At the November 24 meeting, the Fillmore Central School Board discussed the newest learning situation. Due to an increase in COVID-19 cases in Fillmore County, Fillmore Central moved to total distance learning for K-12 on November 17 and plans to go through December 4. The school’s COVID committee will continue to meet regularly to discuss the situation and will update families on November 30 or December 1 on whether distance learning will continue past December 4. As of now, the plan is to have a number of elementary students with extra needs return to school at that time if necessary. Sack breakfast and lunches are being handed out each day to families who requested them.
The executive order from Governor Walz includes 30 additional minutes of prep time for teaching staff each day, which can be used accumulatively. Superintendent Heath Olstad said that the district is discussing the option of having half-days on Wednesdays for students so that teachers can use the rest of the day for classroom prep. An announcement will be made to families once the details have been finalized.
Approximately 40 families are signed up for daycare and SAC due to distance learning and transportation is being provided for those who need it.
The school’s annual Veterans Day program couldn’t take place like normal this year, but Ron Scheevel and Aaron Janssen were able to work together to create a video that was played for the students and is available on the school’s website. “It was a very unique situation,” Olstad said.
Parent Teacher Conferences were held virtually on November 12 with good attendance numbers for both the elementary and the high school. “It went well,” Olstad said, adding that he was happy with the way the staff communicated with parents.
Per MSHSL, the volleyball and football seasons wrapped up early. One Act Play has been moved to being 100% virtual through the entire season.
Resignations were accepted from daycare worker Kelly Doherty and SAC Coordinator Jessica Bradt. Long-term substitute Martha Haugerud was terminated as Brandi Mayer has returned to her teaching position.
An open enrollment request for a preschool student was approved.
The next Fillmore Central school board meeting will be held on December 22 at 6:30 p.m. in the elementary school meeting room.
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