LET THEM PLAY!! 1 Message

LET THEM PLAY!! 1 message

Tina Hurd Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 11:58 AM To: [email protected]

We have a vaccine, it’s being administered. Covid-19 positivity rates are starting to drop and NOW you decide to cancel high school sports. The hearts of thousands of high school student athletes have been shattered. There is no reason they should not be allowed to play high school sports regardless of whether there are classes on campus. These kids should not be punished because you can’t, or won’t, get teachers back in the classroom. Dozens of private schools around the Valley have had live, on campus instruction since August. If they were being homeschooled in a normal school year, they would be allowed to participate in sports for their zoned school without being required to be “on campus” for schooling.

We can go to a casino, we can eat in a restaurant, we can go to the grocery store or the mall, we can ride the bus, we can fly on an airplane. There is no reason these students should not be allowed to play high school sports. These student athletes are passionate about their sports. Many are relying on obtaining scholarships to be able to go to college. You have stolen that opportunity from them.

The CDC recommended NOT closing schools as it would be detrimental to the mental and emotional health of our children. You went against that recommendation. As a result, failing grades are up by an average of 35% across all grade levels. Worse, we have had a record number of suicides in our student population. 18 at last count. That is wholly and completely unacceptable. Now their hopes have been dashed further and more opportunities stripped away by taking away the sports they love.

To Superintendent Jara: Are you doing everything possible to open our schools? That would be an emphatic and resounding NO!

Respectfully, Tina Hurd

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 1 of 101 LET THEM PLAY!! 1 message

Tina Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 12:01 PM

To: [email protected]

To Superintendent Jara: Are you doing everything possible to open our schools? That would be an emphatic and resounding NO!

Sincerely,

Steven Hurd

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 2 of 101 Let us play 1 message

Elijah Rhodes Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 12:03 PM To: "[email protected]" , "[email protected]"

Hello, I am writing this email because of the fact that ccsd has chosen to cancel all fall sports. This is not right, sports are a major part in kids futures and careers. For students to get athletic and academic scholarships they need to play sports. Especially for seniors with this being there last year and their last chance to prove that they can go play college ball. I find it ridiculous that we are one of the only states that can’t find a way to safely play yet so many other states have found ways to play. If youth sports and flag football tournaments and soccer tournaments can play how come high school sports cant. There are so many things we can do to make this happen. We can do Covid test for the athletes, we can do temperature checks, we can do reduced fans in the stands and social distancing. We can also enforce wearing a mask at the games. There are so many things we can do yet you have just pushed away fall sports for these students that work their tails off to play the sports and get to the next level and set up a future career for themselves. LET THEM PLAY!

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 3 of 101 let us play 1 message

Gianna Paonessa Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 12:06 PM To: [email protected]

We need fall sports. let us play

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 4 of 101 LET THEM PLAY,NV 1 message

Patty Bellotte Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 12:06 PM To: [email protected]

Dear Dr. Jara and CCSD Board,

I cannot express how strongly I disagree with the decision to take away our students' fall sports that were already rescheduled for the spring. I am Patricia, the proud mother of a CCSD 2017 grad and a Senior at High School.

When my son was a Senior, he did not get to play football due to an injury and a surgery that he had to have as a result of an accident that was not related to his sports. After that surgery, he learned that he would not be able to play football again, or join the military which were his two great dreams in life. Since that time, he has been diagnosed with clinical anxiety and depression and has had to see medical professionals and is on medication in large part due to having his dreams crushed - to include playing football. It may not seem important to you, but it is extremely important to me. My children are my life, and the day my child told me he had considered taking his life as a result of all the psychological side effects from the injury, I absolutely broke. You see, I lost my brother to suicide when I was 18-years-old. I am well-aware of the effect that has on a family.

Fast forward to March 2020. On my daughter's 17th birthday, CCSD closed off schools due to the Covid pandemic. She missed out on the end of her junior year, to include military ball, her first prom, and the rest of her sports season-cheer. My daughter has been cheering since third grade. She gave up other sports in order to perform in her chosen love. She is a back spot, she was on the varsity team at , and she is amazing. It was hard to see all of the things she missed during her Junior year, but I told her to have faith. The school board would find a way to get our kids back in school as soon as they could, and she would have her senior year to look forward to

Here we are at the end of January in her senior year of high school. Not a child has stepped foot back into her High School. I don't even know how this is possible as my husband is a teacher at , and they have students back in class, as do the private schools in our Valley. This board has absolutely devastated the psyches of all of the children that you have kept out of school for the entire year. You have kept them away from their friends, and have put many of them on antidepressants, 18 have lost their young precious lives. Yes, this is a result of your inaction to get our children back into school.

