As I sit here typing this opening to the newsletter, my mind is still trying to comprehend all that has happened this last week. COVID-19 has completely stalled us. Schools are closed, restaurants are closed, no school events or meetings, and no play dates. Our normal day to day routines are currently non-existent as we practice social distancing and for many, trying to "home school" our children. I'll admit, I was pretty scared in the beginning. I struggled between worrying too much and not worrying enough. But then I began to see the amazing work being done by our district, seeing units coming up with fun things for their students to enjoy, and families helping those who needed it most. With all this, I began to say, "It's gonna be ok."

It's important to stay positive during this time, especially for our children. They may not be able to go places or see their teachers and friends in person, but we live in a technological world! They can face time family and friends, do virtual tours of fun places, watch funny videos, and still do some learning online. They can also play outside in their backyards or go for a walk/bike ride with mom and dad! There is so much potential for learning and doing new things as a family! We all know what we need to do to keep our families healthy and safe, so I won't preach to the choir. But I will say that I am forever grateful to be part of a district and community that is always willing to help one another and that puts our students first. WE CAN DO THIS!

Stay healthy,

Andrea Malenfant

Council Newsletter Chair

"As we plan for the weeks that our schools will be closed following Governor Whitmer’s announcement, there are many opportunities for students to continue their learning at home. Knowing that the rich instruction that your child receives at school cannot be replicated with an on-line experience, these resources and activities simply provide opportunities for you and your child to engage in learning around reading, thinking and problem solving. The links below are organized into content areas. There are no requirements from the district or teachers for students to complete any of these activities. There will be no collection of work, grading or rewarding of any activities." - LPS

https://www.smore.com/knuex - Post High School Students LTP and Garfield

https://www.smore.com/fxcdt - High school Ninth - Twelfth Grade

https://www.smore.com/jgphf - Middle School Seventh and Eighth Grade

https://www.smore.com/4n0he - Upper Elementary Fifth and Sixth Grade

https://www.smore.com/txfgh - Elementary Kindergarten - Fourth Grade

https://www.smore.com/1m0s9 - Preschool and Young 5's General and Special Education

This Month's PTA Shout Out most certainly has to go to our LPS leaders! This last week was rapidly changing with new developments thrown into the mix almost every passing day! LPS not only addressed things swiftly, but also made A LOT of things happen! They answered many of the questions that parents had and compiled resources for families to utilize during the school closure. They were also able to create a food assistance program for ALL LPS students! They have continued to keep families updated as information comes and will continue to do so.These men and women have worked diligently and tirelessly to make sure our families have everything they need during this time of closure and uncertainty. I know a lot of families appreciate everything they have done! We can't thank you enough!

I'd also like to give a shout out to the units that are hosting fun, online things for their students. Like Buchanan's "Story Time With Mr. Wennstrom" or Webster's daily videos from different staff members. Just to name a couple. Keeping our families engaged and informed is a huge part of what we do and if you can make it fun, that's even better! If your unit is also doing things like this during the school closure then you get a SHOUT OUT too!

Lastly, we know all units have been dealing with parent concerns and fears, answering a bazillion questions (or directing them to the appropriate source when you don't know the answer), canceling all the events you had planned, and making sure all important information has been relayed on your social media pages. YOU ALL deserve a Shout Out!

Andrea Malenfant

Council Newsletter Chair

At Council's Executive Board meeting on Wednesday March 18th, a motion was made to change the way unit membership fees are paid to Council. The new change would mean that units would pay one "flat fee" each fall to Council for their memberships instead of monthly payments. The rational for this motion is to stabilize income for council, reduce the paperwork, check writing and mailing of checks to the council's membership chair (ie saving time for each unit membership person, treasurer, and saving on postage) and reduce the workload for our council membership chair and treasurer.

Keep in mind that dues to Michigan PTA ($5.50 per member) will still need to be paid monthly.

Council wants your feedback on this. Please share this survey with everyone on your board so they can respond. Survey Link:

https://forms.gle/k1V23jHdU6B8sr558

The Youth Making a Difference ceremony date for Thursday April 16th will stay as is. If there are any changes we will inform all units as soon as possible.

Council YMAD Committee

If you are a PTA officer or committee chair, please make sure to join our page for important information, discussions, and more! A lot of great info is shared on this closed group page. It's also a great way to network with other units, share ideas, and ask for help.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/541318689333449/