JP Schools Family,

We’re less than two months away from the start of a new school year. While it’s our intention to begin classes in-person August 6, we’re preparing for a number of scenarios depending on the status of the health pandemic. Regardless of what August 6 looks like, we will be ready to educate kids on day one. That’s our commitment.

Another commitment we’ve made is to keep our families informed throughout this process. We’d like to share with you some of the plans we have in place for reopening schools. It was developed following the most recent CDC Guidance for Reopening Schools. 

Any scenario that involves students attending school in-person will include the following safety precautions:

• Students and staff will be required to wear face coverings
• Social distancing protocols established and communicated with all stakeholders
• Temperature checks for all students, employees, and visitors
• Teachers and staff members ensure students follow all COVID-19 safety measures
• Students follow altered routines for lunch, restroom breaks, bus un/loading, and other travel patterns
• Bus capacity will be limited when necessary to ensure all students can arrive at school safely, on time, and following CDC guidance

We’re preparing for three possible scenarios to open the year: traditional, hybrid/blended, and 100% virtual. The district will be prepared to immediately shift to virtual instruction should school closure become necessary during the school year. Some of the details of our three reopening scenarios include:

Traditional Setting

• Students attend school five days a week using additional safety precautions
• Staff report to school daily

Hybrid/Blended Setting

• Student attend school 2-3 days of the week and receive virtual instruction the other days of the week
• District will support families to meet their technology needs
• Staff report to school daily and provide in-person and virtual instruction and support

Virtual Setting

• Students do not report to school and receive instruction 100% virtual
• District will support families to meet their technology needs
• Staff report to school on predetermined days
• Staff provide support and synchronous instruction via Google Meet and asynchronous instruction via Google Classroom

These plans only pertain to opening schools. We will continue to provide guidance throughout the summer regarding:

• Updated safety measures
• Attendance requirements
• Student recovery for unfinished learning
• Preparing students and teachers for various learning methods
• Social/emotional learning
• Staff and student policies and procedures

The safety of our students and staff is our top priority. Our school-based plans will be fluid and routinely adjusted to reflect updated national, state, and local guidance. We know our families and employees have many questions about what the new school year will look like. As we get answers, we will share that information. The district will also begin surveying families about their individual needs in the coming weeks. This will help us make better decisions as we move forward. 

We are excited to continue working together to ensure we provide students with the education they deserve to succeed in life and make the world a better place. Jefferson Parish Schools is committed to doing whatever it takes to Start Strong in 2020 and ensure a great 20-21 school year!

Jefferson Parish Schools

2020-21 SCENARIOS
While ideally we are able to start the year face-to-face, we know that there will likely be changes in how we operate schools next year. There are a few different scenarios for how that may look. This could include face-to-face with additional safety guidelines, engaging students with a hybrid of virtual and face-to-face, or having an as-needed virtual learning environment. We will make a final decision on how we will start the year based on the guidance of local, state, and national health officials. If we are able to begin the school year face-to-face, it will be imperative that educators devote portions of their day to practice virtual lessons in the classroom with students. Should the need arise to shift to a virtual model during the school year, the expectation is to do so as seamlessly as possible. 

If you’ve not already, one way you can help us plan is by taking this stakeholder survey. We want your feedback to let us know what’s worked and what we can do better heading into 2020-21. Thank you to the over 7,000 stakeholders who have already offered your input.

DECREASED REVENUE
We must further reduce expenditures due to the significant decline in our revenue from the stalled economy. Approximately 40% of the district’s revenue comes from sales tax. As the economy has stalled, our estimates show that this could result in a revenue decline of at least $12 million for our district. Any expenditure reduction plan will support our two biggest priorities - student learning and the health and safety of our kids. We previously reduced $16 million from our budget in March. 

SCHOOL START TIMES
Changing the start times for some of our schools was included in the 2020 Infrastructure and Efficiency Plan passed by our School Board in March. Based on research and parent feedback, we have made changes to school start times. You can view the new school times here or click one of the following links: East Bank | West Bank. These will go into effect for the 2020-21 school year. Where possible, we are starting elementary schools earlier and high schools later. We believe this will support working parents of elementary students and lead to stronger outcomes for high school students. This will also help us financially through more efficient use of buses and routes. Based on schedules, schools will adjust before and after care programs and extracurricular activities accordingly. 

GRAB & GO 
Our Grab & Go meal program will continue through the summer. The meal locations and times will remain the same. Meals will be available to families at our 13 Grab & Go sites Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays this summer from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Families will be provided enough meals for all seven days of the week. Children will receive breakfast and lunch for that day and the following day on Mondays and Wednesdays. On Fridays, children will receive enough breakfasts and lunches to last through the weekend. For more information about this program, visit jpschools.org/GrabAndGo.

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT LINE
This is the final week for our academic support line, but our emotional support line will remain available to employees and families through the summer. You can call (504) 349-7629 weekdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or between 4 to 6 p.m. to speak to one of our trained mental health professionals.

EARLY START JEFFERSON & LEAP REMEDIATION
As we approach the summer months, we want to offer an additional educational opportunity for our struggling students. Early Start Jefferson will invite students in grades K-5 who are below proficiency in math and/or ELA to participate in a program the two weeks before the start of next school year. The program will offer either an in-person or completely virtual model. We have communicated information about Early Start Jefferson to school leaders and they are identifying students who would benefit from this program. We are also seeking current JP employees to work our Early Start Jefferson program. If interested, please apply via this link: Early Start JPS Employment Application. 

We also will host remediation from June 29-July 10 for any student needing to re-take the high school LEAP test. Students can register at this link. 

SUMMER CAMPS
Jefferson Parish Schools will not operate summer camps due to COVID-19. We are partnering with Ed Navigator on their at-home program, Camp Kinda. This is a free summer experience designed to keep kids engaged, asking questions, and having fun. Each weekday from June 1 to September 1, participating families will get 3-4 hours’ worth of daily activities, all connected to a weekly theme and curated by experts with a passion for their topic. You can learn more at this link. 