My daughter who has cheered since she was in the third grade found out the other day by a phone call that all fall sports which were scheduled to take place in the spring are now canceled. These children have absolutely no hope and no faith in the school board doing the right thing at this point. It is not just my daughter, it is her friends, it is all of the athletes who have done everything that they have been told to do. They have put up with distance learning that is absolutely horrible. They have been promised quarter after quarter that they will return to the classrooms or the schools. Lies. I fail to see how children can partake in club sports in Las Vegas, but we cannot get our children into their school sports. I have friends whose children are in Leagues that travel to Utah and to Arizona to play their tournaments. Is this actually safer than keeping them here in their own home to play their sports? It absolutely is not, but kudos to the families and the children who found a way to play even though the school board is keeping them from school and from playing their sports. Why won't the board actually pay attention to the science of this disease, and realize that children are not spreading it to each other while they are playing sports or in school?

I am retired military. I had the choice of moving to anywhere in the world when I retired in 2019. My daughter begged me to stay in Las Vegas so she could complete high school with all of the wonderful friends she made here. As I stated earlier, my children are my life. There is nothing that I wouldn't do for them. We purchased a home and stayed in Las Vegas. I should have gone home to Florida. Had we done that she would be able to compete and finish out her Senior year doing what she loves (cheer) and being in school with her friends.

I can't even imagine how many lives you are impacting by not letting promising young athletes who would be offered scholarships play their chosen sports. You are crushing them mentally, now you are also taking away the only way some of these children would have to be able to go to college. What you are doing is reprehensible.

Stop letting your cowardice and inability to understand the science behind Covid ruin 300,000 lives. LET THEM PLAY!

Patty Bellotte Mom

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 5 of 101 Let Them Play 1 message

'Liza Carmichael' via BoardMtgComments Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 12:08 PM

To: [email protected]

Good afternoon,

I am writing today as a concerned and frustrated parent regarding the recent announcement of the cancellation of the fall sports season for high school athletes.

I am a Mom of a senior athlete who has played football since he was 6 years old. He is an outstanding student in advanced honor classes and currently holds a GPA of 3.83. He has a few athletic scholarship offers as well as academic offers. He has been in contact with multiple recruiters and coaches from various colleges over the last year in hopes of a scholarship offer. Many he has been in contact with have been very interested in him and many have requested additional game film from his senior year in order to make final scholarship decisions. Now that you have made the decision to cancel the season, additional game film for him to obtain a scholarship is not possible. As you know, many and majority of other states school districts have figured it out and have done right for the student athletes and have either had their season or plan to have their season. This puts our Clark county student athletes at a larger disadvantage as these other student athletes from other states CAN provide additional game film And likely be the ones to be awarded those scholarships. My son as well as many others are at an unfair disadvantage by you all deciding not to allow the season to happen.

Thank you,

Liza Carmichael

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 6 of 101 Let Them Play, Las Vegas, NV Covid Regulations 1 message

Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 12:11 PM To: [email protected]

To whom it may concern,

Regulations and systems put into play to keep our students and the lives of all of the individuals they come into contact with safe. Restrictions on sports and other outdoor gatherings are another form of risking the health of those around us. Sports such as baseball, softball, soccer, and other spring sports shouldn’t be allowed to have games, practices, and other league games outside of their high school as it wouldn’t;t be fair to those fall and winter sports whose seasons were just canceled. Letting only some sports play and not others is generating anger within the athletic community and having teams who disagree with the restriction policies go out of their way to let their athletes play in an unsafe manner.

Being a senior myself and someone who transferred high schools to a private school and had to sit out not being able to play a varsity year, it does suck. It is unfair to not be able to play; however, with my family with underlying health conditions and living with those who are prone to lethal illnesses this virus and outbreak causes is something I am not willing to risk. Missing out on 6-10 weeks of a sport athletes will play in college, or even decide to not play anymore is something to consider.

It is not worth the risk and endangering the lives of those around us and in our community to just have fun on a field. It is not worth going against the restrictions and giving unfair advantages to those who cannot access facilities. It is not fair to those who have parents and grandparents who have such a drastic underlying condition to risk their lives in an act of playing a sport.

