Ridgefield School District

July 29, 2020

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Dear Ridgefield Families,\r\n

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Community spread of COVID-19 in Clark County and Southwest Washington continues, and given the current conditions, Ridgefield School District will begin the 2020-2021 school year in full distance-learning mode.\r\n

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As promised, our distance-only learning model, “Ridgefield Remote,” will be more robust and predictable.  A talented team of administrators and teachers are working collaboratively, having dedicated countless hours this summer, to develop a distance-learning model that leverages small-group instruction and learning experiences that are engaging, rigorous, and relevant.  The design team is now attending to the final details, and we look forward to sharing “Ridgefield Remote” with the community very soon.\r\n

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Please know that the District intends to transition to a “hybrid” model (where students spend a portion of their week at school and a portion at home) when it is safe to do so for students and staff.  When that time comes, we will give families ample time to decide whether to attend school in the “hybrid” model or remain in the distance-only model.\r\n

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Now that we know that we will officially be opening the school year in distance-learning, the most pressing question for many is when we will transition to a “hybrid” model.  Collectively, Clark County school district superintendents are recommending using the Washington State Safe Start Phases as our regional guidepost.  In Phase 3, we hope to begin transitioning to some in-person learning and supports for students where the distance-learning model provides the most significant challenges.  In Phase 4, this graduated transition plan will see increased in-person experiences.  As we have done since the pandemic began, we will continue to heed our public health officials’ advice and guidance.  \r\n

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Ultimately, our goal is to bring students back for in-person learning as quickly as conditions allow.  Together, I believe we can collectively improve conditions so that a safe return to school is possible.  \r\n

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I hope this helps alleviate some of the anxiety around the unknowns for the opening of the upcoming school year.  Thank you for your continued support of the Ridgefield School District.  As always, stay well and remain #RidgefieldResilient.\r\n

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Sincerely,

Dr. Nathan McCann

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Superintendent\r\n