Please note that these resources were posted during the spring of 2020 - organizations are all still around, but some of the options have changed.  Please connect with individual organizations as needed. 

*FRAMINGHAM COVID-19 UPDATE*

Information about Food Resources for Keefe Tech Families

Dear Families & Students, 

We know during this time of uncertainty, job and school closures have had an undue impact on food security. If you would like assistance in accessing meals for your family, there are a number of resources available for you. 

Project Bread’s FoodSource Hotline is available to connect you to food resources as well as provide information about elder meals programs and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP),-- formerly known as food stamps. 1-800-645-8333. The Hotline will continue to operate Monday-Friday, 8am-7pm and -Saturdays 10am-2pm, and can provide information in 160 languages.  There is also a dedicated line for those that are hearing impaired. 

In addition, many communities in our district are serving meals free for all children while schools are closed. Please check below to see if there are any near you. Unless otherwise noted, sites on the list will serve all children, not just those from their school district. If you have questions or would like more information, please email cnop@projectbread.org

For the most up-to-date information we have available, view a map of locations via this link  

Please be aware that plans are continuously changing, so continue checking back periodically. 

Framingham
FREE cold grab-n-go meals will be available to ALL Keefe Tech Students through a drive through service at the pick-up locations mentioned below. The meal is FREE and available to any student and any other School-Aged child in the car. Meals must be taken and consumed off site.

Demographic Served: All School-Aged children 

Days of Operation: Monday through Friday 

Hours of Operation: 10 AM - 1 PM 

Contact Information: 508-626-9109 

Pick-up Locations: 

• Cameron Middle School - 215 Elm Street, Framingham, MA 01701 

• Barbieri Elementary School - 100 Dudley Road, Framingham, MA 01702 

• Fuller Middle School - 31 Flagg Drive, Framingham, MA 01702 

• Woodrow Wilson Elementary School - 169 Leland Street, Framingham, MA 01702 

DANIEL’S TABLE 

Daniel’s Table will be open and distributing food.   

Demographic Served: Open to Anyone 

Days of Operation: Tuesdays and Fridays, Wednesday (Night)

 Hours of Operation: 1 PM - 3 PM, 5 PM - 7 PM (Wed) 

 Information: 508-405-0769 

Pick-up Locations: 10 Pearl Street, Framingham MA 

 

UNITED WAY OF TRI-COUNTY - PEARL STREET CUPBOARD & CAFE AT PARK 

Demographic Served: All Ages

 Days of Operation: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 

Hours of Operation: 9 AM - 1 PM (M, W, F), 5:30 PM- 7 PM (W) 

Contact Information: 508-370-4921 and 774-200-3556 

Pick-up Locations: 46 Park St., Framingham, MA 01702 

 

Natick

NATICK PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Demographic Served: All school aged children

 Days of Operation: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 

Hours of Operation: 8 AM - 11 AM 

Contact Information: 508-647-6611 call when you arrive and someone will bring out your meals

Pick-up Locations: Natick High School, DPW signs directing to the back of the building to pick up location

A PLACE TO TURN 

A Place to Turn will be open during their regular hours (noted below). A Place to Turn is also currently working with the Framingham Housing Authority to ensure delivery of groceries to older adults in housing. If any residents have questions, they are encouraged to give them a call. 

Demographic Served: Open to All MetroWest Residents through Referrals 

Days of Operation: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday

Hours of Operation: 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM (M, T, Thurs.) 

11 AM - 12:30 PM and 5 - 7 PM (W) 

Contact Information: 508-655-8868 Pick-up Locations: 99 Hartford Street, Natick MA  

 

Hopkinton

PROJECT JUST BECAUSE

Demographic Served: Open to All 

Days of Operation: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday

Hours of Operation: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Contact Information: 109 South St.  Hopkinton, MA

 

Ashland

Demographic Served: Ashland school aged children, including Keefe Tech students residing in Ashland

Days of Operation: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

Hours of Operation: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM, pick up at the rear of Ashland High School 65 E Union St, Ashland

Contact Information:  Please contact Nutrition@ashland.k12.ma.us to be put on the distribution list

 

Holliston

Demographic Served: All Holliston Families

Days of Operation: Mondays and Wednesdays

Hours of Operation: 11 AM – 1 PM, Curbside pickup will be available at the Miller Elementary School, 235 Woodland Street cafeteria loop 

Contact Information:   If you are in need of delivery please email: foodservice@holliston.k12.ma.us by 9:00 PM the night prior. Please provide the following information: your family name, the number of people in need of lunch and your street address. This information will be kept in the strictest of confidence.

                                                             

Flyer and information on how to apply for SNAP from Massachusetts Law Reform Institute in English and Spanish . 

COVID-19 in Framingham: Information about actions the City and Schools are taking, along with more information on COVID-19 and prevention measures, can be found at https://www.framinghamma.gov/2875/CORONAVIRUS-COVID-19, which is updated frequently.

We miss seeing you all

Sincerely, 

Keefe Tech’s Cafeteria Staff

Additional Community Food Information:

MA WIC Temporary Food Changes

Pandemic EBT - extra food benefits for children

SNAP Food Assistance - do I qualify? 

 

 

Communication from Superintendent Evans - May 28, 2021

To the Keefe Tech Community,

This message is to make you aware that a member of our school community who has been in our building has tested positive for COVID-19. 

