Dear Parents, Guardians, Students and Community members:
It is with great sadness that I announce all Huerfano RE-1 schools will be closed for in person instruction the remainder of the school year (through our last day of May 22nd) as stipulated by Governor Polis late Monday evening. We, as educators and compassionate people, are devastated that we will not have the opportunity to gather with our young people for in person instruction, celebrating end of year events or saying “goodbye” to our students. Kids, I can tell you for a fact, your teachers miss every one of you.
I know everybody entertained the hope that we could possibly resume normal instruction, events and activities in May. Unfortunately, these items will not occur. Also, to be clear, the Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) has “canceled all performances, festivals, competitions and all athletics for the remainder of the 2020 season” , ending on June 1, 2020.
Parents and students, remote learning will continue through May 22, 2020. I ask that you please finish strong and make every effort to do the best that you can.
There are still many school related items such as: IPad return, classroom book returns, locker clean-out, outstanding fees paid etc. that will need to be addressed many of which will depend on the status of the Corona virus and regulations put in place by the Huerfano and Las Animas Health Department. We will let you know any plans considering the above-mentioned end of year items as soon as they are developed.
On a positive note, we do have plans for an alternate format of graduation on May 22nd that will be held downtown at the intersection of 5th and Main similar to a homecoming parade with recognition of each graduate and issuance of their diploma. A 2nd, more traditional graduation, with a very limited number of guests along with extensive social distancing will be held on June 13th at the football field complex if allowed to do so by our health department at that time. These plans have not been finalized at this point yet we do know that we want to recognize our fantastic graduates with the recognition they so rightfully deserve. This will be a historic and memorable time for our seniors considering the extraordinary health crisis we are enduring. The specifics of our nontraditional and traditional graduation ceremonies will be released in due time.
This “closure” of schools will not affect our free breakfast and lunch pick-up program. This will remain available for those wanting to participate.
All these changes to the delivery of instruction, stay at home orders, loss of income and fearing for our health and that of loved ones have been unexpected, frustrating, challenging and frightening, to say the least.
However, I know that our students, families, teachers, administrators and staff members have risen to the occasion during these most difficult times.
I, personally, want to thank everyone for your flexibility, patience, understanding, thinking safety first for all our community and your continued support.
May you all remain positive, safe and healthy!
With kindness and respect,
Michael J Moore
Superintendent/Huerfano Re-1