This pandemic is something to consider, and to not allow athletes to play in their high school sports or in their league “outside of high school” games is one of the most considerate decisions the CCSD School Board can make. Regulating private schools athletics as well is something that should be considered in this decision (Faith Lutheran High School and Bishop Gorman High School).

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 7 of 101 Let us Play 1 message

Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 12:13 PM To: [email protected], [email protected]

Good afternoon my name is , a senior at high school. For starters this would have been my only year to letter in a varsity sport which is a big deal considering not a lot of high school students letter in a sport. Myself along with my teammates have put so much time and effort preparing for the season in hopes to have one and for the longest time we believed we would have a season. All the work to find out we're not having a season is heartbreaking as football is used as an escape from reality for most people an escape from the stress of high school and the pandemic. I know safety is a concern with the virus but we have been allowed to practice and play in tournaments with rec leagues, allowed to sit less then a foot away on an airplane, walk side by side in the mall, and eat at restaurants but aren't allowed to play sports for the high school or even attend school which is a big social aspect of student lives. It has been said by many that high school was some of the most fun they've ever had and we don't to get to experience. I hope you consider rethinking your decision and let us play.

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 8 of 101 Let us play 1 message

Lacy Mills Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 12:16 PM To: "[email protected]"

To whom it may concern,

All fall sports have been canceled. The seniors should not have to deal with this so they can play one more year. If that means having regulations then we will have regulations. It is unfair for the seniors to not have to play their last year of high school. We are already not in school due to the coronavirus so they don’t get any extracurriculars to do either way. I’m sending you this email to ask if you could let us play fall sports. LET US PLAY

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 9 of 101 Let Us Play 1 message kayla pham Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 12:16 PM To: [email protected]

let’s us play!!

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 10 of 101 Let us play 1 message

Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 12:21 PM To: BoardMtgComments

Good afternoon, I am a senior at High School this year. I understand that the other day all fall sports were to be canceled this season. Fellow students and I are trying to reach out to you and the board to try to change your minds. The senior class of 2021 has waited since kindergarten to be a part of senior year activities, mostly including sports. I am a runner on my school's cross country team and not having the seniors run is quite devastating. Not being able to run this year has really impacted myself and my team. I have other senior friends who play other fall sports who are also being greatly impacted. Having a sport to fall back to has been a very rewarding and reassuring experience in the past years. On top of not being in the physical classroom having the hope of potentially running/playing this year was keeping myself and all of the other senior athletes going. I'm asking you to please reconsider your decision for the cancelation of fall season sports this year for the sake of the seniors and other classes' mental health. If we get to participate in sports this year I am positive the motivation and mental health of students will rise greatly. Once again please consider rethinking the decision.

Thank you,

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 11 of 101 Let Them Play, NV 1 message

Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 12:38 PM To: BoardMtgComments

Please let the schools open so we can play football. It's my senior year, my last chance to prove something for colleges. You had a senior year so why cant we just use the rest of the year for sports. We'll be healthy and using the precautions to stay safe and healthy.

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 12 of 101 LET THEM PLAY 1 message

Cyndi Bykowski Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 12:48 PM To: [email protected]

Dear Board of Trustees,

This has been a challenging year. With every state mandate, or kids are being told they don’t matter as much as other people. They are less important than the elderly or the infirm. Black lives matter, but theirs do not. They have fallen to the bottom of the totem pole and they know it. The are smart. Mental health was already a problem with our children and now it has been pushed to a level that they are not able to handle. Please open the schools. And if that is not possible right at this moment, please LET THEM PLAY!

Currently in Nevada, adults are allowed to play golf tournaments and in USTA tennis leagues and tournaments, but our kids can’t play with their school mates? Club Sports are happening in other states but Nevada can’t figure out how to do it? This doesn’t have to be an all or nothing issue. If there are sports (tennis, track, cross country, golf, and others) that can and are being played safely by adults and by children in other states they can be played safely here. We will sign whatever waivers you want us to. If the higher contact sports can’t compete, then maybe those can wait. But whatever CAN be done, MUST be done. Our children have suffered enough and this is the last straw. Please stop removing our choices. We know our kids best and are capable of evaluating what is best for them at this moment. We need you to stand up for them and LET THEM PLAY NOW!

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Cyndi Bykowski

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 13 of 101 Open our schools and Let them play! 1 message

Shannon Steele Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 3:25 PM To: [email protected]

Board of Trustees,

I am writing you today because I believe you need to see a High School Seniors perspective on your decisions. The decisions you are making are life impacting for these kids.