TAG-ALONG TRANSFER REQUEST FORMS 
Tag-Along Transfer Requests will be available for online submission only beginning May 26. Tag-Along allows for children of principals, assistant principals, guidance counselors, teachers, coaches, other certified school employees, and classified employees regularly assigned to or employed on a full-time basis at a school in grades kindergarten through twelve to attend the school in which they are assigned or a school in the feeder pattern of their assigned school. This information will be available at jpschools.org. 

Jefferson Parish Schools has announced how it will handle student grades, grade promotion, and graduation decisions with school buildings closed through the end of the academic year. This information is available now at jpschools.org/grades. 

“We are being intentionally student-friendly with these policy shifts. The last thing I want to do is punish a child for a situation completely out of their control,” said JP Schools Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley. “The remainder of our school year will be an opportunity for students to improve their grades for the year while continuing to learn new content.”

As of Monday, April 27, students can complete at-home learning assignments for a grade. These additional assignments are meant to benefit students and can only improve final grades. 

“While these assignments are not mandatory nor required, we encourage families to participate in every learning opportunity available to maintain a continuity of learning until our last day of school on May 21,” said Dr. Brumley. “ The more our students engage academically this spring, the more ready they will be for their next grade level.” 

Families with questions about their child’s options should email their teacher. Teacher email addresses can be found on each school website. School websites are linked at jpschools.org/schools. The district has also opened a hotline for families who need academic support. The hotline number is 504-349-8999. The call center will be open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The full grading and promotion adjustments can be viewed at jpschools.org/grades.

Elementary and Middle School Students

Students with internet access should continue accessing and utilizing online resources at jpschools.org/learnathome.  Students without internet access should complete a third round at-home learning packet to receive a 4th quarter grade. Packets will be available April 28 and 30 at all Grab & Go sites.

High School Students

High school students will be given the opportunity to complete online at-home learning activities to improve their grades. Students who were failing a course or enrolled in a ½ credit course will need to complete and pass online activities to earn Carnegie credits. If a student does not complete 4th quarter at-home learning assignments, their final grades will be averages of the previous quarters. 

High school seniors may elect to receive either a course letter grade or a course pass/fail grade for high school credits. If families want to elect the Pass/Fail option, please reach out to your school counselor by completing the short Google Form at jpschools.org/grades.

Jefferson Parish Schools families can now download the final round of learning packets online at jpschools.org/LearnAtHome. Families without home internet access can pick up paper-based packets April 28 and 30 at the district’s Grab & Go sites from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The printed packets were created for families unable to access the district’s online resources. 

The third round of packets will last students through the end of the 2019-20 school year. All Grab & Go sites will have printed learning packets for grades PK-12 on Tuesday, April 28. Packets will be distributed until they run out. As packet numbers decrease at sites, the district may consolidate the remaining packets to be distributed only at specific sites on Thursday, April 30. Check jpschools.org for the latest updates. Meals are served at the Grab & Go sites on a Monday-Wednesday-Friday schedule. Meals will not be served on April 28 or 30.

The Grab & Go locations are:

• Bissonet Plaza Elementary: 6818 Kawanee Drive in Metairie
• Emmett Gilbert School: 435 S. Jamie Blvd. in Westwego
• Fisher Middle-High: 2529 Jean Lafitte Blvd. in Lafitte
• Gretna Middle: 910 Gretna Blvd. in Gretna
• Hazel Park Elementary: 8809 Jefferson Hwy. in River Ridge
• Marie Riviere Elementary: 1564 Lake Ave. in Metairie
• Marrero Middle: 4100 7th Street in Marrero
• Meisler Middle: 3700 Cleary Ave. in Metairie
• Riverdale High: 240 Riverdale Drive in Jefferson
• Terrytown Elementary: 550 E. Forest Lawn Drive in Terrytown
• Truman School: 5417 Ehret Road in Marrero
• Woods Elementary: 1037 31st Street in Kenner
• Worley Middle: 801 Spartans Drive in Westwego

The Grab & Go service will include pick-up lines outside the school for families to drive through or walk up. In order to avoid creating a large crowd, it is important that families immediately leave campus after receiving their packet and/or meal. JP Schools provided the first round of printed learning packets to families at the Grab & Go sites March 18-20. The second round of paper-based packets were distributed March 30, April 1, and April 3. 

Awarding Carnegie Credit and Graduation Guidance for Families

Regulatory course adjustments have been granted due to the current school closures. These adjustments will enable students to complete the school year and graduate without penalty. 

ALL HIGH SCHOOL GRADES:

How will students meet credit requirements?

The final grade for the semester will average the 3rd quarter grade with the 4th quarter online learning activities. The online learning activities shall not negatively impact the final grade. The completion of online learning activities will only serve to improve a grade, not lower a grade. 

Are the 4th quarter at-home learning assignments mandatory?

These assignments are encouraged but are not mandatory nor required. Students are being given the opportunity to improve their final grades with the at-home activities.  However, students that were failing a course or enrolled in a ½ credit course will need to complete and pass online activities to earn Carnegie credits.

If a student does not complete 4th quarter at-home learning assignments, his/her final grades will be averages of the previous quarter(s). 

What if a student is currently failing a course?

Students that have not met proficiency (have an F average) must complete the course in PLATO. For information about joining PLATO, families/students should contact their teacher.

How does the waiver of attendance requirements impact students?

Instructional minute and compulsory attendance requirements have been waived for the year.

What if a student is enrolled in a dual enrollment course with a college or university?

The following three options have been approved for Dual Enrollment students: 

• Continue the course via distance learning options through the higher education institution and earn credit when the course ends; 
• Opt for an “In Progress” designation and have until August 31, 2020, to complete the course and earn credit; or 
• Opt for an “Administrative Withdrawal” and exit the course with no credit and nothing posted to the official college transcript.  

Can students still take the Advanced Placement tests?

Yes.  A new (at home) online test is available to allow students the opportunity to earn college credit and placement. Contact your school counselor for more information or visit the AP website for testing information. 

What if a student is enrolled in a ½ credit course?

Students enrolled in a ½ credit course for the 4th quarter must complete the course assignments in PLATO or Google Classroom to be awarded credit.

