carver County School Families, As the coronavirus (COVID-19) continues to gain media coverage and prompt questions about preparation in our schools, I want to assure you that district and school leaders are reviewing emergency management plans to prepare for the predicted spread of COVID-19 in the United States. We are working closely with state, county, and local government agencies to make sure our plans are aligned. Additionally, we are participating in weekly informational calls with the Minnesota Department of Health and Minnesota Department of Education to monitor the situation and adjust our district plans as needed. We are in the prevention stage of helping manage the spread of coronavirus. There are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Minnesota and we are in the low risk category. The most important things we can all do are the same things we recommend to prevent the spread of any illness:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
- Make sure children wash their hands well, especially after going to the bathroom, before eating and after blowing their nose
- Using your arm or the crook of your elbow, cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing
- Stay home when you are sick
- Keep kids home from school and activities when they are sick
- Do not return to school or work until fever is gone for 24 hours without using fever-reducing medication
- Avoid close contact with anyone with flu-like symptoms
If you have questions about infectious diseases,call the Minnesota Department of Health directly at 651-201-5414. The following links to the Centers for Disease Control and Minnesota Department of Health share information about COVID-19:
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
- https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html
- https://www.health.state.mn.us/diseases/coronavirus/basics.html
Some additional resources that may be helpful:
- What Kids Want to Know About Coronavirus, via NPR: https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2020/02/28/809580453/just-for-kids-a-comic-exploring-the-new-coronavirus
A CDC tutorial on proper handwashing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eZw4Ga3jg3E&feature=youtu.be
As we approach spring break, we also encourage families to follow the information on the CDC website regarding travel, available at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html. We will continue to closely monitor the situation, follow guidance from health officials and keep you informed, as needed, through our regular communication channels (email, text, phone, website and social media) of any impact to our schools.
Sincerely, Clint Christopher Superintendent
Preparedness Plan
Information Resources
Community Education Program Information
UPDATE (March 26, 2020)
Early Education Distance Learning & Payment Information — Click HERE
March 19, 2020
To parents of Children Enrolled in Kidz Venture or StormHawks Full-Day Preschool during Spring Break (March 23-27):
The COVID-19 situation continues to change rapidly. The health and safety of our students, staff, and the broader school community is our top priority. After careful review and discussion, the decision has been made to cancel these two programs for the week of March 23-27. Many parents have already chosen to cancel their registration for next week’s program. And we understand why. We apologize if this decision causes an inconvenience for you and your family. As we see enrollment declining, and new recommendations are shared from the MDH and MDE regarding social distancing, we believe this is the right decision for your children, your family, and our staff. Registration fees for the March 23-27 programs will not be charged to your account. If there is a long-term school closure beyond Spring Break, the district will notify all parents with more detailed information about these programs.