Strike News

Dear Reynoldsburg families and community members

As we begin the third week of the teachers strike, I would like to acknowledge those who have put children first, making it possible for us to provide a safe and productive learning environment for our students while teachers are on strike.

Since the first day of the strike, the number of qualified teachers in our classrooms has steadily increased to more than 250, including our own teachers who have returned to work, licensed contracted staff and substitute teachers who daily put their own comfort aside to come to the aide of our children. I also am grateful to the retired central Ohio administrators who are lending their calm expertise as we navigate these waters.

The dedication of Reynoldsburg’s administrative and support staff—including principals, bus drivers, secretaries, paraprofessionals, custodians and cooks—shines every day, but seems especially bright during the strike. Our district is fortunate to have wonderful support and administrative staff.

To the parent volunteers, please know you have made our children’s days a little easier with your familiar, caring faces and helpful hands. It was especially gratifying last weekend to know that the Marching Pride achieved the top rating at competition with your support and this weekend to know that our high school students could enjoy homecoming traditions.

I have a few updates to share with you about our progress.

Grading periods

I will recommend to the Board of Education that we combine the first and second grading period this year. This will allow more time for students to adjust to new online learning. Students’ grades and participation over the past two weeks will count, but will be weighted appropriately with future activities. I have heard some students are worried about their initial assessments in online courses, and want to assure you and them that many of the online products we use or have recently purchased are designed to adjust to students’ learning needs. Early assessments impact future activities and will not negatively affect students’ grades.

College courses

Most college courses offered to Reynoldsburg students are progressing as usual with their regular college instructors. A handful of courses offered by Columbus State Community College at the Summit campus, however, are taught by qualified Reynoldsburg teachers who are now on strike. These are dual-enrollment courses that combine high school credit with college credit. Students in these courses now are working on the high school portion of the courses. When their teachers return, they will focus on the college work. Columbus State announced last week that the semester end date would be extended if necessary so students are able to earn college credit.

Ohio Achievement Assessments – Third Grade Reading

Third graders will take the OAA reading test this week. This is their first of three opportunities to take this test. Ohio’s third grade reading guarantee means that students who do not pass the test by this summer might need to repeat third grade. If you are the parent of a third grader, please make sure your child gets plenty of rest and a good breakfast prior to the assessment. Please do not stress about this test. Their performance this fall will help us know what they need to reach their goals in the spring. We will provide intensive intervention support for students who need it.

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