Dear Students and Families,
As we prepare for winter weather we would like to remind everyone that “Snow Days” will not be the same as they used to be! Since we have been able to move forward with our 1:1 technology and hotspot initiative, we are confident that our students and staff will be ready to connect virtually during an unplanned closure due to inclement weather this year. Therefore days on which we experience an unplanned closure will become Virtual Learning Days for our students. ALL students (Hybrid and Virtual) will attend classes and meet with teachers virtually on these days. Students will not be able to physically attend school during Virtual Learning Days as the buildings will remain closed. Students will learn from home virtually following their teacher's schedule for the day via SeeSaw or Google Classroom.
Virtual Learning Day-
A Virtual Learning Day can occur during hazardous winter weather. The school District consults with a variety of internal and external experts including transportation, neighboring school districts, and superintendents. We also monitor the forecast from the National Weather Service in order to make the best decision for students, families, and staff. During Virtual Learning Days school buildings will be closed and all student learning will transition to 100% virtual format.
Please be aware that we could still have days where students attend school and buses operate on Emergency Bus Routes or a 1 or 2-hour delay may occur to allow time for snow and ice to be cleared from the road during inclement weather in order for in-person learning to occur. We could also have days on which it is necessary to release school early due to inclement weather. If weather conditions necessitate the delay of starting school, a Virtual Learning Day, or an early release parents and students in the West Liberty Community School District should note the following procedures and general information:
Inclement Weather Procedures - Here you will find information regarding how information will be communicated, what news stations to watch or listen to, schedules for buses during a 1-2 hour delay, and updated emergency bus routes.
If you have any questions regarding Virtual Learning Days, delays, or emergency bus routes please contact your child’s building administrator.
Please remember and practice the following recommendations during the holidays:
Traveling increases your chance of being exposed to COVID-19, we require staff members to quarantine for 7-10 days from their last day of international travel (please see this link for more information: Quarantine Procedures). If you are planning to travel outside of the United States please contact your building administrator before your travel time so that appropriate learning arrangements can be made for your students and we can set your return to school date.
Always practice the 3 W’s: Wear a mask, Wash your hands, Watch your distance.
Please email Nurse Kayla Morrison at kmorrison@wl.k12.ia.us or Nurse Angela Swick at aswick@wl.k12.ia.us if your child has been exposed to COVID-19, or tests positive for COVID-19 over winter break.
I hope that you have a safe and wonderful Winter Break!
Thank you,
Dr. Diego Giraldo