By the time you read this, we have already transitioned into our remote learning platform. This has not been an easy process for our teachers, nor our students and parents. Despite having plenty of available technology for students, we have a range of aptitudes and accessibility that had to be addressed. I am incredibly proud of the efforts of all members of the LPS family and for the support of our parents and community. I am a big believer that challenges yield tremendous opportunities and that we and you will emerge stronger as we get to the other side of this pandemic.
Experience tells us that preparation is the key to weathering crises. For example, we know what to do when a snowstorm looms or a common virus breaks out at a specific school. We know what to do if there is a threat to our students or if we sense there might be a budget shortfall. But how to be ready when a pandemic strikes – not so much. I have mentioned that as a system we have had to write the pandemic handbook as we moved along. We now have a good plan that will help our students maintain their academic progress and be ready for whenever school starts again. We do need the support of our parents and families, however, as this learning environment is anything but routine.
Last Sunday, my minister preached on the concept of “existential dread” and posited that we fear that which we can’t explain or predict. To get through these times, we have to rely on that which we believe and have faith that our collective commitments will lead us forward. I take great comfort in knowing that we have the right LPS people working hard to keep our communities number one commodity as our highest priority.
We will get through this and emerge an even stronger school district.
Stay well,
Steve Joel