We have consulted with our local Board of Health to complete contact tracing and to ensure that all appropriate steps are being taken for the safety of our school community.  We have already communicated with the families of students who need to take action in response to this situation.  We have completed this process, so if you have not been contacted, there is no action to be taken.

Thank you, and have a great weekend.

Jon Evans,
Superintendent

Communication from Superintendent Evans – May 19, 2021

Members of the Keefe Tech Community,

 It has been wonderful having all of our students with us this week.  I am very grateful for all of their cooperation during this exciting time.

 As you may be aware, this week, the State has made additional changes to mask policies and guidance in response to continued improvement in COVID-19 statistics.

 After communicating with our local public health department, Keefe Tech will be making several changes to our school safety measures.  These changes are consistent with recently updated guidance from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) and the Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA).  The following changes will take place beginning tomorrow, May 20, 2021.

 1)     Outdoor Activities:  Students no longer have to wear masks when outdoors, even if distance cannot be maintained.  This applies to physical education, outdoor learning environments, and athletic practices and contests that take place outside.  We will continue to encourage students to maintain distancing.

 2)    Sharing Objects:  Students no longer have to avoid sharing objects, such as classroom materials, tools, items for physical education and sports, or art supplies.  Please note that even though objects and surfaces no longer need to be disinfected between use by students, Keefe Tech will continue to do extensive cleaning to frequently touched areas in the building throughout the day.

 There will be NO CHANGE to our policy and expectations for the use of masks while in the building or on buses.

 While masks will no longer be required in the outdoor situations indicated in this message, students can still wear masks if they or their family wish to continue this practice.  We encourage families to discuss this change in guidance.  Please call the Nurse’s Office with any questions or concerns regarding this change.

 I look forward to working together with you as we prepare for a successful year end.

 Thank you, and have a good evening,

 Jon Evans
Superintendent

Communication from Superintendent Evans – May 13, 2021

We are pleased to share the following information regarding an opportunity for our students to receive COVID-19 vaccinations.

Children aged 12 and older are now eligible to receive the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine.  The MetroWest-Westborough Regional Vaccination Site at the DoubleTree Hotel has Pfizer appointments available for the following dates:

Thursday, May 13th from 2:30-5:30pm

Monday, May 17th from 3:30-5:30pm

Wednesday, May 19th from 2:30-5:30pm

Thursday, May 20th from 2:30-5:30pm

Friday, May 21st from 2:30-5:30pm

Appointments are required and open to anyone 12 years of age and older.  In order to register a minor, a parent/guardian must complete the online Consent Form.  To register for an appointment at the Regional Clinic at the DoubleTree Hotel in Westborough visit:  https://home.color.com/vaccine/register/northborough. 

Please note that only one parent/guardian is allowed in the vaccination room to allow for social distancing. 

 Recent Approval for Individuals 12-15 years of age:  Yesterday, the Centers for Disease Control’s (CDC’s) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended an expanded indication of the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine to individuals 12-15 years of age.  This recommendation is in line with the FDA’s  action on Monday, May 10 to amend the Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for this vaccine to include this younger age group (https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/coronavirus-covid-19-update-fda-authorizes-pfizer-biontech-covid-19-vaccine-emergency-use).  CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky also announced yesterday evening that CDC has accepted the ACIP’s recommendation (https://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2021/s0512-advisory-committee-signing.html).  Effective immediately providers in Massachusetts may begin to administer the Pfizer/BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine to individuals age 12 and older.

The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 Vaccine “Fact Sheet for Recipients and Caregivers” is available at https://www.fda.gov/media/144414/download.

The COVID-19 vaccine is free and health insurance is not required.  You can get a vaccine even if you do not have insurance, a driver’s license, or a Social Security number.  Use VaxFinder.mass.gov to search for appointments at pharmacies, health care providers, and other locations in our community.

COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective and are one of the most important steps toward ending the pandemic and getting back to things we love and miss.  By building immunity in our community, we can protect the health of those around us and help prevent the emergence of new variants.  If you have concerns about vaccines, speak with your doctor, refer to trusted sources of medical information, or contact the your Health Department for more information.  Thank you for helping to keep our community safe.

Jon Evans
Superintendent 

Vaccine-Consent Form for Individuals 12-17 Years of Age

Communication from Superintendent Evans – May 10, 2021

To the Keefe Tech Community,

This message is to make you aware that a member of our school community who has been in our building has tested positive for COVID-19. 

We have consulted with our local Board of Health to complete contact tracing and to ensure that all appropriate steps are being taken for the safety of our school community.  We have already communicated with the families of students who need to take action in response to this situation.  We have completed this process, so if you have not been contacted, there is no action to be taken.

Thank you, and have a great week.

Jon Evans,
Superintendent

Communication from Superintendent Evans April 28, 2021

To Members of the Keefe Tech Community,

 As you may know, yesterday, State Education Commissioner Riley announced his expectation that all public high schools in Massachusetts will fully re-open by Monday, May 17, 2021.

 It is our plan to meet this requirement, and to invite all of our students back full time beginning on the 17^th.  This plan will involve 3 feet of distancing between students in instructional areas, and there will also be less distancing on buses.   Our practices will continue to be consistent with the state guidelines for schools.

