August 12, 2022
Dear Parents/Guardians:
WELCOME TO THE 2022-2023 School Year!
First, I would like to start off by thanking our staff, students, parents, and stakeholders! This last year required flexibility and patience and we truly appreciated the support. As a district, we are currently working very hard to ensure that our return to school is normal and successful. We believe that our environment at school gives students the best chance to succeed academically, emotionally, and socially.
The Harding County School District will start school on Wednesday, August 24th, 2022 with normal operations. Our district will have a revised and updated return plan which is called “Moving Forward” (*Per federal/state requirements all districts must submit return plans.). This can be viewed on our school website, and remember it is a living document which will be updated and changed based on local needs and guidance. I encourage everyone to please read and refresh their memory on school guidance and requirements regarding COVID. The main point is we will get through this together, but it will take a team effort and continued common sense in our approach. Bottom line, if you are sick or been exposed, please be open and honest with the school and stay home. We will provide guidance and clarification with each situation that is brought forward.
Other notes:
I would like to give a special thank-you to the custodial staff/maintenance crew for all their hard work in preparation for the coming school year. Our facility looks amazing, and we appreciate their effort. I strongly believe having a clean facility is a vital cog in the educational process.
If there are emergency situations or weather-related announcements, we will notify parents through our Facebook Page, Remind App, or call out phone system. The local news channels/radio stations will post weather delays or cancellations, but this can be delayed so please take note of that. If inclement weather does not permit your child to attend school, please contact the school so their absence can be excused.
I would encourage you to visit our website at https://hardingcounty.k12.sd.us . There you will be able to access calendars, forms, or other pertinent information about the district. If you need to sign up for the Remind App, Class Dojo or the DDN parent portal, please contact the office and someone will set you up. Active participation in your child’s education is invaluable and I encourage parents to visit often about daily happenings, activities or topics that take place at school. These crucial conversations help parents keep informed about what your child is engaged in.
Lastly, I want to thank everyone for their patience and encouraging words over the last year. The support was humbling, and it is of utmost importance we stick together as one unit moving forward this school year. No plan will be perfect, but we will adapt and adjust together to make it work. Thanks again and best wishes!
If you have any questions, please review our “Moving Forward” plan on our school website or give me a quick call or email when time allows.
With Rancher Pride,
Josh Page
Superintendent