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Unified School District of De Pere

School Closure FAQs and End of School Year Updates

Governor Evers’ announcement that school buildings will remain closed through the end of June has raised many questions regarding academics, activities, events and more. We have answers to some of your questions now, and are working to finalize other information as quickly as possible. Updates will be posted to this page regularly.
 
General FAQs
 
How should loaned Chromebooks be returned? (posted May 20, 2020)
Chromebooks and chargers that have been borrowed from the District should be returned on the dates listed below. We ask that you do your best to drop off your device(s) on the date that corresponds with the first initial of your last time to avoid lengthy traffic backups.
Drop off will be available at De Pere High School only, outside the entrance to the gym/fieldhouse atrium. Drivers should pull up to the curb, have one person exit the vehicle and place all loaned Chromebooks on a table. Staff will be present to record the return. Please maintain appropriate (6 ft.) physical distance from others. 
 
  • June 10th, 8:00 AM- 3:30 PM - Last names starting A-G 
  • June 11th, 8:00 AM- 3:30 PM - Last names starting H-P 
  • June 12th 8:00 AM- 3:30 PM - Last names starting Q-Z 
 
Chromebooks not turned in by the end of the day on June 12th (and not noted by the high school as devices needed for the summer) will be disabled and become unusable until they are back in our possession. 
Please exit the drop off area by proceeding straight, on to Lone Oak Rd, or turning left on to the Libal St. access Rd to avoid construction on Merrill St. 
 
 
chromebook drop off route
 
 
How will students be graded/evaluated?
As a result of the extended school closure, grading practices for all levels have been revised. Scroll down to view information by grade level.
 
How do I access my students grades?
Here is a reminder about how to access student grades/GPA via the Campus Parent portal
 
How long will remote learning continue?
For all students, except graduating seniors, remote learning will continue until June 9, the end of our academic calendar year. Graduating seniors last day of instruction will be Friday, May 29 as long as the student has met all graduation requirements.
 
Is remote learning required through the end of the school year?
As noted when we began remote learning, our expectation is that all students will login and meet teacher established deadlines for assignments through the end of the year. However, we understand that each family's situation is unique. For some, there are significant barriers to accessing remote instruction. Please contact your building principal if you have circumstances that don't allow your student to participate. We will work with you to develop a plan for continuity of learning.
 
What about summer school?
Registration for summer school has been postponed indefinitely. We are developing plans for how we might offer summer school and what will be included in those offerings.
 
When can my student pick up personal belongings left at school?
Each building is developing a plan and schedule for pickup of students' personal belongings. Scroll down to view information by building. This information will be updated as details are developed.
 
My student is struggling. Are there mental health resources available?
Our school social workers and counselors are available for consultation. 
 
When will students get their yearbooks?
This will also be coordinated with the pickup of personal materials.
 
How long will the meal distribution program continue?
The no cost student lunch/breakfast and weekend grab and go meals will continue through June 30. Details on the summer program will be communicated when finalized.
 
What about ceremonies and events?
Information on ceremonies and events will be communicated as it is developed. Scroll down for information by building. All ceremonies and events will be contingent on state-issued requirements for building/grounds closure, physical distancing requirements and group-size restrictions.
Information By Building
 
De Pere High School
Graduation Ceremony Update (shared with students and families on May 18, 2020)
End of Year Check Out and Personal Item Pickup
Grading Practices as a Result of COVID-19 School Closure (shared with students and families May 5, 2020)
Graduation Ceremony Update (shared with students and families May 5, 2020)
Academic and Service Learning Awards event - cancelled (April 27, 2020)
HS End of Year Update (shared with families and students April 24, 2020) 
 
De Pere Middle School
Drop Off of School Materials (updated May 17, 2020)
Beginning Tuesday, May 26, families can drop off materials at De Pere Middle School from 8:00- 10:00 AM and 2:00-4:00 PM. To minimize contact, please drop your student’s materials in the designated boxes in front of the school. These materials may include:
  • Math textbooks (please have your child’s and the teacher’s name written on the inside cover).  Students will still have access to the online version of the math book.
  • Library books
  • Spanish novel: Tumba (Spanish 1B Students)
  • Books from teacher’s classroom libraries (Please write the teacher’s name on the inside cover)
  • Music sheets (band, orchestra, choir)
 
We WILL NOT be collecting Chromebooks. See the FAQs above for information on Chromebook drop off.
 
