3/20/2020
Dear Brewer Schools Families,
Governor Mills recently announced that all Maine schools should cease classroom-based instruction for the duration of the recently announced civil emergency which is, initially, a 30-day period. The local area Penquis Superintendents’ Association has agreed that all school districts in our region continue with the current school closure through April 17th, then break for the scheduled April Vacation.
As a result, and based on the rise of COVID-19 cases being discovered in Maine, I am announcing that Brewer Schools will extend its school closure through Friday, April 17, 2020 that will be followed by the scheduled April vacation from 4.20.2020 through 4.24.2020. We will continually reassess this situation to determine if it is possible to reopen on April 27th and will update you regularly.
Please know I do not take this action lightly. We have tried, through the first week, to make sure that the Brewer School Department is acting in a calm, deliberate manner and I am proud of how our school leaders, staff, and our students have handled themselves throughout the early days of this crisis. As we enter this new stage we will add to our academic plan (see our current Suggested Activities for Home Learning to keep students engaged during these first 2-weeks), and we will introduce other, additional supports for your family and student(s) as we move through uncharted waters. We will also continue and expand our breakfast/lunch program for all our students.
We want every student to be healthy and to manage their worries and any anxiety they might be feeling. If you are concerned with how your child is doing emotionally you can contact the NAMI MAINE HELPLINE. Their number is 800-464-5767, press 1 (helpline@namimaine.org). Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at the Brewer School Department as well, at (207) 989-3160. You can also use the number 2-1-1 to get general information regarding the Coronavirus outbreak.
Thank you very much for your continued support and patience as we work together to take care of our students and our community.
Sincerely,
Gregg Palmer