What if a student completed an at-home learning packet?

The at-home learning packets distributed at our 13 Grab and Go sites will not be graded nor counted towards a 4th quarter grade. These packets are for academic enrichment purposes only.

SENIORS ONLY:

Will seniors receive a letter grade or can they choose a Pass/Fail option?

• Families may elect either a course letter grade or a course pass/fail grade for high school credits.
• Pass/Fail options are not calculated into the Grade Point Average (i.e., for the purpose of Taylor Opportunity Program for Students (TOPS), college athletic eligibility and/or academic admissions/scholarships). 
• If the Pass/Fail option is chosen, all spring semester courses will be awarded the grade of Pass/Fail. A Pass/Fail acknowledgment form must be requested from the high school.
• If families want to elect the Pass/Fail option, please reach out to your school counselor by completing this short Google Form. 

Do seniors still need to complete the financial aid requirement?

No. The financial aid planning graduation requirement has been waived for graduating seniors.  Despite this requirement being waived, families are encouraged to apply online by visiting the FAFSA website.  

In addition to state financial aid programs (e.g. TOPS and LA Go Grant), there are Federal Student Aid programs that require FAFSA completion, including:

• Pell Grant
• Supplemental Education Opportunity Program/SEOG
• Federal Work Study
• Federal Direct Loans

What if a senior needs a LEAP 2025 high school assessment score to be eligible to graduate?

The spring LEAP 2025 assessment window has been cancelled, and the requirement has been waived for currently enrolled graduating seniors. The senior waivers apply to:

• Any current student, enrolled as of February 1, that would be classified as a senior at any time during the current school year with the necessary credits to graduate
• Graduating seniors eligible under ACT 833

What if a TOPS Tech Diploma senior needs an IBC credential to be eligible to graduate?

The IBC terminal graduation requirement has been waived for graduating seniors. Graduating seniors will be eligible to graduate with a TOPS Tech Diploma without earning the IBC credential. 

Is there an exception for the TOPS Core GPA due to school closures?

No. TOPS requires a minimum TOPS Core GPA of 2.50.  This requirement still applies even if a student chooses to receive Pass/Fail grades from the high school.  Parents should take this into account and make careful consideration before selecting this option.

If seniors have not had the opportunity to take the ACT, will this be waived so these students can graduate?

Yes. Seniors are not required to test as a condition of graduation. However, ACT exam options are available in June 2020 if students want to take the exam to qualify for TOPS eligibility.  

What if a senior cannot meet the 25-hour requirement to earn a Community Service Seal due to school closures?

The 25-hour requirement has been waived for 2019-2020 seniors.  If students have met the requirements for their freshmen sophomore, and junior years, they may be awarded the diploma seal.

Jefferson Parish Schools is moving its high school graduations to July in an effort to preserve in-person commencement ceremonies for the Class of 2020. The district announced that graduations for 14 of its 15 senior classes will now take place in July. 

“Senior year is one of the most memorable times of our kids’ lives, and the pinnacle of this time is the commencement ceremony,” said JP Schools Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley. “We’re doing everything in our power to make this moment special for the Class of 2020. Our seniors deserve a traditional graduation and I want to do all we can to make that possible.“ 

District leaders made the switch with the hope it will be safe to gather for an appropriate celebration by July. Commencement ceremonies for all JP Schools graduating classes except Grand Isle School, JCFA Charter, and Kenner Discovery Charter High will take place July 6-9 at the Pontchartrain Center. Should it not be safe to hold in-person commencement ceremonies by July, the schools will instead hold virtual graduations in mid-July. Grand Isle School will hold its ceremony in the school’s gymnasium July 10. Kenner Discovery Charter High will be releasing information soon about their graduation plans.  JCFA Charter will hold its graduation July 14 at La Maison Creole in Harvey.

The ceremonies will be abbreviated and include additional safety measures. Speeches and performances will be limited and invitations will be reduced. The district will record each graduation and make those videos available online. Schools will communicate information about diploma pick-up and commencement ceremonies to families. The district is announcing this change now to give families as much notice as possible.

JP Schools commencement ceremonies were scheduled to start May 9 and conclude May 17. There are over 2,600 high school seniors in Jefferson Parish Schools. Fifteen schools in the district have a 2020 graduating class: Bonnabel High, East Jefferson High, Fisher Middle-High, Grace King High, Grand Isle School, Haynes Academy, Helen Cox High, Higgins High, JCFA Charter, John Ehret High, Kenner Discovery Charter High, Patrick F. Taylor Academy, Thomas Jefferson Academy, and West Jefferson High.

Jefferson Parish Schools Class of 2020 Graduation Schedule

July 6 Graduations at the Pontchartrain Center

• Riverdale High: 9:30 a.m.
• Haynes Academy: 2 p.m.
• East Jefferson High: 6 p.m.

July 7 Graduations at the Pontchartrain Center

• West Jefferson High: 9:30 a.m.
• Thomas Jefferson Academy: 2 p.m.
• Grace King High: 6 p.m.

July 8 Graduations at the Pontchartrain Center

• Higgins High: 9:30 a.m.
• Patrick Taylor Academy: 2 p.m.
• Helen Cox High: 6 p.m.

July 9 Graduations at the Pontchartrain Center

• John Ehret High: 9:30 a.m.
• Fisher Middle-High: 2 p.m.
• Bonnabel High: 6 p.m.

July 10 Graduation at Grand Isle School

• Grand Isle School: 12 p.m.

July 14 Graduation at La Maison Creole

• JCFA Charter: 6:30 p.m.

TBD

• Kenner Discovery Charter High

Dear JP Schools Family,

Today, Governor Edwards announced that all Louisiana school buildings will remain closed through the remainder of the 2019-20 school year. This is difficult news to hear, but we fully support the Governor’s decision. The safety of our students and employees is our top responsibility. Our state has made great progress towards flattening the curve, and we all must do everything in our power to ensure the trend continues.

This announcement means our buildings remain closed. As we have learned over the past month, “school” is much more than a building. School will continue until students’ last day on May 21. Just like it has throughout the closure, learning will continue in Jefferson Parish Schools. Our at-home learning resources are available to students in multiple forms and delivery methods.

