Saturday, July 25, 2020

Update from the Superintendent

In case you missed the Friday communication from Superintendent Sue Charochack or would like to see it again, it is printed here:

Good Afternoon Beverly Parents and Families,

I am writing with an update for you on the planning process for our return to school. As I have mentioned in previous updates, we are preparing to submit a plan to the department of education that outlines three possible “Return to School” models:
  1. In-Person - all students return to school five days a week (Remote Learning Academy available for those unable or unwilling to attend in person) 
  2. Hybrid - a combination of in-person and remote learning on a rotating basis (Remote Learning Academy available for those unable or unwilling to attend in person) 
  3. Remote - all students participate in remote learning five days a week. 
We thank you for your participation in our survey. We have over 2700 responses and the information you have shared, while not binding in your decision, is an enormous help in our planning process. We will continue to look for your feedback as we get closer to the start of the school year.

I also want to take the opportunity to share with you the news that the district has ordered additional devices so that we will be able to ensure that every student in the district will have an individual device in the event of a closure. Our goal was to eliminate the need for even shared devices within families. Students in PreK will have access to a device in the event of a closure. Students K-8 will utilize a designated device throughout the day and will have the device available for any remote learning needs. The high school laptop program, including the scholarship opportunities available will ensure access for all our high school students. Finally, the district will be able to assist any family with internet access issues to ensure reliable access to the internet. If you have not already contacted us through the surveys that have been taken regarding needed assistance with connectivity, please reach out to your building principal and they will assist you.

Thank you again for your participation in our surveys. We will be reaching out to all families for a final decision on your participation in our selected plans for the fall once they are finalized. We appreciate your patience as we work through the process to determine how best to meet the needs of all our students in these unprecedented circumstances.

Sincerely,

Sue Charochak
Superintendent of Schools