Ready For Learning

June 12, 2020

Parents and Community

The last few months have shown us how wonderful the parents and the communities of the McGehee School District are. You have truly been supportive and understanding. Although we were disappointed that we were not able to have summer school because of the no buses rule, we are looking forward to the return of our students in August. McGehee School District is in the process of making plans for re-entry for our schools in August, even though we all know that with the uncertainty of COVID-19, plans can change according to the guidelines set forth by Governor Hutchinson, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and the Arkansas Department of Health.

Schools will not look the same for the 2020-2021 year, but with the help of parents and the community, we will open with every confidence that our children and staff will be safe. Our comprehensive school plan is being developed that will include:

• Flexible instructional plans for face-to-face, blended, and/or remote learning

• Flexible learning delivery systems for ill or immune compromised students and adults

• Guidelines and protocols for buses, for car riders, for walkers, for entry and exiting of buildings, for cafeterias, for athletics and for band

• Contingency plans for state-wide or local closing of schools

• General operating procedures

• Student and Staff safety expectations

• New restrooms with hands free washing and drying of hands

• Sanitizing stations throughout the buildings

• Other necessary precautions as they arise

• One to one devices such as Chromebooks with enhanced securities

We know that all of our students can learn during these uncertain times if given the right supports. Therefore, McGehee School District hopes to place WiFi at community centers or fire stations in the outer communities. Teachers will be trained in multiple delivery methods for instruction and learning. If the devices come in and if needed, each child will be issued a Chromebook to help with instruction and learning. This COVID-19 pandemic has given us all an opportunity to truly get to know the needs of each child and to individualize instruction and learning.

We will be putting forth more information in July as we finalize our plans for returning to school. We want to partner with our parents and the community to make sure all of us are safe when school resumes. Thank you to all who have sent back your technology surveys. This has helped in our planning. In July, we will be requesting that you continue to help us with our planning by attending a virtual meeting so that we can hear your concerns. Until July, if you have questions, concerns, or comments, please reach out to the principals, the school nurses, or to central office with your questions or helpful hints. We appreciate your community spirit and your help with our plans for returning to school.

Linda Tullos, Superintendent

If you have any questions, please call:

Linda Tullos, Superintendent 870-222-3670

Justin Holt, MHS Principal 870-222-5026

Elizabeth Robinson, MES Principal 870-222-5400