A great tribute to the amazing #classof2020. A big thanks to Owen Curtain for compiling this video and to all of the staff who contributed. Wishing the Class of 2020 a lifetime of happiness and success.
Sunday, May 31, 2020
Thursday, May 28, 2020
Important Graduation & Senior Celebration Information
I am pleased to announce our plans for the CCHS Graduation ceremony that will allow for a long-overdue celebration of the Class of 2020. Several weeks ago, we surveyed students with three options to consider for commencement exercises (Drive-in, virtual, or socially distanced with no spectators). Garnering nearly eight-out-of every ten votes, students selected the socially distanced option with no spectators. We were waiting for official approval from state and local leaders to move forward, and I am excited to say approval has arrived.
At that point, without approval, we could not broadcast plans that were simultaneously underway that could potentially allow for limited spectators at the Graduation ceremony. We have faith in our students and feel strongly that we can plan a safe, celebratory graduation with limited spectators. Our patience and planning have paid off.
Please read the information below on the Graduation ceremony including the information from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
In the coming weeks, a future correspondence will provide additional details on the graduation ceremony, but it is essential we save the date and provide information so families can plan. Please note, all plans are subject to change if circumstances change or if state and/or town rules and regulations change.
Graduation
Date:
Time:
Spectators:
Additional Details:
As noted, future correspondence will provide detailed information on the graduation ceremony.
Likely not a single person around the globe escaped some form of impact by the COVID-19 pandemic. Everything is relative, and COVID-19 has gradations of impact, but as noted in a previous blog post, few have suffered more than the Class of 2020. Although a graduation ceremony with limited spectators is not the exact model we are accustomed to, it is the best we can do under the conditions. We are so excited for this day to come.
Additional information celebrating seniors is below.
Senior Exit Survey
Seniors, please complete the survey for the Guidance Department.
https://forms.gle/
Senior Parade
Due to the rainy forecast Saturday, we decided to CHANGE the DATE of our Senior Parade.
Senior Awards
A virtual ceremony will take place on 9 June. All students and families receiving an award will receive an email invitation.
Graduate Lawn Signs- We delivered lawn signs to all Graduating seniors.
Tote Bags
We are in the process of ordering our version of a CCHS "swag bag." We plan to fill them with small items and arrange for a pickup in June of student records, cap and gown, and other things. Details and the date to follow soon.
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Graduation Guidance
On Thursday, 21 May, DESE sent districts guidelines developed in conjunction with the Department of Public Health about high school graduation ceremonies (download). High school graduations are an important ceremony in the lives of the graduate and their loved ones. High school graduation ceremonies should proceed with the following schedule and guidelines:
In addition, Governor Charlie Baker, in partnership with WGBH, will deliver a commencement address to the Class of 2020 as part of a celebration for graduating seniors that will be broadcast at 7:30 pm on Tuesday, 9 June. In addition to the Governor’s remarks, the event will feature congratulatory messages from local celebrities, a performance by members of the Boston Pops Orchestra, and a speech by students.
A Message to your Graduating Seniors from Congresswoman Lori Trahan
Registering to Vote Read Congresswoman Lori Trahan's letter to Seniors here
At that point, without approval, we could not broadcast plans that were simultaneously underway that could potentially allow for limited spectators at the Graduation ceremony. We have faith in our students and feel strongly that we can plan a safe, celebratory graduation with limited spectators. Our patience and planning have paid off.
Please read the information below on the Graduation ceremony including the information from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
In the coming weeks, a future correspondence will provide additional details on the graduation ceremony, but it is essential we save the date and provide information so families can plan. Please note, all plans are subject to change if circumstances change or if state and/or town rules and regulations change.
Graduation
Date:
- 19 July
- This is the first day an outdoor ceremony is allowed.
- The ceremony must be outside, so rain date(s) will be the entire week of 20 July.
Time:
- 9:00am
- This may change if held during the week due to rain.
Spectators:
- Each graduate will receive two tickets for their family.
- School personnel will also be in attendance.
Additional Details:
- Everyone will maintain social distancing and wear masks.
- We purchased masks for students.
- The ceremony will be broadcast live by Minuteman Media Network.
