All the Connections staff hope that you remain safe and healthy during the next few weeks. After Spring break Anders and I will be contacting all students to check in and see what learning opportunities we can provide to keep moving forward with our goals. We will miss seeing your faces on a regular basis and we encourage you to get outside, enjoy your families and keep in touch!
The Governor’s new order means that schools will be closed for students for six weeks, until April 28, unless the closure is extended or lifted by the Governor.
We know that this is a trying time and that the closure of our schools is a tremendous challenge for families. Free meals will continue to be provided during spring break and beyond.
School Meals Available During Spring Break
Free grab-and-go meals will continue to be provided during the extended closure, including next week, during the scheduled spring break. Breakfast and lunch are available to-go for all students at several sites across the district. Families are invited to choose the location that is most convenient for you, regardless of where you live or attend school.
When: Monday–Friday, 11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Where:
• Arts & Technology Academy, 1650 West 22nd Ave.
• Awbrey Park Elementary School, 158 Spring Creek Dr.
• ECCO, 200 N. Monroe St.
• Holt Elementary School, 770 Calvin St.
• Howard Elementary School, 700 Howard Ave.
• South Eugene High School, 400 East 19th Ave. (in back, by cafeteria)
Mental Health & Social Services
HOOTS (Helping Out Our Teens in Schools), a community partner that provides mobile crisis response support to 4J and other high schools, will offer mental health support by phone for high school students, families and staff while schools are closed. Staff are able to provide short-term counseling, resource referrals and Oregon Health Plan signup. Available weekdays 9 a.m.–4 p.m. at 541-246-2342.
For 4J students experiencing mental health concerns and needing support, mental health services are available at 4J school-based health centers, 541-790-5227 (closed during spring break) or Lane County Behavioral Health, 541-682-7253.
For students in immediate crisis, resources available 24/7 include:
Looking Glass Youth and Family Crisis Line: 541-689-3111
White Bird Clinic Crisis Line: 541-687-4000
Mental Health Crisis Response Program: 888-989-9990
(for parents of children up to 18)
15th Night is also offering support and resources for unhoused youth and those working with them via phone and text at 541-246-4046. Many other social services in the area are also providing phone or virtual services.
Student Healthcare
School-based health centers at Churchill and North Eugene high schools are open through Friday to provide healthcare to 4J students. (They will be closed for spring break.) The clinics can bill private insurance and the Oregon Health Plan, and will also provide treatment for those unable to afford medical care. Please call the clinics to schedule appointments. Churchill: 541-790-5227 • North Eugene: 541-790-4445
Self Care and Prevention
Public health recommendations include washing hands frequently, covering mouths when coughing or sneezing, keeping away from people who are sick, and avoiding gatherings. People with higher risk of serious complications—people over 60 and those with pre-existing cardio, respiratory and immune conditions—are especially urged to stay home and take other precautions.
People experiencing fever, flu or cold symptoms should stay at home until 3 days after they are symptom-free without the use of medication. If you are concerned about symptoms, please consult your healthcare provider.