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Superintendent’s Update to Ukiah Unified Families - June 18, 2020

Fall Reopening of School

We are working on our school programs for 2020/21, and there is much uncertainty about what school will look like. Our priority is to bring students physically back to school, yet in this challenging time, we must remain flexible and open to change. 


We will consult the California Department of Public Health Guidance for Schools and California Department of Education Guidance for Schools when planning for our reopening. After we have drafted our plan, we will consult with the Mendocino County Public Health Officer.  The final decision regarding what school will look like in 2020/21 will be made by the UUSD Board of Trustees.  


We are currently planning for several possibilities, including returning to normal, a hybrid school model that allows for social distancing and deep cleanings, and continued remote learning. In our plan, there will be several options for parents, such as additional independent study and remote learning programs. The options are currently in draft form, and a final decision regarding school reopening will be made no later than July 17, 2020.


Tonight, Thursday, June 18, 2020, our Fall 2020 reopening will be discussed at the regular meeting of our UUSD Board of Trustees starting at 6:30 p.m.  We will be sharing the results of the parent survey given in June and our draft plans for 2020/21.  We welcome your input.  Our Board meetings are virtual and can be accessed through our YouTube channel.  Public comment is welcomed at our meetings and is limited to 3 minutes per speaker - please fill out this Google form by 6:00 p.m. if you wish to address the Board.    


Watch UUSD Board of Trustees’ meetings live or any time after the original airtime here.


UUSD Fall 2020 Reopening Presentation - UUSD Board Meeting, June 18, 2020


Equity Task Force

In November 2019, Ukiah Unified worked with a large group of stakeholders to redesign our 3-year Strategic Plan. One of the three goals identified and presented to the UUSD Board of Trustees is EQUITY.  We are currently forming an Equity Task Force to examine data and create a detailed action plan for UUSD to continue our work to achieve equity in all areas. The intention was for this Task Force to meet in April and May to begin work; however, with COVID-19, this was not possible.


Our Equity Task Force will support the district and our schools to see and name any inequitable policies and practices and facilitate any needed changes. This group will be formed with diverse members from each school community to celebrate the progress we have made over the last several years, hear concerns, and begin the process towards equitable change. We will examine student data, curriculum, requirements, structures, policies, programs, traditions, and many other areas with a multi-faceted equity lens.


We want your input, suggestions, and ideas. Most importantly, we want to listen so together we can build our future. UUSD intends to act on any inequity in our schools, and the Equity Task Force will be a vital part of our process. Please contact your school site administrator if you are interested in being the parent representative for your school.


Summer 2020 Food Distribution

Summer Food Distribution will continue each Wednesday. Food for 15 meals will be provided for any child 18 years of age or younger each Wednesday at one location, Ukiah High School, from 7:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Food deliveries by bus will not take place over the Summer. Please remember to wear a mask and practice social distancing when picking up food. 


Communication

You can sign up for phone calls, emails, text messages, or any combination of the three in our Aeries Parent Portal. If you have not received recent communications from me, or want to receive them differently, log in to the UUSD Aeries Parent Portal and update your contact information. Please make sure to sign up for all of the ways you want us to communicate with you. If you need help, please contact your student’s school. 


Thank you for your understanding, patience, and cooperation as we work to make the most of our current situation. As we plan for the next school year, we will continue to communicate regularly. Do not hesitate to reach out to us with questions by calling 707-472-5003.