SWMetro Classes to Remain in Current Learning Models
Posted on 04/20/2021
April 20, 2021
Dear SouthWest Metro Community,
This afternoon, the jury in the trial of Derek Chauvin reached a verdict of GUILTY on 3 counts. SouthWest Metro Intermediate District recognizes that this will result in many complicated and extreme emotions in our community, particularly among our youth.
We are committed to ensuring a safe learning environment for our students. For this reason, classes will continue in their current models so that our students can have space to discuss the complex topics that have followed the killing of George Floyd and the verdict of Derek Chauvin.
While we as professional educators will not have all of the answers or be able to understand the lens through which our students are seeing the world, SouthWest Metro remains dedicated to listening to students whose voices feel marginalized by these current events. Each of our staff members will approach this situation differently with their unique classrooms in mind. We also have district-wide support systems in place to help moderate difficult conversations and crisis and emergency plans to ensure building safety.
Should the outlook of public safety in our member district areas change at any time, we will reevaluate for what is best for our students. Please monitor our website, social media channels, and email/text announcements in the event that public safety requires us to make any last minute changes.
Sincerely,
DARREN KERMES
SUPERINTENDENT | SOUTHWEST METRO INTERMEDIATE DISTRICT 288