March 29, 2021
COVID-19 Update: Positive Case at SAMS
I’m writing to inform you that MSAD 54 was notified today of a staff person from SAMS who has tested positive for COVID-19.
District nursing staff and administration worked throughout the day to confirm the positive case and identify any close contacts of the individual. Maine DOE/CDC was contacted and updated regarding the case. All individuals having to quarantine as a result of this positive case have been contacted. In total 3 additional staff members have been asked to quarantine.
March 23, 2021
COVID-19 Update: Positive Case at MSLC
I’m writing to inform you that late last night we learned that there was the potential for a positive case of COVID-19 at the Marti Stevens Learning Center (MSLC) and proactively contacted staff, students and their families to close MSLC for the day today.
District nursing staff were in communication with Maine CDC throughout the day today and although we are awaiting final confirmation, the CDC has directed us to consider this a positive case of COVID-19. All staff and students who were direct-contacts with the individual in question have been contacted today by district nurses. In all, 19 individuals have been asked to quarantine as a result of this positive case.
March 22, 2021
Marti Stevens Learning Center will be closed tomorrow, Tuesday March 23rd, for a potential positive case of COVID-19. Additional information will be released tomorrow regarding this situation.
March 15, 2021
Meal Deliveries and Student Z-Pass (bus) Information
- Bloomfield, Canaan, and Mill Stream will be sending meals home starting Tuesday.
- North El will be sending meals home on Wednesday and Thursday.
- Margaret Chase Smith will be sending meals home on Thursday.
- Skowhegan Middle School started today with the 6th graders. Tuesday will be 7th and 8th K-Z and Wednesday will be 7th and 8th A-J. Please be on the lookout for them since there will be a quart of milk with the meal bag.
- Skowhegan Area High School will send home meals on the 17th for A-J and the 18th for K-Z.
March 11, 2021
COVID-19 Update: SAMS
I’m writing to inform you that MSAD 54 was notified today of another individual from SAMS who has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual had been quarantining and as a result, no additional close contacts were identified or contacted.
District nursing staff were in communication with Maine CDC throughout the day today. Maine CDC verified the positive case and reviewed details of prior cases with our nurses. The School is continuing to follow all protocols and recommendations (cleaning, hygiene, etc.) from Maine CDC.
March 10, 2021
COVID-19 Update: SAMS "Outbreak" Status
Today we were notified of two additional cases of COVID-19 at SAMS. Over the course of the day today, district nursing staff worked with the SAMS administration to determine individuals who were primary contacts with these new positive cases. By this afternoon, all close contacts had been notified. In total, four staff and six students were asked to quarantine.
This morning, we reached out to Maine CDC as we were quite certain that the additional cases would put SAMS into “outbreak” status. Although we did not have evidence of transmission in school, the positive cases that were reported were from the same middle school team and therefore did raise questions about appropriate next steps.
March 5, 2021
Positive Cases at SAMS
I’m writing to inform you that we confirmed today that a Skowhegan Area Middle School staff member (SAMS) has tested positive for COVID-19. District nursing staff contacted Maine CDC and determined that 3 staff and 53 students were impacted by this positive case.
March 3, 2021
Z Pass™ Cards
All students that ride buses will be getting Z Pass™ cards on lanyards within the next few weeks. These are being brought to schools and students are being shown how to use them. The purpose of these cards is for contact tracing. Please be sure to have your child bring these to school with them daily. If you have any questions please contact the bus garage at (207) 474-9043.
February 11, 2021
February Vacation Travel Warning: Maine DOE/CDC
In accordance with Maine travel guidelines, any staff or students who travel within the US to any state other than New Hampshire or Vermont (no restrictions as of 2/08/21 for these two states only), they will be required to either:
1. Complete a 10-day quarantine upon arrival in Maine and continue to monitor for signs and symptoms for an additional 4 days OR
2. Obtain and receive a negative COVID-19 antigen or molecular (PCR, NAAT, or isothermal) test result within 72 hours prior to arrival back into Maine to forgo the 10-day quarantine.
a. Travelers may be tested upon arrival in Maine as well but must quarantine while they wait for test results. A negative COVID-19 antigen or molecular (PCR, NAAT, or isothermal) test result will allow the traveler to leave quarantine early.
February 8, 2021
Positive Cases at CES and MSES
As you know, over the weekend MSAD 54 learned of two positive cases of COVID-19 at Canaan Elementary School (CES). Today district staff were able to connect with Maine CDC and have verified it is safe for students to return to school tomorrow.
Summary of CES Cases:
One student and one staff member tested positive for COVID-19 over the weekend. The cases were unrelated and impacted two separate classrooms of students. All staff and students needing to quarantine were called by district nursing staff Sunday afternoon and evening. In calls today, Maine CDC shared that CES is not considered an “outbreak” and that evidence does not indicate an increased risk of transmission in the building. The district has followed our protocol to deep clean the affected areas in the school. We continue to reinforce the importance of preventative measures including maintaining cohorts, social distancing, and other COVID-19 protocols (i.e., mask wearing, etc.). These measures have, and will continue to, minimize the risk of transmission of COVID-19 in school.
