Greetings and Happy New Year,

I hope that you were able to find some time for yourself and had a chance to connect with loved ones over break, whether in person or virtually. You have more than earned this break, and I am truly grateful for each and every one of you.

I have been waiting to write the words “Happy New Year” after what has proven to be a truly challenging 2020. The emergence and continuation of the unexpected over the last year has been an experience that none of us could have imagined. Rather than listing these devastating milestones, I’d like to take this opportunity to recognize the personal impacts you as SPPS staff have endured in 2020.

Collectively, our work has always been challenging, and we could point to many factors that uphold this truth. In fact, I imagine many of you are in the positions you are because you feel called to confront the challenges in our community and in the lives of our students. You bring daily commitment, focus on our mission, and a strong understanding of the difference you make in the lives of Saint Paul’s children, families and community at large. 

In these first days and weeks of 2021, we will be preparing for a safe return to in-person learning. We are also awaiting the start of vaccinations for essential workers, which includes the education sector. Prior to winter break, I contacted Governor Walz’s office to advocate for educators and school staff to be prioritized in the vaccination schedule. I have also spoken with Saint Paul and Ramsey County Public Health and offered our support for any of their efforts in vaccinating our community.

I chose to announce my recommendation to return to in-person learning more than six weeks before the first group of students will transition. February 1 is also two weeks later than the Governor’s approved return date of January 18. This timeline will provide:

• The opportunity for staff and students to isolate for a longer period of time  following winter break
• Adequate time for staff to plan and prepare for the transition, including getting COVID tests
• More time for the downward trend in cases in Minnesota and Ramsey County to continue
• The start and continuation of vaccinations for school staff

We will be communicating with staff and families over the next several weeks as details about our return to the classroom are finalized. Much of the groundwork has already been laid, and we are working hard to ensure a safe return for our elementary staff and students, as well as finalizing the new support model for secondary. The best place for updated information is our Reopen SPPS website, spps.org/reopen, as well as your district email and communication with your supervisors.

Thank you for your continued dedication and support. I know our students are in good hands as we move into this new phase of learning at SPPS. I wish each of you a Happy New Year and look forward to joining alongside you in the many milestones that await us.