BCSD wants kids in schools, you can help

Thank you to our staff and students for an amazing start to the school year. Our students have a renewed sense of school spirit and excitement. Our staff continues to work diligently to serve our students, colleagues, and the community. Although we are extremely excited to be in school, we are asking for community help and support.

Over the last 2.5 weeks, we have continued to see an increase in the number of staff and students with COVID-19. You might be saying, “I am tired of dealing with this, stop trying to create fear, it’s just the flu.” Others might be saying, “This is serious. Why aren’t you doing more? Stop messing around.” The reality is our School Board is working hard to make decisions based on local community conditions and guidance from health professionals.

We are all doing our best to keep students in school in a safe and healthy environment. We are tremendously thankful for the support from parents when we call and let them know their child has been in close contact with a person who tested positive. Last year, a student was quarantined at home for a minimum of 10 days. We do believe students need to be in school, so we have designed a plan that allows choices for parents. Parents may choose one of the following: 1) Stay in school fully masked and watch for symptoms for 10 days; 2) Stay home for 10 days and watch for symptoms; 3) Stay home for 10 days, but can test on day 7. If it is a negative test, then the student can return the next day; 4) Optionally provide proof of vaccination; or 5) Optionally provide proof the student has already tested positive for COVID-19.

We have not discussed a full mask mandate for everyone. The only time wearing a mask and/or having a bell cover or bonnet on wind instruments is when a student has been identified as a close contact. We feel fortunate to be able to provide options to parents, so they can make the best decision for their children.

What can you do to help us stay in school? Sign up to be a substitute. We need substitutes for teachers, paraprofessionals, bus drivers, custodians, and food service personnel. If you feel you can help in this area, please pick up an application at the District Office, 7188 Oak Street or online at https://www.bcsd101.com/departments/payroll-personnel.

What else can you do? Encourage your children(s) to follow recommended guidelines:

Washing hands often;

Maintaining social distancing;

Refraining from touching eyes, nose, and mouth;

Covering coughs and sneezes;

Staying home when sick or showing symptoms;

Cleaning frequently touched surfaces;

Wearing a face covering in crowded areas; and

Resting, exercising, and hydrating.

If you have any questions and/or concerns, please reach out to your child’s school or the superintendent’s office. We are all open to answering your questions and providing a tour of how we are operating this year.

Working together we can have a successful school year. Thank you for helping us by considering the opportunity to be a substitute for our district and encouraging students to follow recommended guidelines. We are committed to serving your children, our colleagues, and our community. Thank you for your support!