Update for 6th Grade Families

Hello, 6th grade Families:

We are currently 4 weeks into the COVID-19 pandemic; this has had a negative effect on schools, businesses, and lives in a variety of ways. Sports seasons have not materialized, graduation ceremonies for some will occur online and others will happen later in the summer. Weddings and funerals have been postponed or have been held on a much smaller scale than desired.

We know 6th graders and their families have been looking forward to their last day of school this year with great anticipation. Our current situation dictates that our last day of school, now May 13, will not allow the long-awaited recognition ceremony for the end of our 6th graders’ Hillside experience. Our district, like others, must adhere to Health Department guidelines. We are unable to offer a gathering or a celebration in May, and that is difficult for everyone.

To recognize our Hillside 6th graders, we are currently working on the following:

• Presidential and citizenship pins and recognition will be shared in a newsletter format with all of 6th grade, along with other end-of-the-year awards and recognitions. We will be able to caption any photos with a first name and a last initial. The pin and certificate will be mailed to students in the fall when school resumes

• If a slideshow was in the works (or if it is still being prepared), please forward the finished slideshow to me at bailey.cynthia@westside66.net. I will figure out how to share that with 6th grade families as a link

• If folks are able to get together safely on or before mid-June, it is our hope that we will be able to celebrate 6th grade promotion with students, available teachers, and 6th grade families at Hillside There is a small budget (from fundraising efforts) for purchase of refreshments.

• If we are unable to get together in June to celebrate our 6th graders, it is our hope that we might be able to host a 6th grade gathering at Sneak-a-Peek in August

• Families will receive additional information about pickup of belongings as soon as the district formulates a plan that keeps everyone safe. More on that is to come

Maintaining our community is a challenge when we are unable to congregate as we love to do. The disappointment in the way this school year is ending is a heavy burden, and we want all Hillside families to remain safe and healthy during this unprecedented time of social distancing. Please let us know how we may help you and know that we are missing our students and families.

Mrs. Bailey, Principal