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Harmony Public Schools Reopening FAQ: Restart & Reopening Basics

Note: This document is intended as a simplified version of our “Harmony Public Schools Back to School Playbook.” For further information or clarification on any topic, please refer to the Playbook.

 

When is the first day of school?

The first day of school for all Harmony campuses is Monday, August 17. It will be held online-only.

 

When will campuses re-open?

As of August 1, 2020, campuses are scheduled to open Tuesday, September 8 for in-person learning to those students who wish to attend in person. Families may also elect to continue learning in a virtual setting from home. 

 

Could the campus reopening date change?

Possibly. Harmony Public Schools is closely following guidance from the Texas Education Agency, public health officials, and others in determining when to reopen our campuses. Our top priority is ensuring the safety of our students, team members, and communities while preserving academic continuity for our learners.

 

Is anything different about online learning this year?

Yes, quite a bit. Harmony has upgraded its online learning by switching to a new system called Schoology. Through Schoology, students will be able to interact and engage with their teachers and peers in real-time throughout the school day to provide and more advanced and enriching school experience. Families will also have full access to grades, progress reports, assignments, classroom learning materials, calendars, and more from within the Schoology platform, providing a simple one-stop-shop for all things related to their student’s learning experience. Students and families will receive more instruction on accessing and logging into Schoology as classes begin.

 

What safety measures will be in place when campuses open?

Harmony is instituting a wide variety of health protocols, which are described in detail in the Harmony “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.” Among the new measures are:

  • Temperature screenings for students and staff.
  • Requiring all students and employees to wear a mask when on campus or in other group settings. (Students may bring their own mask, or the school will provide them.)
  • Limiting average class sizes to allow for social distancing. (Exact class size will be dependent on number of students attending in-person versus online-only.)
  • Spacing desks at least six feet apart to maintain proper social distancing and/or installing partitions where students cannot be kept six feet apart.
  • Severely limiting classroom rotations/switches to prevent the spread of germs across campus and to limit person-to-person exchanges.
  • Staggered drop off and pickup times to limit person-to-person exchanges.
  • Modified drop off and pickup procedures (ex. Students going directly to class after drop off and/or waiting in classroom at the end of the day until parent arrives for pickup).
  • Requesting all students wash hands frequently.
  • Detailed nightly cleaning by contracted company.
  • Required Coronavirus Awareness & Prevention trainings for all employees.
  • Remaining flexible regarding student and team member absences due to COVID-19, as allowed by TEA guidelines and applicable employment laws.

 

How do I inform my campus that I would like to continue learning from home or return to campus to learn once campuses re-open?

Parents will be sent a survey in Skyward the first week of school asking them to inform the campus of their choice.

 

Once campuses reopen, how do I switch between online and on-campus learning later in the school, if needed?

Parents should notify their campuses in advance through Skyward of their decisions to change learning environments. Failure to notify campuses could result in a student to be marked as absent.

 

What hours of the day will online classes be taught?

Your campus will announce the specific schedule for your student, but generally speaking, classes will be taught online in real-time by their teachers during normal school hours (instructional minutes may vary by grade, according to Texas Education Agency requirements). This is called “synchronous learning.” Students needing to learn outside this timeframe can choose to learn independently. This is called “asynchronous learning.”

 

How will absences and attendance be counted for online learning?

Students who are logged in and learning alongside their teacher and classmates during normal school hours (synchronous learning) will be counted in attendance when they lo in to learn. 

 

Student who learn independently through self-guided instruction (asynchronous learning) will be counted in attendance when they meet daily learning benchmarks and/or turn in daily assignments by no later than 11:59 p.m. on the given schoolday.

 

What will my child need to complete their schoolwork from home? 

At-home learners will need consistent access to a computer and the internet (see next question for more information). Headphones, especially noise-canceling headphones, may be helpful for online learning, but are not required. 

 

Do I still need to buy school supplies from the campus school supply list?

Yes. All students regardless of learning location (i.e. home or campus) will be completing assignments alongside their peers using the supplies listed by their campus.

 

What happens if my child doesn’t have a computer to do their schoolwork on while learning from home?

Harmony will supply a computer device and/or internet access for the purpose of completing schoolwork to any student that does not have consistent access at home. These will be provided beginning the first week of August and distributed by drive-through pickups at your nearby Harmony campus.

 

Will my child have to wear a Harmony uniform for online learning?

Students may choose to wear a uniform if they would like to when learning online, however they are not required to. Instead, they are required to follow the dress code guidelines set forth for “Free Dress Days” set forth in the Student & Parent Handbook. This states:

 

“Garments must be free of holes, tears, inappropriate wording, logos, messages or advertising. No short, skin tight, or legging dresses, or skirts may be worn. All dresses must have sleeves. Students may not wear low cut, midriff-baring, or backless blouses. Students may wear jeans, but they cannot be tight pants including jeggings, tights or skinny style pants. Clothing items must not depict images of violence.”

 

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Harmony Public Schools Reopening FAQ: Operations & Health

Note: This document is intended as a simplified version of our Harmony Public Schools “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.” For further information or clarification on any topic, please refer to the Playbook.

 

When will campuses re-open?

As of August 1, 2020, campuses are scheduled to open Tuesday, September 8 for in-person learning to those students who wish to attend in person. Families may also elect to continue learning in a virtual setting from home. 

 

Could the campus reopening date change?

Possibly. Harmony Public Schools is closely following guidance from the Texas Education Agency, public health officials, and others in determining when to reopen our campuses. Our top priority is ensuring the safety of our students, team members, and communities while preserving academic continuity for our learners.

 

What safety measures will be in place when campuses open?

Harmony is instituting a wide variety of health protocols, which are described in detail in “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.” Among the new measures are:

  • Temperature screenings for students and staff.
  • Requiring all students and employees to wear a mask when on campus or in other group settings. (Students may bring their own mask, or the school will provide them.)
  • Limiting average class sizes to allow for social distancing. (Exact class size will be dependent on number of students attending in-person versus online-only.)
  • Spacing desks at least six feet apart to maintain proper social distancing and/or installing partitions where students cannot be kept six feet apart.
  • Severely limiting classroom rotations/switches to prevent the spread of germs across campus and to limit person-to-person exchanges.
  • Staggered drop off and pickup times to limit person-to-person exchanges.
  • Modified drop off and pickup procedures (ex. Students going directly to class after drop off and/or waiting in classroom at the end of the day until parent arrives for pickup).
  • Requesting all students wash hands frequently.
  • Detailed nightly cleaning by contracted company.
  • Required Coronavirus Awareness & Prevention trainings for all employees.
  • Remaining flexible regarding student and team member absences due to COVID-19, as allowed by TEA guidelines and applicable employment laws.

 

How often will the campus and/or my student’s work station be cleaned and disinfected.

