Compiled by Sarah Nachin
“This year Teacher Appreciation Week needs to be the biggest celebration ever!
I don’t even know where to begin to say my words of gratitude and appreciation to our teachers.
I have employed many people in different industries and professions for the last fifty years. Never have I ever experienced employees with as much passion, dedication, and determination to do “whatever it takes to get the job done” – in this situation, to continue to educate our students during this coronavirus pandemic – as I have witnessed with our Teaching Professionals meeting student needs in unprecedented ways. Their resiliency is nothing short of amazing!”
— Gus Guadagnino
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“This is going to be a challenging year. Not only has Covid-19 changed how our students attend school, it has changed our daily lives. The school district has worked to develop attendance plans that will accommodate students and their families by offering options to best suit their needs.
The safety and well-being of all students, teachers and staff are of utmost importance. As the school year progresses, we will continue to reassess the needs of our students and always welcome input and participation from our community. The District is committed to working with parents, teachers and staff to help our students achieve success. ”
–Jimmy Lodato
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“I believe that timely up-to-date communication about school and classroom closures and quarantining is critical. District support, resources, and response times for teachers, staff, administrators, parents, and students needs to be at our highest level ever.
Many teachers may have different modes of teaching their classes and flexibility with scheduling is needed as students transition from one learning option to another. School Connectedness is so important for our students as many will feel isolated if they are not back in a classroom with their peers. Students need to be prepared about how different their classrooms and procedures may be with social distancing and masks.
As always, employees, parents, and students should contact school board members with any concerns. We are all in this together as we fight one of our country’s biggest challenges yet. The health, welfare, and safety of our employees, students, and families will always be our #1 Priority.”
–Linda Prescott
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“As the district begins another school year, I believe that we are at the crossroads of a path that includes the uncertainty of the pandemic along with a potential negative impact to our economic foundation. This district is committed to the safety and health of our employees, students and families each and every day. I trust that by working together, this district and school board will provide a decision-making process that will help guide us through this difficult time.”
–Susan Duval
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“This is a very difficult time for everyone involved. The level of anxiety is high, especially among families trying to navigate the start of this school year. It is also a challenging time for staff members, especially those in the classroom. There are many and varied stakeholder needs that have been and will continue to be addressed.
The Board has worked together with administration, staff and public health officials to develop policies and procedures for safe return to school.
Following a multitude of public comments, a third option was added to choices families were able to make regarding sending their children back to school. In addition, the start of school was delayed two weeks.
Much credit must be given to administration and staff (teachers, food service, transportation) who have worked tirelessly to implement plans for safe return to school.
As I have said to many who reached out, this is a situation that may need adjustments based on health data as we go forward.”
–Kay Hatch
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“The summer has been busy and productive. We have taken a great deal of care in preparing to reopen schools. Protecting the well-being of students and staff was the primary factor of our work but, it was equally important that we remained mindful that schools should continue to be spaces where students feel safe, welcomed, and able to learn. We look forward to our students’ return, whether on campus or remotely, their energy and curiosity are just the encouragement we all need.”
–Hernando County
Superintendent of Schools John Stratton