MSES Case:
On Sunday, MSAD 54 was made aware of a positive case of COVID-19 at MSES. Two classes of students (one grade) have been asked to quarantine, and student families were called last night and this morning. Additionally, a bus of students has been directed to quarantine by the CDC as proper ventilation (windows cracked open) was not maintained as is directed.
February 4, 2021
SCTC/SAHS Outbreak
I’m writing to update you on the recent cases at SCTC and SAHS that we had previously reported. Today we were notified by Maine CDC that the tech center and high school are now being classified as an “outbreak” as a result of the school having “3 or more active cases within a 14 day window”. Although this information will likely formally be announced at the next briefing by Maine CDC, we wanted to get it out to you as quickly as possible.
In my conversations today it was explained that 3 positive cases is a “CDC metric” used to identify an outbreak, which results in an investigation. The “outbreak” status itself does not mean that schools need to necessarily change what they are doing. Maine CDC’s information for schools indicates that “The primary reason to investigate cases or outbreaks of COVID-19 in schools is to control the outbreak and, with lessons learned from that investigation, help prevent future outbreaks.” From our conversations with Maine CDC today, it was confirmed that there has been no evidence of either a) transmission of the virus within SCTC/SAHS or b) additional cases that we were not aware of amongst the students. We reviewed our cleaning and social distancing practices and found that our efforts have been consistent with the guidelines and that there is no recommendation to change our current approach.
February 3, 2021
COVID-19 Update
I’m writing to inform you that MSAD 54 was notified of two cases of COVID-19 today: a student from SAHS and a district employee. We have been in contact with Maine DOE/CDC regarding both cases and have followed up with all close contacts. Below is a summary of each situation:
Case #1: Skowhegan Area High School
We were informed this morning that a student who has not been in school since early last week tested positive for COVID-19. This student had limited direct prolonged contact with others, and, as a result, a small number of individuals have been contacted and asked to quarantine.
Case #2: District Employee
We were informed today that a staff person has tested positive for COVID-19. As a result of proactive measures put in place, this staff member did not have any direct prolonged contact with other staff or students; therefore, no individuals have been asked to quarantine as a result of this positive case.
January 31, 2021
Positive Case of COVID-19 at CES
I’m writing to inform you that we confirmed late today that a Canaan Elementary (CES) student has tested positive for COVID-19. District nursing and administrative staff contacted Maine CDC and determined that 5 staff and 10 students will need to quarantine as a result of this exposure.
January 29, 2021
Positive Case of COVID-19 at SAHS
I’m writing to inform you that we confirmed today that a Skowhegan Area High School (SAHS) student has tested positive for COVID-19. District nursing and administrative staff contacted Maine CDC and again determined that only a small group of students and one staff member will need to quarantine as a result of this new positive case.
January 27, 2021
Positive Cases of COVID-19 at SAHS
I’m writing to inform you that Maine CDC recently confirmed that a Skowhegan Area High School (SAHS) student, who has not been in school since last week, has tested positive for COVID-19. District nursing and administrative staff worked with Maine CDC and determined that only a small group of students and staff need to quarantine as a result of this positive case.
All individuals needing to quarantine were contacted by district nursing staff over the course of the day today. At this time there is no recommendation that we close a school or take additional actions beyond those described above.
January 25, 2021
2 Positive Cases of COVID-19
I’m writing to inform you that MSAD 54 was notified of cases at two locations below, both involving adults who have not had prolonged direct interactions with students while potentially positive. We have been in contact with Maine DOE/CDC in regard to both cases and have followed up with all close contacts. Below is a summary of the situations at each of the schools:
Case #1: North Elementary School We were informed yesterday that a staff member at North Elementary School has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual had no direct prolonged contact with students and only limited contact with staff at the end of last week. As a result of this case, one staff member has had to quarantine.
Case #2: Bloomfield Elementary School We were informed today that a staff member at Bloomfield Elementary School has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual also did not have direct prolonged contact with students and only limited contact with staff. As a result of this case, three staff members have been asked to quarantine.
January 20, 2021
Positive Cases of COVID-19
I’m writing to inform you that MSAD 54 was notified this afternoon that an individual associated with SCTC and Bloomfield Elementary has tested positive for COVID-19. Maine DOE/CDC have been contacted, and district nursing staff followed protocols of contact tracing. Because exposure occurred with individuals at multiple locations, several students and staff have been contacted this evening and asked to quarantine.
January 19, 2021
Positive Cases of COVID-19
I’m writing to inform you that MSAD 54 was recently notified that a district employee has tested positive for COVID-19. Maine DOE/CDC have been contacted and appropriate protocols are being followed. Because the individual had no contact with students while potentially contagious and no prolonged close contact with staff, only one other district employee is being asked to quarantine as a result of this positive case.
