Update: Monday, March 16, 2020
Good morning,
As you know the Governor of Massachusetts declared a 3-week shut down of all schools this past weekend. At this time there is no entry to any school within the Westford Public Schools System so that the buildings can be deep cleaned. At this time students are not expected to work on any distance learning activities, however, this is an opportunity for students to take part in optional enrichment activities. Teachers will NOT be using the Google Classroom at this time to continue with teaching and learning over the next two weeks, however teachers may use Google Classroom to check in with students or provide updates. Some recommendations at this time, read a book that interests you, do some creative writing, review materials from the third quarter of school in preparation for school to re-open sometime around April 6, 2020.
***NOTE: Please be aware, every answer below is subject to change based on the ever-changing conditions in the State of Massachusetts.***
Visit the link below for optional enrichment opportunities:
http://www.amazingeducationalresources.com/
National Association of School Psychologists: How to talk to your children about the CoronaVirus: A Parent Resource.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Questions that may be asked by senior students:
Question: Is the Capstone Project going to happen?
Answer: As of right now, yes the Capstone Project is expected to take place once we return to school with an adjusted calendar. More information to follow. Note: If you were planning to work in a health facility/healthcare industry, please work on making alternative plans.
Question: What about the senior prom?
Answer: As of right now the senior prom is scheduled to happen on May 16, 2020 at the Park Plaza in Boston, MA. However, this is contingent upon the Governor lifting the ban of only groups of 25 or smaller congregating at one location.
Question: What about the Senior Class Trip to Walt Disney World?
Answer: As of right now the Senior Class Trip to Walt Disney World is scheduled to happen on May 20-May 24, 2020. However, this is contingent upon the Governor lifting the ban of only groups of 25 or smaller congregating at one location and Walt Disney World reopening its gates.
Questions that might be asked by junior students:
Question: What about individual junior meetings with Guidance Counselors?
Answer: We will be using a video conferencing platform called Zoom, which is a free program. Our 6-12 Guidance Coordinator Mrs. Wendy Pechacek will follow up with an announcement through the class of 2021 Google classroom regarding plans for scheduling and conducting those meetings.
Question: Will the Junior Job Shadow still happen?
Answer: As of right now, the Junior Job Shadow is expected to take place on May 20, 2020. Note: If you were planning to shadow in a health facility/healthcare industry, please work on making alternative plans.
Question: Will the Junior Cotillion take place at Kimball Farms?
Answer: As of right now the Junior Cotillion is scheduled for Saturday, May 9, 2020. However, this is contingent upon the Governor lifting the ban of only groups of 25 or smaller congregating at one location.
General Questions:
Question: What about Advanced Placement Classes and the Advanced Placement Testing Schedule?
Answer: More information forthcoming from the College Board.
Question: What about MCAS English Language Arts Testing?
Answer: We are waiting for direction from the Massachusetts Department of Education and will share this information with you when the information becomes available.
Question: What about spring sports?
Answer: As of right now spring sports will begin on April 6, 2020, unless there is a continued closure of schools.The MIAA will provide guidance on the structure of the spring season.
Question: Will April vacation be canceled?
Answer: No, April vacation will not be canceled.
Question: What about students that need a free and reduced lunch while school is not in session?
Answer: There is an emergency school committee meeting this evening. A statement regarding this topic will be addressed at this meeting.
Question: Will end of year final exams take place before school closes for summer recess?
Answer: As or right now, end of year final exams will continue as planned. Subject to change.
If you have additional questions at this time, please email me at jantonelli@westfordk12.us
Thank you for your patience and understanding during these difficult times.
Stay healthy, stay safe.
Respectfully, Jim Antonelli