Please enter the Middle School property from the Libal Street extension road in back of the school and drive around to the front of the building.  Labeled boxes will be available at the main entrance, door #1. Exit onto Swan Road. 
 
Drop off times:
  • Tuesday, May 26: 8:00-10:00 AM and 2:00-4:00 PM
  • Wednesday, May 27: 8:00-10:00 AM and 2:00-4:00 PM
  • Thursday, May 28: 8:00-10:00 AM and 2:00-4:00 PM
  • Friday, May 29: 8:00-10:00 AM and 2:00-4:00 PM
  • Monday, June 1: 8:00-10:00 AM and 2:00-4:00 PM
  • Tuesday, June 2: 8:00-10:00 AM and 2:00-4:00 PM
  • Wednesday, June 3: 8:00-10:00 AM and 2:00-4:00 PM
  • Thursday, June 4: 8:00-10:00 AM and 2:00-4:00 PM
  • Friday, June 5: 8:00-10:00 AM and 2:00-4:00 PM
You will not be able to drop off materials from 10:00 AM- 2:00 PM due to lunch distribution
 
Items such as yearbooks, 8th-grade certificates, etc. will be mailed at a later date.
 
Grading Practices as a Result of COVID-19 School Closure (shared with students and families May 5, 2020)
The 4th quarter report card will look different than our normal format. Middle School teachers will use a narrative comment in place of the letter grades you usually receive for grades 7-8. Typical grades for 4th quarter will remain blank as not assessed. You will receive the report card with narrative comments via the parent portal. It will be available starting June 11, 2020.
 
Foxview Intermediate School
Grading Practices as a Result of COVID-19 School Closure (shared with students and families May 5, 2020)
The 4th quarter report card will look different than our normal format. Foxview teachers will use a narrative comment in lieu of the traditional standards-based reporting you usually receive for grades 5-6. Typical standards for 4th quarter will remain blank as not assessed. You will receive the report card with narrative comments via the parent portal and it will be available starting June 11, 2020.
 
Schedule for Pickup/Drop Off of Personal Materials
Pickup/drop off for Foxview families and students will start on Tuesday, June 2, organized by homeroom teacher. This will allow teachers to be present and say good-bye to students from a safe distance, and will help keep traffic flow manageable.
We will offer curbside pickup of items, and drop off of school-owned items on the Foxview playground near the gym exits.
 
We WILL NOT be collecting Chromebooks. See the FAQs above for information on Chromebook drop off.
 
Here is the drop off and pick up schedule, including homeroom teachers who will be present during these times:
 
  • Tuesday, June 2 1:00 - 3:00 Suda/Neerdaels
  • Wednesday, June 3 8:00 - 11:00 Jerabek/Heling/Kraszewski/Denamur
  • Wednesday, June 3 12:00 - 3:00 Lefler/Gutzman/Sternard/Kratzke/Pufall
  • Thursday, June 4 8:00 - 11:00 Berken/Alworden/Roush/Eiler
  • Thursday, June 4 12:00 - 3:00 Willis/Lukas/Berry/Graebel
  • Friday, June 5 8:00 - 11:00 Ruedinger/Doyle/Valentine/Vorpahl
  • Friday, June 5 12:00 - 3:00 Lee/Krueger/Rohde/VanRens
 
If you are not able to come during your homeroom teachers’ assigned time, we will also offer pickup/drop off on
  • Monday, June 8 from 12:00 - 3:00 PM
  • Tuesday, June 9 from 8:00 - 11:00 AM.
More information and details will be posted as they are developed. Please contact Foxview at 337-1036 if you have specific questions.
 
Altmayer Elementary School
Grading Practices as a Result of COVID-19 School Closure (shared with families May 5, 2020)
Elementary teachers will create a narrative comment in lieu of the traditional standards-based report cards for formal reporting at the end of the 2019-20 school year. Learning Habits will not be reported for the 3rd trimester. Special teachers (art, phy ed, etc. will not report.The narrative comment framework will look like this:
This trimester during the COVID-19 school closure, your child was given the opportunity to participate in lessons focused on: (list topics of content covered). During this extraordinary circumstance, we understand different variables impact a student’s availability to participate in the remote learning opportunities during COVID-19 emergency remote learning. (student name) participated in (all/most, some, few/none) of the activities that were offered. Due to this remote learning environment and a variety of factors, assessing and reporting specific to each child may not be an accurate reflection of their current independent skills. Based on (student name) learning progress over the course of the school year, (student name is … One to Glow and One to Grow). Thank you for your efforts to make this the best learning and life experience for your child during these extraordinary times. Your child moves on to (grade).
 
