BWRSD Community Update 10/27/20
Message from Jonathan Brice, Superintendent of Schools
Dear BWRSD community,
As we approach the second quarter/trimester of the school year, we are asking each family to confirm their child’s continued participation in “distance learning” or “in person instruction”, or to request a change in placement for the second quarter for grades 6-12 (Nov 16-Feb 5) or second trimester for grades K-5 (Dec 10-Mar 26).
We have created a response survey in the Aspen Portal (similar to the COVID-19 Attestation Form) to obtain this information from families. The Second Quarter/Trimester Survey window will be now, Oct 27, 2020 to Nov 6, 2020. Once the data has been reviewed, we will confirm your child’s placement for the second quarter/trimester via email.
Students in grades 6-12 who are changing their placement will transition on Nov 17th. We anticipate students in grades K-5 will transition on Dec 14, 2020 and that our schedules for “in person instruction” will remain consistent:
Grades K-5 in person, 5 days per week, and
Grades 6-12 hybrid model based on capacity in each classroom, maintaining 6 feet of distance between occupants.
In the event we have a high number of K-5 families in Bristol who request “in person instruction” for the second trimester, we may need to transition some of our virtual classrooms to hybrid classrooms and house them at the Reynolds School building. This is only in the event that we are unable to safely house the increased number of students requesting “in person instruction” in our current facilities. These students will remain with their same teacher, to the extent possible, and will attend school in person five days per week. Students who remain in distance learning will join lessons virtually with their in person classmates, similar to the middle and high school model.
Warren students will remain at Hugh Cole Elementary School.
Please contact your school principal or the Superintendent’s office if you have questions or email portal@bwrsd.org for technical assistance with the Aspen Parent Portal.
Thank you for your continued support during this unique school year and for completing the Quarter/Semester Two Distance Learning/In Person survey in the Aspen Parent Portal no later than Nov 6, 2020.
Sincerely,
Jonathan Brice, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools
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Contents of this Update:
Learning Opportunities for Students
Wednesday, November 4th - Schools Closed: K-12 Distance Learning Day for All Students and Staff
Installation of New Air Purifiers
Family Guides for K-12 Learning
Additional Free Flu Clinic - Thursday, 11/12/20 4-7 p.m., Kickemuit Middle School
New DCYF Screening and Response Unit to Better Support Rhode Island Families
Introduction of New Staff
1. Learning Opportunities for Students
a. All Course Network (ACN): Expanded Free Course Opportunities for Students
The All Course Network (ACN) is a R.I. Department of Education (RIDE) program that allows students to take advantage of supplemental coursework outside of the traditional school day at no cost to a district or student. Offerings include work-based learning, dual enrollment, Advanced Placement, and career credential courses. Beginning in January of 2021, this will include for the first time ever, elementary school and enrichment opportunities. Questions can be directed to advancedcoursework@ride.ri.gov
b. Fall Learning Opportunities
The RIDE has compiled a directory of learning opportunities offered by local museums and nonprofit organizations that are just in time for Fall. Many of the offerings are appropriate for in person or distance learning settings.
2. Wednesday, November 4, 2020 - Schools Closed: K-12 Distance Learning Day for all Students and Staff
Schools are closed on November 4, 2020 as it will be a Distance Learning Day for all K-12 students and families. Please be sure that your children are aware of the expectations for instruction and assignments to be completed on November 4, 2020. All administration, teaching staff, secretaries, clerks, and teacher assistants will work from home. Custodians and maintenance personnel will report to school to perform deep cleaning and installation of air purifiers.
3. Installation of Air Purifiers
Just in time for the cold weather! With the support of federal COVID-19 Relief funds, we were able to purchase 400 air purifiers that meet the air exchange standards recommended by ventilation and air quality experts. These units will be installed on November 3rd and 4th when schools are closed.
4. Family Guides for K-12 Learning
5. Additional Free Flu Clinic - Thursday, November 12, 2020, 4PM-7PM, Kickemuit Middle School
The district will have an additional flu clinic due to high demand!.
Thursday, November 12th, 4:00-7:00PM at Kickemuit Middle School
See the flyers below for more information on how to sign up for this clinic (English & Spanish Versions).
6. DCYF Launches New Screening and Response Unit to Better Support Rhode Island Families
The Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF) announced in September, 2020, the launch of a new Screening and Response Unit (SRU) at the Department, to help connect families and their children to support services. DCYF recognizes that many families are struggling right now and could benefit from accessing services and supports that were traditionally only available to families with official DCYF or Family Court involvement. The SRU will provide assistance by identifying each family’s needs and providing necessary support to help families thrive. Rhode Island families are encouraged to call the SRU by dialing 1-888-RI-FAMLY (74-32659).
7. Introduction of New Staff
We are pleased to welcome the following staff members into our BWRSD family:
Thomas Wood, Educational Facilities Manager: Thom Wood has extensive experience as licensed an architect in VT and as the Montpelier Public Schools Director of Facilities for 8 years. His experience and expertise will be an asset to us in meeting new school construction regulations and planning for ongoing capital improvements within our district.
Dr. Nicole Lyons, Career and College Coordinator at Mt. Hope High School: Dr. Nicole Lyons has worked for the past eight years as the Supervisor of Academics and Instruction at the Davies Career and Technical School. She brings a strong knowledge of CTE pathways, program development, staff supervision, and grant writing. She is a welcomed addition to the Mt. Hope leadership team in supporting the expansion of CTE opportunities for our students.
Bristol Warren Regional School District
Website: www.bwrsd.org
Location: 151 State Street, Bristol, RI USA
Phone: 401-253-4000
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BristolWarrenSchools