January 18, 2021
Positive Cases of COVID-19 at CES
I’m writing to inform you that MSAD 54 was recently made aware of two incidents of COVID-19 at Canaan Elementary School. One involving a staff member and another involving students in a family. Maine DOE/CDC have been notified and we have confirmed that exposure occurred outside of school. Since those individuals who tested positive have not been in school, there are no additional staff or students who need to quarantine as a result of these cases.
January 13, 2021
Positive Case COVID-19 Skowhegan Early Head Start
Skowhegan Early Head Start was informed today that an adult in our center tested positive for COVID-19. We are keeping them in our thoughts and hope they have a speedy recovery. While we are unable to identify the individual due to the confidential nature of the medical information, we can share that the individual was last on site Monday, January 11th.
January 11, 2021
COVID-19 Update
I’m writing to inform you that MSAD 54 was recently made aware of two cases of COVID-19. One case involved a district-wide staff member who has had limited contact with others, and the second involving a student at SAMS. Maine DOE/CDC were immediately contacted and contact tracing began. Because there were minimal additional contacts, only seven individuals are having to quarantine as a result of these two cases.
In addition to the positive cases above, we have been notified of two additional positive cases in our district who have not been in school. At this time there is no recommendation that we take additional actions beyond the quarantining measures mentioned above. The district will continue to communicate with the Maine DOE/CDC and will reach out should anything about this situation change.
January 8, 2021
Positive Case of COVID-19 at SCTC
I’m writing to inform you that SCTC was notified today that a student has tested positive for COVID-19. SCTC has worked with MSAD54 nursing staff and Maine DOE to determine exposure. The cohorting work we have done had its intended impact, as no students and only two staff are being asked to quarantine as a result of the positive case.
January 6, 2021
Positive Case of COVID-19 at SAMS
I’m writing to inform you that we received word this afternoon that a member of the Skowhegan Area Middle School (SAMS) staff has tested positive for COVID-19. MSAD 54 staff have been in contact with Maine DOE/CDC. This positive case was a result of contact that occurred outside of school. Our staff has worked to identify those students and staff who are considered “close contacts” based on CDC guidance. As of this afternoon, all students and staff who were asked to quarantine have been contacted directly by the school.
No school on Monday, 1/4/2021 (Teacher Workshop Day); Students return to school on 1/5/2020.
December 28, 2020
Positive Case of COVID-19 at SAMS
I’m writing to inform you that MSAD 54 was made aware of a case of COVID-19 on the evening of 12/24, involving a student who had been in school earlier that week. Maine DOE/CDC were immediately contacted and all students and staff who were close contacts were notified that evening of the need to quarantine. Although this case was again a result of contact that occurred outside of school, it unfortunately impacted several students and staff (and their families) over the holiday.
December 18, 2020
Positive Case of COVID-19
I’m writing to inform you that MSAD 54 was recently notified that a district employee has tested positive for COVID-19. This case was again a result of contact that occurred outside of school. Because this individual has not been at work since symptoms arose, and because the person had relatively little contact with others in the district, there was very little impact to staff or students. Three individuals have been contacted and asked to quarantine as a result of exposure.
UPDATED MSAD54 Calendar
With the impact of COVID-19 and the safety measures required to run school, we’ve determined that it is absolutely necessary to provide additional workshop days to help staff meet the needs of our students. We also recognize the importance of having our kids in school as much as possible, and that a dramatic change to the student day or weekly schedule would significantly burden our students and their families.
It was with this in mind that the MSAD54 School Board approved an updated school calendar for the second half of the year. With parent and staff feedback we have attempted to minimize the impact to our families by limiting and strategically placing four additional workshop days. In addition to previously approved workshops, the following days were added:
- Monday, January 4th
- Friday, March 5th
- Friday, April 2nd
- Friday, May 12th (previously was a ½ day - now a full-day workshop)
Film Screening: Angst
MSAD 54 is happy to collaborate with our partners at Somerset Public Health to offer our families and community a chance to participate in the film screening of Angst, which will be shown on December 15th at 6:30PM. Please click here to register in advance (space is limited).
The film tackles issues around anxiety that are pertinent for all ages. More information can be found at: https://angstmovie.com/.
Don't hesitate to call your school counselor for information
November 24, 2020
54 RED PLAN for Remote Learning
It has been MSAD 54’s focus to have our kids in school for in-person education whenever it is safe to do so, but we know that there may be a time when we need to move a school or even the whole district to remote instruction. The district Red Plan, designed by our teaching staff and building administrators, is our learning plan should a building, or the entire district, need to close and move to remote instruction.
Since this summer, MSAD 54 staff have worked to develop protocols for online learning that make sense. The result of that work was a district Digital Learning Handbook which has guided our work with remote and hybrid learning. The RED PLAN is the next step in the process, and includes schedules for students in grades K through 12, should we need to move to remote learning (Note: Pre-K will be sent separately).