 Families will have the option of fully remote learning for their students through the end of this school year.  We are assuming that families currently choosing remote learning will continue to do so.  We also expect that students currently participating in our Hybrid program will join us for full in-person learning.  Please let us know if there will be any changes into or out of remote learning by contacting Assistant Principal Ken Collins or your student’s guidance counselor.

 In the coming days, we will begin moving additional seating into instructional spaces in preparation for the 17^th.  Additional details will be provided next week.  I would also like to remind families that weekly pooled testing is still available to any family who wishes to participate.  A signup sheet for pooled testing is attached. 

 Please know that we will continue to make safety our top priority in these efforts.  I am proud of the cooperation of our students and the commitment of our staff as we have worked together to chart a path toward this goal of a full return.

 We are looking forward to seeing full classrooms and vocational programs again in a few weeks.

 Thank you and have a good evening.

 Jon Evans
Superintendent

Student Consent Form COVID19-Pooled Testing English 

Student Consent Form COVID19-Pooled Testing Spanish 

Student Consent Form for COVID19-Pooled Testing Portuguese 

 

Communication from Superintendent Evans April 13, 2021

To the Keefe Tech Community,

This message is to make you aware that a member of our school community, who was briefly in the building today, has tested positive for COVID-19.

In this instance, after completing contact tracing with assistance from our local Board of Health, we have determined that there are no close contacts with this individual.

Thank you for your continued cooperation, and have a good night.

Jon Evans
Superintendent

Communication from Superintendent Evans March 30, 2021

To the Keefe Tech Community,

This message is to make you aware that a member of our school community who was in our building Monday has tested positive for COVID-19.

In this instance, after completing contract tracing with assistance from our local Board of Health, we have determined that there are no close contacts with this individual from Monday. 

Thank you for your continued cooperation, and have a nice night

Jon Evans,

Superintendent

Communication from Superintendent Evans March 25, 2021

To Members of the Keefe Tech Community.

 This message is to provide you with some important updates regarding our re-opening.

 The first is that we are planning a Parent Information Meeting on Tuesday, March 30 at 6PM.  At this time, members of the school leadership team will review information regarding the next phase of our re-opening which will incorporate academic programming beginning Monday, April 5^th.  Please join us and have your questions answered.  A link to the meeting is provided below.

 Parent Information Meeting

 Our next update is regarding spring athletics.  After a careful review with area schools, and consideration of public health data, we have decided to go forward with traditional spring sports.  The season will begin near the end of April, and will include Track & Field, Baseball, Softball, and Boys Volleyball.  Every one of our sports has lost a season in the last year, and we are looking forward to moving forward in the spring.  We will continue to monitor our health data carefully, and will be prepared to make adjustments if there is a need.

 I would also like to remind you that Pooled Testing will begin next Monday for students.  If you are interested in having your students participate, it is not too late to complete the Student Consent Form. 

Student Consent Form COVID-19 Pooled Testing (English)
Student Consent Form COVID-19 Pooled Testing (Portuguese)
Student Consent Form COVID-19 Pooled Testing (Spanish)

 We look forward to seeing many of you at the meeting next Tuesday, and are really looking forward to seeing more of our students in the weeks ahead.

Have a good evening,
Jon Evans
Superintendent

Communication from Superintendent Evans - March 19, 2021

To the Keefe Tech Community,

This message is to make you aware that a member of our school community who has been in our building has tested positive for COVID-19. 

We have consulted with our local Board of Health to complete contact tracing and to ensure that all appropriate steps are being taken for the safety of our school community.  We have already communicated with the families of students who need to take action in response to this situation.  We have completed this process, so if you have not been contacted, there is no action to be taken.

Thank you for your continued cooperation, and have a nice weekend.

Jon Evans,
Superintendent

Most recent communication regarding status of 2020-2021 school year - from Superintendent Jon Evans March 17, 2021

To Members of the Keefe Tech Community,

 I am pleased to provide an update regarding our preparation to begin a Pooled Testing program.  As you may be aware, Pooled Testing is a resource that can be used by schools to screen for COVID-19 in a very effective manner.

We hope to begin this program on Monday, March 29th. A document with more information on Pooled Testing that includes the consent form for your student to participate is attached to this email.  

If you are interested in having your student participate in weekly Pooled Testing, please complete the attached form as soon as possible. Consent forms can be returned to us by mail ATTN: Keefe Tech Nurse’s Office, dropped off at school by student during in-person instruction at the Nurse’s Office, or by printing the form, signing it, and emailing the form back to our Nurse’s Office using the email mwade@jpkeefehs.org. 

Things have been going extremely well in the first six weeks of our CTE Hybrid program.  Since starting the program in early February, we have yet to learn of a single individual with COVID-19 who has been in the building while positive. 

It is important to realize that our continued success requires a consistent and conscientious effort from our entire school community.  Please continue to review the COVID-19 Procedures (Health Screening) with your student every day.  If your student has any symptoms of COVID-19, please have him/her remain home and communicate with our Nurse’s Office for instructions before your student returns to school.  For any student who has been asked to quarantine, or who is awaiting a test result, please communicate with our Nurse’s Office prior to your student’s return to be sure all appropriate precautions have been taken.  When in doubt, please keep your student home until all questions have been answered.

As we prepare for a large increase of students in April, your cooperation will be crucial in helping us to continue to offer in person instruction to as many students as possible.

