Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates

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Student and staff safety is our top priority at Findlay City Schools. If you have a question, concern or comment about any health or safety issue, please let us know.

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Legislation

Legislation – March 27, 2020

West Ohio Food Bank Dates

TROY ROTH
Assistant Superintendent of Schools

April 24, 2020

Ohio Department of Education Update – Graduation

The Ohio Department of Education has been fielding several questions about graduation ceremonies and other end-of-year recognition ceremonies for students. Educators, students and parents are questioning whether they should attempt to hold in-person events of this nature. While we understand the significance, tradition and rites of passage many of these events represent, particularly for our seniors, schools should hold events virtually rather than conducting in-person events of this type, and record these events whenever possible and practicable. Congregate graduation ceremonies should not be held. Additionally, we recommend holding a virtual or alternate recognition on the original intended graduation date or a date very close to that date.

Governor DeWine, during his press conference on Monday, April 20, stated, “the gathering of significant numbers of people is a dangerous situation. Just as schools have been innovative in regard to how to teach from a distance, I know that they will be innovative as they look at how…they honor the students…” We are asking the education community to come together and honor our students, especially our seniors, in a manner that doesn’t pose health risks to anyone. Schools should continue to recognize the importance of restrictions on mass gatherings, and events should be aligned with the Ohio Department of Health’s Order.

Hosting in-person events can lead to many other negative consequences, including the following:

  • With each change of venue and/or calendar delay (July or later graduation ceremony), there is no guarantee that large gatherings will be permitted, and there is a risk of fewer students actually participating due to other life plans such as beginning employment, attending college, military enlistment, etc.
  • In-person events add to the complexity of asking students to comply with social distancing, as these events often are highly emotional, invoking natural physical responses (such as high fives and hugs).
  • In-person events, even if only for participants, can lead to other people (family members, relatives, friends) wanting to physically attend, even though not permitted to do so.
  • Pressure is unintentionally put on other high schools (principals, superintendents and board members) that have chosen to conduct events virtually rather than in person.

Therefore, school leaders should conduct graduation ceremonies and other recognition events in a remote manner that honors each student in a safe and responsible way, prioritizing the health needs of students, their families and the community.

EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools

April 20, 2020

Video Update on REO (Remote Education Options) Options

Dear Findlay City School families and the Class of 2020:

As you may have already heard, yesterday afternoon Governor DeWine ordered all Ohio public schools to remain closed through the remainder of the 2019-2020 academic year, with the exception of food distribution. The food distribution will continue to run through the remainder of the school calendar year on Monday and Wednesday from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and we are diligently working to maintain our Monday and Wednesday food distribution throughout the summer.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to numerous challenges for our entire Findlay City School district. It has been an incredibly difficult situation that has led to creative thinking with significant changes from traditional learning to remote learning. Remote learning will continue for the remainder of this academic year. We are also working on academic resources for all students in grades PK-11 to utilize during the summer months.

I know that the school closure has been particularly disappointing to the Class of 2020. The cancellation of the spring sports season, performances, and numerous other events comes as great distress to many, as it does to the entire FCS district family.

We, unfortunately, will be unable to hold our traditional graduation ceremony on May 23, at the Koehler Center. However, we are working on a way to celebrate the great accomplishments of the 2020 graduating class and will communicate all the details as soon as everything has been confirmed. Thank you for your patience and understanding during this unprecedented time.

While school is not in session, we encourage you to reflect on your achievements and look ahead to your future. Thank you, students, teachers, and parents for all your hard work and continued dedication. Parents, please continue to communicate with your student’s teachers and principal should you have questions. Thank you!

*Please see the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) web page that may answer some of your questions. 
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
April 20, 2020

School Buildings Will Remain Closed for the Remainder of the 2019-2020 School Year

This afternoon, Governor DeWine announced that all schools in the State of Ohio will remain closed for the rest of the 2019/2020 school year. With this announcement comes additional planning and considerations that we are working on. We will provide more information on the plans for the remainder of the school year tomorrow. Remote education will continue for the remainder of the year. Thank you for your support and know we are here to help and support student and families.