Schedule for Pickup/Drop Off of Personal Materials
Pickup/drop off for Altmayer families will start on Wednesday, June 3rd. (If you have multiple children in the building, please come at any of their assigned times and we will get all siblings things for you). We will offer curbside pickup of items, and you can drop off of library books near the pick up area if you haven’t already done so.
Pick up area will be in the student pick up and drop off lane. Please pull your car up near your teacher's sign/table, tell us your child’s name, and we will get the bag to you. We will set it on the table and then you can exit your vehicle to get the bag/bags. Please don’t park your vehicle in the parking lot and walk to the tables.
 
We WILL NOT be collecting Chromebooks and iPads. See the FAQs above for information on Chromebook drop off.
 
Here is the drop off and pick up schedule
  • June 3rd 8:00AM-11:00AM - KG
  • June 3rd 12:00PM-3:00PM - 1st
  • June 4th 8:00AM-11:00PM - 2nd
  • June 4th 12:00PM-3:00PM - 3rd and 4th
  • June 5th 12:00-3:00 - All families that weren’t able to make the first available times work.
More information and details will be posted as they are developed. Please contact Altmayer at 338-1894 if you have specific questions.
 
Heritage Elementary School
Grading Practices as a Result of COVID-19 School Closure (shared with families May 5, 2020)
Elementary teachers will create a narrative comment in lieu of the traditional standards-based report cards for formal reporting at the end of the 2019-20 school year. Learning Habits will not be reported for the 3rd trimester. Special teachers (art, phy ed, etc. will not report.The narrative comment framework will look like this:
This trimester during the COVID-19 school closure, your child was given the opportunity to participate in lessons focused on: (list topics of content covered). During this extraordinary circumstance, we understand different variables impact a student’s availability to participate in the remote learning opportunities during COVID-19 emergency remote learning. (student name) participated in (all/most, some, few/none) of the activities that were offered. Due to this remote learning environment and a variety of factors, assessing and reporting specific to each child may not be an accurate reflection of their current independent skills. Based on (student name) learning progress over the course of the school year,
(student name is … One to Glow and One to Grow). Thank you for your efforts to make this the best learning and life experience for your child during these extraordinary times. Your child moves on to (grade).
 
Schedule for Pickup/Drop Off of Personal Materials (posted May 8, 2020)
Heritage families are invited to pickup/drop off materials such as books, whiteboards, or library books on June 4th, 5th, and 8th. We will follow a schedule, alphabetically by last name:
  • A-F    June 4th 8:00-11:00 AM or 12:00-2:00 PM
  • G-N   June 5th 8:00-11:00 AM or 12:00-2:00 PM
  • O-Z   June 8th 8:00-11:00 AM or 12:00-2:00 PM
We WILL NOT be collecting Chromebooks and iPads. See the FAQs above for information on Chromebook drop off.
 
Plan for Good Weather
Vehicles should follow the normal traffic pattern in the parking lot, pulling curbside in the loading zone. You may provide your name to the staff member. Student belongings left at school will be brought to the tables alongside the curb for your pick-up. Please bag items that you are returning and place them on the same tables. Please practice social distancing.
Bins will be available to drop off library books or materials for classroom teachers near tables. Staff will place items from tables into bins.
 
Plan for Inclement Weather
Tables will be set up in the entryway with taped “x” on the ground. Enter at Door 1 to drop off bags and pick-up any left belongings. Exit Door 2. Please practice social distancing.
 
Dickinson Elementary School
Schedule for Pickup/Drop Off of Personal Materials (updated May 26, 2020)
Looking ahead to next week, we would like to share our plan for parent pickup of student belongings.  These belongings include any remaining personal items, yearbooks, report cards, artwork, etc.  In order to keep everyone safe, our material exchange system will mirror the food distribution system used at Dickinson, but with more stations. Teaching staff will not be participating in this material exchange, so please make sure your children (if coming along) aren’t expecting or hopeful to see their teachers.   
Due to our large number of families and road construction around Dickinson, we need to stagger pickup times and are using Sign-up Genius to help us with this.  When you pick up, you will be able to pick-up the belongings for all children in your household that attend school at Dickinson. Please use the last name of the youngest student in your home to determine your pickup time frame below.
  
