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Dear TAS Parents and Community Members,
Given that Taiwan's Ministry of Education has called for school closures until February 25, and because TAS always follows the government's direction relative to school closures that are Health and safety related, TAS will be using digital learning from the 6th through the 25th and school will be closed until Feb 25.
The purpose of closures and quarantines, and recommendations to avoid large gatherings, is to keep people separated during a time when some may have been infected. I am asking all TAS employees, except essential personnel needed for security and safety of buildings, to please remain in your homes. Faculty will have much work to do keeping up with lessons. Faculty and staff, as well as their children and families, should remain under self- monitoring, avoid non- essential outings, and follow additional governmental recommendations. All school gatherings, dinners, parent nights, etc. are cancelled to avoid large group gatherings.
As I said in my initial email, there will be communications from each principal, by end of day Tuesday, as to how each division will be addressing digital learning, as well as opportunities planned when school reopens to assure there are no learning gaps because of the closure. While nobody believes online learning is as good as face to face instruction, it is important to note that colleges routinely offer even graduate degrees based on online learning. We can cover the core content, and then offer additional sessions once school reopens. We have no plans to extend the school year, and extra efforts will be made to assure no learning gaps.
The Coronavirus has been declared an international health emergency. Many are ill, and many have died. We are deeply saddened by this loss and these illnesses wherever they are occurring. At times like these it is especially important that we put the health and safety of our students, employees, and families of all community members at the top of our priorities. I ask for your patience and understanding. Many of you have written with strong opinions and recommendations. All have been considered. I believe we are following the safest path while continuing teaching and learning and planning for supplemental opportunities when school is again in session. We are complying with the city government's directives as we always have on the subject of school closures.
You will hear from divisional principals early next week. Do note, the campus is closed.
Faithfully, Sharon D. Hennessy, Ed.D. Head of School Taipei American School 800 Zhongshan North Road, Section 6, Taipei, Taiwan ROC 11152 Phone: +886.2.7750.9900 Website: https://www.tas.edu.tw |