From the Principal
Dear Parents,
After Governor Northam’s announcement yesterday afternoon regarding the closure of schools throughout the state of Virginia for the remainder of the school year, I wanted to check in with you. Of course the severity of all that is happening around us is difficult to fully comprehend. It seems that things are happening and changing quickly. The Silverbrook staff and I are missing our students and will continue to stay in touch, reach out and connect with them and with you throughout this very difficult situation.
First of all, I want to reassure you that our superintendent, Dr. Brabrand and the FCPS leadership team have been working around the clock to ensure that a thorough and sound plan is in place to support the success of all students at all levels for learning from now until June. I won’t to go into too many details – as I know Dr. Brabrand will want to be the first to share the plan with you. However, I want you to be aware that within the next week teachers will participate in professional development virtually. Most of Silverbrook’s teachers already have their Blackboard sites up or have been in touch with you through emails and other technological means. Be sure to check out the Blackboard sites of our specials’ teachers as well (PE, Art, Music and Spanish). Part of the plan that you will receive will give an example for what a daily Distance Learning Schedule for students at different grade levels should resemble. This will help provide some guidance as how to set up a schedule at home. Also during this time all teachers will be virtually checking in on a regular basis with students and be available for questions from both students and parents – many times to just to say hello and see how things are going. That is a priority for us.
This is an unprecedented situation not only in the history of the U.S., but the entire world. All of us in the Silverbrook School community are a team and have a common interest: the welfare and education of our precious children. We are in this together. I realize the months ahead seem long, but we will be working side by side. I realize that it is easy to say now, but I truly believe that we will all become even stronger as a result of all that has and will transpire. Thank you for trusting us with the educational welfare of your children. I cannot think of a more rewarding job than education – especially in a difficult time such as this.
As we are setting up plans to move into Phase 2 of the Distance Learning Plan please continue to take advantage of the continuity of learning resources:
· When anyone logs on to FCPS 24-7 they will see a Continuity of Learning module that has links to resources for elementary students as well as resources for middle and high school students. · Continuity of learning resources are also available at this link along with information about accessing our instructional videos.
On a positive note and in the spirit of adding some fun to everyone’s day (we all are in need of some fun)….. our staff has planned a way to visit with everyone from afar (as we practice social distancing). You will find an additional KIT message that I have worked with my office staff on to provide details of this soon to happen event.
As you work to remain safe and healthy in your home with your family, please continue to stay positive for your children. I look forward to seeing many of you during our upcoming neighborhood visit from afar. It is sure to be a fun event for all!!
Please know that your children, you and your family are missed and loved!
Melaney Mackin
Principal Silverbrook Elementary
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