Dear Bates Families,
I hope you have enjoyed the sunshine this week. With the warmer temperatures and the opportunity to spend more time outside, plus the recent availability of vaccines for educators, it’s been a great week at Bates. I write today to share a few updates with you.
Reopening Schools Webinar
Last night on the WPS Reopening Schools webinar, important information was shared about the science of COVID, updated safety procedures in schools, and some operational considerations for the full return of students to the elementary schools on April 5. If you were not able to watch the Reopening School webinar Thursday night, a links to the webinar recording can be found here and on the WPS homepage.
Bates Principal Coffee
On Thursday, March 18 at 7:00 p.m. I look forward to meeting with Bates parents and guardians on Zoom. This is an opportunity to share Bates specific updates and answer your questions regarding the full return of all students on April 5. A Zoom link will be sent out Thursday morning.
MCAS Dates
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education announced a shift in dates for the MCAS administration for grades 3, 4 and 5. These dates have been changed from April and May to May and June. This shift will allow schools to focus more fully on the full return of all students in April. We are in the process of finalizing the dates for each MCAS test at Bates and will share those with you shortly.
Spring Conferences
Parent teacher conferences will be held the weeks of April 5 and April 12. Teachers will hold conferences over Zoom and have created electronic signup forms for families. Sign up links will be emailed to families on Wednesday, March 17 at 12:00 p.m. Please note that Tuesday, April 6 is a half-day for students for the purpose of parent teacher conferences.
As a reminder, Daylight Saving Time starts on Sunday. I am very much looking forward to more daylight in the evening. Have a great weekend.
Warmly,
Toni Jolley