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Superintendent's Message

A Message from the Superintendent

A Message from the Superintendent iconA Message from the Superintendenttitle

Superintendnet Streshly
 
Dear SUHSD Family:

Today, State Superintendent of Schools, Tony Thurmond, announced that California schools will continue with distance learning for the remainder of  this school year given the current COVID-19 safety concerns. This week, seven Bay Area jurisdictions, including San Mateo County, updated the Shelter-in-Place Order until at least May 1st. 

We are facing rapid changes, and I know that anxiety is taking a toll on our community. For that reason, I gently urge you to invest time in self-care and listen to this podcast that I found to be helpful.
During this time, we need to remember that shelter-in-place does not mean social isolation. Technology and other means can help us maintain relationships with family, friends, and colleagues, and protect our mental health and well-being.
 
In that spirit, please take the time to read the following updates and follow the District's Facebook page (@SeqUHSD). This page is an important community resource and channel that we are using to share information and personal messages to our staff and community. This morning, I shared a video message on that platform to keep us connected and united as a community.
 
 

Parent Resources

 
In collaboration with educational and health care agencies, we have made information, resources, and articles available to parents related to student mental health, homeschooling, safety, and wellness. Please click on the following links to access that information.
 
 
 

Community Resources

 
During Spring break and beyond, families can access the following critical community services.
 
Social-Emotional Support Services

Food Services
  • The Boys & Girls Club is serving dinner from Monday through Friday, 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at both their Redwood City and East Palo Alto clubhouses. 
 

Additional Help 

 
The Help During the Coronavirus Crisis guide provides information that links to resources that offer help during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as:
 
  • Programs that help replace your income if you are unable to work
  • Ideas to help you reduce expenses or obtain resources you need
  • Ideas for small businesses and nonprofits
  • Finding resources in your state
 

Enrollment & Address Verification

 
Our Student Services Department has compiled answers to Frequently Asked Questions by parents regarding enrollment and the address verification process that include: 
 
  • Since the district is currently closed to the public, how can I complete Address Verification?
  • If we are new to SUHSD, how do I enroll my child?
  • I have a question, but I'm not sure who to contact?
 

Student Check-In

 
It can be a stressful time for students and families as we work to adjust to this new normal. I want to remind parents of ways they can check-in to ensure that their student has the academic and social-emotional support they need. 
 
  • Have your child show you what work their teachers have given them for each class.  
  • Have your child show you what they've turned in and ask them to explain the work to you. 
  • If they have questions for their teacher, help them develop the communication, but have it come from them.
  • To the extent possible, given your situation, provide your child with a consistent place in the home to work along with a regular schedule. 
  • If their teacher hosts an online conference or lesson, help remove any obstacles that may interfere with your child's participation.
  • Remind your child that our current situation is new for all of us: teachers, students, and parents. Encourage your child to be understanding and patient.  
  • Ask your child if they are feeling anxious or depressed. If they are, connect them with community or our District’s mental health counselors and resources.
  • Encourage your student to check in on their friends and classmates. 
  • Find outlets for some fun!
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is perhaps the biggest challenge the world has ever collectively faced. In the blink of an eye, our lives as we know them, have been upended. As we face an uncertain future, let's do so with the confidence that, regardless of what the future holds, we still have each other.

Let me close with the beautiful words composed by Laura Kelly Fanucci, shared by a Portola Valley parent. Let her words give you the hope and optimism for a brighter tomorrow.
 

With warm regards,

Mary E. Streshly, Ed.D.
Superintendent 
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