A - F  Thursday, June 4th 8:00 - 11:00- Sign up here
G - L  Thursday, June 4th 12:00 - 2:30- Sign up here
M - R  Friday, June 5th 8:00 - 11:00-  Sign up here
S - Z   Friday, June 5th 12:30 - 3:30- Sign up here
 
When arriving during your timeframe, please follow these guidelines:
 
  • Wait your turn while checking in with the attendant at the corner of S. Ontario St. and S. Washington St. 
Note - Merrill St. is under construction and the intersection of S. Ontario St and Merrill St. may have limited access.  Please access S. Ontario from Chicago.  (see map below)
  • When directed, drive on S. Washington St. and pull up to the next available table  
  • We ask that parents arrive by vehicle so we don’t have walkers congregating
  • Please make a sign for your right side windshield window with your child(ren’s) last name in BIG, bold, dark lettering, and the number of Dickinson school children in your family
  • If you have any school-owned items, please have those ready to go, already in your trunk in a bag labeled “Dickinson,” teacher last name and your child’s name (Last, First). For example, “ Dickinson - Bruening - Doe, Jane.” Please use a bag that will not need to be returned and have it neatly organized.
  • When you arrive:If you can remotely open your trunk, please do so and remain in your vehicle.  A Dickinson staff member will grab the bag/s of items being returned.  We will then put in the bag/s of items to be returned to you and close your trunk.
  • If you can’t remotely open your trunk, please have only the driver of the vehicle get out of the vehicle, open the trunk and get back into the vehicle.  Once the driver is back in the vehicle, the staff member will exchange the materials.  
  • Once our staff member steps away back onto the sidewalk, proceed with caution and exit onto Chicago St.There will be no human-to-human contact.
  • Reminder: Chromebooks and iPads that have been loaned out via the school district DO NOT need to be returned at this time in order for students to be able to access all learning and end-of-year celebrations through the last day of school.   A separate pickup plan for devices has been communicated by the district for June 10th - 12th.
 
dickinson route
 
A few things to keep in mind:
  • Please remain patient throughout this process and we will do our best to keep the car line moving smoothly. 
  • Officer Missy VandeWettering will be directing traffic. 
  • Please do your best to arrive at your designated time to keep the flow moving and avoid backups onto S. Ontario St.  
  • If, upon returning home, you find someone else’s belongings mixed in with your child’s, please let us know at the email addresses below.  We will do our best to find a solution.
  • If you are unable to pick up your child/ren’s belongings, we will save them in the bag/s at Dickinson.  We will contact you to schedule an alternate time once the district has approved all schools to reopen and operate with regular hours. 
  • If you have any other needs or issues related to scheduling pick-up, please email one or both of the email addresses below prior to these dates.
  • If you must get out of your vehicle, masks and gloves are recommended and encouraged.
  • Please come at your assigned day/time so we have your materials ready.  If you come outside of your appointment, your materials won’t be ready. 

If you have any questions or concerns with this process, please contact us  adarnick@depere.k12.wi.us, pmathu@depere.k12.wi.us, and/or lherlache@depere.k12.wi.us.
 
Other End of Year Activities at Dickinson
  • Virtual Yearbook - Remember to send a photo of your student(s) with a written note, poster or drawing of one of their favorite memories of this school year to adarnick@depere.k12.wi.us
  • School spirit video - coming soon! A video that we will send to all Dickinson students to keep our school spirit alive and well!
  • Recognition for 4th graders - we have a special surprise for our 4th graders who are transitioning to Foxview next year. 
  • Mission Dunk Mr. Herlache -  Students can work together to virtually dunk Mr. Herlache on the last day of school! Students can send a video of themselves grabbing any ball they have at home from their left and pass it to their right. All video clips are due Monday, June 1st to adarnick@depere.k12.wi.us  We will send this video out on the June 9 (last day of school) around noon to celebrate the end of the year.
  • Class Meet-ing - All classroom teachers will hold a Google Meet session with their whole class on June 9  for an end-of-year activity. Watch for details on class-by-class schedules. 
 
