An update from VASJ on COVID-19

Dear Viking families,

The past 48 hours have seen an unprecedented series of events, ending with Governor DeWine ordering the closure of all Ohio schools for the next three weeks in response to the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. As a result, all of us have had to make many quick decisions, change plans and adapt schedules. Here at Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School, we have been working on plans to continue the education process in as efficient a manner as possible as well as adapt schedules like business hours and calendar events. To update you on those changes:

1. VASJ will remain CLOSED through the end of the scheduled Easter break. The next day of “in-person” school at VASJ will be Monday, April 20. Please remember that ALL VASJ SPONSORED ACTIVITIES are postponed until AT LEAST Monday, April 6. This includes all athletic practices, the spring musical and the Kairos Retreat.

2. Beginning Wednesday, March 18, VASJ will have office hours from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. These office hours will last until Friday, April 3. We will send out office hours over Easter Break at a later date.

3. Distance learning will begin Monday, March 23 and continue through Friday, April 3. Students are invited to come to school to pick up any belongings/materials they will need to complete their assignments. We highly encourage students to take home all textbooks, workbooks, etc. They are encouraged to come on Wednesday, Thursday or Friday (March 18, 19, or 20) or Monday, March 23 during office hours to get their things. Allowing the option of four days will assist us in meeting Governor DeWine’s directives regarding mass gatherings.

4. All teachers will be available during the hours of 8 a.m.-3 p.m. during the distance learning days to answer student emails and address any concerns or questions they may have. Students are expected to check their school email as well as Google Classrooms each day for expectations from their teachers. The assignments posted are not optional and will be graded.

5. If regular internet access or smartphone capabilities are an issue, please contact Mr. Csank or Mr. Neary as soon as possible. Teachers have been instructed to be flexible with their lessons and assignments.

I will continue to update you with any further changes as this situation continues to develop.

As I stated earlier, the last few days have seen unprecedented changes in our society. That means there will be a learning curve as we work our way through it. I have asked the entire VASJ faculty and staff, and I pass my request on to you, to be flexible and understanding as we adapt to these changes. There will be some bumps in the road over the next month. We are all in this together – and together we will be successful.

Christ’s Peace,

Dave Csank
VASJ Principal