FROM THE PRINCIPAL
Dear Eppler Chieftain Families,
We are excited to be taking the next steps with you toward increased in-person learning for our students. As we have successfully welcomed back our students during hybrid learning, we continue planning for the future.
Below are answers to some of the questions we anticipate you may have at this time. Additional information will be shared as we move closer toward the week of March 15. As always, please feel free to reach out to us at any time. Your partnership is critical to our continued success.
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Schedule – We will begin full days of instruction on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday beginning the week of March 15. We will continue to follow the block schedule and Wednesday will remain a remote learning day. This schedule will continue through at least mid-April, when we are targeting full return to in-person learning for families who have selected this option.
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Safety Protocols – Eppler Junior High School staff and students will continue to follow the health and safety guidelines outlined in the MI Return to School Roadmap, the Centers for Disease Control and the Macomb County Health Department. This includes the use of face coverings, frequent handwashing and the use of disinfectant. Please note that increasing the number of students for in-person instruction will have an impact on density within classrooms. Physical distancing will continue to be maximized to the greatest extent possible.
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Self-Screening – It is even more important that you take the time each morning to complete the self-screening process. If your child has any symptoms or is not feeling well, do not send them to school. This screening is for the protection of your child, their friends at school and our dedicated staff. The screening protocols are available on our return to school information page.
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Transportation – Bus schedules may change. This could include additional bus stops, a change in the driver/bus number, or an adjustment to the bus pick up/drop off times. You may see more buses on the roads over the next couple of weeks as drivers conduct test runs. Routes will be shared as they become available.
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Food Service – Breakfast and lunches will be provided at the buildings during the full in-person days, and meals will continue to be offered free of charge through federal funding. On remote days, food distribution sites will be established in the afternoon and early evening for families to access remote meals. More information is available on the district’s food service page.
I will continue to provide you updates regarding schedules, protocols, and specific details as we move closer to March 15. I would also encourage you to download the updated Parent Handbook at this link.
As always, please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.
Thank you!
Jerry Pantano
Principal