November 23, 2020
MSAD54 Thanksgiving Message
Phew…
I’ve had the chance to connect with staff in each of our buildings today and over the last week, and that’s what I’m hearing and seeing. The teaching staff and other professionals who keep our buildings open and supporting kids, are like many during this pandemic, simply exhausted…
It isn’t that simple though, as there’s another side to that coin; they are here because they are educators and they love your kids. I’ve seen the flip side of that coin today and Friday, as I’ve witnessed optimism, enthusiasm, support, and focused collaboration. I’ve seen new technologies being utilized and old-school strategies being modified and talked about. I’ve seen trauma informed practices being used in the problem-solving that is happening around questions and comments like:
- How can we reach a child who is remote if they aren’t responding?
- Even though they can’t see my smile, I have to remember that I can still use humor. When it’s fun and engaging, they learn more.
- What are other ways to cover my content, ways that work for different students’ learning styles?
And so many more. What I’ve seen is the passion that makes MSAD 54 and our staff so special.
November 17, 2020
Positive COVID-19 Case at SCTC
I’m writing to inform you that SCTC was notified today that an individual who has not been in school since last week, has tested positive for COVID-19. SCTC has been in contact with sending schools, who are working with Maine CDC directly. The cohorting work we have done had its intended impact, as only a small group of students and staff have been asked to quarantine as a result of this positive case.
November 15, 2020
SAMS 6th Grade Students Go Remote / Skowhegan Schools Open
I’m writing two important notes regarding school tomorrow:
1 – ALL MSAD 54 Schools will be open tomorrow. Over the course of the weekend, we have been in contact with Maine Water regarding the town water supply in Skowhegan. We will be opening our in-town Skowhegan schools tomorrow with all students and staff having access to bottled water, and food will be prepared without using town water. We anticipate knowing more about the water on Monday and will update you over the course of the day. We appreciate the town and Maine Water for working so closely with us over the past 48 hours. We will continue to monitor the situation with the company and will provide an update on our website at some point tomorrow afternoon/evening.
2 – COVID-19 Update: Over the course of the weekend, we have been closely monitoring cases in the 6th grade at our Skowhegan Area Middle School (SAMS). Although it remains the case that each of our confirmed cases have been contracted outside of school, we now have enough additional information to give us pause on continuing with in-person instruction for the 6th grade. Today, after speaking with local health professionals, Maine CDC, and connecting with some of our families, we have decided--out of an abundance of caution--to move our entire SAMS 6th grade to remote learning for the remainder of the week. Our SAMS 7th and 8th grade classes will continue with hybrid learning (in-school every other day). We feel this partial closure (6th grade only) is a prudent and proactive move based on the guidance we have received.
November 14, 2020
Positive COVID-19 Case at SAMS
I’m writing to inform you that Maine CDC recently confirmed that a student at Skowhegan Area Middle School (SAMS) has tested positive for COVID-19. Over the course of the day today district administration and nursing staff have worked with Maine CDC to determine which students and staff will need to quarantine as a result of this positive case. As has been the case thus far, this individual tested positive as a result of exposure that occurred outside of school.
November 10, 2020
Positive COVID-19 Case at SAHS
I’m writing to inform you that Maine CDC recently confirmed that a Skowhegan Area High School Student (SAHS), who has not been in school since last week, has tested positive for COVID-19. District nursing and administrative staff have worked with Maine CDC to determine which students and staff will need to quarantine as a result of this positive case. Additionally, our nursing staff has confirmed that this case is a result of contact that occurred outside of the school setting.
November 9, 2020
Positive COVID-19 at CES/SAMS
I’m writing to inform you that MSAD 54 was recently notified that a part-time substitute employee has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual spent time at the Canaan Elementary School (CES) and the Skowhegan Area Middle School (SAMS) last week, and as a result some students and staff members have been identified to quarantine. As has been the case in each previous instance, this case is a result of contact that occurred outside of school.
November 6, 2020
Probable Case of COVID-19 at Bloomfield Elementary School
I’m writing to inform you that MSAD 54 was recently notified that Maine CDC is considering a student at Bloomfield Elementary School (BES) to be a “probable” positive case pending the results of a Covid-19 test. As has been the case in each previous instance, this probable positive case is a result of contact that occurred outside of school. Our staff has worked to identify those staff and students who were considered “close contacts” based on CDC guidance, and those individuals are being asked to quarantine.
At this time there is no recommendation that we close school or take additional actions beyond the quarantining measures mentioned above.
November 1, 2020
COVID-19 Update
We are writing to inform you that all MSAD 54 schools will be open for in-person instruction on Monday, November 2nd. As of this afternoon Maine CDC has informed us that each of our probable cases at Canaan Elementary School, from late last week, have tested negative. Additionally, we are pleased to report that all students in those CES classrooms that were quarantined on Friday will be able to return class Monday (11/2). Should parents have any questions regarding quarantine they are asked to email the school nurse directly.