Grading Practices as a Result of COVID-19 School Closure (shared with families May 5, 2020)
Elementary teachers will create a narrative comment in lieu of the traditional standards-based report cards for formal reporting at the end of the 2019-20 school year. Learning Habits will not be reported for the 3rd trimester. Special teachers (art, phy ed, etc. will not report.The narrative comment framework will look like this:
This trimester during the COVID-19 school closure, your child was given the opportunity to participate in lessons focused on: (list topics of content covered). During this extraordinary circumstance, we understand different variables impact a student’s availability to participate in the remote learning opportunities during COVID-19 emergency remote learning. (student name) participated in (all/most, some, few/none) of the activities that were offered. Due to this remote learning environment and a variety of factors, assessing and reporting specific to each child may not be an accurate reflection of their current independent skills. Based on (student name) learning progress over the course of the school year, (student name is … One to Glow and One to Grow). Thank you for your efforts to make this the best learning and life experience for your child during these extraordinary times. Your child moves on to (grade).
 
4K/Early Childhood Learning (updated May 11, 2020)
4K teachers will create a narrative comment in lieu of the traditional standards-based report cards for formal reporting at the end of the 2019-20 school year. Learning Habits will not be reported for 3rd trimester. The narrative comment will look like this:
This trimester during the COVID-19 school closure, your child was given the opportunity to participate in lessons focused on: List topics of content covered.During this extraordinary circumstance, we understand different variables impact a student’s availability to participate in the remote learning opportunities during COVID-19 emergency remote learning. (Student name) participated in (all/most, some, few/none) of the activities that were offered. Due to this remote learning environment and a variety of factors, assessing and reporting specific to each child may not be an accurate reflection of their current independent skills. Based on (student name) learning progress over the course of the school year, (student  name) is a very… (One to Glow and One to Grow). Thank you for your efforts to make this the best learning and life experience for your child during these extraordinary times. Your child moves onto (grade).
 

Updates to District's Plan for Addressing Coronavirus and the Statewide School Closure

(Posted Wed. March 18, 3:30 pm)
If your family does not have home internet access, the Wisconsin Public Service Commission has a list of resources, in addition to Charter Spectrum, who may be able to assist you. Terms, conditions and availability vary by provider. Please contact the provider directly. These are not District-sponsored services.
 

Free Lunch and Snack Distribution for Unified School District of De Pere Students

The District is distributing a free lunch and next day breakfast bag to all children age 18 years and under via drive through pickup as a result of our school closing update.  On Friday, non-perishable food items for weekend use will be available for pickup during the regularly schedule
When: 11:45 am - 12:30 pm Monday -Friday
Where:
- Dickinson Elementary School, 435 S. Washington St. De Pere. Curbside delivery will be available in front of the school's main entrance.
- Optimist Park, 801 Cook St., De Pere. Drive through service will be available in the parking lot.
If you are unable to access either of these locations, and require assistance to obtain food for your children, please contact District Social Worker Melanie Brick (920) 639-3632.

En Espanol

El Distrito Escolar Unificado de De Pere distribuirá un almuerzo gratis y una bolsa de meriendas a todos los niños menores de 18 años a través de un servicio de recogida.

CUANDO:

11:45 am - 12:30 pm de lunes a viernes a partir del martes 17 de marzo

DÓNDE:

- Escuela Primaria Dickinson, 435 S. Washington St., De Pere. La entrega en la acera estará disponible frente a la entrada principal de la escuela.

- Optimist Park, 801 Cook St., De Pere. El servicio de traslado estará disponible en el estacionamiento.

 

Si no puede acceder a ninguno de estos lugares y necesita asistencia para obtener alimentos para sus hijos, comuníquese con nuestro trabajador social del distrito Melanie Brick at (920) 639-3632. Via Mitel

 
All Events, Including Athletics Cancelled
All Unified School District of De Pere athletic games, practices, events, meetings, activities, workouts, etc., are cancelled Tuesday, March 16th until Sunday, April 5th. This timeframe may be extended.
 
 
 
 

Updates Prior to Wednesday, March 18

(Posted Mon. March 16, 4:20 pm)
SCHOOL IS CANCELLED FOR STUDENTS TOMORROW, TUESDAY, MARCH 17.  Staff will report as planned. Building principals will be in contact regarding pickup of your students' personal belongings. Additional details will be provided as they become available.

(Posted Mon. March 16, 12:30 pm)

Chromebook Ordering Now Available 

If you are a Unified School District of De Pere family that does not have access to a computer or laptop at home, you can check out a District-owned Chromebook for online education, and make arrangements for internet access during school closure. Please complete this form now so we understand how many devices may be required for checkout.

You will also need to complete this user agreement either prior to or at pickup.  

For those without home internet access you may be eligible for 60 days free through Charter/Spectrum Communications. Call 1-844-488-8395 for information.

