My position on reopening CVUSD campuses for instruction:

I have listened to many families’ stories of excruciating sacrifice and terrible tradeoffs. These expressions of loss and pain have affected me deeply and drive my resolve to find solutions.

I support the School Board’s decision to seek a waiver to restart in-person instruction for TK-6.  This waiver will give our district leadership greater flexibility in their efforts to meet the needs of students and their families.

In talking with CVUSD families about their hopes and concerns regarding in-person instruction, it is clear to me that they want District decisions to be based on careful planning using the most up-to-date and reliable scientific evidence. 

A careful approach, where transparent communication with families and staff is the first priority, will give most participants the confidence they need to continue in the blended option they originally selected. For those who are not comfortable with their original choice, despite transparent communication, space in an alternative District program should be found. 

I support: 

A phased approach beginning with TK-3 and small cohort vulnerable learners 

Hundreds of education researchers and public health authorities agree that the groups disproportionately harmed by social isolation and remote learning are the youngest learners and the most vulnerable learners. These are the students we should welcome back to in-person learning first.

Communication, communication, communication

In-person learning at our school sites will look different. The district should expend every effort to clearly communicate new safety protocols, including pick-up/drop-off routines, foot traffic patterns, rest room access protocols, nutrition access, handwashing, and face covering practices. Families should be encouraged to review and practice health and safety protocols at home in advance of returning to campus. As members of a caring school community, we show respect for each other by complying with best health practices.

Track, measure, document

Detailed and transparent reporting of outcomes during phase one will enable us to evaluate what is working well, adapt as needed, and move to welcome students in phase 2 (grades 4-6) and phase 3 (grades 7-12) back to school sites safely.

As a school community, we will continue to learn together as we navigate unprecedented challenges. I can see how the careful planning that took place in the spring and summer made it possible for us to begin a safe reopening of our schools. As we move forward, it will be important to keep listening and learning.

-Lauren