Harrington staff meeting school closure challenges

Following Gov. Jay Inslee’s decision to close schools due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Harrington School District began serving a “grab-and-go” lunch and a next-day breakfast in front of the school by the kitchen door from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Country delivery via bus routes was added March 23. All children from one to 18 years old, or students, were required to be present to receive the meals.

School personnel are working on a plan to provide childcare for children in grades 4 through 6 for parents who are considered essential military personnel, first responders, and/or who work in the medical field. All parent/staff meetings, extra-curricular activities and previously scheduled meetings have been postponed or cancelled. All use of the school facility has been suspended.

Teachers began developing enrichment learning resources for students and families, which became available for pick-up March 19 between 1 and 2 p.m. for students in grades P-12. Bus delivery to homes for those unable to get to the pick-up site was also provided. Plans are to provide this service weekly.

Parents concerned about the social and emotional needs of their children were advised to contact school guidance counselor Ginny Lathem. Parents of P-6th graders may email her at glathem@harringtonsd.org or wait for her to initiate regular contact with 7th-12th graders.