(posted Sunday, March 15, 2020)

Letter to Unified School District of De Pere Families

Dear Parents/Guardians,
 
As promised, we wish to communicate how the School District plans to comply with the Governor’s order to close schools effective Wednesday, March 18 and tentatively open on Monday, April 6th.
 
● Monday, March 16: School will be open as scheduled. There will be no visitors or volunteers allowed in the building.
● Tuesday, March 17: School will be open as scheduled. There will be no visitors or volunteers allowed in the building.
 
● Wednesday, March 18: School will be closed and no instruction will be provided.
● Thursday, March 19: School will be closed and no instruction will be provided.
● Friday, March 20: School will be closed and no instruction will be provided.
 
● Monday, March 23: School will be physically closed. Online instruction will be provided for all students until the statewide closure is lifted.
 
From Wednesday, March 18, to Friday, March 20, the staff will be preparing to provide students with an online learning experience. Online instructional days will coincide with the 2019 - 2020 school calendar. Spring Break will be held from Friday, April 10 to Sunday, April 19, regardless of whether students are physically attending school.
 
When your children leave school on Tuesday, March 17, please have them bring home any instructional materials and personal items they may need while schools are physically closed. If your student is not in school Monday or Tuesday, we are asking parents to wait until our online learning experience is launched to retrieve missed homework from those days.
 
Student medications may be picked up by parents/guardians from the health office during the regular school hours Monday, March 16th through Friday, March 20th.
 
While the Governor stated that schools will tentatively reopen on Monday, April 6th, federal, state, and local circumstances may require our schools to remain physically closed for a longer time. Online instructional days will continue until the schools are physically re-opened.
 
On Monday, there will be further information provided to you and students regarding checking out District-owned Chromebooks, and accessing wi-fi, for students and families who do not possess a personal device or have an internet connection at home. This will allow students to have access to the district’s online learning experience.
 
We understand this closure presents a wide range of challenges to our families and students. Please know that we are working hard to keep students safe, focused and ready to learn during their time away from our buildings. Thank you for your efforts as you work to take care of yourself and your loved ones.
 
Sincerely,

Ben Villarruel
Superintendent
 
En Espanol
 
Queridas Familias.

Según lo prometido, deseamos comunicar la manera en que el Distrito Escolar planea cumplir con la orden del Gobernador de cerrar las escuelas empezando con miércoles, el 18 de marzo y abrirlas tentativamente lunes, el 6 de abril. 
  • Lunes, 16 de marzo: La escuela estará abierta según lo programado. No habrá visitantes o voluntarios permitidos en el edificio.
  • Martes, 17 de marzo: La escuela estará abierta según lo programado. No habrá visitantes o voluntarios permitidos en el edificio. 
  • Miércoles 18 de marzo: La escuela estará cerrada y no se proporcionará instrucción.
  • Jueves 19 de marzo: La escuela estará cerrada y no se proporcionará instrucción. 
  • Viernes 20 de marzo: La escuela estará cerrada y no se proporcionará instrucción. 
  • Lunes 23 de marzo: La escuela estará cerrada físicamente. Se proporcionará instrucción por Internet hasta que finalice el cierre estatal.

Desde el miércoles 18 de marzo hasta el viernes 20 de marzo, el personal se prepará para proporcionar a los estudiantes una experiencia de aprendizaje por Internet. Los días de instrucción coincidirán con el calendario escolar 2019-2020. Las vacaciones de primavera se llevarán a cabo del viernes 10 de abril a domingo 19 de abril, independientemente de si los estudiantes asisten físicamente a la escuela. 

Cuando sus hijos salen de la escuela martes el 17 de marzo, pídales que traigan a casa cualquier material de instrucción y artículos personales que puedan necesitar mientras las escuelas estén físicamente cerradas.  

Si su estudiante no está en la escuela el lunes o martes, estamos pidiendo a los padres que esperen hasta que se inicie nuestra experiencia de aprendizaje por Internet para recuperar la tarea perdida de esos días. 

Los padres pueden recoger las medicinas de los estudiantes en la oficina de salud durante el horario escolar regular del lunes 16 de marzo al viernes 20 de marzo. 

Si bien el Gobernador declaró que las escuelas reabrirán tentativamente el lunes 6 de abril, las circunstancias federales, estatales, y locales pueden requerir que nuestras escuelas permanezcan físicamente cerradas por más tiempo. Los días de instrucción por internet continuarán hasta que las escuelas se vuelvan a abrir físicamente. 

