Important Announcement from the Superintendent 3/13/2020

Dear MDIRSS AOS # 91 Parents and Families,

This afternoon I met with the entire administrative team, a school nurse, local public safety (police/ fire) officials, a scientist from the Jackson lab and a representative from MDI hospital. 

Based upon scientific data, guidance from experts in the field and the unanimous consensus of the entire administrative team, I believe the immediate closure all MDIRSS AOS # 91 schools at this time is not only prudent but critical to support the health, safety and well - being of our students, staff and communities. To do otherwise represents a serious risk and overt threat to public health and safety. 

Given the scientific data and evidence at hand, it is imperative we close all MDIRSS AOS # 91 schools immediately to mitigate this pandemic and limit further potential exposure. I understand the ramifications of this decision and have carefully weighed the implications of this action. Therefore, effective Monday, March 16th all MDIRSS AOS # 91 schools will be closed to all students/staff for a minimum of two weeks. I will reassess the situation daily and provide updates as to when we may resume regular school based operations. In support of this action I am forming two response teams to address this challenge:

1. Operational /logistical (led by Supt. Gousse)

2. Educational/remote learning (led by Julie M.)

These teams will work with staff and volunteers from throughout the district and with Julie Meltzer, me and our administrative team to develop, and implement, resources and programming to support teaching and learning from remote platforms with the goal of providing student services to the best of our ability. Additionally, we will identify roles and tasks for all employees as may be necessary so we may continue to provide services to our students.

To be clear, I do not take this action lightly and fully understand the impact on students, staff, families, employers, day care providers, community partners and others however, this public health crisis requires immediate, bold and decisive action. Unfortunately, we do not have the luxury of time and must act now to effect positive results. I have kept AOS Board Chair Heather Jones and our entire MDIRSS administrative team apprised of my thought and decision making process and rationale in navigating this challenge and hope that you will understand this difficult decision and the rationale for its necessity.. 

In closing, I wish to acknowledge this is a difficult time for all, especially our students and ask that you contact your building principal should you have any questions or concerns. Please continue to monitor school communications, newsletters and websites for updates and additional information. Thank you.

Respectfully,

Marc Edward Gousse, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools

Mount Desert Island Regional School System-AOS 91