Coates ES - Message from the Principal - School is Closed. What Now?

Coates Families,

As a follow-up to Dr. Brabrand’s message, I want to reiterate that the most important thing to keep in mind is the health and well-being of our students, families, and staff.  Below are some reminders and Coates-specific info related to our current situation:

Pick Up Belongings or Laptops (3rd-6th) on Monday

The school will be open from 3:00 – 6:30 on Monday, March 16, for parents to access student belongings.  Any parent in grades 3-6 who would like to take home a school laptop computer may check one out during this timeframe.  This is optional During this time away from school, FCPS will be offering many learning opportunities that will keep our kids learning.  Many of these offerings will be online.  If you have a reliable computer at home for your children to use, there is no need to borrow from school.  We’re happy to provide a loaner if you need one.  For those who come on Monday, we have a great supply of free books on hand for parents to bring home as well (for all grades).

Free Internet If Needed

Comcast is providing free internet to low-income families. Use the link below to access information about free internet.

https://www.wxyz.com/news/national/coronavirus/comcast-offering-internet-essentials-package-free-for-60-months-during-coronavirus-outbreak?fbclid=IwAR318GCjDvZO0UviyMnIML6j_adHw9hVyGq97Yd366hXtN6u7TbtEBxwPek

 ParentVue Accounts

This weekend, FCPS will be pushing out emails to any parent who does not currently have a ParentVue account.  A ParentVue account makes it possible for parents to access the FCPS 24-7 (Blackboard) portal, which will soon have several resources for students to practice reading, math and other skills.  I hope that you’ll follow the directions on that email to establish a ParentVue account.   

Cable Channels – Continuity of Learning

FCPS is working to offer an instructional learning lineup on its local cable channel.  Additional instructional videos are being developed/recorded and will be added into the lineup as they are available.  Please check this week for programs that will benefit your children at home. 

COX

Channel 21/ 1021 (HD) is Elementary Programming

Channel 25/ 1025 (HD) is Middle School Programming

Channel 99/ 1099 (HD) is High School Programming

 

Assignments from My Children’s Teachers

As we settle in to this situation, we want to ensure that parents have resources at home to help their children maintain their academic skills.  Our original goal on Monday was for teachers to be on campus preparing a detailed distance learning plan.  We will not be accomplishing that on Monday, but I ask that all Coates parents stay tuned.  For the time being, use the learning resources provided by FCPS (mentioned above) and watch for eventual communication from me or your child’s teachers with guidance on skills to practice at home.  Please know that any assignment suggested will not be graded.  Our intention is to keep students engaged so that when we are back at school, they have not lost many of their skills, especially in reading and math. 

Grab & Go Meals for Those in Need

As noted in Dr. Brabrand’s message, FCPS Food Services is providing free meals to families during the school closure.  The closest site to us is Hutchison ES.  Breakfast will be available from 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., and lunch will be available from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Students are welcome to come to any of the sites to pick up a lunch during that time period.  

 

We encourage parents to partner with us as we seek to keep students engaged in learning.  We know this will require a great deal of flexibility and understanding on everyone's part as we navigate this new territory.  We want students to continue learning, but also recognize this is an unprecedented circumstance requiring a lot of patience.

I will share more guidance as I have information, but please enjoy this weekend and stay safe.

Jesse Kraft, Proud Principal