March 19 Update from AOS 91 Superintendent Dr. Marc Gousse

Dr. Marc Gousse, the Superintendent of AOS 91 is sending out daily updates to the community. Unfortunately if you don't have a school email, I don't believe you will receive it. He has authorized the updates to be forwarded to me, so they may be shared with you! Here's the March 19 update

Dear Families and friends,

I am writing to provide you with an update on the MDIRSS AOS # 91 plans and progress regarding our district response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

As of 11:30 am today, 42 residents have tested positive for COVID-19, including a confirmed case in Hancock County. To date, 7,038 people have tested positive in all 50 states resulting in 97 deaths- this number continues to rise. Clearly, we must all remain focused on "flattening the curve" and committed to the following:

• No staff, students or visitors are allowed in any MDIRSS AOS # 91 member school or facility without Superintendent and/or Principal authorization/pre-approval-no exceptions please
• We recommend limiting travel (anywhere) to essential needs -Stay home if you are ill or symptomatic
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water
• Cover coughs with your elbow or a tissue
• Practice social distancing (groups of less than 10 - at least 6 feet apart)
• Eat healthy, stay hydrated, exercise and take care of yourself 

As we continue to navigate this growing health crisis our focus must remain steadfast in protecting the health and public safety of all. Should you need to enter any building for any reason you are directed to contact your principal and await guidance and instructions.

Please know MDIRSS AOS # 91 staff are also working very hard to ensure that families have wifi access and technology devices that can be used to support teaching and learning as we move forward. During these two weeks we are focusing on connecting with families and on engaging students with learning by suggesting activities that students/families can do at home. Families should have heard from their child's homeroom teacher by email or phone and received ideas for online and offline learning activities. Middle and high school students will have heard from teachers and advisors. Once we have been able to distribute devices and learning materials, we are aiming to put in place opportunities for more robust remote learning platforms. Thank you for your patience, understanding and support while we work to create quality remote learning experiences. Within the domain of teaching and learning - remote meetings and plans will continue to be developed. Please await details and further guidance from your building principal in this arena.

Given this evolving situation it is important we all remain calm, engaged and informed. Continue to check emails and messages frequently and await further guidance and instructions on next steps as applicable. Should you have any questions please contact your building principal or school by phone.

Please look for communications to follow which will focus specifically on guidance, resources and support during this closure. These communications will include: support for food distribution and insecurity, remote learning and related resources. Please check our website ( mdirss.org ) for information and regular updates.

Without question, we are in the midst of unprecedented and extraordinary times - this requires flexibility, collaboration, patience and everyone understanding routines as we know them need to be followed yet amended. It goes without saying, we all need to be prepared for an extended school closure; your support as parents and guardians is essential to the innovation and thinking outside of the box  required by our staff in responding to this challenge- I believe this can and will be our finest hour!

Please take care, stay positive and know we will rebound from this challenge- I am thinking of you and with working to keep you all informed, updated and engaged.

Sincerely,

Marc Edward Gousse, Ed.D.

MDIRSS AOS #91 Supt. of Schools