 
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
April 17, 2020

WFIN – Good Morning Interview with Mr. Kurt

Description about the Podcast:  It appears increasingly likely that students will finish the academic year at home… Findlay City Schools superintendent Ed Kurt explains how educators are planning for that contingency – Senator Sherrod Brown talks about the need for additional coronavirus relief for essential workers, farmers and local and state governments – We’re going to need a vacation when all this is over, but who can afford one? Not to worry, there’s a whole new world to discover within driving distance – Back by popular demand, we have more recipes from Kyra’s Kitchen to wrap up another week of shows from the home studio.  Click on the image below to listen to the podcast.

Podcast with Mr. Kurt and WFIN
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
April 16, 2020

West Ohio Food Bank Distribution April 2020
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
April 8, 2020

Ohio Wi-Fi Hotspot Locations

Through BroadbandOhio – the state’s office dedicated to improving access to high-speed internet – we have been working with providers to find public hotspot locations that Ohioans can use in areas where they may not otherwise have access to internet from home.

Charter Communications (Spectrum) Wi-Fi service area is statewide.  Search for your address using the search box located inside the Map.

  • Spectrum Hotspot Locations – Searchable Map  (use the search box located inside the map)
    Spectrum WiFi Hotspot Map

For a complete list of all Ohio’s Wi-Fi Hotspot Locations – visit the Innovate Ohio website.  Providers not currently listed that are offering public wi-fi hotspots are encouraged to email together@governor.ohio.gov with contact information and a representative from BroadbandOhio will follow-up.

 
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
April 6, 2020

Dear Findlay City Schools Community,

As this letter comes to you, I hope all is well with you and your family. I can’t say enough positive things about our community and the support of one another throughout this time in our lives. Today’s reality is new to all of us, and the teachers are all doing a great job taking care of the student’s needs through the Remote Education Option. Thank you for your understanding as we continue to work through this mandated school closure due to the national pandemic. I want to address spring break (April 10-13) and a new food distribution schedule that will begin after spring break.

Throughout the school closure, we have provided “Grab and Go” lunches and breakfasts at Lincoln Elementary and Glenwood Middle School. After spring break, food distribution will be two days per week each Monday and Wednesday from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the same locations. For more information about food distribution, please visit www.fcs.org.

This week begins our scheduled spring break (April 10-13). We know for many of you, the break will look much the same as the past few weeks have looked being in your homes. However, we truly want this to be a break from remote learning. Enjoy your family time together.

There is a lot of speculation if schools will reopen this year; making that prediction now would be premature. There is much information that we will receive in the next few weeks that will determine our course of action. We will wait to hear the next executive order from Governor DeWine after the current May 1st stay at home order. After May 1st, we will know the fate of our school year and the expectations moving forward. Once we know what the parameters are, we will communicate with you.

I know that I have said this so many times, but we are in uncharted territory and are doing the best with what we know and the resources that are available to us. I am proud to be a part of a district that always puts kids first and will make all decisions with that in mind. Stay home, and stay healthy and take care of one another.

Grab & Go Meals

West Ohio Food Bank Information

FCS Students Share Your Story

April 2, 2020

A Message from The American Red Cross

The American Red Cross is looking for local volunteers throughout Ohio that would be willing to help at blood drives and local disasters. In addition, we are also looking for ‘HELP FROM HOME” volunteers to help with volunteer support. All required training and resources will be provided. For more info, send an email to volunteerohio@redcross.org or visit our volunteer website at www.redcross.org/volunteer …. Blood Donors are also needed in every area – visit redcrossblood.org to find the closest donation site near you to schedule an appointment! Thanks in advance for your consideration.

Trojan Totes drop off

EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
March 31, 2020

Findlay City Schools Advice For Schooling from Home – COVID19

Findlay City Schools Assistant Superintendent Troy Roth talks with Membership & Events Manager Doug Jenkins about the different ways teachers are adapting their lesson plans and how you can help your child as they shift to the schooling from home environment.
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
March 30, 2020 @ 2:30 p.m.

Dear Parents and Community Members:

As you know, Findlay City Schools has been closed for the past several weeks to help prevent the further spread of coronavirus (COVID-19) in our community. On March 30, 2020 Governor DeWine ordered an extension to the school closures in our state through May 1, 2020.

