COVID-19 Update 9-17-2020 (In-person learning September 28th)
September 17, 2020
Dear MCOB District Families and Students:
I hope everyone is safe and healthy! We appreciate your patient and understanding as we navigate through this pandemic.
The latest information was released by the Arizona Department of Health Services today (September 17, 2020). The ADHS metrics/benchmarks dashboard for schools indicate that Pinal County has met all three benchmarks. As previously communicated our district will return to in-person learning once the benchmarks on the dashboard are met. We will continue to monitor the data and are prepared to adapt our plans if necessary. MCOB Elementary and Villa Oasis will plan to return to in-person learning on Monday, September 28th.
Due to the size of our district and limited staff we will not offer virtual learning when in-person learning begins on September 28th.
Once we return to in-person learning we will only go back to virtual learning if directed by Pinal County Health, ADHS, or Governor Ducey. The benchmark data will be monitored but not used for weekly decisions regarding in-person learning.
Please review the Continuity of Operations Plan for a safe return to campus. This comprehensive document includes our mitigation plans and 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 check 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 and staff must stay home when ill, wash hands frequently, and cover coughs or sneezes.
- Face coverings (masks or shields) required on school buses and on school campus.
- 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.
MCOB Elementary and Villa Oasis principals will provide more detailed information for students and parents as we return to in-person learning. This continues to be a challenging and fluid situation for everyone, please contact me directly at 520-483-1562 or mbassett@pinalk12.org with questions, comments, or suggestions. I update the COVID-19 Resources webpage with any new information I receive.
We appreciate your patience and support and will continue to work diligently to prioritize the well-being of our students, families, and community. I look forward to welcoming students back to our schools!
Sincerely,
Marty Bassett
Superintendent