Families with internet access should visit jpschools.org/LearnAtHome. That’s our digital hub for a diverse offering of lessons, daily schedules, as well as self-guided, student-specific online programs. We also encourage families to email their teachers, as many educators have started offering online lessons through Google Classroom. Since schools closed in mid-March, we have trained over 2,000 educators (and counting) on Google Classroom. 

For our families without the technology to access online resources, we will distribute a final round of learning packets at our Grab & Go sites April 28 and 30 that will last through the end of the school year. We will also announce information this week about a laptop loaner program for the final five weeks of school. 

Our Grab & Go sites will provide meals on a Monday-Wednesday-Friday schedule through the end of the school year. We will also maintain operation of our academic and emotional support call centers. 

I know you have questions about what this means for your child. As a parent of school-age children, I share many of your same concerns. Louisiana is not the first state to make this difficult decision, and it won’t be the last. As we began seeing states make this call and the number of coronavirus cases rise in our region, we started planning for this possibility. Continue to visit jpschools.org/coronavirus for the most recent district updates, resources, and a running list of frequently asked questions. Teachers and principals will also be available via email for school specific questions.

Your school will be your first line of communication. We all learned about the Governor’s decision today during his public announcement. This includes our principals, teachers, and support staff. They will be in contact with families about what this means for their child. Please be patient as our educators learn and prepare information to share. If you haven’t done so before, make a habit of regularly visiting your school’s website. Those web addresses can be found at jpschools.org/schools.

I wish we had answers to all your questions right now, but we don’t. We have done our best to prepare for this situation while simultaneously leading the district through day-to-day realities of this unprecedented public health crisis. There are many moving parts and pieces. We want to make sure they all fit and work smoothly together. Please continue to check our website, free Jefferson Parish School mobile app, and our social media pages for the latest updates. As we learn more information, we will share it with you. 

The Louisiana High School Athletic Association has made the decision to cancel all remaining winter and spring sports for the 2019-20 school year.

"This decision was not in haste and was discussed with tremendous concern for those senior athletes being affected," said LHSAA Executive Director Eddie Bonine. "We realize and concur with the argument about retuning to normalcy and allowing seniors to have their moment, just like we did for boys' basketball championships, unfortunately, circumstances today are tremendously different than circumstances were that week in March. We understand the hardships and disappointments everyone, especially the class of 2020, is enduring due to the closure of schools facilities, but our unwavering focus must now remain on doing our part by continuing to follow any and all mitigation measures set forth by our Governor."

Click here to read Bonine's full memo. 

Jefferson Parish Schools will recognize its originally scheduled Spring Break April 10-14. While all schools and buildings are already closed until at least April 30 due to the Governor's proclamation, all JP Schools employees will be off for Spring Break. Employees have been working remotely where possible. 

The district will not operate Grab & Go meal sites or its academic and emotional support call centers during Spring Break. Teachers and administrators will also not be available to families via email during the break. While families will still have access to the district's optional at-home learning resources, the district encourages students and families to also take a break from at-home learning.

The district will resume its regular closure activities and schedule April 15. 

Dear JP Schools Family,

Today, Governor John Bel Edwards announced that he is extending school closures in the state until at least April 30. This coincides with President Trump’s announcement this past weekend to extend the national social distancing guidelines until April 30.

We are in the middle of a national health crisis, and I fully support the Governor’s decision to keep kids home. While we were prepared for schools to reopen April 15, we’ve also planned for this extension. We remain committed to providing students, families, and the community with as much support as possible during this unprecedented time.

We will continue to operate our Grab & Go meal program and provide families with optional at-home learning resources.

We’ll also continue to operate our Emotional Support Line. Experienced mental health professionals are available via telephone to provide emotional support and share any pertinent resources during these difficult times. Parents of JP Schools students and staff members may call (504) 349-7629 weekdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 4 to 6 p.m. to speak to one of our trained mental health professionals.

To our high school seniors, know that you are still the Class of 2020, and I look forward to signing each and every one of your diplomas. We are working on a process to ensure you have the opportunity to graduate this spring.

We are working to find creative solutions during these trying times. Nothing will match the support we provide children and families when our doors are open. We know our families need us now more than ever, and we are doing everything we can to step into the gap for them.

I know there will be many questions and growing pains. You can find frequently asked questions and additional information at jpschools.org/coronavirus.

Thank you for all you as we continue to partner together in educating our students.

Dr. Brumley
Superintendent
Jefferson Parish Schools

Queridos Colegas,

Hoy, el gobernador John Bel Edwards anuncio que extenderá el cierre de escuelas en el estado hasta al menos el 30 de abril. Esto coincide con el anuncio del Presidente Trump el pasado fin de semana de extender las guías nacionales de distanciamiento social hasta el 30 de abril.

Estamos en medio de una crisis nacional de salud, y apoyo totalmente la decisión del gobernador de mantener a los niños en casa. Si bien estábamos preparados para que las escuelas reabrieran el 15 de abril, también hemos planeado para esta extensión. Seguimos comprometidos a proporcionas a los estudiantes, las familias y la comunidad el mayor apoyo posible durante este tiempo sin precedente.

Continuaremos operando nuestro programa de comidas Grab & Go y brindaremos a las familias recursos de aprendizaje en el hogar.

También continuaremos operando nuestra Línea de Apoyo Emocional. Profesionales con experiencia en salud mental están disponibles por teléfono para brindar apoyo emocional y compartir los recursos pertinentes durante estos tiempos difíciles. Los padres de los estudiantes y miembros del personal de las escuelas de JP pueden llamar al (504) 349-7629 de lunes a viernes de 10 a.m. a 1 p.m. o de 4 p.m. a 6 p.m. para hablar con uno de nuestros profesionales capacitados en salud mental.

Para nuestros estudiantes de último año de secundaria, sepan que todavía son de la clase 2020, y espero firmar todos y cada uno de sus diplomas. Estamos trabajando en un proceso para garantizar que tengan la oportunidad de graduarse esta primavera.

