Methacton School District

August 7, 2020

Dear Methacton Families,

All Methacton students are now enrolled in the Methacton Online program for the first marking period beginning September 8 through November 11, 2020. The district plans to release a communication on or about October 15, 2020 to indicate the options forward following the first marking period. We recognize the challenges that this situation has on our students, parents, families, staff, and our community. I recognize that this does not sit well with everyone, but I want to personally thank you for your support through these challenging times.

As part of our return to school plan for the 1st Marking Period, we have partnered with the YMCA to make available Y Student Support Center (YSSC) for students in ​Kindergarten through 6th grade.  These centers will be open from 7 am - 6 pm Monday through Friday to provide a safe setting in which students can learn among their peers during the times their schools are in virtual learning. Y Student Support Center will be located on the Skyview/Arcola campus.

Registration will open August 10, 2020. For more information, please go to https://philaymca.org/yssc/ or contact GPYChildCare@philaymca.org

The Methacton Education Foundation provides assistance to families who are looking for Pre-K care. Based on eligibility guidelines, the Education Foundation provides grants to reduce the financial burden associated with care of younger children.

Students in grades K-12 will be issued computer devices for online learning. In addition, students will be issued books and materials consistent with the start of a school year. We will issue a schedule in the coming weeks on where and when to pick up computer devices, books, and materials. The pick-up process will occur closer to the end of August or the beginning of September. Parents with children in grades K-6 will be receiving a communication from their Principal regarding school supplies in the next day or so.

Building Principals and Home and School leaders are organizing social activities to help support students at all levels during this remote learning period. These activities will occur outside of the regular school day timeframe and will be highly encouraged, but will remain optional.

Families with children that receive related services (i.e. occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, etc.) as part of their educational program will be provided options for accessing these services online or on premises. Parents/Guardians with eligible students, look for an email in the next day or so seeking feedback on these matters.

In terms of PIAA Athletics, it has come to our attention that student athletes will have their season pushed back to at least September 7, 2020 as per the Pioneer Athletic Conference decision made earlier this week. In this instance, we are recommending that student athletes and coaches continue with their out of season workouts where appropriate and consistent with the health and safety plan already in place.  In other athletic news, it is rumored that the PIAA will be making a statement sometime today regarding recent guidance from the Governor’s office to postpone school and youth athletics until January 2021. If this should occur, please know that administratively we do not support such a decision, but may not have much say in the matter. We will keep parents apprised of this development.

Lastly, we will be providing additional detail on the daily instructional schedule so the expectations of students, parents and teachers are aligned to ensure positive and meaningful teaching and learning. This communication is planned for next week.

Sincerely,