Options for a possible return to school

The preferred option for school this fall, as indicated by parents and staff members in a recent survey, is to return to school in-person with the required safety precautions. Guidance from the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction sets an expectation for schools to reopen for “traditional” in-person learning, following physical distancing protocol as much as possible along with other health and safety practices.

If a full return to in-person school isn’t possible due to state and/or local health department restrictions, students will attend school on an alternating schedule of in-person instruction one week followed by remote instruction the next week. A rotating schedule will reduce the number of students in schools by half so that physical distancing requirements can be met.

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Statement on racial inequity and injustice

Black lives matter to us.

This is our moral imperative—to end the inequity, injustice, persecution and racism. Silence from our institutions is not an acceptable response, and neither is inaction. Educators have an elevated level of responsibility to be leaders in this change.

Inclusion preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds

A new preschool program will open this fall at Ogden Elementary School. The free, half-day program is an inclusion model, connecting children with disabilities to their peers without disabilities. Teachers will intentionally promote active engagement and social interaction among peers. The goal is for all students to achieve kindergarten-readiness skills in the most natural and inclusive setting.

Meals and support are available during the summer

• Vancouver Parks and Recreation’s Food and Fun: Lunches and activity kits offered from June 22 through Aug. 14.
• Share Summer Meals: Grab-and-go meals offered for kids and teens 18 years old or younger from June 22 through Aug. 14.
• Boys and Girls Club of Southwest Washington: Breakfasts and lunches for kids and teens 18 years old or younger from June 24 through Aug. 14.
• Food pantries: Food pantry locations around Clark County; dates and times vary.
• Summer Meals: Search online or text “food” or “comida” to 877–877. Message and data rates apply.

From the superintendent

A pause for gratitude

Amidst all the change of the past several months, nothing about the closure of schools and transition to remote learning has been simple. It is complex work.

At the same time, all of us are facing multiple responsibilities in our lives. The challenges often seem insurmountable. And as we move through phases, we meet a new set of uncertainties.

But I want to take a moment to pause, reflect and acknowledge the incredible efforts I’ve witnessed over the past few months.

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Camara Banfield appointed to board of directors

Camara Banfield has been appointed to fill the vacant position on the Vancouver Public Schools Board of Directors. The board interviewed 13 candidates and voted unanimously for Banfield to fill the vacant seat left by board director Mark Stoker, who resigned June 1.

“I am honored to be chosen to serve our school district and I look forward to adding yet another new perspective,” said Banfield. “I am passionate about making a positive impact for our students with the assistance of our ever-growing diverse community and the other directors of the board.” 

Students, families to receive additional community services

Knowledge Bowl team advances to nationals

How particle physics could preserve marine ecosystems

As large plastic items degrade, smaller pieces can break off. So-called microplastics also have been added to some health and beauty products for exfoliation. Small enough to pass through filtration systems, microplastics can end up in bodies of water and harm marine life.

Seven students from Skyview High School’s Science, Math and Technology magnet program have developed a proposal for tackling this problem, and they now have a chance to earn an opportunity to take the next step.

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Band director is quarterfinalist for Grammy Music Educator Award