WSD Staff & Families, as you know the COVID-19 situation has evolved rapidly. WSD still has no confirmed cases of the virus. There is a confirmed case in Chittenden County. Out of an abundance of caution and concern for our high-risk community members, including older adults and anyone with chronic (long-lasting) medical conditions like heart disease, diabetes or lung disease, we have compiled a status list below of upcoming events. We used guidance from the Department of Health (DOH) and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to make decisions about postponing, cancelling or continuing with events. This list is for the next two weeks and will be updated as needed. Also, I have included some information about school closure and student attendance.
School Closure Planning
School will remain open for regularly scheduled PreK-12 classes, 21C after school activities, THRIVE and school-sponsored athletics and clubs. The VT Agency of Education (VTAOE) has issued guidance on school closure and we will continue to work with the VTAOE and the Department of Health (DOH) on this topic.
In the event of school closure we will continue to provide food service and are working on a plan to provide access to appropriate learning resources for all students in the event of school closure.
Student Attendance
I have received many questions about what will happen if a parent/guardian keeps their student(s) out of school. We respect the decision of parents/guardians to do what they believe is best for their student(s). We are required by law to keep attendance records and will continue to log all absences. Parents/guardians will continue to receive 5-10-15-20 day absence letters. At the 20 day absence point we need to make a referral to the State’s Attorney. We will include in the referral the dates of absences and what we know about why the student was absent. Also, I have requested guidance from the State’s Attorney office and I believe they will provide direction to us about how to approach this in a reasonable manner given the circumstances.
Status of Upcoming Events
- JFK 3rd Grade Field Trip to Shelburne Farms: CANCELLED
- JFK Fun Fair, Friday, March 13th, 4:30-6:30pm: POSTPONED
- Knights of Columbus Free Throw Contest, Saturday, March 13th: CANCELLED
- WHS Advisory Representative Retreat at Rock Point in Burlington, Sunday & Monday, March 15-16: POSTPONED
- WMHS Band, Chorus & Orchestra Performance, Tuesday, March 17th: POSTPONED
- Winooski Youth Wellness & Substance Use Prevention Forum: A Community Conversation, Wednesday, March 18th, 6:00 – 8:00pm: POSTPONED
- JFK 2nd Grade Field Trip to Flynn Theater, Wednesday, March 18th: CANCELLED
- WHS College Pathways Thursday, March 19th: CANCELLED
- WMHS Parent/Teacher Conferences, Thursday, March 19, 12-8pm: CONTINUE AS SCHEDULED
- WMHS Parent/Teacher Conferences, Friday, March 20, 12-3pm: CONTINUE AS SCHEDULED
- Winooski Talent Show Dress Rehearsal, Friday, March 20: POSTPONED
- VT Drama Festival in Montpelier, Saturday, March 21st: CANCELLED
- JFK 1st Grade Field Trip to Flynn Theater, Monday, March 23rd: CANCELLED
- WHS Science Field Trip to ECHO Center, Tuesday, March 24th: CANCELLED
- WMS ELL Field Trip to Cairns Arena, Wednesday, March 25th: CANCELLED
- WHS Science Field Trip-Winooski River Sampling, Thursday, March 26th: CONTINUE AS SCHEDULED
- Winooski Talent Show Performance, Friday, March 27th, 6:30pm: POSTPONED
- New England Regional CYO Basketball Tournament, Friday, March 27-Sunday, March 29th: CANCELLED
Lastly, PLEASE continue to take these everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs:
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Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
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Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
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Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
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Stay home when you are sick.
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Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
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Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Thanks, Sean McMannon
– WSD Superintendent