Estamos trabajando para encontrar soluciones creativas durante estos tiempos difíciles. Nada igualará el apoyo que brindamos a los niños y las familias cuando nuestras puertas estén abiertas. Sabemos que nuestras familias nos necesitan ahora más que nunca, y estamos haciendo todo lo posible para abrirnos paso por ellos.

Sé que habrá muchas preguntas y dolores de crecimiento. Puede encontrar preguntas frecuentes e información adicional en jpschools.org/coronavirus.

Gracias por todos ustedes mientras continuamos colaborando juntos en la educación de nuestros estudiantes.

Dr. Brumley

Jefferson Parish Schools has announced two changes to the support it is providing families. While families will still be served meals for every day of the week at the district’s 13 Grab & Go sites, weekend meals will not be provided until additional approval is granted by the USDA. The district is also consolidating its learning packet distribution to two sites for Friday: Bissonet Plaza Elementary and Gretna Middle.

JP Schools began a partnership with the Three O’Clock Project April 1 on its Grab & Go meals program. The shift allows the district to serve the same amount of meals to students while only operating the sites three days a week (Monday-Wednesday-Friday). JP Schools and the Three O-Clock Project were originally given approval to serve weekend meals on Fridays. The USDA then notified the state this week that it was still weighing funding approval for the weekend meals. Families will continue to receive breakfasts and lunches for that day and the next on Monday and Wednesday, as well as lunch and breakfast on Friday. Jefferson Parish Schools has served over 125,000 meals to children since starting its Grab & Go service March 18. 

After passing out 43,000 printed learning packets on Monday and Wednesday, the district will consolidate packet distribution to two sites Friday: Bissonet Plaza Elementary at 6818 Kawanee Drive in Metairie and at Gretna Middle at 910 Gretna Blvd. in Gretna. Packets are available for all grade levels, but supply is limited. Families with home internet access are encouraged to use the district's online resources. The printed packets were created for families unable to access the district’s online resources. The first and second round of packets, along with additional resources, can be found at jpschools.org/LearnAtHome.

The 13 Grab & Go sites are open from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thel sites will be closed April 10 to observe Good Friday. The locations are:

• Bissonet Plaza Elementary: 6818 Kawanee Drive in Metairie
• Emmett Gilbert School: 435 S. Jamie Blvd. in Westwego
• Fisher: 2529 Jean Lafitte Blvd. in Lafitte
• Gretna Middle: 910 Gretna Blvd. in Gretna
• Hazel Park Elementary: 8809 Jefferson Hwy. in River Ridge
• Marie Riviere Elementary: 1564 Lake Ave. in Metairie
• Marrero Middle: 4100 7th Street in Marrero
• Meisler Middle: 3700 Cleary Ave. in Metairie
• Riverdale High: 240 Riverdale Drive in Jefferson
• Terrytown Elementary: 550 E. Forest Lawn Drive in Terrytown
• Truman School: 5417 Ehret Road in Marrero
• Woods Elementary: 1037 31st Street in Kenner
• Worley Middle: 801 Spartans Drive in Westwego

Eighty-two percent of the families in JP Schools are economically disadvantaged. 

Three O’Clock Project (TOP) is a nonprofit organization. Their mission is to provide healthy meals and nutrition education for at-risk students after school. 

Meals will be provided to all children age 18 and under without charge. Acceptance and participating requirements for the program and all activities are the same for all regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service. Jefferson Parish Schools is an equal opportunity provider.

Jefferson Parish Schools recognizes the significant impact that COVID-19 and the subsequent school closures are having on the emotional well being of many of our families and staff. In order to provide emotional support, we created an Emotional Support Line for parents and staff members.

Starting March 31, experienced mental health professionals will be available via telephone to provide emotional support and share any pertinent resources during these difficult times. Parents of Jefferson Parish Schools students and staff members may call (504) 349-7629, Monday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or between 4 to 6 p.m. to speak to one of our trained mental health professionals.

If students, staff, or families are in a life-threatening situation, they should call 911.

Jefferson Parish Schools families can pick up a second set of learning packets starting Monday, March 30. The district has offered families two ways to access optional at-home learning resources while schools are closed: online and print. Families can pick up these printed packets at one of the district’s 13 Grab & Go sites starting Monday, or simply download them today at jpschools.org/LearnAtHome.

The printed packets were created for families unable to access the district’s online resources. The first and second round of packets, along with additional resources, can be found at jpschools.org/LearnAtHome. The second round of packets are for grades PK-12 and will be distributed at sites Monday, March 30, Wednesday, April 1, and Friday, April 3 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Please note that the Grab & Go sites will start operating a Monday-Wednesday-Friday schedule the week of March 30. Packets will be distributed until they run out. As packet numbers decrease at sites, the district may consolidate the remaining packets to be distributed only at specific sites later in the week. Check jpschools.org for the latest updates. The Grab & Go locations are:

• Bissonet Plaza Elementary: 6818 Kawanee Drive in Metairie
• Emmett Gilbert School: 435 S. Jamie Blvd. in Westwego
• Fisher Middle-High: 2529 Jean Lafitte Blvd. in Lafitte
• Gretna Middle: 910 Gretna Blvd. in Gretna
• Hazel Park Elementary: 8809 Jefferson Hwy. in River Ridge
• Marie Riviere Elementary: 1564 Lake Ave. in Metairie
• Marrero Middle: 4100 7th Street in Marrero
• Meisler Middle: 3700 Cleary Ave. in Metairie
• Riverdale High: 240 Riverdale Drive in Jefferson
• Terrytown Elementary: 550 E. Forest Lawn Drive in Terrytown
• Truman School: 5417 Ehret Road in Marrero
• Woods Elementary: 1037 31st Street in Kenner
• Worley Middle: 801 Spartans Drive in Westwego

The Grab & Go service will include pick-up lines outside the school for families to drive through or walk up. In order to avoid creating a large crowd, it is important that families immediately leave campus after receiving their packet and/or meal. JP Schools provided the first round of printed learning packets to families at the Grab & Go sites March 18-20.

Jefferson Parish Schools has served nearly 100,000 meals to children since starting its Grab & Go service March 18. The district has announced changes to the program that will allow it to reach even more families in need. 

