Dear CUSSD Parents,
None of us could have imagined when the COVID-19 virus made its way to San Diego County earlier in the year, that the start of the new school year would be filled with questions of how we should conduct school. However, this has been and is our reality. We have been working tirelessly to keep up with the rapid and ever-changing guidance and regulations regarding how to open our school. This letter is the first of likely several “status updates” you will receive so we can ensure that everyone is kept informed.
First, I want to communicate that we are praying earnestly for you and your family as we navigate these murky waters. We know this has been tough on you, so we are praying for God’s grace and peace in your situation. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7).
Second, Christian Unified Schools of San Diego (CUSSD) has filed a waiver on behalf of our elementary age students with the San Diego Public Health office to obtain an exemption to the current statewide mandate, which is requiring distance learning for all schools. The waiver is under current review and we should learn the official decision in the coming days. What does receiving a waiver mean? The elementary schools are currently scheduled to begin the school year online on August 18th, but as soon as CUSSD is granted this waiver, the elementary schools will be permitted to transition to in-person learning at school. We believe the waiver could happen very quickly, so please join us in praying and seeking the Lord’s favor in this pending matter so we can bring the younger students back to in-person school as soon as possible.
Third, after speaking to several attorneys and several Christian school administrators, with much prayer and contemplation, CUSSD has joined with other Christian schools to file a lawsuit in the State of California to challenge Governor Newsom’s orders, guidance and directives regarding the current school restrictions. While this is unfamiliar territory for us, we know that we must fight for what is right for our students and families, who are very important to us. While the details of the lawsuit are confidential, our attorneys have communicated with us that there could be a ruling in early September. What does this mean for you and your children? It means we will begin the Jr High and High School year online August 19th. We know that this is not ideal, however, if we receive a successful ruling in this lawsuit, CUSSD would be entitled to resume in-person learning for all grades. While only the Lord knows the outcome of this lawsuit, we are praying that the court(s) will rule quickly and in our favor. We hope you will be in prayer over this important case.
Lastly, we all need to remind ourselves that God is bigger than all the chaos, confusion and hard decisions that have come with this virus. We can be confident that God hears the cries of our hearts and will faithfully lead and guide. “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles” (Psalm 34:17). Thank you for your prayers and for standing with us.
Be on the lookout for campus-specific communications in the coming days.
Blessings,
Dr. David Jeremiah
President, Christian Unified Schools
