[Superintendent's Update] Superintendent's Update

[Needham Public Schools Superintendent's Update]

8:42 p.m.


Thursday, March 12, 2020

Dear Needham Public Schools Families:

After consulting with school staff, local officials, and our Town of
Needham Public Health partners over the evolving situation associated with
the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), I have decided that the Needham
Public Schools will close tomorrow, Friday, March 13th for a two-week
period with classes resuming Monday, March 30th. Of course, based on
updated and new information and guidance from local, state, and Federal
officials, we will evaluate the status of school reopening at that time.

While we are not aware of any instance of a Needham Public Schools student,
staff member, or family member impacted by COVID-19, we believe it is a
prudent step to close school for this time period. I recognize that this
decision has far-reaching impacts on our families, caregivers, and the
broader community, and I understand the uncertainty and frustration that
results. Making a decision like this is complicated by the fact that there
are children and families in our community who depend on the educational,
social/emotional, and nutritional supports that our schools, teachers, and
staff provide. I am especially concerned about this vulnerable population
and hope over the coming weeks we can work with community partners to
assist as much as possible.

Evidence shows that social distancing is one of the most effective ways to
combat the spread of infectious diseases like this one. Social distancing
occurs when people stay away from crowds and large gatherings, and when
they maintain a person-to-person distance of at least six feet.



Therefore I am asking parents, families, and students to practice social
distancing while school operations are temporarily suspended. It is
strongly recommended that parents, families, and students limit all
non-essential travel and gatherings in commercial or social settings.

During the week of March 16th, teachers and staff will use the remaining snow
days to prepare and plan so that beginning on Monday, March 23rd, we will
have learning experiences and opportunities teachers will be able to share
with their students, much of it online. We will require the cooperation and
good spirit of students and the adults who care for them to work together
to make these learning opportunities at home worthwhile. And yet we
acknowledge the experience will be novel and imperfect.  We will also
support those students who may lack digital resources at home.


Families and students can expect additional information, updates, and
guidance over the course of the next several days from my office and your
principal.

Suddenly and unexpectedly, we find ourselves as a community and as a nation
confronting a pandemic and trying to make decisions and plans that
prioritize the safety and wellbeing of our loved ones. All of us -
teachers, parents, students, caregivers - we are all in this together, and
I am confident if we support one another and stay strong as one Needham
community we will get through this.

I appreciate your patience, guidance, and anticipated good spirit now and
in the days ahead.

Respectfully,

Dan Gutekanst

Superintendent

Needham Public Schools
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