LATEST DISTRICT COMMUNICATION
March 25, 2020
Dear WCCUSD Community,
I just want to thank you for continuing to work with us through the school closures due to the coronavirus crisis that is gripping the world. Today, six Bay Area counties announced that schools would remain closed through May 1 in order to help reduce the spread and transmission of COVID-19. More on the joint county announcement can be found in this release from Contra Costa County Office of Education.
This news has been expected and we have been working under the assumption that an extended closure would be likely and would need a strategy to support the long-term needs of the students and families we serve. At this time, we plan to implement a more permanent remote learning program by April 13 that will be mandatory for all district students.
While the details are still being worked out, we do know that it will be led by District teachers and staff and meet the academic needs of students. While we are excited for the expanded distance learning, we still encourage students to remain engaged in the opportunities and resources that have already been provided.
Tentatively, the timeline is as follows:
Week of March 23: Expectations for students, teachers, and administrators will be outlined.
Week of March 30: Teachers and administrators will be trained and preparing for a more robust distance learning curriculum.
Week of April 6: Spring Break. This is a non-instructional week.
Beginning Monday, April 13: Mandatory distance learning begins for all grades at all schools.
By April 13, we also hope to have the answers to many of the lingering questions around subjects like graduation, grades and class credits. This is a new endeavor for us all and I am asking for your continued patience as we embark on this uniquely new challenge of delivering instruction remotely.
Please remember that everyone is expected to adhere to the “Shelter in Place” Orders issued by the Contra Costa County Health Office on March 16 and stay home except for essential activities. In addition, all residents are urged to keep practicing the guidance provided including:
- Social distancing
- Washing hands often with soap and water
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
- Staying home if you are feeling sick
- Contacting your healthcare provider if you are experiencing any symptoms such as fever, cough, or difficulty breathing.
- Engage in regular exercise or physical activity
We will also continue student meal pick up at the 17 locations during the extended closure. Meals can be picked up Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., unless noted, at the 17 locations for children, ages 18 years and younger.
For all the District Closure news, please check the District’s web page at www.wccusd.net/districtclosure. Lastly, if you are not receiving updates for the District, make sure we have your correct contact information by completing this Google Form.
Thank you for continuing to work with us through this crisis.
In Partnership,
Matthew Duffy
Superintendent
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DISTRICT’S WEBPAGE FOR INFORMATION
PLEASE TAKE THE CENSUS
The Census determines the allocation of funds and resources for the next 10 years. This allocation is determined by population not citizenship or population. Please, everyone, take the Census and ensure we get our rightful share. Census workers have been sidelined due to COVID-19. We can make their jobs easier by taking the census. THE CENSUS MEANS MONEY. Each person not counted could result in a loss of $1,000-$2,000 per year in community funding for the next 10 years.
California receives nearly $77 billion in federal funding based, in part, on census data and an estimated $65 million to $100 million in federal funding for schools in Contra Costa County will be allocated over the next decade based on the census count.
The census emails, texts and reminders are starting to come. You will receive an “invitation to respond” by regular mail between March 12 and 20. This invitation will contain a 12-digit code that you can use to take The Census. Once you receive the official mailing, take The Census and get it out of the way. This will allow limited resources to be allocated where they are needed most.
The Census is PRIVATE AND SAFE. The Census Bureau has a legal duty to protect your information. IEvery employee is bound by Title 13 of the U.S. Code to keep information confidential. This means that your private data is protected and cannot be shared with law enforcement or other government agencies.
Learn more about How the Census Bureau Protects Your Data in the link below.
YOU WILL BE ABLE TO TAKE THE CENSUS BY PHONE(844) 330-2020
YOU WILL BE ABLE TO TAKE THE CENSUS ONLINEhttps://2020census.gov/
You can track the Census response rate here! This is a great tool to share with kids!
https://2020census.gov/en/response-rates.html
Greater Good Magazine
Greater Good’s mission is to share scientific research that can help promote a happier, more compassionate society. Follow the below link to find COVID-19 resources for individuals, families and educators. Excellent article on Shelter-in-Place for teens. Thanks to Kathleen Hazard for the information. GREATER GOOD GUIDE TO WELLBEING DURING COVID-19