GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Leaders with the Green Bay Area Public School District are trying to ease parents’ concerns amid coronavirus fears.
“This is a public health emergency, this is a pandemic. This is something we all need to take very seriously, and work together,” said superintendent Michelle Langenfeld.
She was joined by leaders with human resources and food service at a Tuesday’s press conference.
“All children can eat. They don’t necessarily have to be a Green Bay Area Public Schools student. We will feed all and every child.”
Langenfeld says about 13,000 Green Bay students use free and reduced meals.
It’s why there is now a list of locations on the district’s website where parents can pick up free breakfast and lunch for their kids: no questions asked.
As Governor Tony Evers’ order extended school closures indefinitely, the district is looking for ways for kids to learn at home.
“We are very grateful to Spectrum who stepped up,” said Langenfeld. “They are offering free WiFi for at least the next 60 days.”
Even though Spectrum will provide free internet, the district is trying to find solutions for students with language and disabilities.
And it’s more than students and parents impacted by the indefinite closure.
When it comes to staff and employees…
“Beginning the 19 through the last day of the closure at this point, it was announced that it would go until April 6 then we will continue to maintain the regular rate of pay.”
Teri Willems, executive director of human resources, says part time, full time and even scheduled substitutes can expect to be paid as usual during the closure.
So while parents, students and district leaders adjust to updates on the coronavirus…
“The most important thing and the support behind it is that working together we will get through this,” assured Langenfeld.
The Green Bay Area Public School District outlined its plans to feed students and community members during the coronavirus pandemic.
Starting Monday, March 23, free breakfast and lunch will be distributed at 12 sites to Green Bay Area Public School District students and any child under the age of 18. Staff say they plan to serve 5,000 meals per day.
The district is currently on spring break until March 23.
Click here to see a list of the sites. This plan will go through April 3.
Other things the district is working on is alternative learning options for students when they return from spring break. More of those details will be released in the near future.
Langenfeld says the district also plans to file a waiver with DPI to waive the state-mandated hour requirements so students will not have to make up missed time.
Parents and families are encouraged to keep checking the district’s website for updates. Gov. Tony Evers ordered the closure of all schools statewide, effective today.
