While school districts and universities worldwide are canceling in-person instructions, it seems overdue that on-campus MVLA classes should be postponed until further notice. The COVID-19 virus has reached alarming numbers of infections in Santa Clara County, many of which have been transmitted unknowingly from the community. California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency and Santa Clara County has banned gatherings of 1000 people or more. Given that daily MVHS instruction gathers nearly 3000 students and educators five days a week, our community is being put at risk. The need to halt regular instruction is necessary not only for our students’ safety, but that of the greater MVLA community. The student body appreciates what the administration has attempted to combat this health threat, including the installment of hand washing stations and increased janitorial efforts, but the shift to an online-based curriculum for the next few weeks seems more appropriate—especially given that other school events have been cancelled. Out of concern for the health and well-being of MVLA students, faculty, families, and community, we ask the board to shift to online instruction in place of in-person classes.

Sincerely,
MVHS Students