Dear Aug Prep Community,
So much has changed in only a few days. With the spread of COVID-19 impacting the Milwaukee area over the weekend, we decided the responsible action was to close immediately on March 16th. We sent updated communications to our families over the weekend and our staff immediately got to work preparing to distribute packets, technology, and food to our students as well as preparing to launch distance learning. It has been an incredible example of the team living our mission.
We appreciate your concern and prayers for our students at this time.
For most, Aug Prep is more than just a place they receive their education. It is a place of love and consistency in their lives. It is a place of nourishment where they receive at least two meals per day. We want to be transparent with you regarding our plans of how we will continue sharing knowledge, love, connection and even meals with our students.
Distance Learning
Our teachers have been remarkable through this transition. As we prepared last week, staff rallied together to completely shift their lessons and content to our distance learning system so our students can remain engaged and on track.
Aug Prep is set-up to be a 1:1 technology school meaning we have a tablet for younger students or Chromebook for all other students. We have built a process to distribute technology to all our students by Wednesday. Teachers across the board (including special education, music, art, and engineering) are ready to launch and engage with our students in a whole new way starting Thursday, March 19! Additionally, we are working to connect our families without internet to Spectrum free internet services for families in need.
Schedule Changes
We had to make tough decisions, but we made them with our kids and families in mind. After careful consideration of the impact of being out of school, we have moved spring break from April 6-10 to March 30-April 3. Our current plan is to open our doors again on April 6th. This adjustment limits students’ time away from the classroom and potentially reduces an additional week of childcare or work disruption for families.
Breakfast/Lunch Pickup
We have plans to serve meals not only to our students but to ANY children under 18 in Milwaukee that come for pickup at Aug Prep. Starting March 18, we will provide a drive-through style pickup for breakfast and lunch each weekday from 7-9am. Please spread the word if you know of kids that may need meals during this time!
Supporting our Students
We know that this is a time our students, especially those with the most needs, are vulnerable. Throughout the closure, staff will stay in contact with students - supporting and guiding their learning as well as reaching out to those who may not be engaged to ensure they are safe and healthy, in addition to encouraging their continued learning. We are also cognizant of those that may need extra emotional support and have our social workers and faith team on tap to engage and share resources with our students and families. This is a team that loves our students.
How You Can Help
Pray for us. Spread love. Spread truth. Please do your part and stay home. This only works if we all put in the effort!
Also remember, God is present and in control. Always. There are a lot of moving pieces for everyone right now - school, jobs, health, etc. God is walking with EACH of us through this. Throughout the Bible, God reminds us He is with us, He is in control and He does not want us to live in fear.
We leave you with these words; His truth.
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” ~ Psalm 46:1
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” ~ Joshua 1:9
Warmest regards,
Abby Andrietsch