RSU 2 schools will be closed for two weeks, from Monday, March 16 through Friday, March 27. It is in the best interest of our school communities, Kennebec County, and the state of Maine to practice social distancing now in our collective attempt to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus. This action is not in response to any known or suspected case of COVID-19 in any RSU school or community but rather to the increasing number of confirmed cases in Maine. 

In making this decision, I have met with the RSU 2 administrative team, heard from the Maine DOE and CDC, and consulted with area superintendents. 

While trying to balance and consider the many implications of a school closure, we have all been in a state of suspense and tension. I know our community members have been feeling anxiety over not knowing if school will be closed or not. Therefore, even though some details are not yet worked out, I wanted to inform you this afternoon of the closure in order to give you time to make necessary arrangements for childcare. 

I will continue to provide updates and information as needed; however, at this time, I am informing you of a change in plans since my letter on Friday.

We will not attempt to provide structured remote learning content to students in the form of packets or online assignments at this time. This is a full school closure with no expectations for remote learning. We are experiencing highly unusual circumstances, to which families will need to respond in ways that make sense for them and that may not be known to us. We hope to ease stress on families as they adjust to this situation. We will reassess within the closure window, and if necessary more information about possible remote learning and/or return to school plans will be forthcoming. We encourage you to provide your children with opportunities to learn and practice skills at home if and when possible. 

In general, home will feel different from the usual during this time, and there will be big adjustments for many. I encourage you to reach out to one another if you need help or can offer support. At all times, please adhere to recommended social distancing and hygiene practices. 

RSU 2 is made up of strong, resilient communities and people; I have faith that we will all rise in this occasion to our best selves and in some ways be stronger for this experience in the end.

Please look for ongoing communications as this situation unfolds.

(Editor’s note: Dresden is one of the towns the RSU serves.)