| May 1, 2020 Dear MUSD Family, It is hard to believe that we are at the beginning of May and have now been learning at home for six weeks. Sometimes it seems like years, other times it feels like days, as we all have had to adjust to a new normal during this surreal and unprecedented time. First, I want to thank our amazing students, families, educators, leaders, and all of our staff whose tireless commitment to learning and to staying connected keep our District united. While we are disappointed in not seeing our students in their classrooms each day, we are so grateful for the partnership and continued support that exists in our MUSD community. Additionally, I want to thank everyone who has continued to post, comment, and share pictures on #maranaschools social media channels of how much you miss and appreciate each other. Next week is Teacher Appreciation Week. As we recognize our dedicated teachers May 4-8, we are acutely aware of the challenges that our educators, students, and families have faced during school closure. The flexible and positive approach to learning is a testament to how well MUSD has remained connected during this time. Although this week recognizes our teachers, we also thank our parents and other family members who have stepped in to assist in ensuring that our students continue to learn at home. Please join us next week on our Facebook and Twitter pages to #ThankATeacher who is special to you! As our educators are committed to Learning at Home, I also want to thank all of our employees throughout the District who are working in a variety of different roles to support our students, families, and community. The efforts of our food service staff and bus drivers are resulting in over 25,000 free Grab & Go meals served each week. Transportation staff are painting and landscaping; facilities staff are engaged in major projects; student services and health services are supporting family and community outreach activities including our Power Pack program; LEAP staff are providing services to essential workers; social workers and counselors are assisting students and families; other school and district support staff are working behind the scenes in so many ways to ensure that all services continue. Everyone is dedicated and everyone is helping someone, somewhere throughout this amazing District. Please join us in congratulating the Class of 2020. While nothing will replace our traditional graduation ceremonies, our high schools and District are proud to continue to find ways to recognize the accomplishment of our seniors. Graduation signifies a time of completion and the start of a new chapter and we look forward to celebrating in-person as soon as possible. Until then, we have multiple tributes this month to honor the successes of seniors including videos, yard signs, turning on stadium lights, social media recognitions, and more. I think it has taken all of us a while to find a balance in this world we are living in. We have all grown from the challenges presented to us during these unexpected times. We are stronger and we will carry this strength and unity with us into the future when presented with situations that are out of our control. I am so proud to be a part of this outstanding District and community! Stay healthy, take care of each other, and stay connected. Warm Regards, Doug Wilson, Ed.D.
Superintendent | 
