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SM pivots to remote for a week

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SCALES MOUND–The Scales Mound School Board, on Monday, Oct. 19, listened to a presentation from Scales Mound Junior High School teacher Keri Werner about Google Classroom on the eve of a decision by Scales Mound officials to go remote for a full week, starting the following day.

Werner provided the board, half of whom were attending virtually, with an explanation on how she and her colleagues utilize Google Classroom and the benefits of the program.

Superintendent Dr. Bill Caron, who is one of many quarantined in the district, discussed the reason for the decision that was made to move to remote learning.

Caron explained that other districts across the region have had the same issues and are going through adaptive pauses to in-person learning like the district is going through this week.

“Too many staff members are testing positive or having to quarantine. There are just not enough substitute teachers out there,” said Caron. “We are doing the best we can.”

Caron said the number of staff members made it apparent to district officials that they didn’t have the personnel readily available to cover the classrooms.

“Teachers can be teaching remotely during this,” said Caron. “I want to thank everyone for their flexibility. I am proud of how our staff and everybody have come through.”

“I think you made the right decision,” said board president Paul Homb. “I appreciate that.”

“We must continue to take care of our kids and our community,” said Caron.

 

Other business

The board also:

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•learned that the district conducted a dangerous intruder drill on Friday, Oct. 9.

•set the tax levy meeting for Dec. 21.

•learned that the district will accommodate for both virtual and in-person parent/teacher conferences.

•learned the Scales Mound Veterans Day Program will be modified and students will write letters to veterans this year and also send artwork. The music department will post a video of children singing.

“Hopefully we are able to have another grand ceremony next year for our veterans,” said Wiederholt.

•learned that Project 2021 continues to progress and that the ag building and other sections are being constructed. The architects are hoping to have it all closed in by the winter.

“The weather has cooperated with us throughout this project,” said Caron.

•approved updated school board policies, administrative procedures and exhibit updates.

•reviewed and approved the 2019-2020 district audit.

•discussed the possibility of a donation for new scoreboards in the high school gymnasium.

•approved updated Title IX personnel and positions.

•learned that the district will be investigating new student information systems.

•heard a report on the village’s TIF District.