On Tuesday morning, we will begin a school year that none of us could have imagined, or would have chosen. Living through this pandemic together, we have experienced so much change. Whether this is your first year of school or your senior year, I want to reassure you of a few things.

• Your teachers, principals, and everyone who works in your school cares about you. Even though we are not together in person, that doesn't change how important it is for you to know that. We are here for you, and your teachers will talk with you about ways that we will connect with one another, even from a distance.
• Like you, your teachers are nervous about the first day of school. It will not be perfect and that's okay. You are not alone. We're all in this together.
• We know you're depending on us. We'll all be getting used to new things together. We might hit bumps and we might not know all of the answers, but we will figure it out, get it fixed, and get it right - because your ability to learn and be successful is the most important thing to us.
• We're depending on you, too. We need you to show up, be engaged, and take your learning seriously. We all have a job to do - and your job is to be the best student you can be. We know you will give your best each day.
• We want you to ask for help when you need it. We're going to be using new technology, and learning in new ways - NEVER hesitate to ask for help - no matter what you need.
• School will be different. We will still have fun together. We're going to get creative, and we can't wait to hear your ideas, too. Share them with us and with each other. Our students are leaders who show grit and determination. We need that now more than ever.
• Be kind to one another. Be kind to your teachers and to your classmates. Whenever you can, choose KIND.
• Be patient. Be patient with your teachers, with your siblings, and with your families. These past few months have been really challenging for our friends and neighbors, school leaders, teachers, families, and for all of you. Show empathy and patience whenever you can.

• Do your best. Do your best. Do your best.

I am proud of the role I play in helping you reach your goals. I choose to do this difficult work because helping children is important to me. My promise to you is that I will consider what's best for all of you first in every decision I make.

Have a great first day of school!

Stay Well,

John

John J. Kopicki, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools

During the period of online-only learning to begin the 2020-21 school year, grab-n-go breakfast and lunch will be available to all students at no cost. The student does not need to be present at pickup. Meal distribution will occur as follows beginning on the first day of school, September 8, 2020:

• Meals will be available for pickup at the following locations on Mondays and Thursdays, from 10:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.:
  • CB East
  • CB South
  • CB West
  • Barclay Elementary School
  • Groveland Elementary School
• Meal distribution will occur on Mondays and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  • Exceptions:
    • Distribution will be held on Tuesday 9/8/20, not on Monday 9/7/20
    • Distribution will be held on Tuesday 9/29/20, not on Monday 9/28/20

In-Person Students

At no cost, breakfast and lunch will also be provided to any student who is attending the district's limited in-person programming during the online-only period. Details will be provided by building principals.