October 30, 2020
COVID-19 Update, Yellow County Designation
We are writing to inform you that the Maine CDC has been in contact this morning to inform us that a staff member from Canaan Elementary School (CES) is now being considered a “Probable” positive case of Covid-19. This case, like all other cases we have had thus far, was a result of contact this person had outside of school.
At this time Maine CDC has directed us to quarantine two of our elementary classrooms (students and staff) as a result of this case. Canaan currently has three classrooms, including 47 students and 9 staff, who have been asked to quarantine. We will be sending home devices with our CES students today in the event we are unable to return to in-person instruction on Monday.
October 28, 2020
Probable COVID-19 Case, CES
As you know, this morning we sent a letter home notifying you that we had been informed that a district employee had tested positive for Covid-19, and that although that individual had been out, Maine CDC had asked us to quarantine some students and staff as a result of this positive test. At this time there is no additional information to report regarding that situation.
Since that time we were informed that a student at Canaan Elementary School (CES) was being considered a “probable” positive pending the results of a Covid-19 test. Maine CDC worked with us to identify those staff and students who were considered “close contacts” and those individuals have been asked to quarantine. All individuals considered to be close contacts will have received communication directly from the district by later this afternoon.
October 28, 2020
Positive Covid-19 Staff Person, MSAD54
This morning we were informed that a district employee has tested positive for Covid-19. This is an individual who had been at home and had no contact with students this week. We are working with the Maine CDC, who has asked us to quarantine some students and staff as a result of this positive test. Any child who will be asked to quarantine will be contacted by MSAD 54 staff today and likely also from Maine CDC over the next day or so.
October 19, 2020
Updated COVID-19 Pre-Screening Tool for School Attendance
October 12, 2020
This weekend we have been in contact with district staff, our district doctor, additional local contacts, and
Maine DOE/CDC. As of today, the Skowhegan Area High School, where one student tested positive on
10/7, has had no additional cases of Covid-19. The Mill Stream Elementary School, where one staff
person tested positive on 10/8, has also had no additional cases of Covid-19. In both instances, it was
determined that contact with Covid-19 occurred outside of school.
October 9, 2020
District-wide Notification
First let me begin by saying that we have had no additional cases of Covid-19 at Skowhegan Area High School since our first case on Wednesday. Last night we were informed of a positive case of COVID-19 at Mill Stream Elementary School. After reaching out to Maine DOE/CDC, we contacted MSES staff and asked them to remain home and, as planned, to provide remote learning to students today to the greatest extent possible.
During the day today, our administrators and nursing staff worked with the CDC and DOE to identify students and staff members who were close contacts with the individual who tested positive. Those students and staff members were called to inform them of the contact, and they were instructed to quarantine. Maine CDC contact tracers will reach out to all direct contacts.
It is important to remind all of our community members of a few things as we work to return our students to school and to keep our schools open during this pandemic...
October 9, 2020
MSES Parent Notification
Last night we were informed that a staff member at Mill Stream Elementary School has tested positive for Covid-19. After reaching out to Maine DOE/CDC, we contacted MSES staff and asked them to remain home, and provide remote learning to students today to the greatest extent possible as planned.
It is important that all students and staff who are exhibiting symptoms contact their primary care physician and limit their exposure to others. We will be working with Maine DOE/CDC today to identify primary and secondary contacts. Maine CDC Contact Tracers will reach out to all direct contacts. We will provide district-wide additional information to all parents later today.
October 7, 2020
This morning, following an email to staff, we were alerted to the fact that several of our students or staff members may have had contact with individuals from the Community (Cornville) Regional Charter Schools who have tested positive for Covid-19. Over the course of the day today, we have learned that one of our high school students, who hasn’t been in school since last Thursday, has tested positive.
At this time Maine CDC has not yet recommended we close school; however, given the close proximity with our students and the students of the Regional Charter School, we feel taking this preventative measure is appropriate. The significant number of potential exposures to the likely outbreak at the Charter School does give us concern; we believe it is necessary to take short term precautions to investigate potential exposures. As a result of the potential exposures, and understanding that contact tracing through Maine CDC takes time, we’ve decided that as a precautionary measure we will close all MSAD 54 schools for the remainder of this week.
September 27, 2020
We are reaching out with a few important items to bring to your attention:
1 – Tomorrow, Monday, September 28th, is a workshop day for all staff. There will be no school for students.
