Hanover Public Schools Closure Updates 3/13/20

Now that the difficult decision has been made to close our schools for the next two weeks, many questions remain – for all of us.  We want to provide you with as much guidance as possible with the understanding that much will change in the days ahead.  More information will be shared with you throughout the duration of our current closure.   If you have questions that remain unanswered after Monday evening, please reach out to your child’s principal or my office.  

Updates

• Academics:  We will be sharing school based plans with students and families on Monday evening regarding continuity of academics over the next two weeks.  We are working with our teachers and leadership team on plans to support student learning until we return to normal.  Realistically, these learning experiences will look differently for all levels but we are hopeful that we can provide all students with meaningful activities that will keep them engaged.
  
  There are many questions around grades, standardized tests, open assignments, and overall expectations for academics at every level.  Each principal will be sharing their plan with students and families on Monday.  We want all of our students to know that we will do our very best to support them during the next two weeks and when we are back to normal.  Everyone needs a couple of days to adjust to this new situation, and we need the weekend and Monday to prepare next steps.  Your patience is greatly appreciated. 
• Activities/Athletics: All extra-curricular and athletic activities are either cancelled or will be postponed for the next two weeks.  The MIAA is pushing spring sports back (for now) until March 30th.  We will postpone significant events (Junior Prom, Credit for Life Fair, etc) and try to reschedule at a later date.  More information on all upcoming activities and events will be coming from principals in the days ahead.   
• School Building Access:  If your child needs to access the school building to pick up personal items, athletic equipment, medication, school materials, or even that old lunch that shouldn’t sit in their locker for two weeks, please contact the building principal to arrange a time.  Administrators will be available throughout this closure, and the best way to connect with them is via email to answer any questions that you may have.

• Family Support/Food:  On Monday, we will have information to share with families who may need assistance with lunches/food during this closure.  

Thank you again for your patience and understanding.  We will try to address all of the questions we are receiving as quickly and accurately as possible using our regular communication platforms.

Please have a healthy and restful weekend.

Sincerely,

Matt Ferron
Superintendent of Schools