We at SMS know and understand that the virtual learning platform is not every child's preferred way to learn so we must acknowledge their efforts in our current situation.

If you took and purchased photos prior, you must bring the photo package with you on the day/time of your rescheduled photo appointment.

We are launching our "Share Your Smile" campaign to help our students realize through a positive message of having their cameras on. The reality of teachers no longer having the opportunity to "walk around the classroom" to check in with them to support their needs is very real and has had a great impact on teaching and learning for all. Teachers miss their students and nothing is more difficult for engagement than for a student and/or a teacher to look at a screen full of dark boxes during Daily Live Instruction. "Sharing their smile" not only benefits them In staying present and focused but in addition it supports teachers being able to "see" the faces of their students as well as classmates that they greatly miss and perhaps notice if there is uncertainty or confusion about something that was taught in real time. For anyone who has been a participant in a virtual meeting it is known that there is a level of accountability and focus that is required when you are in view with your camera on just as there is a classroom when there is in-person teaching and learning. Teaching and learning is a reciprocal process online just as there is in a physical classroom in person.

While we are sensitive to and understand that there are situations where students might need to have their cameras off, we will continue to work together in support our students and come up with a plan to help them in anyway we can. Please read our campaign above and share with your child(ren). We thank you in advance for your support. It definitely takes a village...

Good Morning MDUSD Staff and Community,
I have written our first mdusd.org/FridayLetter of 2021, coming to you with the following headlines:

• The Courageous Captains Leading our Next Generation
  
• New in District Operations
  
• Family Support Workshops and STEM Webinar to Enrich and Inspire
  
• Newsletters from CCCOE and MDUSD Education Foundation
  
• Phase 1A Arrives, Contra Costa Aims for 1,200 Daily Vaccinations

A mix of clouds and sunshine is in store for this weekend.

May yours be peaceful and restful,
Austin Breidenthal

Communications Specialist
in the Office of the Superintendent

January 15th- Coffee with Keck @ 8:00 am.

Zoom Meeting

https://mdusd.zoom.us/j/89333450568. Meeting ID: 893 3345 0568

January 18th- School Closed in Observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day

January 26- Site Council Meeting at 3:05 on Zoom

https://mdusd.zoom.us/j/83214916303

Meeting ID: 832 1491 6303

Wed, February 10th from 11:30-1:30 Drive- Thru Photo Make-Up Day