2 – The State has asked us to survey our parents for those who are unable to get high speed internet because of where they live (issues with physical address, regardless of money). If high speed internet isn’t available at your address and you would like to share your address with the state, please take a moment to complete this brief form: https://bit.ly/3jbE5TV
3 – Economically Disadvantaged Form (Free & Reduced lunch): We are asking any parent who hasn’t yet filled out this form, or any whose family situation has changed, to please fill out this form for us. This is VERY IMPORTANT for MSAD 54, as it helps us keep local property taxes down by accurately reporting our students economic status (which increases our federal and state reimbursement). Please take a moment to complete this brief confidential form by Wednesday: http://bit.ly/54Eform
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, thank you for the continued support you have shown the MSAD 54 school district. Our staff greatly appreciates that our community so deeply values the importance of education for our kids. In the face of the Pandemic and the requirements we are all having to follow, we will continue to do our best to help move our kids forward in their learning. If you have any questions or would like to talk, don’t hesitate to call us at school.
Thank you,
MSAD 54
September 25, 2020
RSU 54/MSAD 54 has teamed up with Redington-Fairview General Hospital to offer FREE influenza (flu) vaccination clinics during the month of October for our students. Please see below for the flue clinic schedule.
Permission Form » CDC Information Sheet » View Schedule & Map »
September 17, 2020
September 15, 2020
August 31, 2020
The nursing staff of MSAD54 is very prepared to welcome students back. Returning safely to school will require a team effort. The MSAD54 nurses are here to help as you work to make decisions about the health and well-being of your child and determine if they are able to attend school. MSAD54 is asking parents and guardians to pre-screen children, prior to school each day.
August 28, 2020
K-6 Remote Learning
MSAD #54 is dedicated to meeting the needs of our students. Our goal in our remote learning classroom is to provide your child with the best education possible. For remote learning to be successful we will need this to be a collaborative effort between families, students, and teachers.
August 21, 2020
To our Students and their Families,
Schools will be sending information to families next week with additional school-specific information including class lists, pickup and drop-off information etc. MSAD 54 will be having all students PK-6 attend school daily, with students in grades 7-12 attend every other day based on their last name in groups (A-J, and K-Z). The district has worked with the staff and school board to develop a "Soft Start". This approach will have students attend every-other-day for the first three weeks of school, as our teachers work to establish the health and safety requirements of social distancing, mask wearing etc. The soft start is described below in detail. Following information on the soft-start are links for our Return to School Plan, the Digital Learning Handbook, Maine CDC Mask Guidelines (which were recently changed by Maine CDC), and our Public FAQ document, which we will continue to update moving forward.
August 21, 2020
MSAD 54 has developed plans for a safe return to school that adheres to MSAD 54’s overarching principles and follow the 6 Requirements for Safely Opening Schools in the Fall as outlined in the Maine DOE Framework for Returning to Classroom Instruction. The district plans highlighted in this document follow rules set forth by the Maine Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Maine Department of Education. All health and safety guidelines outlined by these two organizations will be followed as part of MSAD 54’s return to school.
MSAD #54 Return To School Outline [PDF] »
August 20, 2020
MSAD 54 has adjusted our calendar to allow for a soft start to school (more info). Below is information and a link to our updated calendar.
Soft Start Alphabet Breakdown (and 7-12 ongoing): Students with last names starting:
A–J will attend school Tuesday & Thursday: 9/1, 9/3, 9/8, 9/10, 9/15, 9/17
K–Z (and remote learners in grades K-6) will attend school Wednesday & Friday: 9/2, 9/4, 9/9, 9/11, 9/16, 9/18
Note: 9th grade students will attend school on 9/1 (all of them as part of freshmen orientation), followed by all K-Z students on 9/2, and all A-J students on 9/3.
Updated 2020-2021 Calendar [PDF] »
August 14, 2020
Attention Students: https://forms.gle/Ehyizpn55z14n5yP7
The above link will take you to the Mascot/Nickname Student Survey where students in grades 6–12 are asked to share their TOP CHOICE(s) for mascot from the following choices: Badgers, Fisher Cats, Phoenix, River Drivers, Riverhawks, Skowhegan, Sturgeon, Thunder, Trail Blazers. Voting will occur from 8/14 - 9/4 using student email accounts. Students will be able to vote once back in school from 9/1-9/4. Following student voting, MSAD 54 Board subcommittees will select three choices to move to the full school board for a final selection. (https://bit.ly/54name)
August 7, 2020
MSAD 54 has developed plans for a safe return to school that adheres to MSAD 54’s overarching principles and follow the 6 Requirements for Safely Opening Schools in the Fall as outlined in the Maine DOE Framework for Returning to Classroom Instruction. The district plans highlighted in this document follow rules set forth by the Maine Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Maine Department of Education. All health and safety guidelines outlined by these two organizations will be followed as part of MSAD 54’s return to school.
View MSAD 54 Return to School Outline »
MSAD 54 Return to School Student Registration »
August 4, 2020
We’ve had several questions from parents inquiring about options for their students if a student, or parent, is uncomfortable with in-person learning–something our district is committed to and something we believe we can do safely. There will be a remote option for students at all grade levels.
We felt it appropriate to share our planning with you ahead of more detailed information that will be shared with you on August 7, 2020. Please know we are committed to meeting the needs of all our students and will have options for our students and families to choose from.