The closure will continue to affect all Findlay City Schools programming, including before – and after – school activities, all athletic and extracurricular practices and competitions, and all weekend events.

Our teachers will continue to provide Remote Education Options (REO) to students. If you have any questions about the REO process, please contact your child’s teacher or building principal.

This has been an incredibly challenging time for the entire Findlay City Schools community. I want to thank you for your patience and understanding as we continue to deal with this daily changing unprecedented situation. We will continue to keep you updated via email, text, social media, and our website, at fcs.org.

Please contact us if we can be of any assistance or if there are any questions or concerns. Once again, thank you.
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
March 27, 2020 @ 4:00 p.m.
Findlay City Schools Community:
We continue to provide Remote Education Options and food distribution.  Governor DeWine did not address the state-mandated closing of school facilities today at his daily briefing.   We will provide updates as we get more information.  Please refer to fcs.org for information.  The Frequently Asked Question page will continue to be updated.

Click here for more information pertaining to Legislation Addressing COVID-19: Legislation Update

Wifi Access

EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
March 23, 2020 @ 12:00 p.m.
FCS – Stay At Home Order – March 23, 2020
Check out the Jefferson Town Hall Leader in Me video from remote education.  Please note the photos of the children gathered in groups are older photos.
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
March 20, 2020 @ 1:00 p.m.

Helpful Links:
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
March 19, 2020 @ 9:00 a.m.

Updated Remote Education Options (REO)

 
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
March 17, 2020 @ 8:00 a.m.
Findlay Board of Education Meeting – Statement

Over the past few weeks we have been meeting with the Hancock County Health Department, communicating with our professional organizations, and having meetings with community leaders in preparation for dealing with COVID -19. Our Administration team has met and worked hard on a plan to protect our students & staff, and put together a Remote Education Option (REO) for our students. Our Board of Education has been in communication with us – even holding a special emergency board meeting to review our planning and communication. We are so proud of the work of our Administrative Team, Faculty, and Staff in dealing with this situation while always keeping safety at the forefront for our students & staff.

Findlay City Schools is committed to providing ongoing remote instruction during the extended school closure due to COVID-19. Teachers have worked hard on a Remote Education Option (REO) that will begin on Wednesday, March 18, 2020. Beginning on Tuesday, March 17th from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. food will be distributed at Glenwood Middle School and Lincoln Elementary. The food distribution will continue Monday-Friday at the same time and locations throughout the school closure. Please continue to check the FCS website, e-mails, and social media as we pledge to keep the information updated.

Also, on our webpage are links to other educational sites, health information, and food distribution locations. The Community Food Distribution is being coordinated by the United Way. Hancock Helps is another site that can be of assistance for emergency numbers, local help, mental health needs, and other support meetings. At this time our buildings are still open to staff with an option to work remotely. Principals and Supervisors are communicating to employees the needs of the building and district. We are scheduled for daily administrative team meetings via google and have ceased meeting as a large group.

We want to remind everyone that this is an ever changing situation and we need to be flexible and keep the communication open as we move forward. Collaboration and compassion for each other is the key to our community and especially our school system – we need to help one another.

Please contact us if there are questions or concerns.

Mr. Edward P. Kurt, Superintendent

 
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
March 16, 2020 @ 2:00 p.m.

Dear Findlay City Schools Community:

Findlay City Schools is committed to providing ongoing instruction during the extended school closure due to COVID-19.  Teachers are working on a Remote Education Option (REO) that will begin on Wednesday, March 18, 2020.   Beginning on Tuesday, March 17th from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. food will be distributed at Glenwood Middle School and Lincoln Elementary.  The food distribution will continue Monday-Friday at the same time and locations throughout the school closure.  Please continue to check the FCS website, e-mails, and social media for more information.

Mr. Ed Kurt, Superintendent

 
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools
March 15, 2020
Press Release – Hancock County Creates Alliance to Distribute Needed Food
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools

March 13, 2020

Monday In-Service Training Day for Remote Learning Options

  • Monday, March 16, 2020 we will be having another professional development day to prepare for remote educational options. (REO).
  • Students will not be in attendance.
  • Each building will post their remote educational options when they are finalized.

