(Sibley)-James Craig, Superintendent of Sibley-Ocheydan Community Schools released a statement on Saturday regarding students continuing their education following the Governor’s extension of school closures statewide.
In the statement, Craig said, “One of the issues that we have wrestled with the most is how to ensure that our students continue their learning during this time and still ensure that safety remains the top priority. After consultation with the Department of Education, area superintendents, and our administration, the Sibley-Ocheyedan Community School District has chosen to continue to provide a variety of continuous learning and enrichment activities for our students shared directly from our teachers. While these activities aren’t required learning, we strongly encourage parents, families, and other caregivers to support participation while students are at home. Our district was also given the opportunity to complete the application process with the Iowa Department of Education to move all of our teaching online for credit during this time. While this is an appealing opportunity, we don’t believe that option was the best choice for our students. We know that not everyone has equitable access to devices and the Internet at home, and do not believe it is realistic for all students and staff to move to online learning in this short of a time frame. We know that you have many questions about how this extended school closure will impact your child(ren); especially our high school students and their credit needs for graduation. We are continuing to work with the Iowa Department of Education, Iowa’s Area Education Agencies, and our neighboring districts to uncover answers. One thing is for certain, however; we are all in this together and we will seek answers that make sense given these unprecedented times. Our plan will be finalized by April 10 when it is due to the state for review.”
As for calendar and school activities, Craig noted that the new restrictions announced by the Governor require the School District to be closed through April 30. Staff is scheduled to return May 1, and students are set to return on May 4. He also noted that all activities are cancelled through April 30, and all contact continues to be barred pursuant to the Iowa Unified Activities organizations. Sibley-Ocheydan’s Prom has been rescheduled for June 19, 2020.
