COVID Update

Hello Parents,

I hope this letter finds everyone doing well. Once again, we have started our year working to navigate the challenges that COVID-19 has presented, both in the form of illness and guidelines.  Each has provided opportunities to review our mitigation efforts and policies all while complying with Iowa legislation.  We certainly appreciate your patience as we move through this interesting time.

As many of you know both the guidelines and legislation are currently in a state of fluidity due the ruling of a Federal Court Judge on Monday, September 13.  This ruling placed a temporary stay on legislation and does provide schools with the opportunity to once again implement a face covering requirement as a mitigation effort.  Please know that we are monitoring the decision and working to identify what impact this ruling will have on Iowa school districts.

We will continue follow the all updates through both the court and legislative actions, but we do not want to react in a way that will cause confusion for staff, students, and families.  So, at this time we will maintain our current practice of optional use of face coverings during school and school events.  Please know that we do recommend the use of face coverings, especially if you have been exposed to the virus and/or when social distancing is not possible.  We will continue to be supportive of each person’s choice to wear face coverings, as well, as each family's comfort level is different at this time.

We will continue to discuss our plans at all levels, and future communications will be provided in a timely manner as circumstances change.  Please feel free to call with any questions you may have regarding this ever-changing environment.

Respectfully,

Mr. Darin Jones

Superintendent

AHSTW Community School District