As noted, future correspondence will provide detailed information on the graduation ceremony.
 |
| Student Masks Are Provided |
Likely not a single person around the globe escaped some form of impact by the COVID-19 pandemic. Everything is relative, and COVID-19 has gradations of impact, but as noted in a previous blog post, few have suffered more than the Class of 2020. Although a graduation ceremony with limited spectators is not the exact model we are accustomed to, it is the best we can do under the conditions. We are so excited for this day to come.
Additional information celebrating seniors is below.
Senior Exit Survey
Seniors, please complete the survey for the Guidance Department.
https://forms.gle/
Senior Parade
Due to the rainy forecast Saturday, we decided to CHANGE the DATE of our Senior Parade.
Please plan to join us on SUNDAY 31 May, from 4:15 - 5:30 pm. We will send out a detailed email about logistics for all participants later this week. All CCHS seniors and their family members are welcome.
Please sign up on this Google Form by noon on Friday, 29 May, if you plan to join us. Once you have registered, you will receive an Evite where you can see who else will be at the parade, and add/access photos after the event.
Here is the FAQ document for seniors and families, which should address most of your questions about the parade. Seniors, you can email jcottonherman@concordcarlisle.
We can't wait to celebrate all of you this SUNDAY at CCHS. We hope to see you there!
With congratulations from all of us at CCHS.
Senior Awards
A virtual ceremony will take place on 9 June. All students and families receiving an award will receive an email invitation.
Graduate Lawn Signs- We delivered lawn signs to all Graduating seniors.
Tote Bags
We are in the process of ordering our version of a CCHS "swag bag." We plan to fill them with small items and arrange for a pickup in June of student records, cap and gown, and other things. Details and the date to follow soon.
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
Graduation Guidance
On Thursday, 21 May, DESE sent districts guidelines developed in conjunction with the Department of Public Health about high school graduation ceremonies (download). High school graduations are an important ceremony in the lives of the graduate and their loved ones. High school graduation ceremonies should proceed with the following schedule and guidelines:
- Ceremonies held between now and Saturday, 18 July should be held virtually or in extremely limited other circumstances following safety protocols (e.g., car parades).
- Ceremonies held beginning Sunday, 19 July may take place OUTSIDE under the standards outlined in the guidance and assuming the public health data supports the continued opening of our state.
In addition, Governor Charlie Baker, in partnership with WGBH, will deliver a commencement address to the Class of 2020 as part of a celebration for graduating seniors that will be broadcast at 7:30 pm on Tuesday, 9 June. In addition to the Governor’s remarks, the event will feature congratulatory messages from local celebrities, a performance by members of the Boston Pops Orchestra, and a speech by students.
A Message to your Graduating Seniors from Congresswoman Lori Trahan
Registering to Vote Read Congresswoman Lori Trahan's letter to Seniors here
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Senior Celebrations
Graduation & Senior Recognitions
There is a group comprised of staff, parents, and students currently working on end-of-year recognition for seniors. I want to thank all of them for helping to plan unique ways to celebrate seniors. The parents either represent a parent group, or are in close contact with parent groups who continue to offer their time, energy, and generosity to the students of CCHS. Students are providing great feedback that help shape the decision making and staff members are working hard to help organize.
Although this is not an exhaustive list of ideas currently under consideration, the list below is an update on plans that are marching ahead.
Graduation-Seniors received a survey yesterday and have until midnight tomorrow to offer feedback.
Graduate Lawn Signs- We are in the process of ordering lawn signs made for all Graduating seniors. Brian, Katie, and I plan to personally drop them off at each graduates residence.
Tote Bags- We are in the process of ordering our version of a CCHS "swag bag." We plan to fill them with small items and arrange for a pickup in early June of student records, cap and gown, and other items.
Senior Parade- This requires detailed cooperation with town officials, but the planning has commenced. A date in late May is likely. A rolling rally with a publicized route to allow staff to say goodbye to the Class of 2020 is the desired result.
Senior Awards-Staff/individual departments will deliberate over the next two weeks. We will announce all winners and either mail or arrange a pickup in late May or early June.
