The distribution of Chromebook laptops continued across the Marion County Public School District, with 6,385 devices already handed out to parents and families.
Distribution continues on Friday for students who are distance-learning from home. But after that, it will be limited and consolidated for most schools.
Those needing to resolve technical issues with Chromebooks can call the Parent Service Desk Helpline at (352) 867-2100. The helpline operates Monday–Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and wait times can vary. Helpline technicians can’t resolve issues with Internet connections or student passwords.
Teachers can visit their classrooms on Friday to retrieve pertinent materials. After that, all campuses will be closed until further notice. No teachers or support staff will be on any campus to abide by the governor’s “safer-at-home” order through April 30. Employees with further questions should contact their immediate supervisor.
Distance learning is moving ahead, with thousands of students meeting their teachers online for regular interaction. Classroom assignments and activities are available on teacher web pages found at each school’s website accessible via www.marionschools.net.
Because students can’t come to campus, some schools are taking their campus to students. Saddlewood Elementary Staff and Liberty Middle School staff members created portable parades and drove their vehicles through nearby neighborhoods to say hello to students – all while maintaining safe social distances. Click HERE to watch the video of Saddlewood’s efforts.
The “Grab & Go” meal service completed its eighth day of service on Thursday – setting yet another daily record. A total of 10,110 breakfast and lunch meals were served to 5,055 children on Thursday. Since March 24, the district has handed out 65,449 meals. Click HERE to see updated delivery sites, including 20 schools that prepare and deliver meals to 140-plus locations.
Children no longer must be present to be served a “Grab & Go” meal. But parents/family members must present appropriate legal identification to pick up meals on their children’s behalf. Families can call 211 or text “FoodFL” to 877-7877 for their nearest serving location. This program serves all children 18 and under regardless of whether they walk or ride a bicycle, bus or car to school and continues Monday-Friday until classes resume.
To help students, parents and families deal with COVID-19, mental health resources are now linked on the district’s homepage for convenience. Click HERE to learn more.
All schools in Florida remain closed through May 1. Visit www.marionschools.net and Twitter @MarionCountyK12 for further updates, as well as a question-and-answer page that addresses many frequently-asked questions.