Finally, …..

“The Board would like to once again recognize the quick and empathetic actions district and school staff have made to respond quickly to redesigned learning during this pandemic. Staff continues to make equity a top priority and minimize as much as possible any disadvantages where we can. Education is a great equalizer and our communities and families rely on school services. Food security was a significant priority week one after spring break concluded. Supporting students and families without technology or connectivity was also a top priority so that students could engage and stay connected to their teachers remotely. Teachers, administrators, and support staff have made student connections, relationships, and reducing anxiety their first task after spring break.

Some highlights on the continuity of supports to students in the district include:

1. 191 students are regularly provided with meal gift cards or meals. This is in addition to the donations made to each community food bank by the Board of Education.

2. 197 technology devices have been sent home to students and families.

3. 36 students/families have been provided with Wi-Fi.

We have maintained partnerships with the Osoyoos Rotary Backpack Program, the Oliver Starfish Program and Desert Sun who all contribute to food security for families. Desert Sun Counselling Services is preparing meals for families in need every Thursday.

Learning packages, school supplies and other needed resources have been delivered to students and families.

Teachers and support staff are reaching out one-on-one to provide additional clarification and support.

Continued Counselling supports for students: Service through phone calls to students, phone calls to parents so they can better support their children, and video sessions. In addition, high school students are also receiving support from outside partner agencies.

Even with these supports in place, there are still students who are struggling to work and learn remotely. Schools are looking at students with the greatest needs and are considering bringing them into the schools for at least some time in a consistent way while maintaining social distancing to offer support with academic and social-emotional learning.

Rob Zandee, Chairperson
Board of Education
SD #53