February 9, 2022
Dear students, staff, families and community,
I would like to address some hot topics that are generating energy including mandates and all things COVID. Several states have lifted mandates such as masking, or they have left decisions up to individual school districts. There have been no clear decisions made in Washington yet, but it is my understanding that they are being discussed. I have been told that changes could be communicated by the Governor and/or the CDC and DOH in the next few weeks. I do not have any inside information on what these changes may include but my best guess is that they will address COVID protocols such as contact tracing, testing, social distancing, and mask wearing. I am cautiously hopeful that this will bring some relief for our students, staff, and families. Until the K-12 COVID-19 Guidelines change, school districts must follow all current protocols mentioned above. The MBSD staff understand that people are tired and that the contact tracing, testing and quarantine requirements are disruptive. We are doing everything we can to meet the needs of students and families. If you are contacted, please give us grace. We are all in this together, and we are all hoping for good things to come.
This week is School Counselor Appreciation Week. Our District is truly blessed to have counselors at every school as well as substance abuse intervention specialists and mental health counselors. Their focus on social and emotional learning as well as the overall well-being of our students is a vital component of education. Thank you to our counseling team!
“Love the Bus” happens next week. Let’s give a big shout out to our Transportation Department. I listen to this department on the radio every day and hear examples of them going above and beyond to meet the needs of students. Encourage your children to thank a bus driver next week. We would love to have more bus drivers to appreciate, so if you are interested or you know someone who is interested in becoming a bus driver, we are taking applications.
If you have any comments, questions, or concerns don’t hesitate to contact me. I appreciate all input, feedback, and communication I get from students, families, and staff.
Mary Sewright, Superintendentmsewright@mtbaker.wednet.edu (360) 617-4600