Dear Bates Families,
By now you have likely received news of the Governor’s directive that Massachusetts schools remain closed until May 4. While I know we are all first and foremost concerned about the safety of our community and loved ones, this news is hard for all of us to receive. Please know that the WPS administrators are working full-time, in partnership with all educators, to design a thoughtful and more robust learning plan for our students. Just this afternoon schools received new guidance from MA Commissioner of Education Jeff Riley that will further inform our plans. In all of our planning we remain mindful of the needs of our students, the varied needs of families and also federal and state guidelines for schools. Our plans are developing quickly, and I look forward to sharing more specifics as soon as I am able. Thank you for your patience and your support.
Connecting with students
We recognize that one of the challenges of school closure is the social isolation students are experiencing. All of us educators are struggling with this, too. Teachers look forward to reconnecting with students and meeting as a classroom community. Therefore, as a first step, classroom teachers will begin to hold virtual meetings with students. Please be aware that not all teachers will have a consistent approach to these meetings, as this initial stage of virtual meetings will require experimentation and revision. I invite families to be our partners in this work, to share what is working for your children and for your family and suggest ways in which we can improve. Please feel free to email me with feedback at any time, or wait until next week when I will send out a Google form for this purpose.
Principal Videos
This week I began sharing short video messages to our students, which you can find on the Remote Learning website Bates Teachers Communication page. At the top of the page just click on the link that says, “Click here for Principal Jolley’s video messages.” This week I began by reading student birthdays, a picture book and clues for where in the world is Tux
As always, the Bates teachers and I are here for you. We are trying to find ways to meet families and students where they are and provide support so that all students can engage in remote learning. Please reach out to any of your child’s teachers or me if we can be of help in any way.
I will be sure to share developments as they become available. In the meantime, remain healthy and safe.
Warm regards,
Toni Jolley