Dear Win-E-Mac Families:
As you have heard previously, Governor Tim Walz’ executive order 20-02 closes all schools in Minnesota to students from March 18 – 27. The intent of this order is to provide time for schools and teachers to plan how we will provide distance learning to students.
So, what does that mean for students? Students in grades 7 – 12 will take their school-issued laptops/chrome books home with them. They will also bring their textbooks home with them. Elementary students will bring iPads and their textbooks home with them. All personal property will also be sent home with students.
During this initial phase, from March 18 – 27, by order of the Commissioner of Education, instruction should not be offered by schools. We are to focus our efforts on creating a plan for distance learning, provide training for staff on distance learning, and informing the community as to how distance learning will work. We are required to have our plan posted on the website by March 30. Distance learning will be a combination of web-based and independent student work.
During the March 18 – 27 time frame, we encourage families to engage their children in everyday practical learning. Reading (to self or others), figuring out recipe proportions, active outdoor play, assisting with family chores are all good learning activities. We are expecting to implement the distance learning plan beginning March 30.
We will provide updates using a variety of methods. We will use KKCQ radio, Website and Facebook posts and school messenger announcements. Teachers will also send home information with their students today about other learning activities during this break.
As part of the executive order, we offer free breakfasts and lunches to students 18 and under. Grab and go meals can be picked up at the high school entryway door between 11:00-12:00 daily. Rural delivery of meals will take place between 9:00 and 12:00. Please call the school to sign up. If you are a member of emergency services or health care, we can offer child care services for students during what would be regular school hours so that you can continue to provide necessary health care services. This is part of the executive order.
This situation changes rapidly. We thank you for your patience and your cooperation.
Randy Bruer, Superintendent
Win-E-Mac Public Schools