Dear RPS Stakeholders:

We are on the homestretch of the 2020-21 school year and looking forward to finishing the year strong. While we would have liked to hold a traditional graduation ceremony for our high school seniors, after exploring several options, we have settled on a drive-through format as was done last year. While not ideal, this is the most feasible way to recognize our outgoing seniors while allowing families the opportunity to participate. If you attended or watched last year's event, you know that families were creative and made the best of it. I hope this year will be the same!

As I've shared previously, I appreciate receiving input from staff and families as does the Board of Education. This year, we have heard varying opinions about how to manage the district during this pandemic, with some asking us to do more and others asking us to do less. One of the most important responsibilities we have is to make decisions that impact the safety of the staff, students, and all who enter RPS facilities while also protecting the interest of the district within the confines of orders issued by the county and state. Because there is no single solution that meets everyone's needs, we have provided choice by offering in-person and virtual learning options so families can decide which option better meets their needs. Certainly, we all look forward to the day when the pandemic is behind us. What will next school year look like? I wish I could tell you but with how quickly things can change, I cannot project beyond the immediate future. I can only assure you that we will continue to offer options for your child's education and that we will share information with you when we have it.

In the meantime, summer is right around the corner and this includes a variety of summer learning opportunities for your chidlren. Over 1,700 students have already registered, and I encourage you to consider this if you haven't already done so. You can find more information on our website. Also, please be sure to check out the upcoming Developing Healthy Kids livestream event scheduled for next Monday, May 17, which provides information and support especially important during this time.

Watch Weekly Video - May 12, 2021 here

Thank you,

Dr. Michael Shibler
Superintendent of Schools

Please remind your child, all library books are due May 27th.

*Last Day to check out books is May 21st*