Masks or no masks, back to school night, new preschool days and more.
We are now one week away from the first day of school on August 18, 2021, and we’d like to extend a warm welcome to all our new Trinity families; and welcome back to all our returning families. We’re looking forward to a great year at Trinity!
Masks
Many of you are wondering if we will be requiring masks, and the short answer is: Yes, to begin the year.
Families will be receiving a letter from the school with the full information regarding this, however, here is an excerpt:
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment recommends that schools follow the direction of the Centers for Disease Control updated guidance found in “Guidance for covid-19 virus Prevention in K-12 schools”. Atchison County currently (as of 8/4/21) has 140+ active cases, which is nearly doubled the number released a week ago on Monday. Additionally, the report mentions a large percentage of children under the age of 12 as those who are being adversely affected.
Because of this resurgence in our community the Day School Committee feels we need to begin the year with extra precautions to ensure the health and well being of our students, families, and staff as we begin the 2021-2022 school year. Therefore, the Day School Committee is requiring that all students and staff will start the school year wearing masks. This policy will be reviewed each month by the Day School Committee until it is no longer deemed to be necessary.
I understand that for some parents this will be a great concern, while other parents will find this policy a relief. I understand and try to sympathize with both points of view. This is a difficult decision, but one that was reached after reviewing our community situation.If you feel that your child(rens) situation may qualify as a medical exemption, please return the attached form. It is NOT our intention to wear masks for the entire year, and the DSC will be monitoring the community situation so that the mask policy can be withdrawn as quickly as possible.
Our theme verse for the year is Psalms 121 1-2. “ I Lift up my eyes to the hills, where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth!” The psalm continues to state that our God never sleeps, and He will never let your foot slip. This is a true comfort to know and trust that God has this situation and will watch over and protect all of us.
I know that what is being asked of us is controversial, but the school will continue to review these precautionary measures and adjust as needed in response to improvement in the numbers of corona virus cases. Our goal as Lutheran educators is to support all our Trinity families and work together as the body of Christ and not let the devil cause division among us. We care for each child and family of our school and pray that we will return to our normal school routine soon.
God’s peace, Dr. Steve Hobus Principal- Trinity Lutheran School
A copy of the mask exemption form can be found here.
Back to School Night
Our Back to School night will be on Monday, August 16, from 6:30 – 7:30. Drop your school supplies off in the classroom, visit with your new teacher for the year, and enjoy some delicious ice cream in the cafeteria. 6th & 7th Grade parents, be sure to stick around at 7:30 for a meeting to discuss the Washington DC trip!
Preschool
Our preschool program will have a few changes this year. PK3 & PK4 will now share the same classroom with PK3 in session on Tuesday & Thursday, and PK4 sessions on Monday, Wednesday & Friday.
Also, preschool and Kindergarten have switched locations this year. Kindergarten will now be in the old PK4 classroom across from the gym and Preschool in the old Kindergarten room.
Let’s all make this a great year!