El lunes, se les proporcionará más información a usted y a los estudiantes con respecto a sacar Chromebooks, propiedad del Distrito y acceder a wifi para estudiantes y familias que no poseen un dispositivo personal o no tienen una conexión a internet en la casa. Esto permitirá a los estudiantes tener acceso a la experiencia de aprendizaje por Internet del distrito.

Entendemos que este cierre presenta muchos desafíos para nuestras familias y estudiantes. Tenga en cuento que estamos trabajando duro para mantener a los estudiantes seguros, enfocados, y listos para aprender durante su tiempo fuera de nuestros edificios. Gracias por sus esfuerzos mientras trabaja para cuidarse a si mismo y a sus seres queridos.

Sinceramente,

Ben Villarruel

Superintendente

 
 
 

Letter to Unified School District of De Pere Families With Special Education Students 

Sunday, March 15, 2020
 
Dear Parents/Guardians with Special Education Students,
 
Beginning on Wednesday, March 18th, all Unified School District of De Pere buildings will be closed and no students will report to school. The staff will be reporting on Wednesday, March 18th through Friday, March 20th to plan for the delivery of virtual learning experiences. Spring break will continue as planned from April 10-17. Digital learning will start on Monday, March 23.
 
Teachers will be contacting you to discuss your child’s Individual Education Plan (IEP). The Department of Education has ongoing efforts to assist students, teachers, and education leaders as part of the Administration’s unprecedented, whole-of-government response to the viral outbreak. The United States Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, issued new resources on March 12, 2020, that will assist in ensuring students with disabilities continue to receive services required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) for school closures due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak.
 
What can you expect regarding communication during this time regarding your child’s IEP services?
 
  • Special education staff will reach out to discuss how your child’s learning will be supported, how IEP services may be affected and/or provided virtually, and to set up a communication plan with you during the closure.
  • After the extended digital learning, we will review how the closure impacted the delivery of special education and related services for your student at your request.
  • If you have concerns after being contacted by your child’s school special education staff, we will be available to assist you with any concerns or questions at that time. This is new for all of us and we desire to work with you to problem-solve together.
 
Please contact us at
jnicholson@depere.k12.wi.us or 920-983-9174 ext. 4112 or 920-613-6530
jmathes@depere.k12.wi.us or 920-983-9174 ext. 4116 or 920-362-2360
 
We are dedicated to serving you and your child. This is unchartered territory for all of us. Please know we desire to offer the best services we can while providing safety for your child, your family, and our staff. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns.
 
Sincerely,
 
Jerry Nicholson- Director of Pupil Services
Jane Mathes- Program Support Teacher
 
 
 
 

 

 

Previous Updates and Information

 The health and safety of our Unified School District of De Pere (USDD) students and staff members is our highest priority. With the rapidly evolving coronavirus/COVID-19 situation, we want you, our community, to understand the everyday prevention steps we are taking to keep our schools healthy.

 

Additional information and updates regarding our schools will be posted to this page as it becomes available. As a district, we will continue to closely monitor the situation and communicate as quickly and effectively as we can.

 

USDD follows guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, the Brown County Health Department and the City of De Pere Health Department.

 

In addition to this page, we will notify families with students in the District of updates via Messenger. Please check your Parent Portal to be sure your contact information is up to date. 

 

We appreciate your patience as we communicate information on this rapidly evolving situation. 

 

Closings and Cancellations (updated Fri. Mar. 13)

UPDATE 4:00 pm

All after school events are cancelled effective Monday, March 16 through Sunday, April 19.

Extra-curricular and athletic practices will continue as scheduled.

Athletic competitions will be evaluated and communicated on a day-to-day basis.

 

 

UPDATE: 3:35 pm

No School Friday, March 20

As we continue to address the Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic, the health and safety of our District's students and families is of utmost importance. We hope everyone is taking appropriate precautions to remain safe.

 

In preparation for a possible transition to on-line learning resulting from potential school closures, all Unified School District of De Pere schools will be CLOSED to students next Friday, March 20. Teachers will use this time to prepare for delivering on-line learning, should that become necessary.

 

At this time, our plan is for schools to be open and classes to resume on Monday, March 23. However, as the District is preparing for various scenarios, we strongly encourage families to take time this weekend to plan for what short-term (5 or fewer days) and long-term (6 or more days) school closings could mean for your family.

