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Neillsville School Board Discusses Coronavirus Pandemic

Tuesday, March 17th, 2020 -- 11:52 AM

-With the closing of county schools, the Neillsville School Board discussed the current situation at their meeting on Monday.

During the Administrators’ Reports, the principals for the elementary, middle and high school all talked about the possible delay or cancellation in state testing. They also discussed the cancellation of field trips, athletics, in school activities and more. However, they also stated that students were given material to take home to keep themselves from getting rusty during this time off. Students were also allowed to take their computing devices home. And the principals also stressed that the doors may be closed, but they, and staff, are still available to students. They encouraged emailing them, or staff, if students or parents have any questions and they can also set up an online meeting or live chat with students. District Administrator John Gaier did state that the DPI is looking to have the instructional hours for this closure waived, but the district does still need to apply for the waiver. That means that even with this time off, the district will not need to make up the days in the closure like they need to if too many snow days are taken. He also said this will be an opportunity for the district to try virtual learning, but he stressed that he does not what to make things more difficult for parents. The district is fully aware of the stress parents are under right now and he said the district wants to be helpful not stressful.

He also reminded residents that the district will be providing meals for students and their weekend meals will still be provided. It was also mentioned that the district may have some of their bus drivers deliver meals to students. Mr. Gaier reminded everyone that the building is not open to anyone. That means no walkers, no use of the pool, no use of the facility by the Rec Department and any other activity. He said there were questions about athletics. As of now, spring practices have been canceled and the WIAA is having a meeting on Thursday to further discuss the situation. Mr. Gaier said there have also been questions about graduation. He said any student that is currently on track to graduate this spring will still graduate. He also stated that any student heading into school next year on track to graduate will still be on track. He also stated that they will be discussing keeping their employees compensated during this difficult time. He said the district will be paying all their employees through the end of the week and they will continue to discuss the situation.

Finally, Mr. Gaier stressed again that they want to be helpful in this situation and not stressful. He also reminded people that even though the doors are closed, they are still available and here for students. He stated that this is such a fluid situation that things can change within a matter of an hour. He said the district will continue to do their best to keep everyone updated. He knows that some people are upset about the closure, but, with the state and federal order, the district had no choice. In cases of orders by the state and federal governments, their hands are tied. If anyone has any questions or concerns, please contact Mr. Gaier or the rest of the administration at the Neillsville School District.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.