4J SCHOOLS CLOSING UNTIL APRIL

Coronavirus Update:
4J Schools Closing Until April

Dear 4J families,
 
Our city, our state and much of the world are now dealing with an unprecedented public health crisis. Since the COVID-19 coronavirus first emerged in the U.S. and then in Oregon, we have made preventative changes and have kept our schools open and healthy for as long as recommended by state and local public health authorities. That recommendation has now changed.

All 4J schools will close beginning Monday, March 16, starting spring break a week early to protect our students, staff and community, and at the request of Oregon Governor Kate Brown. Tomorrow, Friday, March 13, is already scheduled as a staff work day when 4J students are not in school.

4J schools plan to resume classes on Wednesday, April 1.

This school closure is a preventive measure to help slow the rate of spread of coronavirus and, as public health agencies explain, to flatten the curve of the virus’s impact on our communities and health care systems.

Schools provide vital support to our communities and this closure will have a major impact on our families. Because of this, we do not take this decision lightly. Extending spring break will be a hardship for many families who rely on their schools for meals and a safe place for children to be during the day, as well as for education.

  • While schools will be closed, we are finalizing plans to provide bagged to-go lunches at several of our sites. Details will be shared as soon as they are confirmed, including locations and times.
  • Childcare providers that are located on school campuses will not be open during the school closure.
  • This is a temporary closure and we will not be providing distance learning at this time.
  • There are many decisions yet to be made, including whether these days will be made up at the end of the school year or by other schedule changes.

Given the seriousness of the current situation, we firmly believe that this decision is the best one we can make given all available information and keeping the best interests of our students, staff, and community at the center. We appreciate our fellow school district leaders and colleagues from around the state for their collaboration and thought-partnership during this critical situation.

During the break, we encourage everyone in our community to follow recommended practices by avoiding large gatherings, washing hands frequently, and covering mouths when coughing or sneezing. Those experiencing fever, flu or cold symptoms should stay at home until well after they are symptom-free without the use of medication. If you are concerned about symptoms, please consult with your healthcare provider.

We will continue to monitor this very dynamic public health situation and will provide updates during this extended break. We all hope this closure will be successful in helping to combat the coronavirus, and we look forward to being able to return to our normal school routine, with our students and staff healthy and ready for learning.

Thank you for your support and understanding during this challenging time for our schools and our community.

Read the news release from the Oregon Department of Education.

Coronavirus Information
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