Scotts Valley Middle School

Dear SVUSD families,

I know that this has been an interesting week for all as we dive into online distance-learning.

Again, I would like to thank and acknowledge our teachers for providing online learning for our students with one week to prepare. Clearly, some adjustments will need to be made as we move forward with this form of education. I know that we are receiving feedback from students and parents - we will be working on improvements moving forward.  Parents are experiencing aspects of the life of a teacher. I must admit, I have been entertained by some of the comic relief parent communications I have received about how they would prefer not to be a homeschool teacher any longer.  This is hard work!

Attached is an updated letter for parents that all Santa Cruz County Superintendents have participated in creating. I apologize if you have already heard from another district, but we have collectively agreed to extend the school closure through May 5th, and potentially returning Wednesday, May 6th. If we return on Wednesday, May 6th, teachers will need those two days prior to prepare for the transition to return back to classroom instruction.  It was my understanding that districts had all agreed to communicate this information to parents this Friday.

Teachers are busy preparing lessons that will be ready when we resume online learning on April 13. I have received some parent requests to continue in session online instruction through spring break. Our employees need a break, and I am going to honor that. However, resources have been provided by the District and also by site-based teachers for supplemental educational activities. These resources, such as Khan Academy, Starfall, and Scholastic.com, are always available.  Additionally, over the past week, teachers have introduced students to new platforms that are available during remote learning, and students may continue to use these supports. Don’t forget to have your children read every day.  They also can practice life skills that support their learning, such as writing letters, cooking, playing an instrument, or practicing another language.  As has been mentioned, there are resources available on teacher and school websites, as well as the District website. 

We are all experiencing history in the making.  It is my hope that we are able to look back on this time and feel proud of ourselves for how we’ve managed multiple challenges, and how our community and humankind support one another during trying times.

Please take care, stay healthy, and stay home to the best of your ability.

Kind regards,

Tanya Krause, Superintendent