Please direct any questions about our Pooled Testing program to our Nurse’s Office.  If you would like for your student to participate in Pooled Testing, please make sure you complete the attached consent form and return to us as soon as possible.

Sincerely,

Jon Evans
Superintendent 

Student Consent Form COVID-19 Pooled Testing (English)Student Consent Form COVID-19 Pooled Testing (Portuguese)Student Consent Form COVID-19 Pooled Testing (Spanish)

 

Most recent communication regarding status of 2020-2021 school year - from Superintendent Jon Evans March 10, 2021

Members of the Keefe Tech Community,

I am pleased to share information regarding the next phase of our re-opening plan.

On Monday, March 8th, we began our second cycle of the 25% Hybrid Model.  It has been incredible having students back with us, and we have now had a chance to work with every grade level on site.  In the past two weeks, we have also included a cohort of higher needs students for in-person support during the academic week.  We are now preparing to take our next step to significantly expand in-person learning.

On April, 5th, we will be incorporating in-person academic instruction into our Hybrid Model.  The next step will include an alphabetical split for academic classes that will allow students to learn in-person for two days every academic week.  In this next phase, we will be using 6 feet of distancing in all classrooms.  CTE instruction will remain as it is now.  The result is that, as of April 5th, we will have the chance to work with approximately half of our students on site each day.

Below, please find a survey about interest in participating in the next phase of our Hybrid Model and transportation needs.  Please note, the two options are in-person learning on days where your child is scheduled to be in-person or remote instruction. Please complete this survey by Wednesday, March 17th, so that we can prepare the best possible plan for our students. You will also find an April calendar with a schedule of in-person learning days.

We will be scheduling a Parent Meeting in the near future to review additional details and to answer questions you may have.  We will also be carefully monitoring any new guidance regarding high school enrollment to be sure we continue to meet expectations set forth by the State.

Thank you for your support during this challenging time.  We are looking forward to seeing more of our students back with us soon.

Re-opening survey 

April 2021 Calendar

Jon Evans
Superintendent/Director 

To the Keefe Tech Community,

I hope everyone was able to relax and recharge during vacation last week.

It has been great having students back with us in the building. Once we welcome the seniors back next week, all of our students will have had the opportunity to spend a week with us in person.

I am pleased to report that, to date, we have had no positive COVID-19 cases reported for anyone in the building since our Hybrid model began. While it is certainly possible that this could change as we go forward, we believe that the safety measures we are following, and the availability of BinaxNOW rapid tests, are protective factors for our population. We are also considering the use of other COVID-19 testing resources as we expand our enrollment. More information will be available in the coming weeks.

In response to recent information from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, we have been exploring options to include significantly more students in the building. As we consider a path forward, we would like to do so by building on the success we have achieved thus far. Beginning this week, we are expanding our current Hybrid model to include a small cohort of our higher needs students during academic weeks. The families of these students have been or will be contacted regarding these services.

It is our plan to make an announcement in March about our next significant step for the spring.

The next cycle of our Hybrid model will include the following in person schedule:

March 1-5 - Grade 12 (completion of first cycle)

March 8-12 - Grade 11

March 15-19 - Grade 10

March 22-26 - Grade 9

March 29 - April 1 - Grade 12

Regarding athletics, while fall and winter seasons have not been possible for us as we navigate our way back to in-person learning, we are hopeful that opportunities will be available for our student athletes in the upcoming spring season.

We appreciate the ongoing support of our whole school community: students, parents and staff, as we navigate our way back to a "new normal" as quickly as possible, while keeping the safety of our school community our top priority.

Sincerely,
Jon Evans
Superintendent

Most recent communication regarding status of 2020-2021 school year - from Superintendent Jon Evans

1/16/2021 

To the Keefe Tech Community,

This is Jon Evans, Superintendent, with a message for the whole Keefe Tech community.

We appreciate your patience and effort in the remote learning program we have implemented during the first half of the school year.  We have been successfully serving small cohorts of our highest needs students since November.  Now, after continued collaboration with public health officials and other school leaders, I am pleased to report that we are ready to take the next step.

Beginning February 1, we are offering families the opportunity to have their students return for a portion of their career and technical instruction.  Our Hybrid model, which we have referred to as a 25% CTE Hybrid, is designed to allow one grade in per week for career and tech (or shop) instruction.  Over the course of the four weeks of school between February 1 and March 5, each grade will have the opportunity to come in full time for one week in their program. The in-person schedule will be:

February 1-5 – Grade 11

February 8-12 – Grade 10

February 15-19 – Winter Vacation

February 22-26 – Grade 9

March 1-5 – Grade 12

It is our expectation that by the end of the first four week cycle of this model, we will be in a position to decide on our plans to increase the number of students in the building going forward.

While this plan, like all others, is not perfect, we believe that it is our best and safest path forward to incrementally return to in-person learning.  Please be assured that we will be prepared to implement all of the procedures we have been planning since last year for the safety of our school community.

We are planning a virtual meeting for all families on Thursday, January 21 at 7PM to review additional details of this plan.  A link will be sent early next week.

I am also including a link to a survey for all families regarding participation in this in-person program.  This information will be extremely important in our plan for staffing and transportation.  We ask that you complete the survey no later than Friday, January 22.  

Keefe Tech Family Survey - January 2021

I would also like to take this opportunity to remind you that a signed COVID Acknowledgement Form, which was sent out in November, will be required for students to be able to participate in any in-person learning.  This form may also be downloaded from the Health Services page of our website.

