Mother Lode Union School District

11/20/2020

Out of an abundance of caution, the Mother Lode Union School District will shift to distance learning for all students starting Monday, November 30 through Friday, January 8, 2021. We plan to return to in-person A/B schedule on Monday, January 11, 2021, unless otherwise communicated. 

Circumstances that led to this decision include significant increases in positive COVID-19 tests in our county, the recent travel advisory from both California Public Health and CDC recommending 14-day quarantine after travel out of state, increased student and staff absences due to illness, lack of substitute staff to fill positions, and our recent transition to distance learning of four classes/cohorts due to positive tests and potential exposure. 

We consider this a proactive approach, minimizing students and staff from potential exposure during the holiday season.  We recognize the importance of in-person learning and look forward to returning to our A/B schedule in January 2021.  

Curriculum materials will be available for pick up Wednesday, December 2nd and Thursday, December 3rd for all students. Times will be sent out by each site on Monday, November 30th and classroom teachers will inform families if there are items to pick up.

Nutrition Services will offer free breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday for all students and siblings in our district. Curbside meals will be provided from 8 am to 10 am at Indian Creek school. Deliveries will be made daily using the same schedule as blended learning (see website for delivery times and stops).

We applaud the efforts of students, staff, and parents as they have worked to follow our safety guidelines and protocols.  Students have worked hard to properly wear face coverings.  Staff have endeavored to teach students proper behavior and procedure for hand washing/sanitizing along with social distancing requirements while on site.  Our support staff members have worked tirelessly to ensure the cleaning and disinfecting of classrooms and school spaces.  While we recognize our efforts and successes, we also recognize the need to redouble our efforts as a staff.  We must continue to be vigilant and faithful to our safety protocols as we work to remain open for in-person learning.

As a reminder, Monday, November 23 and Tuesday November 24 are distance learning school days.

I know that this news may be surprising and heartbreaking. I want you to know how proud I am of our TEAM. We have done a remarkable job creating a safe and engaging learning environment for all students and colleagues. Please know this decision was not made lightly and we will use this time to plan for our return in January.

I wish you a very Happy Thanksgiving and restful break!

Sincerely,

Marcy

Marcy M. Guthrie, Ed.D.

Superintendent, Mother Lode Union School District