Dear CSD Parents/Guardians,

Last night, the Oregon Department of Education notified Superintendents and Principals of its expectations for Distance Learning during the school closure due to the Coronavirus pandemic. We were informed that a definite date for students to return to school has not been determined and that we should prepare for an indefinite closure, possibly for the remainder of the school year. The new guidance from ODE changed from advising Oregon public schools to provide only short-term supplemental learning, to a more formal learning experience with attendance, grades and potentially credit-bearing distance education for all students.

Overview and introductory email:

https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/ORED/bulletins/2840c6c
ODE “Distance Learning for All” guidance document: https://www.oregon.gov/ode/students-and family/healthsafety/Documents/Distance%20Learning%20for%20All%20Guidance%20March%202020.pdf

I will be meeting with the Oregon Department of Education representatives and Superintendents throughout the state over the next few days to process the new direction and then work with CSD administrators to determine our next steps to accomplish the expectations of the state. Meanwhile, we are excited to offer our Creswell families optional supplemental learning resources with activities to engage students in at home learning. We will continue to update these enrichment activities and resources throughout the school closure. I will be providing you with updates on our progress and plans to connect teachers with students for online Distance Learning. You will hear more about this from me in the coming days.

 

Optional supplemental learning resources with activities

Creswell School District educators have compiled educational activities and strategies that families can use to keep students engaged in learning during the school closure prompted by the coronavirus pandemic.

Our goal is to provide tools for at-home learning so families have some free, optional, easy-to-implement activities to provide structure, help students stay engaged and prevent learning loss during an extended break.

Learning activities are organized by grade level, contain a combination of low-tech and technology-based options across multiple subject areas, and include consideration for students’ special needs and physical and mental wellness.

Suggested home learning activities by grade level:

• Grades K–1
• Grades 2–3
• Grades 4–5
• Grades 6–8
• Grades 9–12

Families can partner with their children to complete these activities. Some activities include learning with devices and technology, while others do not—similar to the student experience during a typical school day.

Many of these strategies and resources are already used in our schools, and some provide opportunities to try something new or to show learning in a new way. No new required content is introduced and no assignments will be graded.

Robust teaching and learning:

We recognize that these activities do not replace classroom instruction. Curriculum guidance will be provided by the Oregon Department Education that will connect teachers to students remotely.

Access for all:

We are working to meet the varying needs of all learners across all grades, and developing technology plans to make sure that all Creswell School District students can have regular access to curriculum materials and learning opportunities and can remain connected to their teachers and schools.

Special note to High School Seniors: 

We recognize that this global pandemic is disrupting your final months of high school. We are actively working with the Oregon Department of Education to determine what needs to be done to help you complete your diploma requirements. We will keep you informed as we learn more. Our priority is helping you reach your goals for graduation, and we will get through this together.

Health, Safety & Wellness Resources:

• Resources and Information about student well-being

Child Care

Coronavirus COVID-19 questions:

• Oregon Health Authority | COVID-19 Updates
• Oregon Health Authority: COVID-19: Frequently Asked Questions
• 211 Get Connected. Get Help — call 211 or text 898211 

Managing stress and talking with children about coronavirus:

• Talking to Children About Coronavirus COVID-19 (NASP/NASN) 
• Talking with Children About Infectious Disease Outbreaks (SAMHSA) 
• Coping with Stress During Infectious Disease Outbreaks (SAMHSA)