Coronavirus Update and School Warrant Article

Posted March 3, 2020

Dear Parents and members of the Newmarket community,

I truly hope everyone had an enjoyable break from their regular routine last week during our winter break. I wanted to share some important information with you about the Coronavirus, additional school warrant articles, and remind you of some important upcoming events.

Coronavirus Information Update
The Town Manager, Police Chief, Fire Chief, Town Health Officer, and I met yesterday to review information about the Coronavirus and discuss the best way to share accurate and timely information with all members of the Newmarket community. Town Manager, Steve Fournier, prepared a very nice letter about the virus with links to credible sources for those who want more information. His letter, with information about the preparatory actions we have taken, can be found here: Coronavirus Letter

School Warrant Article Information
Before the February vacation break, we sent out a summary of Article 2 – the school budget, to highlight how the budget request will positively impact teaching and learning next year if it is passed next Tuesday, March 10th, at Town Meeting. This week we created a summary of the remaining school warrant articles with information about their tax impact. We ask for you to support the recently negotiated Support Staff contract, the use of some of the building project bond investment interest proceeds to enhance or preserve our schools, and grant us permission to use a portion of any unspent resources from the current year budget to help fund renovations to the elementary school playground.

Noteworthy Events Ahead

JSHS Parents - Course Selection Workshop Wednesday, March 4th, 6:00 PM

NESDEC Focus Group – Parents/Community Saturday, March 7th, 9:00 AM

Public Forum - FY21 Budget & Student Success Saturday, March 7th, 10:00 AM

NESDEC Principal Characteristics Survey Monday, March 9th, Noon -closes

Town Meeting – School Warrants/Elections Tuesday, March 10th

Enjoy the beautiful summer-like evening.

Susan K. Givens, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools