March 23, 2020 KPBSD Update

Greetings to the KPBSD community,

Over the past few months, we have all experienced a surreal situation unfolding before our very eyes. COVID-19 emerged as an isolated situation that had a profound impact in China but caused little disruption to our daily lives here in the U.S.A. What a different reality we are experiencing now with this virus present in our own communities.

During this time, when spring break is extended and schools closed for students, our incredible staff is hard at work preparing and delivering meals for students, and planning remote learning lessons. The education of our students must continue. Therefore, on Monday, March 30, students will “return to virtual schooling and remote learning activities,” by State Health Mandate 008.

On a personal note, in addition to the challenges of this pandemic, the Friday before spring break I was diagnosed with kidney cancer. I have been out of state receiving medical care and diagnostic testing. This week on Tuesday, I will undergo surgery and begin treatment. I feel blessed that it was caught early and my prognosis is good once surgery and treatment occur. I am thankful for our incredible Leadership Team which has risen to the occasion and will continue to lead our school district while I focus on my health, treatment, and recovery. During my absence, Assistant Superintendent Dave Jones is serving as Acting Superintendent, until I return.

I thank each of you for your courage and resilience during these difficult, trying, and uncertain times. I wish you all well. We will come out of this stronger and more united than before. Take care of yourselves, your friends, and family.

With hope for the future, Superintendent John O’Brien
Kenai Peninsula Borough School District

Phenomenal Learning for KPBSD Staff
On Monday, online workshops via zoom launched for any KPBSD employee who wants to learn, as schools prepare to deliver education differently. More than 40 KPBSD presenters will offer over 260 sessions this week! Support for parents will begin after school resumes next week. More information will be available in coming days.

Internet Access Offers
KPBSD maintains a list of Internet Access Resources with details from local providers committed to support students and educators looking for connectivity in this exceptional time of COVID-19.


“Get-It and Go” Free Meals for KPBSD Students

If you want to sign-up, or stop delivery, please call Student Nutrition Services at 714-8890.

COVID-19
A positive COVID-19 case was confirmed this evening, in the Sterling area. At this time, we do not believe there is any nexus to KPBSD schools. Employees that can are teleworking. Schools are open to staff, and by Health Mandate 010: March 23, 2020, are considered part of the Alaska Critical Workforce Infrastructure.

Wash your hands, practice social distancing, and do everything you can to help stop the spread of the coronavirus.

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