ROCKLAND — The following letter was distributed by RSU 13 Superintendent of Schools John McDonald on Friday, March 13. 

RSU 13 includes Oceanside High School, Oceanside Middle School, Cushing Community School, Thomaston Grammar School, Ash Point Community School and South School. 

Dear Staff, Parents and Community Members: 

Late yesterday we received new guidance on social distancing at school from the Governor’s office and Maine School Management. After a review of their new guidelines, the following actions will go into effect beginning Monday, March 16, 2020. 

• All larger gatherings and school activities within the schools that involve the public are canceled. Examples of this will include activities such as concerts, plays, family nights, awards assemblies, etc. Specific information on events that will be canceled or postponed will be forthcoming from individual schools. 

• All field trips in-state or out-of-state involving our students traveling on a bus are canceled until at least after April break. 

• Use of our facilities by outside groups after school hours is still permitted, providing the group obtains permission, and has filled out a facilities request form. A charge for disinfecting the space after use may be assessed. 

• We have been notified today by the Maine Principals Association that the start of Spring Sports has been delayed until April 27. 

All regular school activities and the Afterschool Program will continue as usual. We will keep you updated and informed of any further developments as we respond to this rapidly changing situation. Please know that the health and safety of your children is our primary concern. 

Sincerely,
John C. McDonald
Superintendent of Schools