At the end of the day, custodial services will clean and sanitize all desk surfaces including seat, chair back, desk, any dividers if available with soap and water or all-purpose cleaning agents and sanitizers that meet state and local food safety regulations. Staff, including teachers, may also perform more frequent cleanings throughout the day, as needed.

 

What happens if a child or staff member attending school on-campus tests positive for COVID-19, is exposed to someone who is positive, or displays symptoms of COVID-19?

Anyone displaying the signs or symptoms of COVID-19 should follow below self-quarantine policy:

Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with Positive Testing

The following criteria must be met in FULL:

  • at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);

  • the individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and

  • at least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.

Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with Negative Testing or MD Note

If an individual has symptoms of COVID-19 and wants to return to campus before completing the above stay at home period, the following criteria must be met in FULL:

  • Either obtain a medical professional’s note clearing the individual for return based on an alternative diagnosis OR obtain a negative COVID-19 test AND

  • at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications).

  1. Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with No Testing and No U.S. Based Medical Provider’s Note

The following criteria must be met in FULL:

  • at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);

  • the individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and

  • at least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.

Readmittance will be granted when the following has been completed:

  1. Proof of negative COVID tests or U.S. based medical provider’s alternative diagnosis delivered to campus health staff or registrar if no health staff is available OR

  2. when all three of the following criteria are met:

  • At least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);

  • The individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and

  • At least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.

For more information on quarantine measures, including requirements for specific scenarios, see the “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.”

Can parents their child at school during the school day?

Harmony is asking parents to limit visits to campus only to necessary appointments which cannot be done through virtual meetings. Harmony requests that all in-person visits be scheduled in advance. All visitors who enter the building will be required to wear a face covering and those who proceed beyond the reception area (pre-arranged and approved appointments) will follow campus guidelines for visitors. 

 

How do I purchase uniforms for the new school year?

Uniforms can be ordered online using the Revtrak online ordering site listed on your campus website. Uniforms will be available to pick up once campuses reopen. Campuses will remain flexible with the enforcement of uniform policies until families are given an appropriate amount of time to order and pick up uniforms. Students will not be required to wear uniforms for online learning.

 

Will drop-off and pick-up change?

Yes. Both drop-off and pick-up times will be staggered to limit potential cross-exposure among persons. 

 

What will lunchtime and breakfast look like?

Lunch will be served in the classrooms, however breakfast may be served either in the classrooms or in the cafeteria based on the number of students attending in-person. If eating in the cafeteria, students will be socially distanced.

Before and after meals or snacks all students and staff will also be able to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer.

Can I eat lunch with my child on campus?

At this time, due to COVID-19, parents and visitors will not be permitted to visit students during mealtimes.

Can I bring lunch to my child on campus?

Parents bringing food during the school day is prohibited.  Students who forget their lunch will be provided a school meal. 

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Harmony Public Schools Reopening FAQ: Academics

Note: This document is intended as a simplified version of our Harmony Public Schools “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.” For further information or clarification on any topic, please refer to the Playbook.

 

What do I need to learn from home?

Students will need access to a computer device and the internet to complete schoolwork from home. Students without consistent access to either may receive them from their Harmony campus. Campuses will begin distributing them via drive-through pick-ups starting the first week of August. Additionally, students may find that headphones, especially noise-canceling headphones, are helpful for online learning, however they are not required.

 

Will I need to shop for school supplies?

Yes. All students regardless of learning location (i.e. home or campus) will be completing assignments alongside their peers using the supplies listed by their campus.

 

Is anything different about online learning this year?

Yes, quite a bit. Harmony has upgraded its online learning by switching to a new system called Schoology. Through Schoology, students will be able to interact and engage with their teachers and peers in real-time throughout the school day to provide and more advanced and enriching school experience. Families will also have full access to grades, progress reports, assignments, classroom learning materials, calendars, and more from within the Schoology platform, providing a simple one-stop-shop for all things related to their student’s learning experience. Students and families will receive more instruction on accessing and logging into Schoology as classes begin.

 

Will online learners be taught differently than on-campus learners?

No. All students will be taught using the same material and at the same pace by the same Harmony teacher. In most cases, online learners will be taught simultaneously alongside their on-campus peers, unless the student is taking part in asynchronous learning (i.e independent learning outside normal school hours).

 

How will grades be calculated?

Grades will be counted on the traditional 0-100 scale. The “pass/fail” grading system that was implemented out of necessity during the Spring 2020 semester will not be used.

 

What hours of the day will online classes be taught?

Your campus will announce the specific schedule for your student, but generally speaking, classes will be taught online in real-time by their teachers during normal school hours (instructional minutes may vary by grade, according to Texas Education Agency requirements). This is called “synchronous learning.” A sample schedule can be found in the Harmony “Back to School Playbook 2020-2021.” Students needing to learn outside this timeframe can choose to learn independently. This is called “asynchronous learning.”

 

What rules or expectations are there for online learners?

Synchronous online learners will be asked to comply with the following rules:

  • Student’s camera must be on during class time.
  • Student should maintain school-appropriate behavior.
  • Student should be dressed appropriately. (shirt, school shirt, jeans or khakis are OK).
  • Only the student may be visible (no friends or siblings).
  • Student’s microphone should be off unless instructed by a teacher (this prevents background noise).
  • Students are expected to interact through the Zoom chat function.
  • Students must show up on time.
  • Students must use appropriate and respectful language at all times.
  • Students are asked to use tools such as “raising your hand” (available in Zoom) and the chat feature if you have a question or want to answer a question.
  • Student should remove distractions, such as going where there’s less background noise and turning off your phone.
  • Student should use headphones, if possible, for increased privacy and better speaker and microphone quality.
  • Students should have all required materials for class (books, paper, markers, etc..) nearby before the session begins.
  • Students should be prepared to be called on to answer a question or participate in a discussion or activity at any time.

 

How will absences and attendance be counted for online learning?

Students who are logged in and learning alongside their teacher and classmates during normal school hours (synchronous learning) will be counted in attendance when they lo in to learn. 

 

Student who learn independently through self-guided instruction (asynchronous learning) will be counted in attendance when they meet daily learning benchmarks and/or turn in daily assignments by no later than 11:59 p.m. on the given schoolday.

 

What happens if my child doesn’t have a computer to do their schoolwork on while learning from home?

Harmony will supply a computer device and/or internet access for the purpose of completing schoolwork to any student that does not have consistent access at home. These will be provided beginning the first week of August and distributed by drive-through pickups at your nearby Harmony campus.

 

Will my child have to wear a Harmony uniform for online learning?

Students may choose to wear a uniform if they would like to when learning online, however they are not required to. Instead, they are required to follow the dress code guidelines set forth for “Free Dress Days” set forth in the Student & Parent Handbook. This states:

 

“Garments must be free of holes, tears, inappropriate wording, logos, messages or advertising. No short, skin tight, or legging dresses, or skirts may be worn. All dresses must have sleeves. Students may not wear low cut, midriff-baring, or backless blouses. Students may wear jeans, but they cannot be tight pants including jeggings, tights or skinny style pants. Clothing items must not depict images of violence.”