JP Schools is partnering with the Three O’Clock Project to offer children enough meals for all seven days of the week starting April 1. The partnership will also allow the district to deliver meals to students in areas where traveling to a Grab & Go site is more challenging for families, 

On Wednesday, April 1, the district’s 13 Grab & Go sites will change from operating five days a week to being open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Children will begin receiving breakfast and lunch for that day and the following day on Mondays and Wednesdays. On Fridays, children will receive enough breakfasts and lunches to last through the weekend.

“We are here for all children and this partnership will allow us to reach even farther into the community to serve more families,” said JP Schools Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley.  “I’m grateful to our employees and community partners who continue to go the extra mile for our kids. We’re finding creative solutions for trying times.”

To prepare for this shift, the district’s Grab & Go meal sites will be closed on Tuesday, March 31. The Grab & Go sites will operate as they currently do on Monday, March 30, with families receiving lunch for that day and breakfast for the following morning. 

The 13 Grab & Go times and locations will remain the same. The sites are open from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The locations are:

• Bissonet Plaza Elementary: 6818 Kawanee Drive in Metairie
• Emmett Gilbert School: 435 S. Jamie Blvd. in Westwego
• Fisher: 2529 Jean Lafitte Blvd. in Lafitte
• Gretna Middle: 910 Gretna Blvd. in Gretna
• Hazel Park Elementary: 8809 Jefferson Hwy. in River Ridge
• Marie Riviere Elementary: 1564 Lake Ave. in Metairie
• Marrero Middle: 4100 7th Street in Marrero
• Meisler Middle: 3700 Cleary Ave. in Metairie
• Riverdale High: 240 Riverdale Drive in Jefferson
• Terrytown Elementary: 550 E. Forest Lawn Drive in Terrytown
• Truman School: 5417 Ehret Road in Marrero
• Woods Elementary: 1037 31st Street in Kenner
• Worley Middle: 801 Spartans Drive in Westwego

Meals will also be delivered to students on five different routes. The meals served on the routes will be the same as at the Grab & Go locations. Those routes are located in Terrytown, Harvey, Marrero, Westwego, and Metairie/Kenner. A starting date for delivery and additional details about the routes will be available at jpschools.org/GrabAndGo.

Grab & Go meal sites will be closed April 10 to observe Good Friday. The last day of the Grab & Go service will be April 13 if school is allowed to resume April 15. The Grab & Go sites will continue their Monday-Wednesday-Friday schedule if school closures are extended. 

Meals will be offered to any child age 18 and under or special needs students age 21 and under regardless of whether they are a JP Schools student. 

Eighty-two percent of the families in JP Schools are economically disadvantaged. 

Three O’Clock Project (TOP) is a nonprofit organization. Their mission is to provide healthy meals and nutrition education for at-risk students after school. 

Meals will be provided to all children age 18 and under without charge. Acceptance and participating requirements for the program and all activities are the same for all regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service. Jefferson Parish Schools is an equal opportunity provider.

Students are out of school until at least April 14, but Jefferson Parish Schools will offer student meals and optional at-home learning resources to families. The at-home learning resources will be available two ways: online at jpschools.org and in printed packets families can pick up beginning this Wednesday, March 18. That’s the day the district will begin providing grab and go meals for children. JP Schools educators will also operate a hotline for families who need academic support.

“Nothing we offer will fully replace the supports our kids receive when our doors are open,” said JP Schools Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley.  “We are stepping up to make this uncertain time a little easier for families.”

Meals will be provided weekdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., beginning March 18. Families can pick up the first round of printed learning packets in the grab and go meal line March 18-20. New packets will be available March 30 through April 2.

Families can go to any of the 13 locations to pick up a free Grab and Go meal and at-home learning packet, even if the site is not their home school.

The grab and go locations are:

• Bissonet Plaza Elementary: 6818 Kawanee Drive in Metairie
• Emmett Gilbert School: 435 S. Jamie Blvd. in Westwego
• Fisher: 2529 Jean Lafitte Blvd. in Lafitte
• Gretna Middle: 910 Gretna Blvd. in Gretna
• Hazel Park Elementary: 8809 Jefferson Hwy. in River Ridge
• Marie Riviere Elementary: 1564 Lake Ave. in Metairie
• Marrero Middle: 4100 7th Street in Marrero
• Meisler Middle: 3700 Cleary Ave. in Metairie
• Riverdale High: 240 Riverdale Drive in Jefferson
• Terrytown Elementary: 550 E. Forest Lawn Drive in Terrytown
• Truman School: 5417 Ehret Road in Marrero
• Woods Elementary: 1037 31st Street in Kenner
• Worley Middle: 801 Spartans Drive in Westwego

Meals will be offered to any child age 18 and under regardless of whether they are a Jefferson Parish Schools student. Printed learning packets will be available for students in grades pre-K to 8th. Children must be present with an adult to receive a meal and learning packet. Meals will include lunch for that day and breakfast for the following morning. The printed learning packets are intended for families who do not have internet access to the resources available on the district website. High school students are encouraged to use the digital coursework linked at jpschools.org. 

The grab and go service will include pick-up lines outside the school for families to drive through or walk up. In order to avoid creating a large crowd, it is important that families immediately leave campus after receiving their meal and packet. 

We encourage our families to reach out to their teachers with any academic questions. Teacher email addresses are available on individual school websites. For a school website directory, visit jpschools.org/schools. The district will open a hotline March 18 for families who need academic support. The hotline number is 504-349-8999. The call center will be open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. beginning March 18. The hotline is available for families who have questions about either the online learning resources or printed learning packets.

In response to the Governor’s emergency proclamation, all Jefferson Parish Schools are closed Monday, March 16 through at least April 14. JP Schools is on spring break April 10-14. The district has made digital at-home learning resources available to families at jpschools.org. 

Eighty-two percent of the families in JP Schools are economically disadvantaged. JP Schools also estimates that around 50% of the families it serves lack the internet service or home technology to receive the digital at-home learning resources available to students.

