Lake Washington School District Update For March 5

Press release from the Lake Washington School District:

March 5, 2021

Dear LWSD Staff and Families:

"On February 18, kindergarten and first grade students across Lake Washington transitioned to their new classrooms. About half of our students moved to remote classrooms where they met new friends, a new teacher and continued their learning through utilizing Teams and other digital platforms. Our remote teachers were intentional about ensuring a positive transition for each of our students and families in their new classrooms. We also welcomed about half of our kindergarten and first grade students back to in-person learning at their local elementary schools. Our schools and staff had finalized their health and safety plans and were ready for implementation. Schools welcomed these students and were thrilled to see their new groups of students in-person for the first time. We are so proud of our schools, teachers, students and families and are so appreciative of everything it took to make this transition.

Upper Elementary Planning:

Our upper elementary planning and efforts for transitioning learning models is going well. We were glad to finalize our Letter of Understanding with the Lake Washington Education Association related to 2nd-5th grade on Monday, March 1. This information is the basis for the working conditions that guide teachers and administrators in the implementation of both in-person and remote learning services. 

Earlier today, 2nd and 3rd grade families received information about the asynchronous learning students will do as our teachers formally work on their transition planning, professional development, and preparations for the transition of learning models on March 18. Second and 3rd grade families will receive their classroom placement and notification on whether their child is placed in the A or B group on March 12. 

On Tuesday, March 2, President Biden announced that he was directing Governors to prioritize all school district staff and educators for immediate access to the COVID-19 vaccine. Our educators report that some appointments became available to them the next day and a few reported they were able to secure local appointments starting next week. Over the last year, each time requirements, guidance or conditions changed, it has caused us to re-evaluate our programs, services, and plans. We will continue to re-evaluate as more information regarding educator vaccination progress becomes available. 

Next Week’s Communication: 

2nd and 3rd Grade Families: 

Additional information related to the 2nd and 3rd grade transition will be sent out early next week. This information will include items such as in-person schedules, transportation, nutrition services and family videos to prepare for in-person learning. 

4th and 5th Grade Families: 

Information about the asynchronous learning week will be sent out to families next week.

Secondary Staff and Families: 

Staff and families can expect a written update regarding our secondary learning model next week."

Thank you, 

Jon 

Dr. Jon Holmen, Superintendent
Lake Washington School District

This press release was produced by the Lake Washington School District. The views expressed are the author's own.