I hope you are having a good summer and getting a good break.
Even though it’s summer, there is a lot of working happening in the district. Staff and administrators are preparing for the coming school year and we have over 300 students participating in summer programs.
*Free Lunch Continues Next Year
*Teacher Assignments & Class Schedules
*COVID Protocols for 2021-2022
*School Board Meetings – August 2 & August 16
Free Lunch Continues Next Year
The USDA is continuing the free breakfast and lunch program for the 2021-22 school year. More information about the program will be coming out in August.
Teacher Assignments & Class Schedules
Many of you will remember the days when paper packets were sent home the first day of school and student information was updated as well as reviewing handbooks and student agreements. “Student verification” makes sure that we have all the right contact information for each student as well as sign off on important policies in the district.
This year, updates will be done through the Power School Parent Portal instead of paper. If you haven’t previously signed up for a parent portal account, email Lori McDermott at lmcdermott@sau81.org for assistance.
When the student verification process is ready, parents and guardians will receive an email notification sign into the portal. Once people have completed the student verification process, classroom assignments and class schedules will be available on August 16.
COVID Protocols for 2021-2022
We’ve received an uptick in questions about COVID protocols and masks in schools for the upcoming school year, especially after the new CDC guidance on Tuesday.
This summer, the Hudson School District has been mask optional without any issues.
There will be a full update on plans at the school board meeting on August 16.
School Board Meetings
There are two school board meetings this month. While I believe every school board meeting is important, there are a few items that may be of interest to parents and staff.
August 2 – Two members of the public have requested to have the mask policy on the agenda. The board will also look at revisions to the cell phone policy for students, so it better aligns with our practices. The board will hold public comment on any item on the agenda. The board agenda and supporting information is available here.
August 16 – I will share with the board my recommendations for COVID protocols for the school year.
If you would like to share your comments with the board, there is a quick form available here.
Watch school board meetings:
Finally, this week we learned Lois Connors, who retired this year as principal at Hills Garrison Elementary, died Monday afternoon. She was a true champion of children for many years and will be greatly missed. More information is available here.
Have a great weekend.
Larry Russell
Superintendent of Schools
Important Dates
August 2 – School Board Meeting
August 16 – School Board Meeting
August 19 – 20 – New Teacher Orientation
August 23 – 25 – Teacher Workshop
August 26 – First day of school
September 6 – Labor Day