As we get closer to fall, I know we are all feeling anxious about what school will be like come September. With the public health situation constantly evolving, I imagine that you feel like you have more questions than answers. Some days, I feel like that, too.
Superintendent's All-staff Messages
Dr. Susan Enfield communicates with staff periodically and those messages are archived here.
I have been fiercely hoping to have our students back in our schools this fall because I recognize that physical connection is a significant part of knowing our students by name, strength and need.
As we get closer to fall, I know we are all feeling anxious about what school will be like come September. With the public health situation constantly evolving, I imagine that you feel like you have more questions than answers. Some days, I feel like that, too.
I want to give you an update on where we are in planning for school in the fall.
Yesterday, the state school superintendent announced that schools could reopen in September for in-person instruction if allowed by local public health departments, with restrictions.
Like many of you, the stark reality of racism and injustice in our nation is weighing heavily on me. The tragic deaths of George Floyd, Amaud Arbery and Breonna Taylor remind us yet again of the inequities that Black and brown people in our society live with every day. The pain of these unjust killings only adds to the disproportionate impacts of the coronavirus pandemic: higher rates of illness, death and financial hardship among people of color. In a conversation with fellow superintendents yesterday I said that the pandemic now feels like the backdrop for the real crisis that is racism in our country.
I am incredibly grateful for your dedication, persistence and generosity this spring as you have continued to deliver on our Highline Promise under extraordinary circumstances.
Yesterday, HPS experienced a phishing/spam attack. We believe the impact is limited, but HPS Technology Services staff will be contacting all employees by phone to learn more. If you have any questions, please call Technology Services at 206-631-3331.
As we begin Teacher Appreciation Week I want to say thank you. Thank you for what you do under ordinary circumstances, but an even bigger thank you for how you have stepped up during these extraordinary circumstances.
It is so important to take care of ourselves and one another during these uncertain times. As leaders, we can model and help those on our teams learn strategies for self-care. To support all of us in this work, we are launching a Highline wellness campaign in partnership with HEA and the Pure Edge Foundation.
Welcome back from spring break and back to school as none of us could have imagined a few short weeks ago. So much of what was familiar has been upended that it can seem like nothing is the same.