Here is the most recent update from our principal:
Good evening CHMS Families,
As previously shared by Superintendent Belmore, today Public Health Madison and Dane County announced that all Dane County schools will be closing immediately to curb the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
ALL MMSD SCHOOLS ARE NOW CLOSED. However, to arrange for necessary pickup of items that may have been left at school, we will open our doors to students and family members from 8-2 tomorrow only (medication pickup will be available until 6:00). Keep in mind that per public health regulations, only 50 students/family members will be allowed to enter the building, and you will be asked screening questions upon entry. Please be prepared to wait if you are planning to come to school for this purpose.
It has been determined that Cherokee Heights WILL BE a food distribution site meaning 1 meal per student per day will be available. The bagged meals will be distributed from an MMSD vehicle outside of our school. More details will be shared from our central office regarding the time frame for availability.
Enrichment packets for students to engage with over the next three weeks will also be made available for pick up from the food distribution truck. Please have students access our school library guide website for online enrichment activities as well via the following link: https://madison.campusguides.com/cherokee It is very important that families understand that when school is closed, we will not have required academic instruction, nor implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs).
Whether you are in need of support, or searching for ways to offer assistance, our City has many opportunities and resources available. Here are just a few:
City of Madison Resources- this active link will be updated regularly with tons of resources.
Greater Madison Resource Center (GMRC): Trying to provide resources and referrals for where to find help for virtually any issue. They have been raising funds and supplies specifically for the COVID-19 crises. Contact them for support: (608) 770-1174 / [email protected] / gmrcmadison.com
Project Babies: is working on collecting diapers and other needed supplies at this time. Outreach number (you can call or text): 608-770-9588. Check their Facebook page for updates: https://www.facebook.com/ProjectBabies.org/
211: Dial 211 or use https://211wisconsin.communityos.org/ to find resources for people/households with low income by zipcode and key word. Almost any information about resources can be found here.
The Community Action Coalition of Southern Wisconsin: there are limited emergency funds available to prevent evictions (not specific to COVID-19). Several criteria must be met, including having an eviction notice, before they can help. Call their Housing Crisis Hotline at 855-510-2323 from 8:00-4:30 Monday through Friday to complete a Housing Intake.
COVID-19 Mutual Aid Spreadsheet: This is a community-wide spreadsheet that has multiple different tabs for many needs and supports. You may ask for support and offer support.
There is much more information on our COVID-19 webpage, mmsd.org/covid19, so please check out this resource.
As more information becomes available, I will reach out to you all again. In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me with questions that you may have.
Stay well,
Dr. Sarah Chaja-Clardy
Principal
From Interim Superintendent Jane Belmore as of 2pm, Sunday March 15th.
Dear MMSD Families and Staff,
Today Public Health Madison and Dane County announced that all Dane County schools will be closing immediately to curb the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).
ALL MMSD SCHOOLS ARE NOW CLOSED. This is an update to the email sent Friday. The anticipated reopen date is April 6, but that could change.
This will be challenging for the entire community, but together with our neighborhood partners, we will do everything we can to support our students, families and staff.
It is very important that families understand that when school is closed, we will not have required academic instruction.
Schools and district staff are working around the clock to deliver critical updates today on how to pick up any medications kept at school, where to access nutritious meals around Madison and other key details.
Expect to find this information on our COVID-19 webpage, mmsd.org/covid19, as well as on social media and in your email inbox.
We recognize the impact these surreal circumstances are having on all of us.
We will be in touch very soon,
Jane Belmore
Interim Superintendent
Madison Metropolitan School District