Learning resources coming, CEO says

Lorain City School District is on spring break this week even as schools and businesses are shut down due to novel coronavirus.

But staff continues working on materials that will come to families starting next week, said interim CEO Greg Ring.

On March 31, Ring sent out his latest update to students, parents and caregivers dealing with the shutdown to slow the spread of COVID-19.

“I know the past few weeks adjusting to our ‘new normal’ have been a challenge for us all, but it is heartwarming to see so many families enjoying this time together,” Ring said.

Among the latest updates:

• Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine announced March 30 that schools will remain closed until May 1.

“We have received many questions about whether students are returning to school at all this year, and the answer is that we simply don’t know,” Ring said. “However, we can expect the governor will provide additional guidance when we get closer to May.”

• Third quarter report cards will be mailed home this week with instructions on how to access grades online through the PowerSchool program.

• Learning packets will be mailed to students in grades kindergarten to eight next week. More details will come soon, Ring said.

• Beginning April 6, Lorain High School students will begin completing assigned work for credit each week. Ring said additional communication is coming soon with answers for questions about high school expectations, scheduling for next year and graduation.

• Lorain Schools will post online information about free or reduced price Internet service, WiFi and computers.

• Free meals for students will continue this week and each day of the closure, with extra meals on Fridays for breakfast and lunch for Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

• Southview Middle School Food Pantry is 4-6 p.m., April 2. National Guard members will help with all food pantry distributions.

• Staff will call for wellness checks starting next week.

“Our staff will be reaching out beginning next week to check in, so that your child hears a friendly voice from school and knows how badly he or she is missed when not in school,” Ring said. “I think this form of connection is needed as much by our staff as it is by our students right now.”

Ring