To support students and caregivers in continuing with learning opportunities during the COVID-19 school building closure, we've created DMPS@HOME, a three-pronged approach that includes (1) links to high quality web resources, (2) print materials mailed to student households, and (3) optional activities and lessons in Canvas, the digital learning platform at Des Moines Public Schools. Starting Monday, Canvas will be activated for elementary and middle school students. The purpose of these online learning opportunities are to keep students and school communities engaged at the level that is right for your family during school building closures. There are no required activities and work will not be graded for students in grades PK-8. Schools will be reaching out to their students. Be sure to visit our web site for a guide to how Canvas works.

Tomorrow was supposed to have been the day for the 2nd annual OneRun, a fundraising event for the DMPS Foundation. Last year, 1,600 people took part, raising more than $16,000 in support of our elementary and middle school students. Needless to say, like so many things, this year's OneRun is postponed. It will be back when it's safe, but in the meantime here's a look back at last year's event. Also, would you like to support the DMPS Foundation?  Click here to visit their web site and make an online donation.

Earlier this week the State of Iowa launched the Test Iowa Initiative, meant to expand testing capacity to limit the spread of COVID-19 in Iowa. This  includes an assessment that was developed in coordination with the Iowa Department of Public Health to better inform Iowans of their current health status, whether or not they should get a COVID-19 test, and instructions on how to get tested. The assessment asks about existing symptoms and occupational considerations. Visit the testiowa.com web site to learn more and decide if you want to participate.

Throughout the COVID-19 school building closure, DMPS is providing free student meals at 50 locations around Des Moines.  Our meals sites are at all ten middle schools, most elementary schools, North High, and several auxiliary locations. Rain or shine, we will be there each weekday from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM to serve our kids. Click here to see a list of the meal sites.  Be sure to see the map on this web page to find the site most convenient for you.

Thanks to contributions from the community, DMPS has been able to add healthy snacks for children to eat during the stretch between lunch and breakfast the following day. If you would like to contribute to this effort, just click the green bar below.