Weekly Update. April 30, 2020
Dear Sunshine Coast families,
This is a time of real challenge for moms and dads and other caregivers. What is the right way to do “pandemic” anyway? I have heard some of you are wondering if you’re doing enough, or doing “it” right? Yes, you are! You are doing what you can and that’s so awesome. Your kids are lucky to have you there for them as they navigate this global crisis with you. After all, it’s their crisis, too. Please remember in these times of uncertainty that you are their parent, not their teacher. Many of us at SD46 are parents, too. We get it.
All of us in the school district will be so excited for the day when we get to see your wonderful kids back in their schools again. Until then, hang in there and be well: you’re doing great.
Here are some updates for this week:
Safety and Wellness:
- Online safety comes up often as we engage so deeply in Zoom, social media and many great, and some questionable, websites. We have a new resource that is helpful to parents as they wonder what’s okay and where are the places to be more cautious.
Essential Support Workers Child Care:
- We are pleased to support Essential Service Workers in our community by providing child care for them. CUPE members and Community Schools are stepping up to answer this call. Elaine Tattrie, for example, is an Educational Assistant who has worked in our school district for 30 years. She is coming out every day to care for these children. “I just couldn’t stay at home, when I know there is such a need. Honestly, though, it is so much fun I almost feel guilty. We play and have fun with the children every day, and I feel completely comfortable with the measures we take so that the children and the staff are safe.” Currently, the Gibsons and Sechelt locations are supporting health care and emergency service workers’ children (Tier 1).
Vulnerable Student Support:
- Foundry is working to make sure all young people in British Columbia can find the care and support they need, when they need it, through virtual drop-in counselling sessions by voice, video and chat. For more information, please click here.
Continuation of Learning:
- What about STRONGSTART!? Not to worry, there’s lots of fun happening. Please click here for all the happy details!
Communication:
- If you have questions or comments about your child’s learning, please contact your child’s teacher. If the matter is more school related, please connect with your child’s principal. If the matter is more related to the direction of the district, please email me. If you don’t know who to talk to, contact any of us. We are here to help.
Tips to help your family’s well-being
Are you finding it challenging to stay present and patient with your children right now? Do you feel like you are just trying to make it through until this is over? Are your children engaging in more challenging behaviours right now? This is real life, we understand, and we can help. We are offering a 6 week ZOOM series starting next week for interested parents. Please see this poster for more information.
Our website, sd46.bc.ca, is constantly updated with extensive information, updates, email addresses and resources. It’s a great go-to location for the information that you need.
All of us at School District 46 wish you the very best as we all navigate the daily challenges of this pandemic together.
Take care,
Patrick
Patrick Bocking
Superintendent of Schools