 

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2020-2021 HPS Austin District Academic Calendar

 

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Need a computer for virtual learning? Harmony can help

Families have enough to concentrate on these days without having to worry if their child has the tools they need to complete their schoolwork.

If your child doesn’t have consistent access to a computer device or the internet to complete schoolwork during virtual learning, Harmony Public Schools is here to help.

Beginning the first week of August, Harmony campuses across the state will be offering drive-by technology pickup days where families can pick up free computer devices and internet access solutions (ex. WiFi hot spot) for students to use to complete virtual learning during the 2020-2021 school year.

Last spring, about 4,000 Harmony students took advantage of our device-lending program, or about 1-in-every-8 students.

Through these devices, students and families will be able to access Harmony’s new learning management program Schoology. Through Schoology, students will be able to interact with both teachers and peers in a more in-depth, interactive learning experience that includes both live and on-demand classes, academic tutoring, interventions services, parent-teacher conferencing, and even extracurricular activities.

Families will also have full access to grading, assignments, schedules, progress reports, and messaging with Schoology, placing all a family’s educational tools in one easy-to-use program.

Best of all, when the time to return to campus comes, the student’s Schoology account will follow them back to campus, easing the transition for students, families, and teachers.

To find out when your campus will host its technology pickup day, follow them on Facebook.

To learn more about Harmony’s 2020-2021 reopening plan, visit https://www.HarmonyTX.org/ReOpening.

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Announcement of school re-opening plan for Harmony Public Schools

At Harmony Public Schools, our top priorities are the health and safety of our students and staff, as well as the academic and developmental growth of our scholars.

In response to the continued spread of COVID-19 in the communities which we proudly serve, Harmony Public Schools is announcing the following revised plan for the start of the 2020-21 school year.

 

THE BASICS

Students at all HPS campuses statewide will start the academic year on Monday, August 17 in an online-only setting. Classes will continue online-only until at least Tuesday, September 8. During these three weeks, you will receive a survey asking your family to choose the option of either continuing classes online only, or returning to campus for in-person learning after Labor Day, if possible. Harmony will announce no later than the first week of September whether there is a need to extend online-only learning further, or if families who have opted for on-campus learning may return for in-person instruction. Students who opted for at-home learning will continue to learn remotely throughout the remainder of the school year, unless they notify their campus of a change request through Skyward.

All HPS staff will continue to work remotely while campuses are closed, unless a specific and essential job function requires their presence on campus or at an administrative office.

HARMONY SCHOOL START PLAN for 2020-'21

REASON FOR CHANGE

The primary purpose of these changes is to provide a safe educational environment for both our students and staff members, as well as to comply with local ordinances in many of our Harmony communities which specifically prohibit in-person schooling until after Labor Day.

SUPERIOR NEW ONLINE LEARNING SYSTEM, FEATURING ENHANCED STUDENT ENGAGEMENT OPPORTUNITIES & EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Accelerating your child’s education – even when learning from home – is one of our core missions. That’s why we’ve spent the summer completely revamping our online learning system to create a more interactive learning environment that’s easier to use for families, better connects students to their teachers and classmates, and – most importantly – promotes academic growth even while our campuses are closed.

 

With our new Schoology learning management system, students attending classes online will experience a robust academic experience with more one-to-one engagement with teachers through live classroom sessions, regular online office hours, as well as academic tutorial sessions, and intervention services for students who need them.

 

Students also will enjoy options for at-home, online extracurricular activities — including club activities, and both e-sports and academic competitions — that will allow them to stay connected with their classmates online, even if they can’t be together in person.

 

Parents will have full access to instructional materials, assignments, grading, calendars, student progress updates, and parent messaging in one simple platform.

 

Best of all, when it’s time for your student to return to campus, the Schoology system will follow them seamlessly back to campus, making the transition easier for both your student and your family.

 

Harmony teachers have spent their summers learning the intricacies of Schoology and will be prepared to incorporate it into their learning beginning on the first day of class.

 

 

 

 

STUDENTS NEEDING COMPUTER DEVICE OR INTERNET ACCESS

For the purpose of completing schoolwork, Harmony Public Schools will provide computer devices and/or internet access by request to those students without access at home. Each campus will have a drive-by pickup option for computer and WiFi access in early August. For more information, please contact your Harmony campus.

 

MEAL SERVICES
Free meal services will continue to be provided beginning the first day of school. Please contact your campus or follow them on Facebook to learn more about meal pickup dates, times, and locations.

 

 

ATTENDANCE FOR AT-HOME LEARNERS

A daily digital attendance record will be taken for all students learning from home, according to Texas Education Agency guidelines and requirements. Those at-home learners not in attendance will be marked “Absent,” as they would if learning on campus.

 

ENHANCED ON-CAMPUS SAFETY PROTOCOLS

To make sure our on-campus learning experience is as safe as possible for HPS students and staff members, Harmony will institute a broad spectrum of campus safety protocols once on-campus instruction resumes.  Some of the new safety protocols include:

  • Temperature screenings for students and staff.
  • Requiring all students and employees to wear a mask when on campus or in other group settings. (Students may bring their own mask, or the school will provide them.)
  • Limiting average class sizes to allow for social distancing. (Exact class size will be dependent on number of students attending in-person versus online-only.)
  • Spacing desks at least six feet apart to maintain proper social distancing and/or installing partitions where students cannot be kept six feet apart.
  • Severely limiting classroom rotations/switches to prevent the spread of germs across campus and to limit person-to-person exchanges.
  • Staggered drop off and pickup times to limit person-to-person exchanges.
  • Modified drop off and pickup procedures (ex. Students going directly to class after drop off and/or waiting in classroom at the end of the day until parent arrives for pickup).
  • Requesting all students wash hands frequently.
  • Detailed nightly cleaning by contracted company.
  • Required Coronavirus Awareness & Prevention trainings for all employees.
  • Remaining flexible regarding student and team member absences due to COVID-19, as allowed by TEA guidelines and applicable employment laws.

 

 

HANDLING OF COVID-19 SYMPTOMS

Whether screened at school or self-screened at home, the following conditions are considered symptomatic of COVID-19 by the Centers for Disease Control and could lead to a required leave from campus:

  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Chills
  • Repeated shaking with chills
  • Muscle pain
  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Loss of taste or smell
  • Diarrhea
  • Feeling feverish or a measured temperature greater than or equal to 100.0 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Known close contact with a person who is lab confirmed to have COVID-19

 

RETURNING TO CAMPUS AFTER COVID DIAGNOSIS OR SYMPTOMS

Anyone displaying the signs or symptoms of COVID-19 should follow below self-quarantine policy:

Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with Positive Testing

The following criteria must be met in FULL:

  • at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);

  • the individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and

  • at least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.

