Good Afternoon CRLS Community,
I hope you are well and enjoying some “screen free” time this vacation week. I am writing following Governor Baker and
Superintendent Salim’s communications about public schools remaining closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 academic year.
Although somewhat expected given the ongoing public health crisis, the news announcement yesterday was disappointing and particularly difficult for seniors in the Class of 2020. Like many of you, I always look forward to school activities that take place after April Break when there are several occasions to recognize students' growth and achievement. Among all the events, the CRLS Graduation ceremony stands out. It is THE highlight of the year for just about everyone in the school community.
With buildings remaining closed, Graduation and other celebratory gatherings will not be able to occur in the same way as in the past. I am saddened by this and I know the cancelations of these events are a significant loss for our community, especially the Class of 2020. However, please know that despite these setbacks, our school community is committed to celebrating and acknowledging the accomplishments of the Class of 2020. CRLS staff members have begun to engage students and community partners regarding possible ideas for making this year's graduation celebratory and special despite the need for social distancing. We will need to do additional planning and development and I will be updating the school community on progress regarding these plans.
Secondly, as Dr. Salim indicated in
his email, school buildings will remain closed but the school year has not ended. CRLS educators will continue to support distance learning, and when school resumes next (April 27th), CRLS students are expected to engage every school day following the 4th Quarter Distance Learning Schedule. Student grades will be administered on a Credit or No Credit basis and the rubric outlining criteria for earning credit in 4th quarter has been shared with the community. Both the
4th Quarter Distance Learning Schedule and
Rubric Criteria for Credit are attached to this communication and is posted on the CRLS website.
Please
contact your child’s Learning Community Team if you have questions about the development of celebratory events for the Class of 2020 or the resumption of the 4th Quarter Distance Learning schedule on Monday, April 27th.
Be well and please remember to observe safe social distancing and health guidelines so we can help "flatten the curve" and reduce the spread of this virus. Students, I miss you all and look forward to seeing your faces online -- and eventually in person once again.
Sincerely,
Damon Smith