On July 29th, 2020 Umonhon Nation Public School will conclude its curb-side grocery delivery. By that time, UNPS will have distributed groceries for 19 weeks, serving over 5,700 sacks of food to the students and families of Macy. It was such a joy to participate in the efforts to combat COVID-19 and support our Omaha Nation family.
In June, members of our staff surveyed 127 people picking up groceries in order to determine how the community and guardians felt about students returning to school this fall. Of responders, 74% stated that they would be willing to send their child to school, 17% reported that they were unsure and the remaining responded that they would not be sending their child, with the current state. Respondents were also asked if they would send their child to school if they were required to wear a mask at all times. Eighty-five percent responded “yes”. Finally, we asked those taking the survey if they would be willing to send their child to school if they were to have their temperatures taken as they enter the building. Of the responses, 92% stated yes.
Our staff was excited to hear that the majority of the community is willing and looking forward to sending their child to school here at Omaha Nation in August.
Tentatively, school is scheduled to begin on August 18th, 2020. We acknowledge that a return to in-classroom learning is the best case scenario for our students and their educational careers. Additionally, the social-emotional wellbeing of our students is important to consider, as most students need or want to be back in a school environment. We do plan to resume face-to-face classes and we understand that some students or family members have health concerns that will prevent them from returning to school as quickly as hoped. We do, however, plan to operate based on CDC guidelines and take precautions including: face-masks, temperature checks, hand washing procedures, social distancing and exposure protocols. We are excited to see the students’ faces again and get on with the business of education.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank each and every student and family for your patience, understanding and support during the uncertain times of this pandemic. Please know that we will do everything we can to ensure the health and safety of our students, staff and families.
Superintendent Hardy