 

We will update the Coronavirus/COVID-19 page on our website, update our social media channels and reach out to you through Messenger as this situation evolves.

 

Thank you

Ben Villarruel

Superintendent

 

 

Mr. De Pere Competition, Friday, March 20, is cancelled

 

Dickinson Elementary School "Mardi Gras", scheduled for Saturday, Mar. 14  is cancelled until further notice.

 

Adolescent Mental Health Training (NASRO / AMHT SRO) scheduled for March 16-17 at De Pere High School has been postponed until further notice.

 

The Wisconsin State Invitational 6th Grade Boys Basketball State Tournament scheduled for April 4-5 to be held at De Pere High School and other high schools in the area has been cancelled. Contact WSICT representative, Terri Green, terri@gnbl.org for any other updates or information.

 

The WIAA has canceled the remainder of its Winter state tournament series events. See WIAA news release here.

 

The Wisconsin State Music Association has canceled the following events: all remaining WSMA District Solo & Ensemble Festivals scheduled on or after Monday, March 16; all WSMA State Solo & Ensemble Festivals (due to unavailability of many UW System sites); Student Composition Project event (April 4); all WSMA Concert Festivals through April 18. More information will be released on Monday, March 16, regarding WSMA Middle Level State Honors auditions. Updates will be available at: https://wsmamusic.org/covid-19-news/

 

 

 

 

Previous Updates

 

Thurs. Mar. 12, 2020 (via Messenger to District families)

We have had several inquiries about scheduled after school events. At this time, the District is not canceling any after school events or activities. However, the situation is changing hour by hour. We may need to take steps including limiting the number of attendees, or canceling altogether. Any of these changes will be communicated to you via Messenger and posting on our website. Thank you for your patience as we work through this challenging time.

 

 

Tues. Mar. 10, 2020

Dear Unified School District of De Pere Families: The situation internationally, within the United States and within Wisconsin regarding coronavirus /COVID-19 is evolving rapidly. To date, there have been no confirmed cases in Brown County or surrounding counties.This could change quickly however, so we are committed to keeping you informed of the proactive actions we are taking.  We will continue to provide regular updates on our website www.deperek12.org, and via school newsletters. A copy of this update has been sent via Messenger to each family in the District.

 

  • Our health staff is in regular contact with local and state health departments for updates and guidance.
  • No activities or field trips, the majority of which are local, have been cancelled for any of our schools at this time. However if this changes, we will provide an update to you.
  • Similar to influenza, we will follow procedures we have in place to address significant staff or student absences, including the possibility of school closures, should the situation change.
Additional FAQs
Should students be wearing protective gear such as masks to school?
The DPI and the CDC do not recommend that schools require students or staff to wear masks or gloves.
Will schools or the District be canceling sporting events, or other events with large gatherings of students and adults?
The DPI and the CDC are not currently recommending that school districts cancel or reschedule any planned sports activities or events.
What about online teaching if schools are closed for a long period of time?
At this time, it would not be viable to teach all classes remotely via the internet for our roughly 4,300 K-12 students during a prolonged closure. Effective on-line teaching is fundamentally different from teaching in a face-to-face setting. Circumstances will dictate how and what schoolwork could be made accessible in the event of a long-term closure.
Can I excuse my child from school to avoid getting coronavirus?
Our District absence policy is based on state law.School Board Policy 5200 –“Students can be excused from school by their parents for any reason up to ten (10) days per school year.  A student will be considered a habitual truant if s/he is absent from school without an acceptable excuse for part or all of five (5) or more days on which school is held during a school semester.  State law defines a “habitual truant” as a student who is absent without an acceptable excuse for part or all of five or more days on which school is held during a semester. While not in the policy per se, once a child meets the criteria for being habitual truant, a doctor's note is needed to justify an unexcused absence.”
At this time, DPI has not relaxed, suspended, or changed any truancy rules/laws.  Parents are always free to home school their children, or to open enroll their children in an online virtual school at any time. 

Remember
  • Everyday healthy hygiene is still the most effective way to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses:
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
  • Students, family members and staff should stay home when sick (fever greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit)
  • Cover your nose and mouth when coughing and sneezing
  • Avoid close contact with anyone with cold or flu-like symptoms

Please watch our website, and check the websites listed below, for regular updates as this situation is changing from day-to-day.If you have specific questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us at (920)337-1032.
Best regards,
 
Ben Villarruel, Superintendent
 
Additional Resources