A message from the Superintendent
January 12, 2022
Dear Mounds View Public Schools community,
As positive COVID-19 cases have increased in our schools and community, we are aware that some families may be feeling stressed or uncertain about what this means for their child’s education.
As I shared at the School Board meeting last night, the Minnesota Department of Education sent a communication to schools affirming their belief that children learn best when they are in the classroom. They referenced the benefits to mental health and emotional well-being when students can attend in person. The communication also recognized the increase in COVID-19 cases and encouraged districts to be diligent about using layered mitigation strategies in an effort to prioritize in-person learning.
School districts were told to expect updated guidance from local public health officials this week that would address the new CDC guidelines regarding the length of the isolation and quarantine period and the expectations they may have for our schools. We are hopeful that we will hear more from these officials by the end of this week, and we will update families as soon as we can provide more clarity specific to our schools.
Please know we continue to monitor the impact COVID-19 is having on our staff, students and schools and will prioritize in-person learning for as long as it is safe and possible to do so. Should it become necessary to temporarily shift classrooms or buildings to different learning models, we will communicate with staff, students and families regarding the specific need, expectations and duration of these shifts in advance of any change. In the meantime, we will continue to practice the Minnesota Department of Health's layered mitigation strategies expected of all schools that are outlined below.
Health and safety mitigation strategies
Check your child for symptoms daily and keep them home when they are sick.
Get tested regularly, especially if you or your child are experiencing symptoms or have been exposed to the virus. Order a free at-home test or find testing locations here.
A limited number of at-home test kits are available at your child’s school. Ask your school about getting a test sent home with your child.
Getting vaccinated is the strongest defense against the virus. If your child is over the age of five, consider getting a free COVID-19 vaccine. Boosters are now recommended for all Minnesotans age 12 and older. Find a vaccine or booster here, or consult your family physician.
As a reminder, masks are required in all Mounds View Public Schools buildings.
We encourage sanitizing, hand-washing and physical distancing as much as possible.
Please visit our COVID-19 resources web page for more information.
We appreciate your understanding and partnership during this challenging time.
Sincerely,
Chris Lennox
Superintendent