Dear MCS Community,
When we first set out on this remote learning journey, we were unsure of how long the school closure would be. Our greatest hope was for a short closure, one that would allow for the students to be with us and for the school to be full and joyfully noisy again. The original closure of two weeks extended to three and then beyond Easter break. Today, we share the final duration of the school closure.
We have been closely following the CDC, WHO, state and federal government’s social distancing guidelines, direction from the Orange County Department of Education, as well as decisions made by local districts and schools regarding school closures. Additionally, on March 31, the California Department of Education issued a statement that recommended schools remain closed and fully employ remote learning for the remainder of the year. After much consideration, discussion, and prayer, the very difficult but necessary decision has been made. MCS will not reopen but will continue remote learning for the duration of the 2019-20 school year for which the last day of school will now be Friday, May 22nd (extended from the original ending date of Thursday, May 21st).
We remain dedicated to providing exemplary academics and, as such, are committed to improving our remote learning program. Considering this dedication and long term timeline, it is imperative that our staff be given the opportunity to further plan, prepare additional home learning kits, implement program improvements and changes, and receive necessary professional development. For these important reasons, we are extending the student’s Easter Break by one week through Friday April 17th. All students will resume remote learning on Monday, April 20th with an increased level of instructional support and academic rigor. Principals will provide further details regarding improvements and adjustments before students return from the extended break.
We recognize there are many year-end events that are cherished and loved by students, families, and staff alike. It is our intention to preserve these beloved traditions regardless of the school closure. At this time, planning continues for these events including character quality awards, class celebrations, 8th grade awards and parent blessing, and graduation. Our hearts share in the disappointment over the change this may bring, particularly for our 8th grade students and families. Please know, while the dates and avenues of these important events are not yet determined, all possibilities and alternatives are being pursued. We will ensure a special end to the school year for all of our students. Families will be provided more information regarding end of the year events from the divisional principal by the end of April.
In this unprecedented time, we know that this decision is particularly difficult on the community. However, the administration, staff, and Board unanimously believe this is the best course of action for the well-being of our staff, students, and families. We also believe this decision demonstrates a genuine love and care for our community. Across the 33 years of our school’s history, we have seen and experienced challenging times. This time is uniquely challenging. Yet, no matter the season or challenge, we have remained a community that loves, supports, prays for, and champions one another. Colossians 3:14 provides a beautiful picture of this, “And over all virtues, put on love which binds together in perfect unity.” This is undoubtedly true of the amazing MCS family. The entire school team sends you love and prayers, even from afar, and we are thankful for yours!
Trusting Him,
Heather Harrison
Interim Head of School