As you have undoubtedly heard by now, the Haverhill Public Schools are closed for the next two weeks. As the superintendent stated in her remarks earlier this afternoon this is not a static situation and things are likely to change day by day. If you missed the the live stream session it will be posted on the Haverhill Public Schools website.
Those of us who have seen the live-streamed presentation heard the superintendent outline her expectations of staff over the next two weeks. I have also been in direct contact with the superintendent and have confirmed these expectations with her.
No one is required to report to work at any time if they do not feel it is safe or appropriate for them to do so.
Dr. Marotta has asked that those of us who are able to do so to report to our buildings on Monday and Tuesday to assist with managing the district’s efforts to ensure that all students are fed and have some opportunity for a continuation of education, however minimal, during this difficult time for our community. This act of service can take many forms including supervision of meal distribution, planning or photocopying lessons and materials for administration to send home with families, or setting up access to some curated online activities that families may be able to avail themselves to should they wish to do so. While there is no requirement to explain your absence, all members are encouraged to communicate with their principals regularly throughout the next two weeks as circumstances are likely to change frequently.
The District has identified 4 locations where students will be able to pick up breakfast and lunch. While the exact hours are still to be determined, it’s likely that each site could use additional support between the hours of 10 am and 1 pm to accommodate all students. All staff who are not subject to the exclusions above are encouraged to spend what time they can assisting families and interacting with students at these locations throughout the closure, regardless of where they work.
These locations are:
Consentino (685 Washington St.)
Nettle (150 Boardman St.)
The YMCA (81 Winter St.)
The Boys and Girls Club (55 Emerson St.)
Please remember, DO NOT enter your school if you:
Care for or live with someone who is elderly or may have a compromised immune system.
Feel sick and/or have a fever above 100°.
Were or may have been exposed to someone who presumably has the virus.
At no time should any child enter the buildings. If you do not have child care, please stay home. Only HPS employees should be entering the building over the course of the next two weeks.
This is an unprecedented event and history will judge how we handled this crisis based upon how we took care of those in need around us. As educators, we have a unique perspective and understanding of the challenges that the most vulnerable in our community face everyday. I have no doubt that every educator among you who is able will do all that he and she can to promote the the well-being of every child in our schools. You are, after all, the living, beating HEArt of Haverhill. You prove it every day and I have no doubt that you’ll continue to do so during this challenging time.
Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns throughout this process.
In Solidarity,
Anthony
Anthony J. Parolisi
President
Haverhill Education Association
anthonyparolisi@gmail.com