Dear Families,

This week we gained information from the Mayor and Chancellor on the phased re-opening of the District and the opening of school year 2020-21. At this time, DCPS continues to solicit information from families and staff about their preferences and concerns, and there will be more details to follow.

Next week is the last week of school for students. Hopefully, you had the opportunity to speak with your child’s teacher last week; if not, please reach out and schedule a time or additional time if necessary. If the stay-at-home order is lifted earlier than June 8th, we will plan to close out the building during the first week of June. I will provide additional information on close out once the dates are clearer.

The Academic Leadership Team will be reflecting on the last two months and designing professional development that will complement the professional development the District will provide during the second and third weeks of June. We encourage you to provide feedback to inform that process either by email or attendance at an upcoming listening session. Through our two rounds of listening sessions by grade level, we heard consistent scheduling, clear weekly/daily expectations and more instruction. Please join us at:

Topic: Shepherd Listening Session
Time: Wed, May 27, 2020 04:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 886 6206 8936
Password: 9nTpfK

There are a number of fifth grade parents who would like to participate in planning a celebration for their students. If you would like to help or provide input, please join us at:

Topic: Celebrating 5th grade planning call

Time: Tues, May 26, 2020 02:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 823 6540 8242
Password: 8uZf5Z

More information is forthcoming around our 2020-2021 School Year calendar, but we encourage all families to complete their SY20-21 enrollment online at enrolldcps.dc.gov. At the link you can find enrollment forms and a FAQ for families to help with the electronic submission process. As a reminder, My School DC extended the deadline to claim your matched seat until Monday, June 15.

I hope you enjoy the long weekend! Thank you for your patience and support during this challenging time. We miss you and your children.

Phyllis