Dear students, staff, families and community,
This coming Wednesday, August 26, 2020 is the first day of school for Borderites and we are excited to welcome them back to learning! Our staff has been working hard all summer to provide an improved online learning experience, and we can’t wait for our students to experience all the things that will make this school year great.
Chromebook distribution has been happening this week, and we appreciate the feedback we’ve received regarding the process. If you haven’t yet picked up a chromebook for your student, and need one, please come down this Monday or Tuesday between 10:00 A.M. and 1:00 P.M. or 3:00 P.M. and 6:00 P.M. These additional pick up days and times are for both new and returning students.
We have had many questions regarding mobile hot spots. The quantity of hot spots we are receiving is based on the results from our earlier survey about internet connectivity. Those families who completed the survey will be contacted directly in the coming days to arrange pick up of a device which has been determined to be best suited for your home’s geographical location. For those families who did not complete the survey, or who find themselves in need of assistance after the school year begins, we will have a method soon for you to communicate your need. Those families will be put on a waiting list, and given assistance as soon as we are able.
We know there are many questions that still exist for our families, and our staff are working hard to put together the answers you are seeking. A new section of our website is under construction, and it will contain details about the year for each school, sample schedules, school meals information, tech help, updates and announcements and more. Also, our school buildings are all open for office hours, and we encourage you to reach out to them if you have questions or need help.
Each of our schools in central Blaine are hosting a virtual orientation night this year, both for new and transitioning students as well as for those who would like to learn more about how this school year will work. Blaine High School’s event is coming up on Monday, August 24th at 6:00 P.M. The Primary School’s event is Tuesday, August 25th at 5:00 P.M., and the Elementary School’s event will follow it on Tuesday at 6:00 P.M. The Middle School held their event last evening, and their presentation is now available on their website.
We know we are still in the midst of a global pandemic, with many difficult times still ahead, but we are making a conscious effort to steer our ship into the storm, so to speak. We are no longer viewing this as simply something we must get through. Instead we are choosing to embrace the whole experience and focus on the good. We are working hard to make this year great. Not great in spite of the pandemic, simply great. We invite you to turn your ship and head into this storm alongside us, because together we are stronger. It is a great night to be a Borderite, and, as always, a great night to be your superintendent.
Dr. Christopher Granger, Superintendent
Every Student. Every Day. In a New Way!