We look forward to seeing many of you on screen next week, and I thank you again for your ongoing cooperation.

Sincerely,

Jon Evans
Superintendent/Director

Most recent communication regarding status of 2020-2021 school year - from Superintendent Jon Evans

1/6/2021 

To the Keefe Tech Community,

This is Jon Evans, Superintendent, with a message for the whole Keefe Tech community.

As we begin the new year, while there is great hope for better days on the horizon, there is also much to be upset about today.  Like me, I am sure many members of our school community found today’s events in Washington DC to be disturbing, confusing and unsettling.  In our democracy, there is an expectation that people can express diverse opinions in a respectful and peaceful manner.  This is certainly not what we saw today.

This seems like an appropriate time to reaffirm a commitment to the values that make our district so special.  These include respect, inclusiveness and seeing our diverse community as a tremendous strength. These are among the pillars that make Keefe Tech a great place to go to school and a great place to work. 

Our counselors are prepared to connect with students and provide support in response to concerns generated by these events.  Please do not hesitate to reach out by phone or email to a counselor for any student in need.

I look forward to seeing more of our students on campus some time soon, reaffirming these values in person, and working with all of our community in making 2021 a brighter year.

Thank you, 

Jonathan Evans
Superintendent/Director

12/9/2020

To Members of the Keefe Tech Community,

This message is to make you aware that another member of our school community who has been in the building has tested positive for COVID-19.  We have been in communication with our local Board of Health and are following all of the recommended procedures.

As you are aware, we have been carefully monitoring public health statistics, and we will continue to work with area leaders to chart a path forward to expand in-person learning opportunities for our students when circumstances permit in the new year.

Until then, we will keep you informed regarding occurrences in school and any update on our plans.

Thank you,

Jonathan Evans
Superintendent Director

12/4/2020

To the Keefe Tech Community,

This message is to make you aware of 2 additional members of our school community who have been in the building who have tested positive for COVID-19.  In both of these instances, the community member’s presence in the building was when the building was closed for Thanksgiving break. 

We are working with our local Board of Health and will follow all appropriate procedures for the safety of our school community.

As promised, we will continue to provide updates regarding any individuals who were in our building when they had COVID-19.

Thank you,
Jonathan Evans
Superintendent/Director

12/3/2020

To the Keefe Tech Community,

This message is to make you aware that a member of our school community who has been in our building has tested positive for COVID-19.  While, to date, we have been made aware of 13 COVID-19 cases, this is the first instance when the individual has been in the building.

We are working with our local Board of Health to assist with contact tracing and to ensure that all appropriate steps are being taken for the safety of our school community.  We will also be performing additional deep cleaning in the necessary areas.

I also want to make you aware that we have been considering options for our re-opening plan. Included in our consideration is the increasing number of cases in our area. We will continue to evaluate this information, and will continue communication with our local Board of Health to chart a path forward.  We are hoping to provide you with an update in the near future about our plans to re-open in a hybrid model after the new year.

Until then, please know that we appreciate your patience as we consider the safety of our school community in all of the decisions we make.

Thank you, 

Jonathan Evans
Superintendent/Director

Members of the Keefe Tech Community,

This message is to make you aware of an adjustment to our Re-Opening Plan. 

During the past week, our area has experienced a significant increase in COVID-19 cases.  Based on this increase, and the challenges caused by our accelerated timeline, we have made the difficult decision to postpone the start of our Career and Technical Hybrid Model.   This means that for the time being, students will continue learning from home and we will not be able to provide in-person learning to additional students immediately after Thanksgiving.

In response to this change in the timeline, our meeting for this evening has also been postponed until we have updated information to share.

We will continue to work closely with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Board of Health to chart a course for re-opening.   In early December, we will provide an updated timeline, and we will schedule a Parent Information Session to fully explain our Hybrid Learning Plan. 

It has been wonderful having our highest needs students in school this week, and we look forward to welcoming more students back in a hybrid model as soon as we are able.

I realize this is disappointing news to students and families who were looking forward to a return this month.  For that I sincerely apologize.

Please know that we are navigating this unprecedented situation without a playbook.  We will always make the safety of our school community our top priority in all the decisions we make.

Thank you for your continued cooperation during these challenging times.

Jonathan Evans
Superintendent/Director

To the Keefe Tech Community,

I am emailing with an update on our re-opening status.

 As you may be aware, the Governor and Commissioner of Education have revised the “Stoplight” measure for COVID-19 in Massachusetts communities.  As a result, even though the actual case numbers went up in Framingham last week, the city shifted from “Red” to “Yellow”.  Keefe Tech has completely followed the prior guidelines by implementing a Remote Teaching model in our “Red” community. 

 Prior to the Governor’s announcement on Friday, our plan, which was going to be announced this week, was to begin serving a small number of our highest needs students in person starting next week.  This plan will go forward.

Since the Friday announcement, we have been considering updates to our plan that would allow more students to return as soon as possible.  The most important factors we have been considering are safety and the public health implications for renewing in-person instruction.  Additional considerations include the learning needs of our students, scheduling, staffing, and transportation resources. 

