Cedar Ridge Parents, Faculty, Staff, and Community Members,

Thank you for your attention to district communications regarding COVID-19 (Coronavirus). As we round out the first week of off-site schooling during the building closures, I just want to take a moment to update you with what we know at this time. 

As of 8 p.m. on Friday, March 20, there is at least 1 confirmed case of COVID-19 in Independence County, with the number of confirmed cases in AR totaling 100. 

Yesterday the Governor announced that schools would continue doing off-site instruction after Spring Break (March 23-27) through April 17. That means we plan to be back in school on Monday, April 20. While that is our true hope, we understand that the closure could be extended if the situation escalates.  

Today our Secretary of Education announced that the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) would be filing for a federal waiver made possible by President Trump that will cancel ACT Aspire testing for this school year. 

We want to make sure our students and families have everything they need to get through this unprecedented time. Parents, please contact us if you need additional AMI packets, food, etc. Call Paula or Tracey at 870-201-2577 ext. 0210 or 0308.

I want to thank our faculty and staff for jumping in and doing their very best to make this situation work. I think everyone learned some good lessons about remote instruction this week, and so I think our students will have an even better experience with this distance learning when we return from Spring Break. 

Please continue to practice social distancing for you and your families. While you’re distancing yourselves from some of the most common distractions we face, I hope you’ll enjoy time together and be able to make the best of this unusual situation. 

This situation is not at all ideal, but I appreciate the support and understanding that parents are giving us as we try to create the best possible instructional opportunities for your children. We have enjoyed partnering with our parents and community members this week, and we look forward to continuing that partnership. 

Sincerely, 

Dr. Andy Ashley
Superintendent