COVID-19 Community Message 3/2/2020

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Home > COVID-19 Messages & Resources > COVID-19 Community Message 3/20/2020

UPDATED: 3/20/2020, 3:00 p.m.

Dear MESD Community, 

It is difficult to believe that less than a week ago we were implementing the guidance around large group gatherings. Only 5 days ago we were preparing for a short-term school closure.  Now, the closure has been extended through at least April 28. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this changing situation. 

We all should be very proud of the culture of service and compassion that the MESD community provides while continuing to strive to meet the needs of our students and districts. Clearly, this crisis has and will require us to operate differently. 

In the past few days, I have seen incredible leadership from our administration, teachers, and staff while partnering with parents and districts on behalf of students. Examples include home delivery of learning materials for Helensview students, activation of social media accounts for our families at Wheatley, the Creeks and for our FLS communities, a grab n’ go backpack distribution and medication reunification event for students at Four Creek and Knott Creek schools, and school health staff sharing thermometer strips with community partners. These are just a few of the many efforts being made to support each other during this difficult time.  

We are also nearly three quarters through the school year and along with the warmer weather, spring break has arrived. I urge each of you to embrace practices of self-care and prioritize the health of your loved ones and yourselves during the break. Following spring break, we will be in touch regularly with more information as the situation continues to unfold. 

Wishing all of you the very best,
Sam Breyer, Superintendent 
Multnomah Education Services District

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