In response to these considerations, we are planning the following:

Following the Thanksgiving break (Monday, November 30), we will begin a revised hybrid program with a focus on Career and Technical Education (CTE).  Academic instruction will remain remote for the time being.  At the beginning of our return, one class will come in for Career and Technical Training each week.  As we begin in this 25% model, we will be working toward the goal of eventually having all Career and Tech instruction in person, with 50% of our students in person.  Our path toward this goal will be shaped by our experience in December.

We are planning a virtual meeting for all families on Tuesday, November 17th at 7PM to review additional details of this plan.  A link will be sent later in the week.

In the coming days, you will also be receiving a survey that will assess your willingness to send your child in for in-person CTE instruction.  Remote only instruction will continue to be an option.

It is important to note that our School Committee meeting this evening was previously scheduled, and is not in response to Friday’s announcement.  To avoid false hope for anyone planning to attend, the information contained in this message will be shared, but more specific plans will not be available until more information is known. 

I would like to thank you all for your perseverance and patience during these challenging times.

I look forward to providing you with more updates in the near future.

Thank you,

 Jonathan Evans
Superintendent/Director

Most recent communication regarding status of 2020-2021 school year - from Superintendent Jon Evans on 10/8/20:

This message is to update families on our current status.

We have been carefully monitoring COVID-19 statistics in our area, and have been communicating regularly with the Framingham Board of Health.  Unfortunately, Framingham continues to be a “Red” community, with increasing numbers from last week.  We are eagerly awaiting a reduction in these statistics so that we can consider a return to in person learning.  State guidance indicates we should continue in our current model until we have at least three weeks in a lower category, so our return to a Hybrid model continues to be at least several weeks away.

I am very pleased with the efforts of our students and staff in our Remote Learning Model.  Beyond the coursework, the activities in “X Blocks” and “Brain Breaks” have really helped to maintain our school community during these challenging times.  I encourage our students to maintain their connection to school through these opportunities, and by seeking out the support of staff members as needed.

To date, while in our Remote Model, we have had 5 cases of COVID-19 reported in our school community, and these community members have had no contact within the building.  Once we move to an in person model, in the event of a positive case, we will be providing immediate notification to the school community, and an action plan for any potential close contacts.  As we continue in our Remote Model, please contact the Nurses Office at 508-416-2263 if you have any COVD-19 situation to report.

We are all looking forward to having our students join us as soon as possible. 

Thank you and have a good night.

Communication regarding status of 2020-2021 school year - from Superintendent Jon Evans on 9/24/20:

This message is to provide an update to families regarding our re-opening status.

As you may have seen, the Covid-19 statistics in Framingham continue to put the city in the “Red” category, with increasing numbers over the last several weeks.  This week, the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education issued guidance that schools should not consider a change in instructional model until we see at least three weeks in a different risk category, or color. This is certainly disappointing, as we all look forward to welcoming our students back into the building in the Hybrid Model we had planned.  We will be working closely with our local Board of Health to monitor progress and to plan for a change as soon as circumstances permit.

While we would certainly prefer to have students in the building, I am very proud of the work our students and faculty have done to start the year off strong in our Remote Learning Model.  I am also grateful to the parents and guardians for their support of our school and their children.

We will keep you updated on our status in the weeks ahead, and will continue to work hard to help our students have a great start to the year.

Thank you and have a good evening.

To Members of the Keefe Technical School Community,

As you may be aware, the report from the Department of Public Health was made available this evening.  Unfortunately, the City of Framingham continues to be considered a “Red” community, with more average daily cases per 100,000 reported than last week.

The continued “Red” status for Framingham means that we will need to shift our plan for the beginning of the year to a full Remote Learning Model.  We will continue to monitor the data on a weekly basis, and we will work with the Framingham Board of Health to determine the most appropriate time for a safe return utilizing the Hybrid Learning Model.  While we look forward to resuming  in a  Hybrid Learning Model, we will need to be in a full Remote Learning Model for at least the first two to three weeks of school.

Keefe Tech faculty and staff have been hard at work preparing the building for the return of our students. Please be assured that their time has been well spent.  We are now redirecting our focus to ensure a strong start to the school year implementing the full Remote Learning Model.  Please note, this full Remote Learning Model will be different from last spring. Instructional staff will be using remote synchronous instruction, which means that students will follow their school schedule and will receive direct online instruction from their teachers each day. 

Additionally, Dr. Snow will communicate more information about the start of the year, including important dates and times for when students can pick up materials needed for the full Remote Plan Model. 

I encourage all of our families to join us for our Parent Information Session on Zoom tomorrow night at 7PM.  Link to join the meeting is: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81670209152.  During this meeting, we will review our current status, and will review more detailed information about our full remote start to the year.

I understand this news and this process has been frustrating.  We are looking forward to having our students join us again in person as soon as the circumstances permit, and we will maintain communication regularly to provide updates.

Thank you, and I look forward to seeing many of you tomorrow evening.

Jon Evans
Superintendent

Good afternoon –

I am writing with an update for those who chose the remote plan for the 2020-2021 school year at Keefe Tech.  I would like to begin by apologizing for the delay in sharing this information, as you can imagine, the companies providing this service have been overwhelmed since the DESE selected them as vendors.

The DESE provided a list of vendors for families choosing a fully remote option – as a reminder, this means all schooling will be done at home.  Keefe Tech has selected Edgenuity, a third-party, online learning platform.  Teachers at Edgenuity are Massachusetts certified and the curriculum is aligned with the Massachusetts Frameworks.  All teaching, assignments, tests/quizzes, and grading is conducted through Edgenuity.  Grading is not pass/fail.  Students wishing to select this option will take English, math, science and social studies. 