Please be aware, that all events and dates are subject to change. Other groups who generously support CCHS students continue to plan ways to recognize the great Class of 2020! We are grateful to all those willing to help celebrate the great students of CCHS.
There is a group comprised of staff, parents, and students currently working on end-of-year recognition for seniors. I want to thank all of them for helping to plan unique ways to celebrate seniors. The parents either represent a parent group, or are in close contact with parent groups who continue to offer their time, energy, and generosity to the students of CCHS. Students are providing great feedback that help shape the decision making and staff members are working hard to help organize.
Although this is not an exhaustive list of ideas currently under consideration, the list below is an update on plans that are marching ahead.
Graduation-Seniors received a survey yesterday and have until midnight tomorrow to offer feedback.
Graduate Lawn Signs- We are in the process of ordering lawn signs made for all Graduating seniors. Brian, Katie, and I plan to personally drop them off at each graduates residence.
Tote Bags- We are in the process of ordering our version of a CCHS "swag bag." We plan to fill them with small items and arrange for a pickup in early June of student records, cap and gown, and other items.
Senior Parade- This requires detailed cooperation with town officials, but the planning has commenced. A date in late May is likely. A rolling rally with a publicized route to allow staff to say goodbye to the Class of 2020 is the desired result.
Senior Awards-Staff/individual departments will deliberate over the next two weeks. We will announce all winners and either mail or arrange a pickup in late May or early June.
Please be aware, that all events and dates are subject to change. Other groups who generously support CCHS students continue to plan ways to recognize the great Class of 2020! We are grateful to all those willing to help celebrate the great students of CCHS.
Tuesday, May 5, 2020
Important Information: Graduation & Senior Recognitions, Phase 3 Learning Expectations, Student Q&A, Parent Q&A, and Kahoot Event
All,
I hope this correspondence finds you and yours in good health during this unprecedented time. The week of May 4th is Teacher Appreciation Week. This noble profession always deserves appreciation, but I cannot think of another time in our nation's history when they deserved more than they do right now. Thanks to each and every teacher across the country!
Let me start with a sobering assessment of our current situation. We are seven weeks into the current learning environment that continues with the massive cloud of a health crisis hanging overhead. We begrudgingly accepted the fact that schools are closed for the year. This decision moved us from Phase 2 of the learning plan to Phase 3 (outlined below).
One of the many difficult things to accept is the inaction required to address the pandemic. We are programmed to identify challenges and take action to solve complex problems. The pandemic asks of us the exact opposite. Instead of action to tackle our problem, we must distance and hunker down, and that is not in our nature.
Despite this sobering reality, there are reasons for optimism. First of all, I take solace knowing the best minds in the world have a common enemy and a singular focus to beat COVID-19. It is not "if" we will return to normal, but "when." Although the when still remains an unknown, I hope you can take comfort knowing that day will arrive.
Our plans for the remainder of the year are listed in detail below. Phase 3 was motivated by new guidelines from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, along with input from both staff and the community. I wish nothing but health and resilience for you and your family.
Please read below for details on upcoming informational sessions and information on end-of-year celebrations.
Graduation & Senior Recognitions
There is a group comprised of staff, parents, and students currently working on end-of-year recognition for seniors. We will meet tomorrow for the third time to finalize the details of our plans. Further, seniors will receive a survey seeking their input on Graduation options. The survey is non-binding and subject to additional approvals and subject to change. More information is forthcoming soon.
Phase 3 Learning Plan
The most essential factor in the weeks ahead is the physical and emotional well-being of students and staff. That remains the priority. The plan in the weeks ahead is put into place, knowing that not everyone will be able to participate in full capacity. If you need assistance, please contact your teacher and/or guidance counselor.
Those able to participate should do so earnestly. Beginning Monday, 11 May, each teacher will offer two 30-minute live, synchronous teaching sessions for students each week until the end of the 2019-2020 school year (for full credit classes, classes that only meet 2x per week, are expected to have one 30-min session per week).
*Teachers will notify their students of the start time of the 30-min session within the 50 min block.
Register in advance for this webinar:
https://concordps.zoom.us/
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
I hope this correspondence finds you and yours in good health during this unprecedented time. The week of May 4th is Teacher Appreciation Week. This noble profession always deserves appreciation, but I cannot think of another time in our nation's history when they deserved more than they do right now. Thanks to each and every teacher across the country!
