Once again, as predicted, our numbers have gone up significantly in Stearns County last week. The Stearns county number jumped to 34.75. This would be the 2nd of 3 weeks of data points that will determine whether or not we make the next jump to a different learning model. Another factor taken into account is the number of outbreaks we have in our school. Last week we also had some small outbreaks in our school that were isolated and quarantined. Because of this, we are planning to go to Policy Option 3 after MEA week. Starting on Tuesday, October 20 (no school on Monday October 19) we will go to the hybrid model in the elementary. As discussed in the past, switching to hybrid in elementary does not bring a significant change other than pulling a few students out of classrooms and moving some classrooms.
The projection for next week is for the number to stabilize in the mid-30’s. This would be the 3rd of 3 weeks of data points to consider. It is our hope this number will stabilize and start to go down. With going to Policy Option 3, we may be able to hold off going to Policy Option 4. However, if we start to see some significant outbreaks in our buildings, we may have to go to distance learning with only a week's notice. At this time, I would plan as a parent for your child(ren) in grades 6-12 to go to distance learning sometime very soon.
As most of you also know by now we have had other activities start up in the district. We had our first home football game last Friday night and we have our first home VB game tomorrow (10/13). The rules given to us by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) are very restrictive on who can attend these games and matches. You will need a ticket in advance to attend and these tickets only go to the parents. Please do not attempt to come to these activities without a ticket, you will be turned away at the door and asked to leave. There were very strict rules put in place to allow spectators at these activities. Any lack of enforcement at these events may result in the stoppage of the event and the home team forfeiting the event.
We would also ask that any parents or community members at these events leave immediately following the conclusion of the event. Any congregating of parents or students following the event would have a detrimental effect on our numbers within our school district and impact our school.
If you have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to contact me or any of the building principals.
Greg Winter, Superintendent: gwinter@isd740.org
Chad Doetkott, High School Principal cdoetkott@isd740.org
Robert Anderson, Middle School Principal randerson@isd740.org
Terryl Pearson, Elementary School Principal tpearson@isd740.org