Dear Parents, Guardians, students,
Can you believe that mid-March was the last time MCS had students wandering the halls and learning in the indoor and outdoor spaces? We are excited to welcome students back to school on September 8th. Students will come back to the same rich curriculum and caring staff that they left in March.
Over the summer, the SAU 70 leadership joined by teacher representatives, local medical professionals, our school nurses, and other volunteers formed the SAU 70 Reopening Task Force. This group spent numerous hours engaged in developing a plan that would bring our schools back into session. From there, an MCS Task Force was formed. We took the guidance given by the State of Vermont and the SAU 70 Task Force and created a plan specific to the needs of our school.
The importance of a strong team has been evident this summer. It has been comforting to have a dedicated team of MCS staff working alongside me to develop a plan. A huge shout out to Katie Cormier, Ginny Moore, Beth Haney, Becky French, Courtney Kylander, Pam Hausler, Jessica Liddy, Bethany Thompson, Ania White, Jen Newberry, Karen Woodard, Patrick Gordon, Matt Buck, Greg Bagnato and honorary MCS staff member Brie Swenson. They have given numerous hours over the past few weeks and are much appreciated.
The information in this handbook is meant to help families and staff navigate our new normal. There are many changes in our typical procedures that would never have come about if not for COVID-19. We look forward to the day when this handbook is no longer necessary and we return to all procedures that we know and love. Until that time, you can help keep all of us healthy by giving this handbook a thorough read and being prepared to follow what we have outlined. As always, if you have questions please do not hesitate to contact a member of the MCS team.
On a personal note, I am excited for students to bring back life to the Marion Cross School. It has been a lonely six months in an empty building. September 8th will be an exciting day, even with masks, physical distancing, strict hygiene procedures, and limited groupings. There will still be smiles, laughing, and much joy as old and new friends come together.
Warmly,
Mr. Gonyaw, Mr. Bagnato, and the MCS Staff