March 23, 2020 | Vol. 22 Mequon-Thiensville School District Newsletter
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Message from the Superintendent
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The coronavirus that has resulted in the disease known as COVID-19 has turned the world we know upside down. Our daily routines and access to resources and social activities have been interrupted by this significant challenge in our lives. While scientists and medical professionals race to find a method to treat or eradicate this disease, it is important to remember that we all have the power to make an impact.
During this public health crisis, we can all take ownership of the role we will play moving forward. I encourage you to stay focused on what is most important and make intentional, selfless choices to contribute to the greater good, and in doing so, slow the spread of the virus. I understand that it might be challenging, but it is very important that our students do not take part in non-essential activities or participate in group gatherings with peers. This includes:
- Parties
- Sleepovers
- Intramural or “pickup” games
- Having friends over in your home
I also want to take this opportunity to assure you that our schools are here to support you and we are eagerly anticipating the day students return to our buildings. As the mandates and expectations continue to evolve, you have my commitment that we will:
- Work to support student’s personal growth
- Value the opportunities we have to collaborate with families, and community partners to provide opportunities for learning
- Maintain open lines of communication and updates for families and our school community
- Rise to the challenge and emerge stronger, more engaged, and more capable than ever before
At this trying time, please know that as administrators, teachers, and staff in the Mequon-Thiensville School District, we will do what we can to support you. While our buildings are closed, we remain ready. Please do not hesitate to email your child’s teacher, principal, or a district administrator if you have needs you believe we can support. We look forward to serving you.
Sincerely,
Matt
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School Calendar Update & FAQs
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The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) has indicated that it will waive the requirement for hours of instruction for any school district that requests the DPI to do so due to this ongoing public health emergency. We will request this waiver and will continue to share updates.
Please note that Monday, April 13 was previously scheduled as a No School Day for students and staff. In-school instruction will now tentatively resume this day.
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Message from the District Nurse
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The North Shore and Washington Ozaukee Public Health Departments have asked for our assistance in sharing information regarding best practice during school closure. They are seeking our assistance in communicating the importance of social distancing. Our school buildings and grounds, including practice fields and playgrounds, are closed. The Public Health Departments recommend social distancing. Social distancing means keeping a safe distance (approximately 6 feet) from others. Spending time outdoors getting exercise is important, but go for a family bike ride, walk, or run to minimize interactions with others.
As your school nurse, I am available to answer questions and help find solutions to health care situations, or simply help guide you in the right direction. I recommend that families work together to develop daily schedules or routines because children do well with a daily routine. Physical activity will also help the mind, body, and spirit. Most importantly, get children into a handwashing habit.
There will be lots of questions, uncertainty, and worry. Remain calm and reassuring. Don’t be afraid to talk with your children about their concerns giving them honest and accurate information.
The social-emotional coaches have been collaborating on a document identifying valuable resources.
Please take a look at the content they have been working on
to assist with your conversations at home.
We are all in this together!
Jess Jost, RN
MTSD School Nurse
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We join leaders in Mequon and Thiensville in encouraging residents to vote absentee.
The Wisconsin Elections Commission strongly recommends that anyone planning to vote in the April 7 Spring Election and Presidential Preference Primary request to have an absentee ballot mailed to them. This can be done online until April 2 at
https://myvote.wi.gov
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There are a number of important items on the April ballot, including a referendum question that seeks to address high-priority challenges in our public schools related to growth and capacity, and district-wide safety and security improvements.
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4K Pre-Registration Deadline Extended
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The 4K Pre-Registration window is now open with an extended deadline due to school closure.
If your child will be new to MTSD's 4K program in the 2020-21 school year, please complete online pre-registration.
Why pre-register? Pre-registration allows us to develop class rosters and determine staffing to meet projected enrollment. Through pre-registration, families will select their preferred morning or afternoon program option.
If more families indicate a preference for a morning or afternoon section than we have available seats, we will enact a formal lottery system, which is the most equitable approach to situations in which capacity is limited. The lottery will occur on May 5.
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Chad Sova Announced as Next Principal of Oriole Lane
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The Mequon-Thiensville School District is pleased to announce that Mr. Chad Sova has been selected as the next principal of Oriole Lane Elementary School. The MTSD Board of Education approved the appointment at their board meeting on March 16. He will begin in the role this summer.
Chad’s approach to school leadership and his strong advocacy for children position him to be an effective leader at Oriole Lane Elementary School.
Chad will take the place of current principal Mary Jo Tye, who is retiring this summer after 26 years of dedicated service to the school district.
Chad currently serves as an assistant principal at Homestead High School, where he has served in a leadership role during the 2019-20 school year.
Homestead is currently developing plans to fill the vacancy in the role of assistant principal for the 2020-21 school year.
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Spring Break
March 23-27
Distance Learning Begins
Monday, March 30
Tentative Return to School
Monday, April 13 (previously scheduled as a day off)
New 4K Pre-Registration Deadline
Wednesday, May 1
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Mequon-Thiensville School District | 262-238-8500 | 5000 W. Mequon Road, Mequon, WI www.mtsd.k12.wi.us
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