This is a call I wished all year I would never have to make. Just moments ago Governor DeWine announced that the virus in Portage County is spreading to the point that we have triggered enough indicators to become purple, the highest level possible. This means we will be transitioning to online learning for all students beginning Wednesday, December 9th through Christmas break. This slight delay allows all students in Group A to meet with their teachers tomorrow and students in Group B to meet with their teachers on Monday to review expectations and gather materials. Teachers will work Tuesday to finalize and prepare their online environments for students who will begin their work on Wednesday. Learning for students in our virtual academy will go on as it has all year.
Our teachers, staff, community and students have done their best to keep the virus out of our schools and keep us in person. I am so proud of their efforts. We have nearly made it through an entire semester of face to face learning because of these efforts, and for that I am extremely proud. You have demonstrated the G-Men pride and spirit, that is certain. Despite these efforts, online learning will begin next Wednesday for all students. We have consulted with the Portage County Healthy Director and their suggestion is to do just that.
We will remain learning online through Christmas break. We will continue to monitor our local numbers and the spread in Portage County and make a determination on what learning will look moving forward by December 31st.
More information will follow in the coming days regarding athletics, materials and extracurricular activities.
As we move to online learning for all, it is vitally important we do not let our guard down. Please continue to mask up, back up and wash up.
Since the pandemic began in March we have prioritized communicating to you as often and transparently as possible and moving forward you can expect the same. We will get through this if we work together and remain positive.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me directly.
Have a great evening, and Go G-Men!
Ted