  1. Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with Negative Testing or MD Note

If an individual has symptoms of COVID-19 and wants to return to campus before completing the above stay at home period, the following criteria must be met in FULL:

  • Either obtain a medical professional’s note clearing the individual for return based on an alternative diagnosis OR obtain a negative COVID-19 test AND

  • at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications).

Exposure (confirmed or unconfirmed) or Illness with No Testing and No U.S. Based Medical Provider’s Note

The following criteria must be met in FULL:

  • at least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);

  • the individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and

  • at least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.

Readmittance will be granted when the following has been completed:

  1. Proof of negative COVID tests or U.S. based medical provider’s alternative diagnosis delivered to campus health staff or registrar if no health staff is available OR

  2. when all three of the following criteria are met:

  • At least three days (72 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);

  • The individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and

  • At least 14 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.

FAMILIES NEEDING ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE

We look forward to partnering with your family this school year to help your child continue to grow academically. We understand that any adjustments to the normal school environment or calendar may create unexpected challenges for some families. If you would like to discuss specific needs for your student or family that are not addressed above, please contact your local Harmony campus or contact us via our Let’s Talk online platform.

 

 

 

AVISO DE CAMBIO EN EL PLAN DE REAPERTURA DE LAS ESCUELAS PÚBLICAS DE HARMONY

 

En las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony, nuestras prioridades son la salud y la seguridad de nuestros estudiantes y nuestro personal, así como el crecimiento académico y de desarrollo de nuestros estudiantes.

En respuesta a la continua propagación del COVID-19 en las comunidades a las que orgullosamente servimos, las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony anuncian el siguiente plan revisado para el inicio del año escolar 2020-21.

 

ASPECTOS BÁSICOS

Los estudiantes de todos los campus de HPS en todo el estado comenzarán el año académico el lunes 17 de agosto en un entorno solo en línea. Las clases continuarán solo en línea hasta al menos el martes, 8 de septiembre. Durante estas tres semanas, usted recibirá una encuesta en la que se le pedirá a su familia que elija la opción de continuar las clases solo en línea o regresar al campus para el aprendizaje presencial después del Día del Trabajo, si fuese posible. Harmony anunciará, a más tardar en la primera semana de septiembre, si es necesario extender más el aprendizaje solo en línea, o si las familias que han optado por el aprendizaje en el campus pueden regresar para la instrucción presencial. Los estudiantes que optaron por el aprendizaje en casa continuarán aprendiendo a distancia durante el resto del año escolar, a menos que notifiquen a su campus una solicitud de cambio a través de Skyward.

Todo el personal de HPS continuará trabajando a distancia mientras los campus estén cerrados, a menos que una función de trabajo específica y esencial requiera su presencia en el campus o en una oficina administrativa.

MOTIVO DEL CAMBIO

El propósito principal de estos cambios es proporcionar un entorno educativo seguro tanto para nuestros estudiantes como para los miembros del personal, así como para cumplir con las ordenanzas locales en muchas de nuestras comunidades de Harmony que prohíben específicamente la escolarización presencial hasta después del Día del Trabajo.

NUEVO SISTEMA SUPERIOR DE APRENDIZAJE EN LÍNEA, CON MEJORES OPORTUNIDADES DE PARTICIPACIÓN DE LOS ESTUDIANTES Y ACTIVIDADES EXTRACURRICULARES

Acelerar la educación de su hijo, incluso cuando aprende en casa, es una de nuestras misiones principales. Por eso hemos pasado el verano renovando completamente nuestro sistema de aprendizaje en línea para crear un entorno de aprendizaje más interactivo que sea más fácil de usar para las familias, que conecte mejor a los estudiantes con sus maestros y compañeros de clase y, lo que es más importante, que promueva el crecimiento académico incluso cuando nuestros campus estén cerrados.

 

Con nuestro nuevo sistema de gestión del aprendizaje Schoology, los estudiantes que asistan a clases en línea experimentarán una sólida experiencia académica con un mayor compromiso individual con los maestros a través de sesiones de clase en vivo, horarios de oficina regulares en línea, así como sesiones de tutoría académica y servicios de intervención para los estudiantes que los necesiten.

 

Los estudiantes también disfrutarán de opciones de actividades extracurriculares en línea en casa -incluyendo actividades de club y competiciones académicas y de deportes electrónicos- que les permitirán estar conectados con sus compañeros de clase en línea, incluso si no pueden estar juntos en persona.

 

Los padres tendrán acceso completo a los materiales de instrucción, tareas, calificaciones, calendarios, actualizaciones del progreso de los estudiantes y mensajes para los padres en una plataforma sencilla.

 

Lo mejor de todo es que cuando sea el momento de que su estudiante regrese al campus, el sistema Schoology lo seguirá de forma constante de regreso al campus, haciendo la transición más fácil tanto para su estudiante como para su familia.

 

Los maestros de Harmony han pasado sus veranos aprendiendo las complejidades de Schoology y estarán preparados para incorporarlo a su aprendizaje a partir del primer día de clase.

 

 

ESTUDIANTES QUE NECESITAN COMPUTADORA O ACCESO A INTERNET

Con el fin de completar las tareas escolares, las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony proporcionarán computadoras y/o acceso a Internet, previa solicitud, a aquellos estudiantes que no tengan acceso en su casa. Para solicitar un dispositivo o acceso a Internet, comuníquese con su campus de Harmony.

 

SERVICIOS DE COMIDA
Se seguirán ofreciendo servicios de comida gratuitos desde el primer día de clases. Comuníquese con su campus o sígalos en Facebook para obtener más información sobre las fechas, horarios y lugares de retiro de las comidas.

 

ASISTENCIA PARA LOS ESTUDIANTES EN CASA

Se llevará un registro digital de asistencia diaria para todos los estudiantes que aprendan desde casa, de acuerdo con las directrices y los requisitos de la Agencia de Educación de Texas. Aquellos estudiantes en casa que no asistan serán marcados como “Ausentes”, como si estuvieran aprendiendo en el campus.

