Ridgefield School District

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March 26, 2021\r\n

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Dear Ridgefield Families,

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I am pleased to share with you what is perhaps the most exciting news of the last year!  Governor Inslee and the Washington State Department of Health (DOH) released updated K-12 Schools 2020-2021 Guidance (linked here).  The new guidance removes reference to DOH K-12 Metrics and Toolkit while also reducing social distancing between students to three-feet in most school classroom scenarios.  These changes will allow Washington State school districts the opportunity to expand in-person learning time for students significantly.  \r\n

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It has always been our goal to return to traditional in-person learning five days a week.  That remains our goal, and we are committed to serving as many grade levels in-person five days per week as possible within the new guidance.  The exact transition date is not yet determined, as numerous details within the updated guidance need to be worked out.  We are excited to be undertaking this work and look forward to keeping you updated on our progress.   \r\n

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Early next week, we will release new learning mode surveys with specific information on the in-person model offered under the updated guidance.  For those who prefer to remain in remote learning, please know that option remains.  Student and family choice have been critically important in helping us get through the past year.  \r\n

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I have enjoyed hearing from families, sharing how their students are thriving with distance learning.  For many families, this has been an unexpected and pleasant discovery.  For quite some time now, the leadership team has been developing an online school available to Ridgefield students post-pandemic.  While inspired by Ridgefield Remote, our new online school will be considerably different.  I invite you to join our school board meeting on April 13th to learn more about the comprehensive online program the District will offer beginning next school year.  We will also be hosting multiple family information nights.  Please be on the lookout for more information coming soon.       \r\n

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Once again, thank you to everyone that submitted photos last week.  I enjoy seeing our students in fun and engaging activities.  This week, a special challenge to families who have not yet submitted a photo - share a candid photograph of your family or child(ren).  It is super easy; just email the picture to student.photos@ridgefieldsd.org.  There is a good chance you will see them in next week’s community update newsletter.\r\n

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Stay well and remain #RidgefieldResilient. 

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Sincerely,

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Dr. Nathan McCann

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Superintendent

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