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Dear Lakeland Community:

As if this cannot get any more complicated or confusing, the Governor has now issued an Executive Order indicating we must work through Spring Recess and all available days until the end of the year, or forfeit the State Aid we would receive for the number of days. Therefore, on Thursday evening, the Board of Education will be asked to approve a resolution returning all available vacation days to the school calendar. In practice, however, we are instructing our teachers to prepare a week's worth of assignments, websites, etc. and distribute to their students on Friday, April 3rd. This will provide students with daily work, but relieve teachers of the burden to provide instruction daily during the following week.

I certainly apologize for any confusion this is creating, but given the financial conditions we are currently experiencing and the concerning outlook for the coming year, we cannot afford to lose any State Aid we are entitled. I know our community has offered their support in anyway they can, and this is just another example of our need to work together.

In another order, the Governor has moved the date of school elections back to June 2nd. We are still awaiting clarification as to whether this includes the budget vote. We believe it does, but we do need legal guidance. For now, we will continue to keep the budget process moving forward.

I want to once again thank everyone involved in the food distribution and child care programs being conducted as well as our Facilities Department, who is continually cleaning. I also send my heart out to our health care workers and first responders. For parents of student athletes, today, Section One postponed all Spring Sports at least until April 15th.

Once again, I apologize for these ongoing changes, but so is the nature of this current crisis. Hopefully, we will bring closure to this before the end of year activities. Until then, be well.

Dr. George Stone, Superintendent

Inside the magazine, you’ll find information on a wide range of programs; academics, the arts, athletics, and technology, etc. (http://www.lakelandschools.org/district/inside_lakeland_schools.php. You’ll also learn about the departments that support these programs and so much more. This is the first edition but check back in the future for updates and additions. If you would like to request a printed copy, go to http://www.lakelandschools.org/district/request_for_printed_copy.php.