June 25, 2020 Dear NAPS families and staff, Today at noon, Governor Baker and Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Commissioner Jeffrey Riley announced preliminary guidance for districts across Massachusetts to re-open schools for the 2020-21 school year. Please see Commissioner Riley’s Initial memo below: DESE Commissioner provides Initial Fall School Reopening Memo http://www.doe.mass.edu/covid19/return-to-school/guidance.docx This preliminary memo is just the first of several updates that DESE will send out on reopening schools this fall, and we are expecting additional guidance in July. The main focus of the district’s leadership team and the NA Returns advisory groups is to dig into this information in collaboration with North Andover Public Health and Town Officials. This preliminary guidance and future mandates from DESE will serve as the framework for our district as we prepare for the upcoming 2020-21 school year. At NAPS, our goal is to return to school in the fall in a manner that is safe, supportive and resembles a typical fall opening as much as possible. There are many issues to take into consideration including schedules, remote or in-class instruction, transportation, and the health and safety of our students and staff are just a few examples. We value your feedback, and we will provide an opportunity to participate in parent forums planned for later this summer through our parent advisory group and PTO’s—the dates and times will be announced. Please continue to check our website frequently for updated information.
Thank you for your continued support as we work to provide a safe learning environment for all staff and students. Gregg T. Gilligan Superintendent of Schools
| 