Meals will be provided to all children age 18 and under without charge. Acceptance and participating requirements for the program and all activities are the same for all regardless of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA and there will be no discrimination in the course of the meal service. Jefferson Parish Schools is an equal opportunity provider.

Jefferson Parish Family,

As I’ve always believed, families are the child’s first teacher. This will be especially important over the next month. In response to the Governor’s emergency proclamation, all Jefferson Parish Schools are closed beginning Monday, March 16 through at least April 14. All schools and buildings will be closed and all activities - including school day instruction, before and after-care, preschool, health services, parent teacher conferences, student registration, and enrichment - will be canceled until further notice. 

In this evolving situation, Jefferson Parish Schools has been a leader in the state. We developed preventive measures well before the first positive case in Jefferson Parish. Throughout this process, I have been clear about my intent to keep our doors open as long as possible to ensure the education of our children, support our families, and help our local community. Along the way, we followed guidance of health officials. Our school and district teams have gone above-and-beyond to be great stewards of the public trust. 

I know this was not a decision the Governor made lightly. Outside of the benefit of our schools to our nearly 51,000 kids and 7,000 employees, I understand the important role a public school system plays in the greater community. We know closing our schools will impact our most vulnerable families, and we recognize that working families depend on the consistency and predictability of supports and services our schools offer. We also have families who rely on our schools for child care and meals. 

We are in regular contact with local and state officials to ensure we address the needs of our school communities, and we will be working in partnership with the state on what this extended closure means for our calendar. As soon as we have more information, we will share it with you.

While our classrooms are empty, our work on behalf of children continues. 

Jefferson Parish is offering at-home learning options in two different formats: online and print. The district will not require online distance learning since we can not ensure that all students will have equal access to learning. We are the largest district in our state with a diverse student population, and many of our students do not have regular access to technology or the internet. Print resources will be available next week at various locations. Locations and times will be posted as soon as they are available.

We will provide online resources at jpschools.org. These resources are meant to provide optional opportunities for student learning while students are absent from school. We encourage our students and families to utilize these resources. Our teachers will be responsive and available via email should families have questions. Please know this will not take the place of regular classroom instruction. It’s meant to supplement student learning at home.

If able, we intend to distribute grab-and-go lunches for our students at select sites throughout the district. Additional information will be available on our website as we learn more.

One of our next steps will be to sanitize both schools and the administration buildings. Students and employees should take any pertinent items or refrigerated items with them before they leave today. We understand that some employees may still need to come back into buildings to retrieve items, so schools will be open on Monday, March 16 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. for staff members to enter the buildings and retrieve any items. 

For families who need to retrieve their essential student medications, our schools will be open on Monday, March 16. A detailed schedule about when nurses will be at schools will be available on our website for these families. No other students should report to campus Monday.

I want to thank everyone for their understanding and ongoing commitment to prioritize the safety of our students, staff, and school communities. 

Thank you to our students and families. I appreciate your patience over these past two weeks.

Thank you to our staff. Whether you’re supporting our students by leading our schools, providing high-quality instruction, serving on our school board, keeping our buildings clean, providing meals for students, completing payroll, or providing updates to our families, I appreciate everyone’s hard work and dedication. 

Thank you to our community members, including our medical and emergency personnel, parish government officials, and other partners who continuously work to keep our communities healthy and safe.

We are working to get you up-to-date information and will continue to be in regular contact. For the latest district updates, visit jpschools.org and download the free Jefferson Parish Schools mobile app on the Apple iTunes store or Google Play. You should also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

In the meantime, we encourage you to continue to follow CDC guidelines to prevent any further spread of this virus. If you are able, please offer help to friends and neighbors. Small moments of kindness, grace, and support will go a long way as we navigate our collective response to this situation.

Dr. Cade Brumley

Translations

• Arabic
• Spanish
• Vietnamese

Dear Families,

There are no confirmed cases of coronavirus in Jefferson Parish Schools. With Governor Edwards’ announcement of additional cases of coronavirus in Louisiana this week, we understand our families and staff have concerns. We share those concerns and take the health and safety of our community seriously.

As the largest school system in the state and one of the largest employers in Jefferson Parish, we may have students and staff members who came in direct contact with a patient or live in the same household with someone who had direct contact with a patient. Out of an abundance of caution and to follow the guidelines we’ve adopted to help prevent the spread of communicable diseases, these students or staff members will be asked to remain at home for 14 days. We will review each situation on a case-by-case basis to make the best decision. To help calm any concerns staff and families may have, we will also conduct additional cleaning and disinfecting on that campus.

Health officials recommend that the best ways to prevent the spread of coronavirus are the same preventions recommended for the flu and common cold. We advise you to continue the following best practices:

• If you or your student is sick, stay home. In addition to good hygiene habits, staying home when sick is an important preventative measure against the spread of this or any other virus. The CDC has identified fever, persistent cough, and difficulty breathing as the most common symptoms of coronavirus.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. 
• If soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that is at least 60% alcohol-based.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid sharing your food, dishes, utensils, and other personal hygiene items.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or use a tissue and place immediately in the trash.
• Avoid shaking hands.

We will continue to maximize our preventative efforts by increasing sanitation efforts in our buildings, monitoring absences daily, requiring all employees to conduct a common illness prevention course, and asking any employees or students who have visited one of the CDC’s risk assessed countries to wait 14 days before returning to work or school. We will also update jpschools.org/health with coronavirus communications and resources for families. 

We have been planning for how to respond to the first positive case in our district. If we have a positive test from a student or employee, we would first notify the Louisiana Department of Health and request their guidance on appropriate next steps. We would work with an outside licensed vendor to conduct a deep cleaning of the school. We would also notify you and our employees. The decision on whether or not to close school would be based on the recommendation of health officials and handled on a case-by-case basis. 

Our goal is to keep schools open. Our families depend on the consistency and predictability of supports and services our schools offer. The longer we can keep our doors open, the better it will be for our students and the entire community. We know that school closures affect our local community and can disrupt family work schedules. Many of our families rely on schools for basic needs including child care and regular meals. Many of our students have parents who work in various roles in the medical field, and these parents need to be at work during this time.

