MUHSD Family,
We were hopeful that we would see COVID numbers peak this month and see some decline soon after. It does appear our COVID numbers are peaking; however, we will not be seeing the decline in any sort of quick fashion. The Merced County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) does not believe there will be significant improvement until March. With the third-quarter ending on March 12, we will remain on Distance Learning until then. If our county has shown significant improvement by March 1, we will plan on going back to the hybrid instructional model on March 15 (the first day of the fourth quarter). Our return will result from a conversation with MCDPH regarding their opinion, and when they believe it is ok to have people gather again. Currently, we are at 78 per 100k and in order to move into RED, we need to be at 28. That 78 needs to be well on its way to 28 in order for that to happen. That’s the plan for students' return.
Athletics
The SJS will vote tomorrow on whether or not to give counties and leagues autonomy. I expect this to pass, and if so, this clears the way for our county league. Starting Wednesday: All sports may condition outside without equipment, and athletes/coaches must aggressively social distance. When the stay at home order is lifted, athletes may condition inside with doors open and good ventilation. The sports schedule will be released soon and we will compete through June, playing what we can, when we can. These activities are both state and locally approved. If you want these activities to start and finish social distance and follow all protocols, both at school and at home. We will share guidance for other extracurricular activities separately.
Summer School
The hybrid instructional model will be with us for the remainder of the year. As we begin to prepare for summer school, we will plan for both in-person and distance learning. They will be separate. Our preference is in-person, as much of summer school will be remediation. More information will be forthcoming as the time nears.
Next Year
Whatever happens for next year, you can depend on this: We will have school in-person, and any virtual offerings will be separate from in-person. We have done an excellent job playing the hand we have been dealt but will continue to advocate for students back on campus full-time, as soon as possible. It's going to take longer than most of us want or have the patience for, but we all need to understand the seriousness of this pandemic. Please continue to follow all safety protocols and encourage others to do the same.
I will continue to update you as information changes.
Sincerely,
Alan Peterson
MUHSD Superintendent