 

PROTOCOLOS DE SEGURIDAD MEJORADOS EN EL CAMPUS

Para asegurarnos de que nuestra experiencia de aprendizaje en el campus sea lo más segura posible para los estudiantes y miembros del personal de HPS, Harmony instituirá un amplio espectro de protocolos de seguridad en el campus una vez que se retome la instrucción en el campus. Algunos de los nuevos protocolos de seguridad incluyen:

  • Controles de temperatura para los estudiantes y el personal.
  • Exigir que todos los estudiantes y empleados usen mascarilla cuando estén en el campus o en otros ambientes de grupo. (Los estudiantes pueden traer su propia mascarilla, o la escuela se la proporcionará).
  • Limitar el tamaño promedio de las clases para permitir el distanciamiento social. (El tamaño exacto de la clase dependerá del número de estudiantes que asistan de forma presencial o solo en línea).
  • Espaciar los pupitres al menos seis pies de distancia para mantener un distanciamiento social adecuado y/o instalar separaciones donde los estudiantes no puedan mantenerse a seis pies de distancia.
  • Limitar severamente las rotaciones/los intercambios de clase para prevenir la propagación de gérmenes en el campus y limitar los intercambios de persona a persona.
  • Escalonar los horarios de entrada y salida para limitar los intercambios de persona a persona.
  • Modificar los procedimientos de entrada y salida (por ej., los estudiantes van directamente a clase después de la entrada y/o esperan en el aula al final del día hasta que los padres llegan a buscarlos).
  • Pedir a todos los estudiantes que se laven las manos con frecuencia.
  • Limpieza nocturna minuciosa por la empresa contratada.
  • Requerir capacitaciones de Concientización y Prevención del Coronavirus para todos los empleados.
  • Permanecer flexible en cuanto a las ausencias de los estudiantes y miembros del equipo debido a COVID-19, como lo permiten las directrices de TEA y las leyes laborales correspondientes.

 

 

MANEJO DE LOS SÍNTOMAS DE COVID-19

Ya sea que se examinen en la escuela o que se autoexaminen en casa, los Centros para el Control de Enfermedades consideran que las siguientes condiciones son sintomáticas de COVID-19 y podrían implicar un abandono obligatorio del campus:

  • Tos
  • Falta de aire o dificultad para respirar
  • Escalofríos
  • Temblores repetidos con escalofríos
  • Dolor muscular
  • Dolor de cabeza
  • Dolor de garganta
  • Pérdida del gusto u olfato
  • Diarrea
  • Sentirse afiebrado o una temperatura medida mayor o igual a 100 grados Fahrenheit
  • Contacto cercano conocido con una persona con COVID-19 confirmado por un laboratorio

 

REGRESO AL CAMPUS DESPUÉS DE UN DIAGNÓSTICO O SÍNTOMAS DE COVID

Después de un diagnóstico de COVID-19 o de la aparición de síntomas, los estudiantes y el personal deben estar sin síntomas durante al menos 72 horas antes de regresar al campus, incluyendo una temperatura de menos de 100 grados sin el uso de medicamentos antifebriles. Aquellos diagnosticados con COVID-19 también deben tener una nota del médico que permita el regreso.

 

 

FAMILIAS QUE NECESITAN APOYO EXTRA

Esperamos asociarnos con su familia este año escolar para ayudar a su hijo a seguir creciendo académicamente. Entendemos que cualquier ajuste en el entorno o calendario escolar normal puede crear desafíos inesperados para algunas familias. Si desea hablar sobre las necesidades específicas de su estudiante o familia que no se han tratado anteriormente, comuníquese con su campus local de Harmony o comuníquese con nosotros a través de nuestra plataforma en línea Let’s Talk.

 

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Stay Connected with HSE!

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, ,

Harmony Public Schools to allow each family to choose to return to school or continue at-home learning for 2020-21 school year

 Harmony Public Schools will allow each family to choose whether to continue learning from home or return to campus for in-person learning for the 2020-2021 school year, based on each family’s unique needs. Families can also switch between the two as local COVID-19 conditions or family situation changes.

The flexible learning plan was announced by Harmony CEO Fatih Ay in a letter to families.

“The best choice for Harmony in 2020-2021 is the choice that’s best for your family,” Fatih said. “While this flexible plan may be an uncommon approach, we firmly believe it is the right approach for families during these uncommon times.”

Families that choose at-home learning will have access to the same rigorous, academic environment that they have come to expect from their neighborhood Harmony campus, taught by teachers trained for educating and engaging students in a virtual environment.

Families who choose to send their students for in-person learning will find a safe and organized learning environment that they can feel comfortable sending their child to each day. This includes enhanced health  and sanitary protocols, as well as possible adjustments to daily routines to help keep all of our students and team members as safe as possible.

All students will continue to receive the same full academic and support services from their teachers, counselors, and school leaders that they would receive on-campus, including our English-language learners and students receiving Special Education services.

Helping to keep families connected regardless of their learning location is Harmony’s new, all-in-one learning management system Schoology. Through Schoology, students and families will have full access to instructional materials, assignments, grading, calendars, and parent messaging in one platform that follows them seamlessly from at-home to in-person learning and back, if needed.

Harmony Public Schools is a Texas-born, Texas-wide public charter school system with campuses serving PreK-Grade 12 students in 23 cities across the state, including Greater Houston, DFW, San Antonio, Austin, El Paso, Waco, Lubbock, Odessa, Bryan, Beaumont, and the Rio Grande Valley. Harmony’s curriculum places a heavy focus on STEM skills, Character Education, project-based learning, and college readiness. 

Harmony Public Schools is currently accepting applications for the 2020-2021 school year for both students and team members.

About Harmony Public Schools

Harmony Public Schools are 58 high performing PreK-12 college preparatory charter schools throughout Texas. Harmony blends the highest standards and expectations, with a rigorous math- and science-centered curriculum and dedicated and engaged teachers and families to cultivate excellence and prepare students to succeed in college, careers and life. At Harmony Public Schools, we believe every child can succeed, and we are committed to helping them realize their full potential. To learn more about Harmony Public Schools and our 58 campuses across Texas, please visit: www.harmonytx.org, and follow us on Twitter at @HarmonyEdu and ‘Like’ us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HarmonyTexas.

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ONLINE CODING CAMP

ONLINE CODING CAMP
July 06-10, 2020
July 13-17, 2020

Register Now!

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HSE Austin Virtual Graduation Link 6/20/2020 4:00 PM

Dear all,

Here is the link for the virtual graduation, it will premiere on June 20th.

https://harmonyexaustin.stageclip.com/

Queridos todos,

Aquí está el enlace para la graduación virtual, se estrenará el 20 de junio.

https://harmonyexaustin.stageclip.com/

 

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High School Diploma Distribution 6/19

REMINDER!
 
Dear Seniors and Parent(s) or Guardian(s),

We wanted to let you know that we will distribute High School Diploma(s), Official Sealed Final High School Transcript, and a surprise gift for our seniors on Friday, June 19th, from 10:00 PM to 12:00 PM.

Vehicles will line up to receive the items. We ask that all participants are attending stay in their cars to ensure everyone’s safety and respect social distancing rules.

Estimados adultos mayores y padres o tutores,

Queríamos hacerle saber que distribuiremos el (los) Diploma (s) de la Preparatoria, la Transcripción Oficial Sellada de la Preparatoria Final y un regalo sorpresa para nuestros estudiantes de último año el viernes 19 de junio de 10:00 p.m. a 12:00 p.m.

Los vehículos se alinearán para recibir los artículos. Les pedimos a todos los participantes que asistan que se queden en sus autos para garantizar la seguridad de todos y respetar las reglas de distanciamiento social.