We will continue to work in partnership with the Louisiana Department of Health, the Jefferson Parish government, and the Centers for Disease Control to follow their guidance. We will continue to monitor this evolving situation and respond accordingly.

I know these two weeks haven’t been easy. Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and understanding as we continue pushing for what’s best for our kids. 

Dr. Brumley

Jefferson Parish Schools is taking additional precautions in response to the first presumptive positive case of coronavirus in Louisiana.

Jefferson Parish Schools will no longer hold in-person parent-teacher conferences on March 16. Instead, the district is encouraging families to communicate with their child’s teacher through email or phone. Families may email questions or concerns to their child’s teacher at any time. Conferences on March 16 will be conducted by email or phone.

Teacher emails can be found on school websites or by calling the schools. For school web addresses or contact information, visit jpschools.org/schools. March 16 will still be a student holiday. Parent-teacher conferences and teacher professional development times will remain the same. Those times are:

Elementary and K-8 Schools

• Teacher PD: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
• Parent-Teacher Conferences: 4-7 p.m.

Middle and High Schools

• Teacher PD: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
• Parent-Teacher Conferences: 1-4 p.m.

The change to parent-teacher conferences is one of the additional measures the district is taking. In-state and local field trips are being postponed until further notice. The district is also postponing large scale assemblies until further notice. Schools will communicate to families about the status of upcoming events.

On March 2, JP Schools released guidance to schools that limited new out-of-state travel and all large scale non-essential assemblies. To learn more about the preventative measures the district is taking, visit jpschools.org/health.

The U.S. government shared guidance with schools recently encouraging schools to consider rearranging large activities and gatherings.

JP Schools Families,

Today, Governor Edwards announced the first presumptive positive case of coronavirus in Louisiana. This case is from a Jefferson Parish resident who is hospitalized in Orleans Parish. 

We are working in partnership with the Louisiana Department of Health and Jefferson Parish government. We will continue to follow the guidance of health experts in this evolving situation. Our intent is to keep schools open. 

As we shared with all our families last week, we are taking extra steps to keep our students and employees safe. Some of these proactive measures include: 

• We are increasing sanitation efforts in our schools and buildings, including restrooms, cafeterias, classrooms, and other common areas.
• All employees are completing online training for common illness prevention.
• If a current student or staff member has traveled to a country on the CDC’s risk assessed list, out of an abundance of caution, we are requesting that these students and staff wait for the 14-day incubation period to expire before returning to school or work.
• We’re asking new families who register whether the student has traveled internationally within the last two weeks. 
• We’re also monitoring absences daily, limiting large-scale assemblies, and limiting student travel for school events.

You can learn more about the actions we are taking at jpschools.org/health.

Health officials have shared that the best ways to prevent the spread of coronavirus are the same preventions recommended for the flu and common cold. 

• Stay home and seek appropriate medical attention if you are sick.
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. 
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or use a tissue and place it immediately in the trash.

We hear our families' and staff’s concerns about coronavirus, and I share those concerns. We take the health and safety of our community seriously. Even with this presumptive positive test, the Louisiana Office of Public Health says the risk to the general public is low. The overall risk to children also remains low. 

As this situation is ever-evolving, we share this update as part of our commitment to being transparent and keeping you well-informed. Thank you for your partnership, and we will continue to keep you updated. 

Dr. Cade Brumley

Superintendent

Jefferson Parish Schools is working to ensure students and employees are taking proactive measures against the spread of Coronavirus. 

“It’s important we take the lead informing our families and providing guidance to our schools,” said JP Schools Superintendent Dr. Cade Brumley. “We view these prevention measures as necessary and will continue to monitor this ongoing situation.”

There are currently no confirmed cases of Coronavirus in Jefferson Parish or Louisiana. JP Schools is in communication with the Louisiana Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) about the respiratory disease. 

Health officials have shared that the best ways to prevent the spread of Coronavirus are the same preventions recommended for the flu and common cold. As it is still cold and flu season, the district is advising students, families, and employees to take these everyday preventive actions:

• Stay home and seek appropriate medical attention when you are sick (fever, dry cough, body aches, etc…).
• Avoid contact with people who are sick.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. The constant rubbing action helps soap break down the grease and dirt that carry most germs. This way, your hands don’t just smell fresh, but you’ll also reduce the germ count on your hands by up to 99%.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
• Avoid sharing your food, dishes, utensils, and other personal hygiene items.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or use a tissue and place immediately in the trash.
• Avoid shaking hands.

The district is taking the following additional steps to minimize the chance of an outbreak at a school:

• Increasing sanitation efforts in our schools and buildings, including restrooms, cafeterias, classrooms, etc. 
• Requiring all employees to complete online training for common illness prevention.
• Holding informational webinars for principals and school nurses.
• Reporting to a school principal if a current student or staff member has traveled to a country on the CDC’s risk assessed list. Out of an abundance of caution, we request that these students and staff wait for the 14-day incubation period (beginning the day of return to the U.S.) to expire before returning to school or work.
• Asking new families who register whether the student has traveled internationally within the last two weeks. Out of an abundance of caution, we request that any students who have traveled to a country on the CDC’s risk assessed list wait for the 14-day incubation period (beginning the day of return to the U.S.) to expire before enrolling in school.
• Monitoring absences daily.
• Permitting already scheduled out-of-state trips, but until further notice, limiting new out-of-state travel for student field trips, competitions, etc.
• No longer incentivizing perfect attendance for students and staff. If students or staff are sick, they should remain at home to avoid possible infection of others.
• Limiting large scale non-essential assemblies. Out of an abundance of caution and until further notice, we are recommending limiting assemblies during the school day. 
• Intentionally and persistently combating stigma. As new information emerges, it’s important we remember that the risk of COVID-19 is not at all connected to race, ethnicity, or nationality. 

JP Schools first shared Coronavirus guidance with employees through an internal email in January. The information and preventative measures included in this release were shared with employees and families March 2 when school resumed following Mardi Gras break. The district has also created a special webpage at jpschools.org/health where families can learn more about Coronavirus and the preventative steps being taken in JP Schools.