March 1st - I am writing to let you know we were informed by the Douglas County Health Department that an individual at North Ward has tested positive. The Douglas County Health Department and North Ward will contact you if your child is considered a close contact.

When I started typing this letter, I was shaking my head at typing March. I realized Spring is in nineteen days. The activity of squirrels has picked up in my yard and the sound of birds has welcomed me when walking out the door. Spring is near. It will bring more sunshine and warm weather. The dark cloudy days of Winter will be behind us. There will be a day when we can walk into a building and people can see our smiles.

It is hard to believe that almost one year ago the Governor put schools on what we thought was a two-week pause. As we know, students would not enter their school building for the rest of the school year. Friday, March 13, 2020, was the day the Governor announced the suspension of all school activities. A lot has changed since March 13. New information on COVID, guidelines on returning to school, guidelines for participating in extra-curricular activities, and the utilization of platforms such as Google Meet to conduct classes. Students, teachers, parents, and all school personnel have adjusted to every circumstance thrown at them.

I continue to be amazed at how well everyone involved has adapted to changing circumstances. Thank you very much for helping our students have a sense of normal during the pandemic. I am confident the next three months of the school year will be successful. My confidence is driven by the dedication of everyone involved in making our school day a safe and productive environment.