When Will a Decision Be Made?
Unlike larger school districts, smaller Catholic schools are able to pivot and respond much quicker to the particular COVID circumstances in the community.
The Superintendent of Catholic Schools has made it clear that our schools will also follow the metrics set out by the governor.
As a reminder, Multnomah County must be under 30 cases per 100,000 people for 3 weeks in a row for K-3 to return in person, and 10 cases per 100,000 people for 3 weeks in a row for our older students to return.
We've Been Busy Planning!
Distance Learning: A team of teachers have been working all summer on creating and implementing a more dynamic Distance Learning Plan.
- More synchronous or live teaching to smaller groups of students
- Clear targets
- Transparent grading
- Intentional social-emotional support and focus
- Community building: Teachers will hold daily homeroom meetings and, in partnership with parents, create opportunities for increased socialization including Zoom games, and lunch groups
"Dual Model": The team has clearly heard from some parents that there is a need to maintain a distance learning program when the metrics allow for the school to re-open. I was initially hesitant to offer this option because of the significant demands that would be placed on teachers in trying to provide live instruction and distance learning. Yet, it is also critical that we try to meet the needs of all of our students and families. The school is looking at hiring a Distance Learning Coordinator who will work with teachers and students who continue in Distance Learning when an all school on-site model is being offered. A "Dual Model" program will be successful with a strong partnership between the school and parents.
What Safety Measures Are Being Implemented at Holy Cross?
- Daily temperature checks and screenings of all staff and students
- Increased emphasis on hand washing and hand sanitizing
- Clear entrances and exits into the building and marked pathways in the hallways
- Classes to remain as separate cohorts without exposures to other classes (for example, each class will have their own time for recess and lunches will be held in classrooms)
- Six feet physical distancing and/or other measures (plexiglass dividers) to decrease the risk of transmission
- Face masks for all students and staff with guidance and instruction on appropriate wearing of face masks
- Improvements to the school's ventilation system
Expect Even MORE Communication
- Class zoom meetings with parents before the start of school and throughout the school year.
- Introductory small zoom meetings with groups of students and their new teacher.
- Daily homeroom meetings for students to discuss the goals and objectives for the day.
- Regular communication from the principal.
A Kids Guide To Coronavirus
How did the virus get on earth? What color is coronavirus? And can dogs get it?
Over the last few weeks, children have called into “The Daily” with a lot of questions about the coronavirus: Guest: Carl Zimmer, science reporter and author of the "Matter" column for The New York Times.
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Selecting a school for your child is one of the most influential decisons you can make.
Our Smart Start Guide Helps Parents Ask The Right Questions
- Key questions to ask when considering private school options
- The 3 P's to ensure a good fit for YOUR routine and life balance
- 5 key areas to evaluate
- Insider questions parents should be asking
Why Holy Cross Catholic School?
Holy Cross Catholic School serves the diverse North Portland Catholic Community, providing Catholic education for children in grades pre-k through eight.
Holy Cross Catholic School offers a rigorous, faith-centered education that includes:
Faculty and staff at Holy Cross Catholic School focus on providing a rigorous, faith-centered education. Children learn under high expectations with clear guidance and support. That builds a community of motivated learners. Students receive an education that meets their particular needs. Teachers and staff challenge them, while offering the necessary support to create confident, eager learners. Most Holy Cross students advance to rigorous college-prep high schools in Portland, including Central Catholic, St. Mary’s, Jesuit, De LaSalle, and LaSalle. We regularly hear from alumni, parents, and faculty that our students are more than prepared to study at top private high schools.
Holy Cross is proud of its Catholic identity while it respects and welcomes students and families of different faith backgrounds. Students participate and attend weekly Mass and celebrate the seasons of the Church. Christ’s teachings permeate the school. The community emphasizes and celebrates the moral and spiritual development of students alongside academic growth.
We are a small school of approximately 220 students with an average class size of 22. The favorable ratio allows us to individualize the learning for students. Our teachers understand the learning styles of each child, challenging the strengths and giving support when needed.
There is a persistent misconception that Catholic education is not affordable, yet if you are accustomed to providing full-time preschool or daycare for your child, you will notice that an education at Holy Cross costs less than what you currently pay. It is the mission of Holy Cross to open the doors of Catholic education to families of all income levels. Not only is this fair and just, it promotes the richness and diversity we value so highly in our school. Before you decide we are out of reach, we encourage you to contact us and discover what is possible.
Holy Cross has a diverse community — ethnically, culturally, and socio-economically. Immigrant, native born, refugee, and first generation, a large percentage of our families speak a second language in their homes. The diversity in cultures enriches the learning and social environment for everyone. Holy Cross students learn to value and respect differences and grow to be at home with people from all walks of life. In the classroom and at play, our students start to gain a global appreciation for life by tasting the richness of our world.
Holy Cross Catholic School offers its students a full curriculum. In addition to the core classes, all students are given opportunities to enrich their lives through music, physical education, library and computer lab. In addition, students in grades 5-8 are able to participate in the Holy Cross Choir and Ethos Band. A Children's Choir is also available for students in grades 1 - 4. The Middle School team has developed a year round electives program for students in grades 6-8. Some elective choices have included Claymation, Coding, school newspaper, and social justice. Finally, a variety of afterschool enrichment opportunities are offered to students throughout the school year. Holy Cross has an active CYO membership and students in Grades 3 – 8 can play volleyball and basketball.
Celebrating 100 Years!
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