Let me start with a sobering assessment of our current situation. We are seven weeks into the current learning environment that continues with the massive cloud of a health crisis hanging overhead. We begrudgingly accepted the fact that schools are closed for the year. This decision moved us from Phase 2 of the learning plan to Phase 3 (outlined below).
One of the many difficult things to accept is the inaction required to address the pandemic. We are programmed to identify challenges and take action to solve complex problems. The pandemic asks of us the exact opposite. Instead of action to tackle our problem, we must distance and hunker down, and that is not in our nature.
Despite this sobering reality, there are reasons for optimism. First of all, I take solace knowing the best minds in the world have a common enemy and a singular focus to beat COVID-19. It is not "if" we will return to normal, but "when." Although the when still remains an unknown, I hope you can take comfort knowing that day will arrive.
Our plans for the remainder of the year are listed in detail below. Phase 3 was motivated by new guidelines from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, along with input from both staff and the community. I wish nothing but health and resilience for you and your family.
Please read below for details on upcoming informational sessions and information on end-of-year celebrations.
Graduation & Senior Recognitions
There is a group comprised of staff, parents, and students currently working on end-of-year recognition for seniors. We will meet tomorrow for the third time to finalize the details of our plans. Further, seniors will receive a survey seeking their input on Graduation options. The survey is non-binding and subject to additional approvals and subject to change. More information is forthcoming soon.
Phase 3 Learning Plan
The most essential factor in the weeks ahead is the physical and emotional well-being of students and staff. That remains the priority. The plan in the weeks ahead is put into place, knowing that not everyone will be able to participate in full capacity. If you need assistance, please contact your teacher and/or guidance counselor.
Those able to participate should do so earnestly. Beginning Monday, 11 May, each teacher will offer two 30-minute live, synchronous teaching sessions for students each week until the end of the 2019-2020 school year (for full credit classes, classes that only meet 2x per week, are expected to have one 30-min session per week).
- These live sessions can be hosted in Google Hangout, Zoom, or another platform of the teacher’s choice.
- One intent of these sessions is to support students in learning new content. In Phase 2, teachers had the option to hold office hours. In Phase 3 each teacher will offer two 30-minute live sessions.
- When possible, tutors and assistants will attend the classes they normally do when school is physically open.
- We expect all students who can attend these live sessions to participate. Mandatory attendance is a new expectation, and teachers will take attendance in Aspen.
- If able, we want students to attend all live sessions; however, to receive an automatic “pass” for Quarter 4, students need to attend more than 65% of live sessions. Flexibility will be determined for special situations by a team consisting of a teacher, administrator, guidance counselor, and, if applicable, a special educator.
- If able, students should complete all assignments; however, to receive an automatic “pass” for Quarter 4, students need to complete more than 50% of the assignments on May 11 through the end of the school year.
- Last night Dr. Hunter shared Phase Three.docx of our learning plan.
*Teachers will notify their students of the start time of the 30-min session within the 50 min block.
Thursday, May 7, 7:00PM - Student Q&A
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://concordps.zoom.us/
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the event.
https://concordps.zoom.us/
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the event.
To allow us to be best prepared for the event, it would be helpful if you can enter your questions via the google form below. Having your questions ahead of time will allow us to conduct any research before the event and then be able to provide you the most accurate answer(s): Question Form
Thursday, May 7, 7:30PM - Community Kahoot Trivia
Register in advance for this meeting (if you have registered for the student Q&A, then you do not need to register again for this event):
https://concordps.zoom.us/
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the event.
https://concordps.zoom.us/
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the event.
Friday, May 8, 1:30PM - Parent Q&A
Phase 3 & More will be covered in this Q&A
This Event Will Be Recorded For Those Who Cannot Attend
Register in advance for this webinar:
https://concordps.zoom.us/
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
To allow us to be best prepared for the event, it would be helpful if you can enter your questions via the google form below. Having your questions ahead of time will allow us to conduct any research before the event and then be able to provide you the most accurate answer(s): Question Form
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