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DEADLINE EXTENDED TO SUNDAY, MAY 10/ PLAZO EXTENDIDO AL DOMINGO 10 DE MAYO

High School Course selection Deadline has been extended to Sunday, May 10th.

  • Go to MYHARMONY portal and Click on Skyward.

To complete the HSE Course Selection on Skyward, here are the simple steps to follow:

 

Step 1: Log in to your Skyward account and click on the Course Selection tab

Step 2: Add courses, please see the list of the courses below and select one of the courses below per section.

Step 3: Submit the Course Request!

  • Contact your assigned counselor if you ever need help. You can set up a course selection virtual meeting with the college counselor, just send an email!

College Counselors

Esra Tombul

esra.tombul@harmonytx.org

Serdar Ozguven

sozguven@harmontx.org

  • Submit Your Schedule on Skyward by Sunday, May 10th,

Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

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Refer a Friend to HSE

Click here: https://forms.gle/d3BksKS9De9g8CU18

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UPDATE: MEAL PICK-UP CHANGE

Dear Parent/Guardian,

Harmony Public Schools will provide breakfast and lunch for pick up by parents/guardians at designated locations throughout the district. 

Meal distribution locations are:

  • Harmony Science Academy-Austin: 930 E Rundberg Ln. Austin, TX 78753
  • Harmony Science Academy-Pf: 1421 Wells Branch Pkwy STE 200, Pf, TX, 78660
  • Harmony School of Innovation-Austin: 2124 E St Elmo Rd STE A, Austin, TX 78744

The meal distribution will be three times a week, on Mondays (for Monday and Tuesday), Wednesdays (for Wednesday, Thursday) and Fridays (for Friday, Saturday, Sunday) from 11AM to 1 PM.

Parents now have the option of picking up meals for their children without them being present in the vehicle.  One meal bag will be issued for each child 18 and under. However, eligibility must still be verified. There are three options when picking up meals:

  1. If children are present in the vehicle, no additional documentation is required.  
  2. If a parent/guardian requests meals for children enrolled in Harmony Public Schools (not present in the vehicle), no additional documentation is needed since we already have record of eligibility by enrollment. 
  3. If a parent/guardian requests meals for children not enrolled in Harmony Public Schools, they must present one of the following documents at the time of pick up.  
    • Official letter/email/electronic school application from school listing children enrolled.
    • Individual student report cards
    • Attendance record from parent portal of the school website, printed or electronic, that includes the children names
    • Birth certificate for children not in school
    • Student ID cards

If you have any questions, please contact your child’s school.

Sincerely,

HPS Austin

 

 

Estimados padres,

Harmony Public Schools continuarán proporcionando desayuno y almuerzo para que los padres los recojan en lugares designados en el distrito. Las comidas pueden recogerse en lugares designados en los días siguientes.

Los lugares de distribución de comidas son:

  • Harmony Science Academy-Austin: 930 E Rundberg Ln. Austin, TX 78753
  • Harmony Science Academy-Pf: 1421 Wells Branch Pkwy STE 200, Pf, TX, 78660
  • Harmony School of Innovation-Austin: 2124 E St Elmo Rd STE A, Austin, TX 78744

La distribución de comidas será dos veces por semana, os lunes (para lunes y martes), los miércoles (para el miércoles, jueves) y los viernes (para el viernes, sábado, domingo) de 11AM a 1 PM.

Los padres ahora tienen la opción de recoger las comidas para sus hijos sin que ellos estén presentes en el vehículo. Se le dará una bolsa de comida por cada niño menor de 18 años. Sin embargo, la elegibilidad todavía debe ser verificada. Hay tres opciones al recoger comidas:

  • Carta oficial/correo electrónico/solicitud de escuela electrónica de la escuela que enumera a los niños inscritos.
  • Reporte de grados de cada estudiante 
  • Registro de asistencia del portal de los padres del sitio web de la escuela, impreso o electrónico, que incluye los nombres de los niños
  • Certificado de nacimiento para niños que no están en la escuela
  • Tarjetas de identificación de estudiante

Si tiene alguna pregunta, comuníquese con la escuela de su estudiante.

Sinceramente,

HPS Austin

 

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Classes to remain online-only through end of school year

Dear Harmony Families & Team Members,

On Friday, April 17th, 2020, Texas Gov. Greg Abbott announced that all Texas school campuses will remain closed through the remainder of the current school year.

Accordingly, our school buildings will remain closed but learning will continue online. During this time, we will continue to provide free meal services, as well as Chromebook access to those students who need them.

Information about ongoing coursework, grading procedures, end-of-year advancement, student counseling services, and documentation and resources for families with special education needs can continue to be found at www.HarmonyTX.org/AtHome. We will share more information about graduation for seniors as more information becomes available, and as the Texas Education Agency continues to offer its guidance.

Thank you.

Harmony Public Schools

 

 

Familias de Harmony

El viernes 17 de abril de 2020, el gobernador de Texas, Greg Abbott, anunció que todos los campus escolares de Texas permanecerán cerrados durante el resto del año escolar.

Por consiguiente, nuestros edificios escolares permanecerán cerrados pero el aprendizaje continuará en línea. Durante este tiempo, continuaremos proporcionando servicios de comidas gratuitas y proporcionando acceso a Chromebook a aquellos estudiantes que los necesiten.

La información sobre el trabajo de los cursos, los procedimientos de calificación, el avance de fin de año, los servicios de asesoramiento estudiantil y la documentación y los recursos para las familias con necesidades de educación especial se puede seguir encontrando en www.HarmonyTX.org/AtHome. Compartiremos más información sobre la graduación para los estudiantes a medida que esté disponible más información, y a medida que la Agencia de Educación de Texas continúe ofreciendo su guía.

Gracias.
Harmony Public Schools

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Distance Learning Communication & Support

Speak with a Team Member from HSE: Your calls are very important to us. Please dial 737-228-5151 to speak directly to an HSE administrator. We look forward to hearing from you!

 

Speak with a Team Member from HSE:

Your calls are very important to us. Please
dial 737-228-5151 to speak directly to an HSE
administrator. We look forward to hearing
from you!

Distance Learning Website:

Learn how to receive free internet
Access the portal, Google Classroom, and
View answers to frequently asked questions
Request additional support
And much, much more!