August 3, 2020
Video of presentation to parents and community, 7/30/20, on MSAD 54's draft outline of a return to school on September 1st. Parents will receive an updated plan via email on the evening of Friday, August 7th. The plan will also be posted to the public page of MSAD 54's website. Students/parents will have the option for remote (at-home) learning as part of the district's plan. Anyone with questions should reach out to their building principal.
July 28, 2020
July 24, 2020
We are writing to provide you with a brief update on our efforts to open school safely this fall and to make you aware of scheduled parent meetings next week on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
First, our planning continues. Since the letter of 7/19, we’ve continued to meet with staff and community stakeholders to plan for the safe reopening of school. The state released an updated framework for return to school on 7/21: https://www.maine.gov/doe/framework and we encourage you to review it. It is our hope to have a finalized plan for our students, parents and community members by August 7th as the State has indicated there will be further guidance late that week. We encourage you to visit our website for more details as we will update it as frequently as possible: https://www.msad54.org/public
Parent Meetings:
We will be holding parent meetings to share the draft outline, provide an update on a few state requirements, and to listen and answer questions. The goal here is to ensure all voices are heard as part of the planning process and to answer those questions we have time for. We will take the questions answered in person and those that aren't, and will include those in a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document for parents that we'll have ready for August 7th. We will continue to provide updates on our website until August 7th, and through to the opening of school.
We would encourage all families to try to limit participation in meetings to 1 person (if possible) to allow for as many people to join as possible. Questions can be emailed directly to feedback@msad54.org anytime and will be added to the FAQ which will be posted on the website prior to August 7th.
View meeting schedule and more details...
July 19, 2020
Dear MSAD 54 Parents, Guardians, Students and Community,
Since remote learning ended in June, MSAD 54 administrators, teachers, and community stakeholders have worked to provide feedback that has informed the development of a draft outline of a plan to return to school in the fall. Although the Maine Department of Education (DOE) has indicated a final framework for opening schools will not be out until early August, our goal is to provide you with as much information as possible over the summer. As we have shared in our newsletter and in many conversations, our plan's focus is to safely get our students back to in-person instruction in September.
July 16, 2020
Every year, MSAD 54 invites the public to review the Title I program. This year we are inviting the public to review and comment on MSAD 54’s ESEA application for the school year 2020-2021 at the Skowhegan Area Middle School from 12pm–1pm on Friday, July 24th. MSAD 54 accepts funding through the Elementary and Secondary Act (ESEA) of 1965. As part of ESEA, MSAD 54 is required to provide opportunities for public comment on the ESEA application prior to submission. If you have any questions feel free to contact Erin Madore, Title I Director at 474-9508 or emadore@msad54.org.
More about MSAD#54's Title 1A Program...
July 9, 2020
We are reaching out to again ask, for those of you that haven’t already done so, to take a moment to complete the district’s online survey regarding returning to school. The survey can be found at: https://bit.ly/54survey or from a link on the home page of our website.
Additionally the Maine Department of Education (MDOE) has released a series of surveys for parents, staff, administrators, and community members to get feedback on the reopening of schools. We encourage you also to give your thoughts here as we believe it is important that our region be well represented in the results. The MDOE surveys can be found at: https://www.maine.gov/doe/fall2020survey and is open through July 12th.
June 25, 2020
MSAD 54 Remote Learning Family Survey »
June 3, 2020
It is with sincere gratitude that I write this letter to you as we close in on the end of the current school year which ends for students on June 5th.
It has been my sincere privilege to have served as your Superintendent of Schools over the past seventeen (17) years. Clearly, the past three months have been challenging and unprecedented regarding the issues that everyone has experienced and coped with as a community. We are focused on bringing the closure of school to an end as smoothly as possible, while recognizing how stressful this is for everyone. I want to personally thank everyone for their part in making this as smooth and as child centered a process as possible.
May 29, 2020
In anticipation of the CDC and Governor Mills expanding social gatherings to 50 or fewer on June 1 and after consulting with students about how to best honor and promote the Class of 2020, and after considering several options, we have elected to hold an in-person graduation in June.
April 10, 2020
The purpose of this letter is to provide you with an update on our school year, share our district’s plan for continued opportunities for distance learning, and to give guidance regarding “how much” schooling is appropriate for your children while learning continues at home. You will find additional details posted to our district website over the coming days and I encourage you to access these resources and call your school administrators with questions.
In light of the Commissioner of Education and Governor’s recommendation for schools to move to remote learning for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year, the MSAD 54 Board of Directors voted to support the implementation of our Distance Learning Plan. This plan includes the move to providing online/virtual (Level 2) learning opportunities following April vacation. In the event State and CDC guidelines change in such a way that would allow a return to school, we will adjust our plans accordingly.
MSAD54 Opportunities for Distance Learning Plan
The district recognizes the incredibly challenging situation that our families face as our children are forced to remain at home during this pandemic. We understand not only the need for learning to continue while students are at home, but also that many of our students either do not have adequate access to technology or the internet, or do not have the resources necessary to support them in regularly accessing an education outside of school.