In terms of CTE classes for remote students, please note that students will not receive shop hours.  This means that in licensure programs (Electrical, Plumbing, Cosmetology, Health Assisting, Dental Assisting, and Early Education and Care) students may not earn their trade-specific license before leaving Keefe Tech, or may need to complete additional shop hours upon graduation. Students choosing to go fully remote will receive related hours in alignment with the specific licensure board for the program. Please be aware that all of the license boards currently cap the number of related hours that can be awarded to students. Example: Students in the Electrical program will only receive 100 hours per grade level for related theory, for a maximum of 300 hours before graduation. Students will not have any type of hands-on, face to face instruction with the fully remote model.  There is a chance that students may not earn enough shop hours to be awarded a Chapter 74 Certificate at graduation. Keefe Tech requires students to have 900 shop hours to earn this certificate, and not accruing shop hours during remote learning could impact this certificate.  Students may not be eligible for cooperative education if they have not demonstrated the practical, hands-on skills necessary to be ready for employment in the career field. All students who have selected the remote option will be expected to be present online at specific times for remote learning lessons and activities. Attendance will be taken for students in all remote learning CTE sessions, and missing a remote session will be considered the same as missing a face to face session. This model will be very different from the format used during the spring of 2020.  All remote learning student work will be graded and all assignments count. Remote learning sessions will not be graded as pass / fail moving forward. 

Edgenuity will provide special education services for those who elect the full remote option. Keefe Technical School will continue its routine Special Education assessment and individual education program (IEP) development. Keefe Technical School will provide Edgenuity copies of student IEP’s or 504’s for accommodations and/or modifications. Edgenuity will provide the following: Special Education Case Manager (who also provides academic support), On-Site Mentor (available for question or concerns), Success Coach (works with on-site mentor, basic training, etc), and Concept Coach (1:1 tutoring). 

I realize this is a difficult decision for many families, and would like everyone to have all the information they need.  If you have been waiting on this information to complete the survey, we completely understand.  If you have changed your mind after receiving this information and no longer wish to have your child in a remote plan for next year, please be in touch ASAP with our attendance secretary, arosario@jpkeefehs.org.  Please include your child’s name, grade, and if they will need bus transportation in your email.

As a reminder, any family who selects remote learning must stay with this plan for one month before switching to the hybrid (two days at Keefe Tech/3 days working from home) plan.

Thank you,

Dr. Shannon Snow

To All Members of The Keefe Tech Community,

As you may be aware, in last night’s Department of Public Health report, which lists COVID statistics by city/town, Framingham was listed as a “Red” community. This designation is based on the average daily number of cases per 100,000 people.  Because of the location of our building, and the breakdown of our student population, we have been directed by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to follow Framingham data for our district.  This is certainly not what we were hoping to see at this point in the year, but we are hopeful that things will improve in the future weekly reports.

On Monday, we have a plan for teachers to begin preparing for a year that will include both in-person and remote instruction. Since these are the components of our current hybrid model, this planning will help us prepare for any scenario that follows.

Based on this recent report, we are required to have all of our traditional Fall Sports, which include Football, Soccer, Girl’s Volleyball, Cross Country and Golf, move to the new “Fall 2” season. The “Fall 2” season is scheduled for late winter/early spring.  We will be joining many other schools in this schedule, and have hope and optimism that our Fall Athletes will be able to thrive in this opportunity.

Following a review of next week’s statistics, which will be released on Wednesday evening, we will be in a better position to make a decision on how we start the year.  I can assure you that any decision we make will be made with the safety of our community as our top priority. As a parent myself, I realize that this uncertainty is frustrating.

We are planning a parent information session for next Thursday, September 3rd at 7PM. A link will be posted on our website, and we will be sending a reminder early next week.  I realize that this has been an extremely challenging time for our families. It has been a difficult time for members of our faculty and staff as well. While I sincerely wish that the last six months could have been different, I continue to be inspired by the team at Keefe Tech. Between now and the start of the school year for students, we will be working hard to prepare the best possible experience for whatever format is needed.

I apologize for the inconvenience and uncertainty caused by this unprecedented situation that is beyond our control.

Sincerely,
Jon Evans

To The Keefe Technical School Community,

Earlier today, Governor Baker’s office and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education released guidance about reopening schools this fall.  We have been anxiously awaiting this guidance, because it will allow us to continue planning for the most safe and successful 20-21 school year possible for our district.

I have attached the actual guidance document to this email.  Here are a few key highlights:

•  Current medical research supports a safe in-person return to school - with preventive measures in place - as infection and transmission rates are lower for children than adults
•  Preventive measures include masks/face coverings, physical distancing,   handwashing, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces
•  Masks/face coverings will be required for all students and all adults
•  Based upon current medical research, and in conjunction with other preventive measures, a minimum physical distance of three feet has been established

It is important to note that what we received today is “initial guidance”, and additional guidance is expected later in the summer.  The guidance may change in response to new medical information, or changes in the rate of Covid-19 infection in our state.

In the coming days, our leadership team will be carefully reviewing these guidelines, along with spacing and staffing in our building to develop a plan for the fall.  We share the state’s goal to serve as many students as possible in the building, but will only do so with the safety of our entire school community as our top priority.

