An important message from Superintendent, Peter Livingston Regarding School Closure

Lucerne Valley Unified School District

Closure Information

 

An important message from Superintendent, Peter Livingston

 

San Bernardino County Superintendent Ted Alejandre released the following statement today in response to Gov. Gavin Newsom’s and State Superintendent Tony Thurmond’s call for California school campuses to remain closed for the remainder of the school year with the expectation that students’ education will continue through distance learning.

“Our public school leaders in San Bernardino County recognize the significant impact the coronavirus is having on our students, staff and families. In the interest of their health and safety, and out of an abundance of caution, I am recommending San Bernardino County school districts extend school site closures through the end of the 2019-20 school year.

“We believe it is critical to move forward in a collaborative and unified manner in San Bernardino County about the status of our public schools amidst this public health crisis. I have conferred with San Bernardino County district superintendents and public health officials. There is agreement among us that the need to continue safety efforts and social distancing to curb the spread of COVID-19 warrants the continued closure of school sites across our county. This is an intentional decision that puts the safety of students and staff first and foremost and provides for our districts to focus on the delivery of instruction through distance learning and providing school meals to our students. While our school campuses are closed, we have an obligation to ensure our students continue to receive quality education services.

“I want to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of school staff to serve our students and families with continuity of learning, nutrition and social/emotional supports during these unprecedented circumstances. We recognize the closure of school sites through the end of the school year brings about many questions for students and parents—particularly our graduating seniors. We are collaborating with state leaders in the development of guidance on these matters and will continue to update our school communities. I encourage families to monitor their local school district websites for additional information.”

I have been in communication with the Lucerne Valley Unified School District Board throughout the process and updating them in all aspects through our school closures. We are continuing business with the board allowing operation in Emergency Authority per our board policies. Their support has been tremendous through these difficult decisions in looking out for the best interests of our students, staff, and community.

Therefore, in accordance with the 33 districts in San Bernardino County we will be extending this school closure and continuing to provide remote instruction through the end of the school year. We will be working through the various impacts that come with this decision. We will continue to work with the community of Lucerne Valley when the time comes to celebrate our graduating class when and where the situation safely allows. We are committed to communicating with you and making the best plan possible.

 

Be safe and be well,

 

Peter Livingston, Superintendent