We are also working through the process of providing food to students at 2 locations. This process and information we hope to have out early next week.

Please see these locations for current food assistance needs/options:

  • We Serve Coffee is donating lunches. Students can ask for Lunches with Love , no questions asked 567-525-4680.
  • There are free little pantries scattered across town, specifically one at Bigelow Hill School.
  • AJ’s Heavenly Pizza donating a pizza slice and water for lunch.
  • Chopin Hall is hosting a drive thru program. 419-422-6401
  • The City Mission is open each day for anyone who needs a hot meal. A sack lunch will be provided to children. Lunch will be served 11:30- 1:00 pm Monday – Saturday. Dinner will be 5:00-6:00 pm 7 days a week. 419-423-9151
  • YMCA Feed-A-Child will be distributing meals remotely throughout the times that schools are closed. Please watch for a schedule early next week – Meals will be handed out to any student who needs them. The Y will distribute from the parking lots of schools that participate in Feed-A-Child.

Sincerely,

Edward P. Kurt, Superintendent

Coronavirus Symptons Coronavirus Prevention
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools

March 12, 2020

Dear Parents and Staff:

This Friday, March 13, 2020, we will be having a staff professional development day (students will not be in attendance) in preparation for the state mandated three (3) week school closure. For the past several weeks we have been working closely with the Hancock County Health Department, monitoring and taking guidance as we progress through the COVID-19 (Coronavirus) situation.

The Ohio Department of Health and Governor DeWine stated that a fifth case of the virus has been confirmed in Ohio at a press conference today. The Governor mandated beginning Monday, March 16, 2020 K-12 schools will be closed for a total of three (3) weeks. On Friday, our staff will be working by grade level and subject area to prepare curriculum in the event that we need to provide remote learning. With our in-service Friday and mandated three (3) week spring break due to the COVID-19 situation, we will notify students and parents Monday via our current communication processes when/if our remote learning will begin.

Effective March 13, 2020: The Findlay City Schools will be operating under the following guidelines:

  • All field trips at this point are suspended for an indefinite period of time. Out of district travel will occur only with permission by the superintendent or designee.
  • All after school indoor and weekend activities are suspended for an indefinite period of time.
  • March 13, 2020 will be a staff training day to prepare for the possibility of moving to a remote educational delivery model. (Previously referred to as blizzard bags). The training day agenda for teachers will be directed by the building principals. Employees will report to work — students will not be in session.
  • Parents should begin to prepare for the possibility of childcare solutions.
  • During school hours tomorrow, buildings will be open to any students needing to gather essentials for remote learning.
  • Students should not report to school on Friday, March 13th. (Unless picking up personal items)
  • Students should not report on Monday, March 16th and then for a three week period.

We appreciate the continued support and understanding as we deal with a situation that truly is unprecedented and continues to evolve. The district will continue to watch developments and take the appropriate steps necessary to protect our students, staff, and school community.

Sincerely,

Mr. Ed Kurt, Superintendent Findlay City Schools
EDWARD KURT
Superintendent of Schools

March 11, 2020

Dear Findlay City Schools Parents and Guardians:

The Findlay City Schools (FCS) top priority is the health, safety and well-being of all students and staff.

The administrative team for the school district has been monitoring the recent developments of the outbreak of COVID-19, commonly referred to as the coronavirus. According to the CDC, “Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. The virus that causes COVID-19 is a novel coronavirus that was first identified during an investigation into an outbreak in Wuhan, China.” It’s important to note that the Hancock County Board of Health is the lead agency for our school district in regards to COVID-19. FCS will be prepared to implement public health recommendations as required.

As of now, the district has no reason to believe that there is any cause for alarm in regard to the health of students and staff at any FCS building. Given the steadily increasing numbers of reported cases both internationally and in the United States, including Ohio, FCS will continue to monitor information provided by the CDC. We will work with our local health department, the Ohio Department of Education, and the Ohio Board of Health in regard to COVID-19. If we were to experience a COVID-19 case, we will take direction from these agencies regarding potential school closings.

