By DR. DEREK ARROWOOD
Hamilton Heights Superintendent
Update #51 from Dr. Derek Arrowood, Superintendent, Hamilton Heights School Corporation.
Here we are at the one-year mark since what has become an unprecedented health crisis entered into our lives and literally changed everything. We have survived, and in some areas, thrived. The pandemic has shown us how to live and learn differently in every aspect of our lives. I feel confident in saying that this pandemic won’t go on forever, but we still need to proceed with caution.
Hamilton County went to the Blue color level this week on the COVID-19 map but remains in the Yellow color advisory and is to still follow the Yellow advisory guidelines until two straight weeks of Blue metrics are met. With the rate of the decline in positivity, hospitalizations, and new cases, we appear to be moving in the right direction. This is good news and reinforces that we should continue to follow the recommended health guidelines and not fall victim to “pandemic fatigue.”
To do our part on this front, we will continue with our hybrid scheduling format at the middle and high schools for an additional four weeks beyond March 12. The current schedule at the elementary school will not change. This decision was made after much review, discussion, and with the intent of giving our students the best shot at finishing the year strong and in school. This schedule includes two weeks prior to and two weeks after spring break (March 29 to April 9). We believe this makes the most sense for the season we are in, to best minimize the impact of potential spread from this 16-day break from school while providing the most flexibility for navigating possible COVID-related disruptions after returning from spring break on Monday, April 12.
Beginning on Monday, April 26, students at the middle and high school will transition to an in-person, four-day week and continue with E-Learning on Wednesdays for the remainder of the school year. This allows the middle school to be able to provide ILEARN testing for their 52 offsite learners more safely using a few staff members within the normal school day.
Last week was National FFA Week. During FFA Week, local chapters highlight their legacy of helping students develop their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. Our FFA Chapter is a standout. It is among the more than 8,600 chapters across the country with a combined membership of some 700,000 students and one of the largest youth organizations in the nation. Led by Agriculture Teacher Emilie Carson, we have many reasons to celebrate and recognize Heights’ FFA program all year long.
We appreciate your grace, partnership, and collective support as we continue to push forward through challenging times to get to the other side.
#WeAreHuskies