Superintendent Intro Archive

OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT

PARENT COMMUNICATION - JULY 31, 2020

MUSKIE RETURN TO LEARN PLAN

The Muscatine School District’s goal is to return on-site, in-person learning. While this model is our goal, the health and safety needs of students and staff are always our priority. To this priority, the plan we will be implementing at the beginning of the year will be an in-person, face-to-face instruction with a parent online option. In-person at the preschool and elementary levels will occur each day, and the secondary level (grades 7-12) will be an alternating A/B schedule. Information regarding the 7-12 A/B model will be sent to parents soon.

This model provides each school to socially distance to the greatest extent possible, aligns with guidance from the CDC and health department officials, and age-appropriate learning modalities.

Our school buildings are designed for the learning of our students but are comprised of individuals of all ages. We know that face-to-face in-person learning is the best environment for our students. To ensure we can maintain as much time in that environment, face coverings will be required for all staff and students in all common areas and in classrooms where social distancing guidance cannot be met. Students who are unable to wear face coverings will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

We will continue to work closely with staff, state and local health officials, and the Department of Education. We will need to be flexible as the model that is the safest for students and staff may change very quickly.

Our commitment is to continue to provide the very best learning environment for every student. Please take the time to read the Return to Learn Plan and the Return to Learn FAQ Guide for information regarding the start of school this fall. Parents were given a choice whether to enroll their student in the in-person model or the virtual learning model.

While this plan focuses on adapting our learning environment during unprecedented times, the success of it lies with our collective response as a community. Your support and feedback are important. Your help in implementing this plan for the health of our students, staff, and community is appreciated.

We will continue to communicate with you and seek your feedback as we move forward.

Together in health and education,

Clint Christopher, Superintendent
Tammi Drawbaugh, Board President
John DaBeet, Board Vice President
Jessica Jones, MEA President
Troy Kulland, MEA Past President
Liz Panther, MEA Representative