MSAD #51 District Newsletter - March 17, 2023

Many thanks to those of you who have already completed the stakeholder surveys that were sent out to all parents/guardians, staff, and students in grades 3-12 earlier this week. I am pleased that we have been able to resume these surveys this year after pausing them during the pandemic. We use the anonymous data we collect for two important reasons: To identify strengths and areas of improvement, along with tracking trend data over time. If you are interested in viewing the district's summary report from the last survey administration in 2019, click HERE. After the current survey results are compiled, a summary report will be presented to the Board of Directors this spring, shared in this newsletter, and linked on the district website. Your feedback is valuable and appreciated.

It was great to see so much energy and enthusiasm at the GHS Spirit Week assembly on Thursday afternoon. Each grade level competed at various events in order to score the highest point totals. Events included hula-hoop, chess, basketball, and (my favorite) the zombie wrap contest. Great spirit from students and staff to make this week festive and memorable.

Finally, it is with sadness that I report on the passing of Janet Hotham, a long-time educational technician at MIW, after a prolonged illness. Janet was a beloved staff member who cared deeply about the children of MIW and was known for being kind to everyone. She was a true professional who did whatever was needed to help students. Most of her time was spent teaching students literacy and math skills as part of the RTI process. Last year, she jumped in without hesitation to teach a classroom for several weeks due to a need at that time. That was the way she approached her job every day; always ready to help in whatever way possible for children. Please join me in keeping Janet's family in your thoughts at this time, along with all of the staff and students of MIW whose lives were touched by her unfailing dedication and caring over the years.

Regards,
Jeff Porter

Junior and Senior classes look on during the zombie wrap competition at the GHS Spirit Assembly.

On Wednesday, March 8 almost 300 singers in grades 3-12 performed at the All District Chorus Concert at Greely Middle School. 
Conductors: Jennifer Caton (3) Bethany Perkins (4-8) & Sarah Bailey (9-12)

Where can I find a test?

• MSAD #51 still has a limited number of home tests available free of charge. Contact your school nurse for details. 
• Visit COVIDtests.gov for information on free tests that may be available through government services.
• Anthem members: Anthem has a limited number of at-home diagnostic test kits available for certain members to order online. Log in using the SydneySM Health mobile app or at anthem.com. If you’re eligible to order an at-home test, you’ll see the option to place an order. If you don’t see that option, you’re ineligible but you still have other testing options available.
• You can still use in-person diagnostic COVID-19 testing sites. These may include your doctor’s office, a pharmacy or health clinic, or an urgent care center. Use our COVID-19 Test Site Finder to find a testing location close to you.
• At-home diagnostic tests can be purchased over the counter, online, at a local pharmacy, or from a big-box store.