Dear Brandeis Marin families,
I am writing with an update on our school's response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) and share our plans should we need to temporarily close the school. We certainly find ourselves in an extraordinary time as this dynamic situation changes rapidly.
We continue to follow the guidelines set by public health officials including Marin County Health and Human Services and the Public Health Officer, Dr. Matt Willis. Those guidelines may be found on the Brandeis Marin website (www.brandeismarin.org/covid-19). The website also contains additional information about steps we have taken at school to keep our community healthy. At the moment, both Marin County Health and Human Services and the Public Health Officer are recommending that schools in Marin remain open.
Today I participated in a conference call hosted by CAIS with all the heads of California's independent schools to share resources and plans in response to the Coronavirus. While we are witnessing an increase in the number of Coronavirus-related school closures, here in Marin County there is universal agreement among CAIS independent schools that any decision to implement a school closure would be at the direction of Marin County Health and Human Services and the Public Health Officer. Making the decision to close school would be a significant step with wide ranging impacts. We would not make such a decision without the guidance of public health experts which is currently to close only if we have a confirmed case of COVID-19 within our community. If that changes, we will notify you.
In the event that our school is closed temporarily, we have developed a plan for distance learning. A distance learning plan will allow students to continue their learning from home. We anticipate employing a combination of synchronous (learning activities happening in real time) and asynchronous (learning activities happening when the student chooses) strategies using online technology resources that are already familiar to students and teachers. Plans may include times for social connection among classmates and teachers similar to our morning meetings or advisory. An implementation procedure will be shared with you by your students' teachers in the event we need to close our school.
If school is closed, all school events will be postponed or cancelled, including all athletics practices, games, concerts, performances, speakers, and meetings.
We are committed to clear and frequent communication with you. For the latest updates and information, please visit our website regularly.
We understand that students and families depend on school. We have taken every precaution to keep school safe and healthy for everyone so that learning and important social interaction continue uninterrupted for as long as we are able.
If you have any questions or need support, please be in touch.
In solidarity, Peg
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