Talbot County Public Schools
Update from Dr. Griffith 4-1-2020
Dear TCPS Families:
I wanted to share some updates on our progress as we continue to adapt to our “new normal’’ amidst the COVID-19 State of Emergency.
Due to the Governor’s Stay at Home Directive issued by Executive Order on March 30, 2020, the TCPS Team is taking additional measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our staff and students, as that is always our highest priority. Meanwhile we are pursuing our plan for Continuity of Learning, as we complete quarter 3 and move into quarter 4 of what is truly an unforgettable school year.
Distance Learning
As previously shared, TCPS will move to a distance learning model beginning Monday, April 6. The week of March 30-April 3 is a transition week to prepare our teachers through professional development and to provide them with time to develop learning activities that can be supported through our technology.
We will be distributing IPads to elementary students at their schools on Thursday, April 2 from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. and on Friday, April 3 from 8:00 a.m. to Noon. TCPS recognizes that not all of our families have access to reliable internet connectivity, so we are also planning for how we can best meet the needs of all students.
Teachers have reached out to families to determine whether or not they have internet access. Learning activity packets will be mailed to students who currently do not have internet access, and therefore would not be able to utilize an IPad or laptop for distance learning.
TCPS Technology has established Helpdesk hours for any student requiring assistance or repair for a laptop or IPad.
1. Helpdesk locations: SMES and EHS in the front lobby.
2. Helpdesk Days/Hours: Tuesdays and Fridays 9AM- 3PM (Starting this Friday)
3. Drop off/Pickup: Plastic bags will be provided for devices being dropped off. Parents and students will remain in their cars.
5. Email Access: Send emails to helpdesk@talbotschools.org to ask questions online, appointments will be encouraged.
6. Disinfecting: Techs will wipe down devices upon receipt and prior to return.
Food Distribution
Based on the Governor’s Stay at Home Directive, and to reduce risk of exposure for students and staff, TCPS meal distribution for children ages 2-18 will move to PICK-UP ONLY At THE FOLLOWING SITES on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9-11 a.m.:
Chapel District Elementary
Easton Middle
Easton Elementary-Dobson
St. Michaels Middle High
Tilghman Elementary
White Marsh Elementary
The package that is distributed on Tuesday will include breakfast, lunch, dinner and snack for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. The Friday package will include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a snack for Friday and Monday along with the CarePacks weekend food bag.
I continue to be in awe of our TCPS Community as we work together in response to this crisis. Thank you all for your support, your flexibility, and your commitment to making the best effort for continuity to happen successfully for our children in Talbot County. Stay tuned, stay hopeful, stay healthy!
Kelly L. Griffith, Ed.D.
Superintendent