March 14, 2020

The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) issued guidance yesterday afternoon. It provides some additional clarity, but it is important to note that this is a very new and fluid situation, so while we have some additional "light", we're still in a very "dark room". 

What we know (all quotes are from bulletin B019-20):

All schools are "closed" until April 27. According to OSPI this means, 

"During mandatory closures, school districts will be prohibited from providing in-person educational, recreational, and other K–12 school programs using their school buildings and facilities. Districts will not be prevented from providing instruction through online learning models (so long as those can be provided equitably) or from using their facilities to provide childcare, professional development, staff meetings, Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, direct services to individual students, or other activities deemed appropriate by the district administration. Any gatherings within school facilities should comply with applicable social distancing directives and health and safety recommendations. " 

State testing is closed for the 2019-20 school year.

If we provide educational programming, we are required to provide it for all students and to continue to provide specially designed instruction for students with disabilities. 

"If services are being provided by the district to select grade levels (e.g. Seniors), then IEP services should also be provided to students in those grades to avoid discrimination under Section 504 and Title II. OSPI will soon provide additional information regarding the selection of specific grades to provide educational services to during school closures."

The Governor has requested that we be the "Childcare of last resort" for families of law enforcement, fire/EMS and healthcare providers. We are awaiting additional guidance on what this expectation includes. Childcare is a very specific and technical job that is only superficially similar to K-12 education. 

"While there will be additional guidance coming related to childcare referenced in the Governor’s proclamation, childcare opportunities offered through the district should be considered for district children of all ages, including those who are most vulnerable and those with significant disabilities."

 My next update will be no later than Friday, March 20. Since this is a fast-moving and fluid situation, check this blog often for updates in the coming weeks.

My next post will be "Why Are We Doing This?"

Toledo is prepared, not scared.