March 13, 2020
Dear Families and Learners,
The health and safety of our students and staff are paramount. While education is important, the health and wellbeing of our students, families, and community are far more significant. The challenges confronting us with COVID-19 has caused statewide school closures from Governor Whitmer. With the understanding that this situation is likely to impact each of us in some way, Meridian Public Schools is committed to working together to support your child’s learning during this time.
Learning at MECHS primarily occurs inside classrooms with face-to-face teaching by certified instructors using interactive tools, such as ECHO. To support our learners and families during this extended school closure, learning activities will continue to be posted to your child’s ECHO agenda. During closure, encourage your student to check both their school email and ECHO daily for updated assignments and extended learning opportunities. Parents have their own ECHO log in that can be used to check your student’s progress. If you need help accessing ECHO, please email our technology department at help@merps.org
We have compiled several resources to extend learning outside of the classroom. Families are encouraged to explore these distance learning opportunities to support academic growth. These resources can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/mechsathom...
During this extended school closure, teachers will communicate daily assignment expectations in the ECHO course for each class. Please encourage your student to do the following daily:
Check ECHO agenda(s) for each course:
Complete assigned ECHO tasks
Email instructor with questions or concerns
Read for 20 minutes (students were sent home with specific text in many classes)
Check school email for updates regarding school closure, practices, etc.
Engage in distance learning through one of our recommended sites: https://tinyurl.com/mechsathom...
With so much uncertainty, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions. This document is attached or available HERE. It contains important updates regarding off campus programming, including information regarding Delta College and Bay Arenac Career Center classes. Please rely on updates posted to the MDHHS COVID-19 website or the CDC website for the most accurate and timely information on the virus.
Communication updates will be sent to families as information becomes available. Our office will use Facebook, merps.org website, and email as primary forms of communication. The “Questions about Emergency Closure” will also be updated. Urgent communication will be sent via our text messaging alert system. I am also available via email at tara.mager@merps.org or personal cell phone at 989.928.9532 to answer any additional questions or concerns you might have. Thank you for your continued support as we partner to create a safe and supportive learning environment for your child.
Sincerely,
Tara Mager, MA, LPC, LBSW
Principal