Knowing that Feedback is Essential to Learning: Is it possible to equitably "Grade" in this Crisis?
All schools in the state are in a similar situation as we are all closed, likely for the remainder of the year. We are all wrestling with what to do with distance learning. Unlike a snow-day, there are some unique challenges around equity that come with a closure for the remainder of the year; it is unlikely that any school can guarantee 100% of their students will have access to either the materials and resources, or teachers’ expertise, to bring up their grades. It is equally unlikely that access can be guaranteed, fair (either access to internet, support or to devices) and balanced. Additionally, we believe feedback is essential to student growth. We believe it is essential that students who are working receive feedback from teachers. Because of this, our team reviewed the following approaches/situations to see how others are handling feedback and grading to determine if we could, with any modifications, consider a way to provide feedback AND equitably grade our students for their time out of school.
April 2, 2020
These are truly unique times that have placed a burden on all of the things we value, including and at the forefront, our families. It is with this in mind that I am writing to provide you with an update on the district’s next-steps as a result of the ongoing school-closure due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. As you are aware, Governor Mills’ most recent order has extended the closure of schools through at least May 1st. Unfortunately, the guidance from the CDC and other medical experts lead me to believe that this closure will likely extend beyond that. Regional Superintendents will be meeting over the coming weeks to discuss next steps as we await further guidance from the state. In the meantime, I wanted to highlight the approach we are taking with respect to food delivery, district schools/offices and support, and at-home opportunities for learning for our students. Know that we recognize that nothing about this situation is ideal, but we, like you, will continue to do our very best.
March 20, 2020
In consultation with superintendents in our region and around the state, based on guidance of the Maine CDC and Maine DOE, MSAD54 will be extending the closure of our schools through April 26th. This decision allows us to continue to get guidance from the state to make a decision about the remaining part of the school year over the next month. To say the least, this has been difficult on everyone in our community. I truly hope your families are and remain healthy. We will continue to provide meals in our community as well as educational resources for opportunities for at-home learning while school is out of session. I’ve again provided this information below and would encourage you to visit our website for more information.
March 17, 2020
I am writing to provide you with an update on the district's next steps as as result of our recent school closure due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As you are aware, Governor Mills has issued a state of emergency and both federal and state officials have provided guidance that citizens should avoid gatherings of ten (10) or more people and advised us all to practice what is known as "social distancing". As of now, we do not know when our schools will reopen.
March 15, 2020
In response to guidance provided over the weekend specific to the COVID-19 pandemic, and in consultation with our board of directors, we have decided to close all of our schools for two weeks beginning Monday, March 16, and lasting until Friday, March 27. This closure is a proactive measure designed to allow staff to meet, plan, and have additional time to receive guidance. This school closure applies to all MSAD 54 School facilities including MSAD 54 Adult Education and the Somerset County Regional Technical Center (SCTC). Additionally, all outside facility uses will be suspended until further notice.
As we await further guidance from the Maine Centers for Disease Control and the Maine Department of Education, we encourage our parents/guardians and staff to follow common-sense strategies for preventing the spread of viruses:
At the individual student/staff level:
- We ask that children be kept home if they exhibit cold symptoms or a fever.
- We will continue to ask staff who are ill or have a fever to remain home and use sick time.
- Students and Staff are asked to regularly wash their hands and use proper hygiene, including avoiding touching face, mouth, eyes, etc.
- We encourage everyone to avoid travel when possible, especially to large gatherings in areas where there are known COVID-19 cases.
At the classroom/school level:
- We will reach out, as is our current protocol, anytime a student is found to have a fever or be sick.
- Teachers & nursing staff will be reviewing hygiene protocols with students including proper hand-washing, etc.
- Staff will discourage the sharing of personal items, including food, etc.
- Teachers will have anti-viral disinfectant spray bottles available for classroom use.
- Custodial staff will continue to follow cleaning protocols including increased frequency in high-travel areas and high-touch surfaces.
At the District Level, MSAD 54 will:
- Be in regular communication with state and local agencies regarding best practices for schools.
- Provide ongoing communication re: this topic including directly communicating with parents and our communities and by regularly updating this page
- Convene ongoing district administrative, crisis team, nursing staff, and school-staff meetings as necessary to inform and share information and to adjust plans based on guidance from the State.
- Review all school-related programming, especially field trips, including in and out-of-district trips.
- Review protocols to ensure regular ongoing best-practices are followed with respect to the cleaning of each school bus, in our preparation and distribution of food, and other district-wide programs.
- Work with area Schools and Superintendents to coordinate our responses to be consistent and best ensure the well-being of our students and communities.
View Parent Letter - Coronavirus (COVID-19) »
For more information from the CDC visit:
https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/mecdc/infectious-disease/epi/airborne/corona…