Dear Parents,
As we continue to monitor the COVID-19 situation while taking guidance from the Ohio Department of Health and CDC, our goal is to keep the community informed on how Wellington is addressing the evolving situation with which we are confronted. I encourage you to continue to read these comprehensive updates and visit our update center for the most accurate and timely information.
Teacher conference schedules are proceeding as planned today and tomorrow.
Extended 3 week spring break - Gov. Mike DeWine has announced that all Ohio schools (public, private and charter) will be on a three-week spring break due to coronavirus concerns.That includes Wellington. We will observe this guidance and plan to be back in school with classes resuming on April 6. Wellington employees will be reporting virtually after the second week and the building will be closed to the public for the entirety of the three weeks. After this three-week extended break, distance learning will be enacted if needed.
Extended breaks are not the same as snow days - Unlike what might be the case during a snow day, this is not going to be a time to gather for fun. We understand that having children at home and not in school will place a significant burden on families, but the ultimate decision to extend break will be made in an effort to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of our community at large. Families should note that the CDC and other health agencies recommend ‘social distancing’ as a way to slow and stop the spread of disease. As difficult as it may be to keep to ourselves, that is the recommended course of action at this time.
Distance Learning Process - In the event that we need to transition to distance learning after the mandated three week break, you will receive an additional notification. The Division Heads and faculty have been working hard to be ready to support students in the event of an extended time of distance learning. Any family that may have a challenge participating in these plans because of internet or computer issues should contact me directly. We will ensure that all students have the tools and equipment they need to maintain virtual school.
Building access and after hours activities - All activities booked at Wellington over the next three weeks have been canceled. We will use this time to clean and care for the building according to CDC guidance.
Wellington Spring Break Camp - is canceled due to the extended break. I do recognize the burden that this will place on you, and I am very sorry to have to cancel.
Athletics - At 12:45 p.m. Thursday, the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) announced that all remaining winter tournament contests are immediately postponed due to the growing situation with the coronavirus COVID-19. The suspended tournaments include the girls state basketball tournament; the state individual wrestling tournament; the state ice hockey tournament; and the boys regional and state basketball tournaments. Further updates regarding scheduled practices and contests will be sent in the coming days.
As we move forward, we are committed to ensuring that the excellence that makes Wellington a unique place to learn. We stand ready to support students and their families as well as our staffulty in this time of transition and uncertainty. I am deeply grateful to our staffulty and to each of you for your partnership and resourcefulness while we work together to navigate this situation.
Wellington is a resilient community. We take care of each other and I’m confident that this will be evident in how we navigate the weeks ahead.
Thank you for your understanding and partnership in this shared effort.
Dr. Jeff Terwin
Wellington Head of School
Media Contact
Danielle Turkovich
Director of Marketing & Communications
turkovich@wellington.org
614-754-4263
For all information related to how Wellington is monitoring and addressing COVID-19, click here.