COVID-19 Update July 23, 2020
July 23, 2020
Dear MCOB District Families and Students:
We know the last several months have been challenging, and that many of you continue to face uncertainty and questions regarding the safe return to school. We have researched, reviewed, and considered different options for the 2020-20201 school year. Based on our small staff and student population and our desire to provide the best possible education to our students we have determined that we will have in-person instruction at both MCOB Elementary and Villa Oasis beginning on August 17th, or when the State/County Health Department determines we can hold in-person instruction In the event our buildings are not allowed to host in-person instruction on August 17th we will start virtual instruction on August 17th and return to the classroom as soon as allowed. We will continue to communicate throughout this pandemic.
We truly appreciate your patience as we have worked diligently to determine options for the school year and develop our initial Continuity of Operations Plan for a safe return to campus. This comprehensive document incorporates best practices that can be implemented, as well as key recommendations from health and government officials to prioritize the health and safety of our students, staff, and community. Please review the Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) for health and safety measures, communication, social and emotional learning, special education, technology, transportation, and more.
Key decisions outlined in this plan include:
- Students will attend in-person classes when allowed by Governor Ducey and the Arizona Department of Health Services/Pinal County Health Department.
- Students will learn virtually when in-person instruction is not allowed by Governor Ducey or Arizona Department of Health Services/Pinal County Health Department..
- Face coverings (masks or shields) required when physical distancing is not possible.
- Physical distancing will be practiced when feasible, it is not possible to expect 6 feet distancing at all times at school or on a bus.
- Students and staff must stay home when ill, wash hands frequently, and cover coughs or sneezes.
Our teachers will be participating in professional development August 4-10 to refine learning plans for the school year. We will have in-person instruction when allowed but also prepare for virtual learning when necessary. We have truly missed the connection with our students during these challenging times and look forward to welcoming our families back to a setting that is focused on student learning in a safe environment. We realize families must consider the risks of in-person instruction during this pandemic and make the decision that is in the best interest of their student(s).
Students that do not return to in-person classes when allowed by the State and County Health Department will be withdrawn from the MCOB District.
Please complete the survey at this link by Monday, July 27th, so that we can plan for in-person instruction and transportation. You can also call the MCOB Elementary office 520-450-4400 or the Villa Oasis office 520-450-4450 for specific school related questions.
We appreciate your patience and support and will continue to work diligently to prioritize the well-being of our students, families, and community.
Sincerely,
Marty Bassett
Superintendent