Decisions to cancel events and school closings are always difficult, but we will take every precaution to keep our students safe and healthy. At this time, we are reviewing all scheduled events on a case-by-case basis to assess risk and necessary precautions—which could include postponements and cancelations. With safety foremost in our minds, we continue to seek guidance from the CDC, the Hancock County Board of Health and the Ohio Department of Health to minimize any risk to our students and staff. These agencies continue to provide resources and updates to help us monitor any impact of COVID-19 in our region to keep our students, staff, and families safe from this and all communicable diseases.

The Findlay City School district will continue to perform routine cleaning of our school facilities to keep our students and staff as safe as possible. We will include a greater emphasis on frequently touched surfaces and areas, including classrooms, bathrooms, and cafeterias. Many areas in school buildings, including classrooms and offices, have hand sanitizers and tissues for student and staff use. Although hand sanitizers can be effective as a second line of defense for spreading disease, they should not be considered a substitute for thoroughly washing of hands.

Please join the Findlay City School district in encouraging students to practice good health habits, at home and at school. These actions include:

  • Avoid contact with people that are sick
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
  • Stay home when you are sick, except to seek medical care
  • Use proper cough and sneeze etiquette
  • Clean frequently touched surfaces and objects daily
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Choose a room in your home that can be used to separate sick household members

If more updates become available from any national or local agency, the Findlay City School district will quickly communicate any relevant information to those in our school community.

For more information about COVID-19, please click on the links below:

Sincerely,

Mr. Edward P. Kurt, Findlay City Schools Superintendent
Frequently Asked Questions

Starting Tuesday, March 24, 2020, the Findlay City Schools Welcome Center hours of operations will be 10:00 am to 2:00 pm (Monday – Friday) until further notice.   In order to keep the at-risk population protected, appointments are preferred.  Please call 419-425-8275 to schedule an appointment to register your student(s).

Intra and Inter-District Applications can be mailed to the Findlay City Schools EMIS Coordinator, 2019 Broad Ave, Findlay, Ohio 45840, emailed to kmissler@fcs.org or dropped in the drop box at the Welcome Center during the above hours of operations.

US Government Guidelines for Opening Up America
Ohio Department of Health

Ohio Dept. of Health
COVID-19 Call Center
1-833-4-ASK-ODH
1-833-427-5634
9 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Crisis Hotline
1-888-936-7116

Crisis Text Line
4Hope to 741-741

Coronavirus Impact Graphic

Important Resources

With information changing daily, we encourage families to stay up to date on information regarding COVID-19 and protect yourself and the community.

What is Coronavirus
What You Should Know
How to Protect Yourself & Your Family
Ohio Department of Education - FAQ
Centers for Disease Control
The Courier Coronavirus Updates
Project DAWN Narcan Kit
Family Resource Center Toolkit

Allies in Recovery announced that starting 5/12/20 its unique online platform, where families of an addicted person receive training and coaching, is now free for the duration of the COVID-19 crisis. Families and professionals can now train at no cost on CRAFT, the only approach for the family that is evidence-based. To register, simply go to AlliesinRecovery.net and follow instructions to join.

Findlay Area Mental Health Resources
Hancock Helps!

Hancock Helps

Seasonal Flu vs. Pandemic Flu Infographic
Your Path To Health
Household Checklist
Adequate Sleep & Routine
COVID-19 Time Capsule Project
Charter to Offer Free Access to Spectrum Broadband and Wi-Fi For 60 Days For New K-12 and College Student Households and More
  • Charter will offer free Spectrum broadband and Wi-Fi access for 60 days to households with K-12 and/or college students who do not already have a Spectrum broadband subscription and at any service level up to 100 Mbps. To enroll call 1-844-488-8395. Installation fees will be waived for new student households.
  • Charter will partner with school districts to ensure local communities are aware of these tools to help students learn remotely. Charter will continue to offer Spectrum Internet Assist, high speed broadband program to eligible low-income households delivering speeds of 30 Mbps.
  • Charter will open its Wi-Fi hotspots across our footprint for public use.
  • Spectrum does not have data caps or hidden fees.

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