Tahoma School District: Closures Likely

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TahomaSchools
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This morning, Gov. Jay Inslee and King County Executive Dow Constantine announced limits to social, recreational, and spiritual gatherings and activities to slow the spread of COVID-19 (novel coronavirus). The governor also asked school districts in King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties to begin making plans in the event that school closures are necessary. Four districts, Seattle, Bellevue, Lake Washington, and Shoreline announced today that they will close for two weeks. 

Tahoma School District and other school districts in King and Pierce counties were part of a video call with the governor this afternoon and we expect to hear a decision from him tomorrow about whether he will issue an executive order to close schools. Based on what was learned during that call, Tahoma is preparing for closure of all schools for an extended time, possibly four to six weeks. The closure could start as soon as Monday, March 16; it is recommended that families begin making alternative plans. More information will be shared tomorrow.

When schools close there are important things for each of us to consider as community members. In addition to the importance of educating students, public schools also provide services that some students can’t get elsewhere and will need even if school is closed, including meals and social-emotional support. Tahoma is working on contingency plans to provide interim services for these students.

“In times like this, it is of increased importance that each of us, as individual members of our Tahoma family, ask what our role can be in supporting the entire community,” incoming Superintendent Mike Hanson said. “As school leaders we will continue to provide answers to questions as they become available. We ask for continued grace and understanding as we partner with the governor, health and education agencies to support making difficult decisions that extend beyond our school walls.”

The district understands that there will be many questions from parents, students, and staff members about closing school, and they will do their best to provide answers. 

How can I get food assistance if needed?

  • The district’s Nutrition Services team is examining options to continue serving Tahoma students. We will share further details about how this will work soon.
  • If you are in need of food during this health crisis, please contact the Maple Valley Food Bank & Emergency Services at https://maplevalleyfoodbank.org/ to find out about weekly grocery pick-up. The food bank is in need of monetary donations, but also stands ready to help, Executive Director Lindsey Habenicht said.  “You do not need to be a current client to receive help,” Habenicht added.
  • Backpack Buddies provides food to Tahoma students in need, each Friday before the weekend. They plan to continue to provide weekly support during any closure.  Even if your student has not received support from Backpack Buddies in the past, you may reach out to them, President Mindy Gamble said.

How can I help?
Many community members have reached out in the past two weeks to ask how they can help. Our answer and call to action:

  • Please care for yourself first by following health recommendations for staying home when sick and adhering to social distancing guidelines.
  • Support our students, families and neighbors in need during this crisis by contributing to key community organizations, such as the Maple Valley Food Bank and Backpack Buddies. In the event of a closure, visit the Facebook pages for the food bank and Backpack Buddies to find out about contributing or volunteering. 

Will childcare be provided?

Closure of schools also closes the Extended Enrichment Program. The district notified EEP families of this decision last week and asked them to look into alternate childcare plans. Closing school may force working parents to stay home with students and, in some cases, it will have a negative impact on their workplace. One example cited by the governor is that there are many healthcare workers and first responders who are parents of school-age children and might not be able to work if schools are closed because they would need to be home with their children instead. Finding ways to help these families is another area the district is exploring.

Will Tahoma provide remote learning?

Tahoma recently asked families to respond to a survey about online learning, which was intended to help us gather information to determine the feasibility of continuing school if closures were necessary. Unfortunately, online learning will not be possible for us and the state Superintendent of Public Instruction has strongly recommended against providing online learning during closures because it is not an equitable solution. 

The district will provide resources similar to those we have shared during summer breaks, but it will not be “online school.” OSPI released very clear guidelines that state if districts cannot ensure equal access to learning and required materials, including technology, full-day kindergarten requirements, the ability to provide school meals and more. Read the guidelines here.

Here are some additional resources that you may find helpful: 

COVID-19 is not connected to race, ethnicity or culture. Click here for facts and resources.

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