Live Updates

The stories in this series are written and reported accurately, but due to the dynamic nature of this issue, information may become obsolete and incorrect. This section includes live updates, which will include corrections to previous stories as our reporters learn more. Updates will be posted regularly to this page.

For access to the most current information, Greylock community members should keep an eye on their emails and on Greylock social media accounts (@mgmounties on Instagram and Twitter).

As we roll out updates, we also plan to publish more stories about COVID-19’s impact on the community, and the Arts & Living team will continue to provide daily sources of entertainment, from book recommendations to recipes.

Update

Now that remote learning has been extended to the remainder of the academic year, expectations set by the Department of Education. In an email to the Greylock community, Superintendent Grady highlighted two areas of focus (direct quotation)

• Further defining the recommended elements of a quality remote learning program, including a focus on teaching the content standards most critical for students’ success in the next grade level, and
• Encouraging districts to move all students towards successful engagement in remote learning, with a focus on addressing fundamental needs.

The spring sports season has been canceled.

Update

Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker has closed all MA schools for the remainder of the academic year. The final day for members of the class of 2020 will remain May 29, and other grades will finish June 16. Graduation will still be held, but the format has not been announced. The Echo will be publishing a story on the announced school closure soon.

Update

The format for AP exams has been announced. See the story on AP exams below for a run-down of what your tests will look like. The short version: a majority of tests feature two free-response questions — one 25-minute one and one 15-minute one. There will be no multiple-choice questions on any tests.

Update

Earlier this week, the Commissioner of Elementary & Secondary Education released a set of guidelines for MA schools to follow in developing remote learning protocols. Starting with the week of April 6, when optional activities will be replaced by a firmer learning structure across the district, MA schools will be urged to have students spend about half of the usual school day’s length on education. The guidelines from the Commissioner included the recommendation that grades be awarded pass/fail, that emphasis be placed on previously learned materials, and that some emphasis be placed on outdoor activity. Between now and April 6, there will be no mandatory work, but the district has provided an educational enrichment page on the district website for families to use.

In regard to the Echo’s coverage of how the outbreak is impacting the MIAA and Greylock sports: this week, the MIAA released a statement that the association will discuss the status of spring sports on March 30 and will provide updates immediately. The Tournament Management Committee will recommend that in the case of a spring sports start date after April 27, the MIAA should cancel the tournament.

In regard to the Echo’s coverage of the AP exam situation: the College Board will release specifics for exams on April 3. The Echo plans to provide run-downs of each exam relevant to Greylock as soon as the Board makes these exam formats available to the public.