The Omaha Schools Superintendent and Board President again explain the reasoning for shutting down Fall sports and other activities, while noting the disappointment of students who are involved:
"Dear Omaha Public Schools High School Students and Families,
Following a weekend that would have marked the start of many fall athletics, arts and activities, we want to take a moment and acknowledge the disappointment many of our students and families face during this time.
We understand the important role extra-curricular activities play in a student’s school experience. Just as we would like to be learning with students in person each day, we all wish they were also taking the fields, trails, courts and courses to compete.
As we monitor transmission of COVID-19 in the Omaha community, informed by guidance from the Douglas County Health Department and partners like UNMC, if it is not the right time for students to learn socially distanced in a classroom, we know that group workouts, weightlifting and competition cannot take place in a safe and responsible manner. It is not a decision made lightly and to our students and families voicing frustration, we hear you.
Throughout our planning process, we’ve shared that in addition to neighboring school districts, we are regularly in contact with the districts most like ours across the country. Several large, urban school communities have reached similar, difficult decisions related to fall activities.
Just as we are preparing for an in-person return to learning when it is possible, we very much look forward to the return of athletics, arts and activities when we can provide them in a responsible way. We are actively exploring alternative options to provide students with a chance to play and compete when it is safe to do so. Though we do not have additional information to share at this time, we will keep students, staff and families up to date as more becomes available. Health and safety have and will continue to be at the forefront of all that we do.
We care very deeply for our students. We’re reminded of the state swim meet last winter, before the pandemic forced such a dramatic change in our daily routines. It was awe-inspiring to see athletes from across our district cheer as one group at the meet, coming together to represent Omaha Public Schools. Though it cannot come soon enough, we are just as eager to enjoy those opportunities again."
Sincerely,
Mr. Marque Snow
Board of Education President
Dr. Cheryl Logan
Superintendent