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2020-21 District Comprehensive Needs Assessment / District Improvement Plan Virtual Meeting

DEAR PARENTS:

You are Cordially Invited to Attend

Austin District’s

2020-21 District Comprehensive Needs Assessment (D-CNA) /District Improvement Plan (DIP)  Virtual Meeting

 Thursday 4/16/2020

10:00am

Zoom

Goal/Purpose:  Review 2019-2020 D- CNA/DIP and develop 2020-21 D-CNA/DIP

Agenda

  • Purpose of D-CNA/DIP
  • Review last years D-CNA/DIP
  • Review of Data
  • Areas for Improvement and Priority of Needs
  • Revise and Develop Goals, Objectives and Strategies for the new D-CNA/DIP
  • Comments, Q&A
  • If you are interested in attending. Please email Erika Chody at EChody@HarmonyTX.org for more information

 

 

QUERIDOS PADRES:

Están cordialmente invitado a asistir la

reunión virtual de evaluación integral de necesidades del distrito (D-CNA) / Plan de mejora del distrito (DIP) de Distrito de Austin 2020-2021

 

Jueves 16/04/2020

10:00 a.m

Zoom – Virtual

Meta / Propósito: Revisar 2019-2020 D-CNA / DIP y desarrollar 2020-21 D-CNA / DIP

Agenda

  • Propósito de D-CNA / DIP
  • Revisión de los últimos años D-CNA / DIP
  • Revisión de datos
  • Áreas de mejora y prioridad de necesidades
  • Revisar y desarrollar metas, objetivos y estrategias para el nuevo D-CNA / DIP
  • Comentarios, preguntas y respuestas
  • Si estás interesado en asistir. Envíe un correo electrónico a Erika Chody a EChody@HarmonyTX.org para obtener más información.

 

 

 

Parent Invitation for D-CNA_DIP Austin 20-21

 

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Reminders for this Week

Dear HSE Families,

Please check the following announcements:

Website: We have created a new website with all the information and guidelines for distance learning. Check it out! https://sites.google.com/harmonytx.org/hseaustindistancelearning/

Grading: Starting Monday students will be graded in their participation in google classrooms. These grades will impact our 4th quarter and will influence the promotion of the student to the next grade level. It is imperative that you reach out to let us know if you need any assistance.

Meal Changes: Meals will be distributed on Mondays and Wednesdays only from 11:00 to 1:00 pm. We will serve multiple meals each day.

Requesting assistance: If you need additional assistance in any aspect of online learning please fill out this document: https://forms.gle/3dukLHFA5uGmNzFQ8

New contact information: Remember we are here to help! You can reach out any teacher or the administration by:
Phone: 737-281-5151
Email: jrosenberg@harmonytx.org mtunc@harmonytx.org
Text: 512-387-0219

Yearbook: The yearbook students are still working on the finishing touches for this semester. In light of what is going on the students want to send out positive thoughts in sharing the highlights of this year. The yearbooks are 30 dollars each book you can order online at www.schoolannualonline.com just put the name of our school Harmony School of Excellence or on the Revtrak tab on our website. If you have any questions please email me : ofrancis@harmonytx.org We will get through this together.

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Your family counts! Be sure to complete the 2020 U.S. Census

Harmony Public Schools is encouraging our families to take a few moments to complete the 2020 U.S. Census online, by phone, or mail.

The 2020 Census is a count of everyone who lives in the United States and its territories. The 2020 Census questionnaire asks a few simple questions like the age, sex, and the number of people living in your home.  Individual responses are confidential and cannot be used against you by any court or government agency.

When it comes to schools, the 2020 Census will determine funding for special education, teacher training, technology, school lunch assistance, Head Start and after-school programs. The census will also help determine funding for other important programs for families, such as maternal and child health programs, and housing, heating and food assistance.

People should count all children who live in their homes, including newborns and others too young for school. That’s important because responses to the census help schools plan for the resources they will need when the new generation of children is ready for school.

To begin, click here or call one of the numbers below, or look for the Census form in your mail.

CENSUS BY PHONE:

  • English: 844-330-2020
  • Spanish: 844-468-2020
  • Chinese (Mandarin): 844-391-2020
  • Chinese (Cantonese): 844-398-2020
  • Vietnamese: 844-461-2020
  • Korean: 844-392-2020
  • Russian: 844-417-2020
  • Arabic: 844-416-2020
  • Tagalog: 844-478-2020
  • Polish: 844-479-2020
  • French: 844-494-2020
  • Haitian Creole: 844-477-2020
  • Portuguese: 844-474-2020
  • Japanese: 844-460-2020
  • English (for Puerto Rico residents): 844-418-2020
  • Spanish (for Puerto Rico residents): 844-426-2020
  • TDD (Telephone Display Device): 844-467-2020
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Letter from our CEO: Classes remain online-only until further notice

Dear Harmony Families & Team Members,

For the past 20 years, Harmony Public Schools has established an educational model built strongly on the foundations of science-based learning and responsible citizenship in our communities.

Currently, all available science from community health experts continues to tell us that the best way to be responsible members of our communities is to have our students and staff remain at home.

This is why we have determined that it is in the best interest of our students, team members, and communities to discontinue in-person schooling at our campuses and administrative offices statewide until further notice.

While these facilities remain closed, instruction and learning at Harmony schools will continue. Our classes are operating online through our established digital learning tools, taking advantage of many of the technology tools and blended learning methods already practiced in Harmony’s  physical classrooms. Because our teachers and school leaders will remain available to guide our students each school day, we anticipate instructional continuity during these unusual and difficult times. To request access to a Chromebook and/or for questions regarding internet access, please contact your child’s campus.

(For more information on our at-home learning program, visit HarmonyTX.org/AtHome . To request access to a Chromebook or internet access, contact your child’s campus.)

We will also continue to offer free meal services to children in our communities, as local and state safety guidelines allow.

We thank you for your support and understanding in making this critical decision. We also are profoundly grateful for the extreme determination and Harmony pride shown by both our students and team members these past several weeks. Time and again you have proven why Harmony Public Schools is an institution where excellence is the standard.

We will continue to provide timely updates as new, relevant information comes available, and inform you immediately if our campuses reopen prior to the end of the school year.

Thank you and be well,

 

Fatih Ay

CEO | Harmony Public Schools

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IMPORTANT UPDATE: PARENT TRAVEL AUTHORIZATION

Harmony Parents and Guardians, 

As the City of Austin, Travis, and Williamson counties have issued a Stay-At-Home Order, we understand that this may be a confusing and stressful time for our families, and we want to provide as much guidance and support for our communities during this time. 

We want to inform our families that Harmony Public Schools – Austin is an essential educational institution when it comes to traveling to our campuses for food and Chromebook distribution. You and your family may still travel to your school campus to pick up meals for students and/or to pick up Chromebooks for facilitating distance learning. These activities are deemed as essential, and essential travel is needed.

If an official were to question you about your travel activities, please use the placard provided for you for “Authorized Travel.” 

For more information about the Stay-At-Home Order, please visit the City of Austin at http://www.austintexas.gov/news/stay-home-orders-announced-further-contain-spread-covid-19.

Thank you for your patience during this time when change happens daily and hourly at times. We strive to provide our families with the most recent updates as soon as possible. 

Stay healthy and safe,

HPS Austin

 

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IMPORTANT UPDATE: TEMPORARY CLOSURE

The safety of our students and staff is our top priority at Harmony Public Schools. As new developments continue to unfold regarding the COVID-19 situation, we wanted to provide you an important update regarding the potential impact of the virus on our schools.

