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Dear Parent/Guardian,

August 10, 2020

Dear Parents/Guardians,

All WUSD schools will open on August 31, 2020 with a Distance Learning program.  This plan is based upon the Governor’s order for school districts within counties placed on the state Watch List.  Even though our county is not currently on the Watch List (as of August 4, 2020), Dr. Doohan has advised that our county data meets the criteria and is therefore recommending that all schools in Mendocino County open with a Distance Learning model.

 The state has defined the requirements for schools in order to provide high quality learning for all students.  Our instructional program will be very different than it was in the spring, when we were mandated to close with little to no planning time.  Teachers and staff have been working throughout the summer to develop methods and curriculum that will be effective and engaging.  All students will be scheduled to be online daily at specific times to receive instruction from their teachers and to participate in activities where they will interact with their peers.  Independent activities will also be part of the instructional program and will take place during specified time periods. Teachers will create a daily schedule for their classes that will outline the specific times and activities that students must complete.  You will receive information regarding the specific schedules within the next couple of weeks.

 The district is committed to helping our families and will be reaching out with phone calls beginning August 17th. We appreciate your support as we continue to fine-tune all of the many details involved in our instructional delivery method. I have every confidence that with the help of our parents, our staff can provide an excellent program that addresses your students’ needs.

 For households unable to receive Internet we are looking at the possibility of opening school campuses on a limited basis, we also purchased equipment to have Wi-Fi on our school buses that will be placed around the community for internet access, as well as working with our local businesses to open up Wi-Fi to the public. WUSD will also provide devices such as chrome books, iPads, and headphones for all students who need them. In most cases grades 3-12, your child should have their own device.

 We truly miss you and look forward to the days when we can reopen schools, please stay tuned for more detailed information in the near future. Thank you all for being a part of Willits Unified School District. 

Mark Westerburg, Superintendent

Willits Unified School District