Kevin Kitchner, Elmwood, WI

We are asking rural communities to share how COVID-19 is impacting them and how teachers and teacher-leaders are adapting in the face of nationwide school closures. Read below for a perspective from Kevin Kitchner of Elmwood, WI (Elmwood School District). You can share yours here: http://buff.ly/3d7hWUe | Wisconsin Rural Schools Alliance

"Hello Everyone,

I have been getting a lot of inquiries about what we are doing as a district to provide for our students and staff while we work through this difficult time. So I would like to share our story as it seems to be out of the normal.

To start we got word like everyone that school would be closed starting the Wednesday at 5:00 pm, on Friday about 4:45. Saturday myself and other school leaders met Saturday to create a plan. After planning we met with the rest of the staff Sunday afternoon to roll out the plan.

Monday we began by getting every student in school a computer. We are small so able to do that with the prior boards decision for the one to one initiative. We had everyone by the end of the day logged on and ready for the following day. Tuesday we began online curriculum at school as a test. Wednesday we began from home in case we had any issues, students were allowed to return.

The next step is where everyone stepped up. We began deliveries the following day. Our bus drivers began delivering meals as well as any hard copy assignments that were needed. This was all communicated through the office secretaries. Bus drivers also pick up any assignments that need to be turned in daily. The items are placed in coolers or totes the student provides. The drivers place items, and retrieve items. We only knock to notify the student or family items have been left, this eliminates the need for contact. The custodians continue to do a deep clean of the entire school as we go also in case we are to return.

I am sure I am forgetting things, but that is the details on what we are doing. We will continue this to the years end. We are currently serving over 150 breakfast and lunches plus assignment pick up, and delivery daily."