While there have been no cases of COVID-19 reported on our campuses or within our school family at this time, out of an abundance of caution we are announcing a temporary closure of all Harmony Public Schools campuses through Monday, April 6. All school activities, field trips, athletics events, and competitions have also been cancelled during this time.

At this time, we are anticipating classes will be able to resume for students on Tuesday, April 7. Staff will return for a work-day on Monday, April 6.

This decision was made after discussions with, and upon the recommendations of, local health officials.  We strongly believe it is the best decision for helping to keep our students, staff, and communities safe at this time.

During this closure, our Harmony team members will continue to work remotely to finalize the details of distance-learning plan to make sure students continue to receive educational services with minimal  interruption.You will receive regular updates how this plan will be implemented.

Additionally, all full-time, non-exempt and exempt employees will continue to be paid according to their normal rate and schedule.

We continue to urge families and team members to stay informed of current Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines related to the prevention of the spreading of viruses, including limiting out of town travel, “social distancing,” and self-quarantine for those who have recently traveled to impacted areas.

We recognize this is a rapidly evolving situation and will continue to aggressively monitor new developments and respond with appropriate actions based on the best interests of our Harmony families and the guidance of local health officials. Throughout this process, we will continue to communicate with you new information as soon as possible. We anticipate further updates no later than the week of March 23-27.

Thank you for your support during these unusual circumstances. With your continued collaboration, together we can provide a healthy learning environment for our students and staff.

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FREE LUNCH & BREAKFAST SERVED EACH WEEKDAY

Dear Families,

Our schools may be closed, but our meal services for students are still open for business.

Harmony Public Schools is committed to meeting the food and nutritional requirements of every child in our communities while our campus is in closure for the COVID-19 outbreak.

Starting Monday, March 23rd each weekday from 11 AM to 1 PM, we will offer free lunch and breakfast pickup options for any child — regardless of enrollment status —  in need of a nutritious meal.

Meals will be served drive-up style and will be available for all car passengers under age 18, regardless of enrollment status.

The meal pickup locations for our campus will be located at:

  • Harmony Science Academy-Austin, 930 E Rundberg Lane Austin TX 78753
  • Harmony Science Academy-Pflugerville, 1421 W Wells Branch Pkwy STE 200, Pflugerville, TX, 78660
  • Harmony School of Innovation-Austin, 2124 E St Elmo Rd Suite A, Austin, TX 78744

These locations open each weekday from 11 a.m. to roughly 1 p.m. During this time, children can pick up a sack lunch for the day, as well as a sack breakfast for the following morning.

We look forward to serving you soon!

Harmony Public Schools

———————

Estimada familias:

Nuestras escuelas pueden estar cerradas, pero nuestros servicios de comidas para estudiantes aún están abiertos para los negocios.

Las Escuelas Públicas de Harmony se comprometen a cumplir con los requisitos alimenticios y nutricionales de cada niño en nuestras comunidades mientras nuestro campus está cerrado por el brote de COVID-19. De lunes a viernes, ofreceremos opciones de recolección de almuerzo y desayuno gratis para cualquier niño, independientemente del estado de inscripción, que necesite una comida nutritiva.

Las comidas se servirán al estilo de conducción y estarán disponibles para todos los pasajeros de automóviles menores de 18 años, independientemente del estado de inscripción. La ubicación de recogida de comidas para nuestro campus estará ubicada en

  • Harmony Science Academy-Austin, 930 E Rundberg Lane Austin TX 78753
  • Harmony Science Academy-Pflugerville, 1421 W Wells Branch Pkwy STE 200, Pflugerville, TX, 78660
  • Harmony School of Innovation-Austin 2421 E St Elmo Street Suite A, Austin, TX 78744

y estará abierta todos los días de la semana de 11 a.m. a aproximadamente 1 p.m. Durante este tiempo, los niños pueden recoger un almuerzo para el día, así como un desayuno para la mañana siguiente.

Esperamos servirte pronto!

Harmony Public Schools

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COVID-19 & ‘clean campus’ procedures for after spring break

As students return from spring break, we would like to ask the Harmony community for your renewed diligence in helping our schools maintain the best-practices for clean campuses established before break.

That of course includes the normal requests regarding washing hands, covering your mouth when coughing, and staying home when sick. However, we also need your help keeping viruses and germs contained by asking your student to immediately report to their campus health office if their experience any of the following symptoms while at school:

  • Suspected fever: Student is flushed, student unusually pale, complaints of body aches/pains student is lethargic or unusually tired, student statements of having had a fever or taken medication at home to make them feel better.
  • Respiratory symptoms: Dry cough with or without nasal drainage, difficulty breathing (visibly difficult breathing includes using abdominal muscles to breathe, inability to speak more than a couple of words at a time, flaring nostrils when breathing) or statements of feeling short of breath, chest or lung pain, wheezing or grunting with breathing.

Additionally, families should be aware that any student returning from a travel area on the CDC list of at-risk countries for COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) MUST see their medical provider before returning to campus. Students will have 48 hours to submit a clearance letter from their doctor before returning to campus. After this, student absences will not be excused. A student cannot return until they have clearance from their doctor or have finished quarantine if medically recommended.

With your continued support and collaboration, together we can provide a healthy learning environment for our students and staff.

Thank you.

P.S. … For more information about COVID-19 and our school system’s response, including additional resources for families, visit https://www.HarmonyTX.org/coronavirus.

 

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COVID-19 Update: ‘Clean campus’ procedures for after spring break

As students return from spring break, we would like to ask the Harmony community for your renewed diligence in helping our schools maintain the best-practices for clean campuses established before break.

That of course includes the normal requests regarding washing hands, covering your mouth when coughing, and staying home when sick. However, we also need your help keeping viruses and germs contained by asking your student to immediately report to their campus health office if their experience any of the following symptoms while at school:

  • Suspected fever: Student is flushed, student unusually pale, complaints of body aches/pains student is lethargic or unusually tired, student statements of having had a fever or taken medication at home to make them feel better.
  • Respiratory symptoms: Dry cough with or without nasal drainage, difficulty breathing (visibly difficult breathing includes using abdominal muscles to breathe, inability to speak more than a couple of words at a time, flaring nostrils when breathing) or statements of feeling short of breath, chest or lung pain, wheezing or grunting with breathing.

Additionally, families should be aware that any student returning from a travel are on the CDC list of at-risk countries fro COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) MUST see their medical provider before returning to campus. Students will have 48 hours to submit a clearance letter from their doctor before returning to campus. After this, student absences will not be excused. A student cannot return until they have clearance from their doctor or have finished quarantine if medically recommended.

With your continued support and collaboration, together we can provide a healthy learning environment for our students and staff.

Thank you.

P.S. … For more information about COVID-19 and our school system’s response, including additional resources for families, visit https://www.HarmonyTX.org/coronavirus.

 

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