We acknowledge that there are likely to be more questions than answers at this time, and we will continue to communicate with you in the coming weeks as more information becomes available. We will also be surveying families to learn more about your expectations and concerns. 

We thank you in advance for your patience and understanding as we begin planning for the fall.

Sincerely,

Jon Evans
Superintendent

Good afternoon students and families –

I hope this email finds everyone well.

As you may have heard, the Governor extended the state wide school closure until May 4^th.  Given this extended absence from school, I would like to encourage students and families to take advantage of the enrichment activities teachers have made available, to check in with teachers during their office hours, and to reach out to others in the school community (guidance counselor, school psychologist, adjustment counselor, nurse, etc.) who could provide assistance.  Please find a link to the Bronco Bulletin with information on assignments and office hours.

https://www.smore.com/q7ypt

I have spoken with a number of teachers who have emailed with students this past week – they are thrilled to maintain their connections to their students; please check in with them!  We are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

I realize this is not what we all envisioned when we thought about the spring.  Many of you would prefer to be at school, with friends, getting ready for spring sports, activities and the school play, and yet we find ourselves in a very different place.  On behalf of the Keefe Tech faculty and staff, we cannot wait to be back together, to hear laughter in the classrooms and halls, and the noise in the cafeteria again. 

It is certainly not too late to start working on enrichment assignments or to work on missing assignments from this year!  Make the most of these next few weeks.

All the best,

Shannon Snow, Ed.D.

Principal, Keefe Technical High School

Good afternoon – This is Dr. Shannon Snow, Principal of Keefe Technical High School. As you are likely aware, Governor Baker announced that schools will be closed through the end of the school year. We will continue with remote learning for the remainder of the school year. While we are deeply saddened that we will not be back together, we agree that this decision was made in the best interest of public health.

I encourage all students to remain committed to your classes and assignments. All of your teachers and counselors are available to assist and support you – please keep working and end the year in good standing.

To our seniors – we are most saddened that your events and celebrations will look and feel different this year. We have been brainstorming ways to make your end of the year activities special. Please stay tuned for more information. We will be working toward a successful and safe opening of school in late August, and will continue to follow state guidance to provide meaningful education while we are away from school.

Thank you and please stay healthy.

Message sent to all Keefe Tech families on Sunday, March 15, 2020 - Keefe Tech will be closed through Tuesday, April 7th:
Good evening, This is Shannon Snow, Principal of Keefe Technical High School. I am calling with an update on the status of school. Earlier this evening, Governor Baker announced that schools will be closed through Tuesday, April 7th. Information about local food resources will be posted on the Keefe Tech website tomorrow. Resources for students to engage in learning opportunities will also be posted on our website, and more information will be shared over the coming days. The Governor has asked all residents to avoid large gatherings, and we advise students to follow his directions. The health and safety of the Keefe Tech community is our top priority, and we will continue to share information as it becomes available. Thank you.

This is Dr. Shannon Snow, Principal of Keefe Technical School. On behalf of Superintendent Evans and our leadership team, I am providing an update on our current status. After careful review with area school and state leaders, Keefe Technical School will be closed next week, through Friday, March 20. During the week, we will continue to review the most current information available to assess our status for the following week. Early next week we will communicate with families regarding education and community resources during our time away. We thank all of our families for their patience and support as we focus on the health and safety of our school community. Thank you and have a nice weekend.

Good evening,

This is Jon Evans, Superintendent of Keefe Technical High School.  

I am calling with an update on our response to regional concern regarding COVID-19.  

It is still the case that Keefe Tech has no known cases of the COVID-19 virus.  However, based on the status in our region, and after communicating with district partners, we have decided to close on Friday, March 13.

During Friday and the weekend, we will conduct an additional deep cleaning of the building, and we will await additional instructions from the state regarding the upcoming week.

Once additional information is known, we will once again reach out with an update.

Again, we continue to have no known cases of COVID-19, but are acting in an abundance of caution toward what we believe to be in the best interest of our school community.

Thank you and have a nice weekend.

Good Evening,

This is Jon Evans, Superintendent of Keefe Technical School.

This message is to update our school community regarding the measures we are taking in response to the COVID-19 virus.  As of this message, Keefe Technical School has not been directly impacted by this virus.  We have maintained close communication with our local Board of Health and area school leaders.  We have also received the latest information and guidance from the state Public Health and Education Departments.   At this time, we intend to proceed with our normal schedule, with some exceptions.  We have specifically taken the following measures:

• All outside fieldtrips have been cancelled for the next week, as we await further guidance from the state.
• Large community gatherings and rentals of our building will be restricted to small groups for the next month.
• Our Health Careers, Early Childhood and Dental Assisting programs will discontinue school trips to community centers where direct care is provided by our students.  At this time, career and technical trips to job sites, such as the house-building project, will continue.
• We have increased the frequency with which we sanitize high touch areas in classrooms.

We have posted CDC guidelines and prevention measures on our website.  We encourage everyone to frequently wash their hands, avoid people who are ill, and to stay home when sick. There will be flexibility in our attendance policy for students with medical documentation.

We realize this public health situation is unsettling to students.  Counselors are available to provide support to students in need, and we will make every effort to keep families updated with the most current information.

Please be assured that the health and safety of our school community is always our top priority.

Thank you and have a good evening.