Balsz School District has continued to monitor all news and activity regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). In alignment with Governor Doug Ducey’s declaration of a public health emergency for the State of Arizona, Balsz has been proactively planning for all possible scenarios for our schools.

Any updates will be posted here and on our social media, and families will be notified via phone call, text, and/or email.

Week of 10/19                                             Week of 10/26
   

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Last updated 10/26/2020

September 30, 2020

Dear Parents/Guardians and Students of Balsz School District:

As we prepare for students and staff to return to the 2^nd quarter in the Balsz School District, I want to assure you of the District’s on-going commitment to your child’s safety as our highest priority and that the District is working diligently to ensure that during this time of crisis, education of all students is still our primary focus.

The District is working cooperatively with community resources to ensure that our students return knowing that the Balsz School District will continue to be a safe haven for students and their educational needs. As such, this letter will outline Quarter 2 school reopening plans and share pertinent information with you in order to facilitate your decision regarding the return of your student to the classroom or continue online distance learning.

Return to School Plans

The district will offer the opportunity for K-5 students to return to the classroom on October 12, 2020 and continue the FLVS platform, pending no Executive Order that contradicts school district plans.

The district will still offer online distance learning opportunities for K-5 families who wish to remain online; but in-person criteria applies. School administrators will determine the number of online participants and share the parameters of the online option.

Grades 6-8 will continue the online FLVS platform, with the opportunity for parents to select an in-person option for Quarter 2.

Please remember that your choice for Quarter 2 will remain in effect until the start of Quarter 3.

School Safety/COVID-19 Pandemic Team

The District’s Pandemic Team will govern strict adherence to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. Each school will have a Pandemic Crisis Guide that will outline our practices and procedures.

Safety Measures

• Use of partitions to provide single workspace opportunities
• Mask requirements for Teacher and Students (*certain exclusions may apply)
• Hand sanitizer and hand washing stations throughout the campus
• Disinfecting surfaces throughout the day
• Daily temperature checks
• Mandatory social distancing practices

The Parent Academy and Balsz District online Family Hub (www.balsz.org/familyhub) will continue to provide parents and guardians with appropriate information regarding safety measures to ensure the healthy existence of all members of the Balsz family.

Non-negotiable Requirements

• Students will be required to wear masks and practice social distancing.
  • Teachers will work with students in educating the importance of wearing masks.
  • Students will receive or have received two (2) washable masks free of charge.
• All visitors to any campus will be required to have temperature checks and follow the mask protocol established by the Governor.

We feel it is important for our families to understand our plan of action for the coming school term. We look forward to you seeking out your school to answer any additional questions that you may have. 

Arleen M. Kennedy, Ed.D, Superintendent

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