I’ve played football since I was a kid at the age of 7 years old. Through this sport I have learned so many things and it has molded me into the person I am today. I remember in middle school going to Green Valley games on Friday nights and watching them play just waiting for my time to be playing on that same field as the older kids. I have dedicated so much to the game of football and it has become the greatest blessing to my life. Throughout high school as a freshman, sophomore, and junior I just couldn’t wait until senior year to play under the lights for one last time. My senior year being taken from me and my teammates is devastating, we will never get that last home coming game as a senior, we will never get to walk across that field with our families on senior night, we will never be able to have our team dinners ever again, we will never have the opportunity to travel out of state as a team ever again. For myself and many other senior football players it was more than just about football, it was about family and making life long relationships and memories. I want to thank all my coaches from Green Valley Football for everything, thank you for teaching me, thank you for pushing me to be better, thank you for teaching me life long lessons. To the Green Valley football program, thank you for making me family. To my senior teammates, you guys will always be family and I’m sorry we won’t be able to run through the tunnel into the smoke one last time. I will always be a Gator

- 9 out

While some kids will move on and be ok, some of my child’s “family” will not be ok. Every single one of these “family” members matter and you, all together, should be working on a solution to make sure that isn’t happening. I see no action taken from you showing your trying to change anything to do with this year for these kids. They have been locked at home for just shy of a year! That is unacceptable! These kids need some kind of social interaction, it is how kids thrive in life! Other states have set up great plans and taken action on them, including states that have a much higher rate of infections than our current status. All I have seen is talk and no action taken from any of you! All this talk had just been another blow to every single one of these kids every time you take no action.

You guys are the ones in charge of our children’s education and I expected so much better than what you have done. You should want better for every single one of these kids. You need to take a hard look at what you have done and ask yourself if you did everything for these kids to make sure we do not lose one more child due to your decisions.

My son, has a bright future ahead of him and I will be the one to make sure of it, with no help from what you guys have done this year.

Respectfully, Shannon Steele January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 14 of 101 Help 1 message rvonf Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 6:21 PM

To: [email protected]

Good evening Trustees,

I just want to bring something to your attention, to put it on your radar, maybe let it spark a conversation somewhere...

Our teachers were reminded again today during our staff meeting that they should not really engage the class in a full-on conversation about suicide and instead refer students to their counselor; regarding our most recent bad news.

Yet we as the staff are obliged to sit through our principal’s ineloquent and equally untrained diatribe of awkwardly mustered remarks. He is sufficiently senior now that I truly believe he has come to accept his way of public speaking that is inconsiderate and uncareful.

So why not instead ask principals to make a very brief statement of simply facts: “It is with a heavy heart that I share with you XYZ. I would now like to introduce so-and-so from crisis management who will provide further guidance.”

Instead of allowing us to sit through his personal experiences with suicide, what he thinks staff should be doing to curb this, how it’s impossible to detect... opinions that while we’ll intentioned can trigger very negative reactions- Is he saying we need to do all these things because we aren’t? Is he saying these things because that’s what lead to this student’s case?

Please help him, and all principals to be better leaders. Leaders in all areas but especially in this specific area.

Thank you for taking the time to acknowledge this.

-Discouraged but not yet without hope.

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 15 of 101 Get our kids back in school! 1 message

Dennis-Jennifer Bott Mon, Jan 25, 2021 at 7:56 PM To: "[email protected]" , "[email protected]" , "[email protected]" , "[email protected]" , "[email protected]" , "[email protected]" , "[email protected]" , "[email protected]"

I am really concerned about the length of time that it is taking to get kids back in school. I had hoped that my two kids would be able to get face to face learning until the meeting in November when even formalizing a plan was tabled. I ended up pulling my 1st grader out of CCSD.

Their learning is stunted and it has taken a toll on both of my kids mentally and emotionally.

It’s on the teachers unions. They’ve been feeding educators fear. I know many that have wanted to return but aren’t allowed to say anything. They speak up about their fears for their kids, their struggles in teaching remotely and they face reprimand and serious career issues. If you look at VA, the teachers were moved to the front of the line to be vaccinated and the union then indicates that they will not return to schools until children are vaccinated, which is not only completely illogical, but also not possible until at least 2022!

Teacher's need to be deemed 'essential', vaccinated if they choose to, and get back to what they do best - teaching our kids in person!

Unfortunately, the shutdown has shined a light on other CCSD shortcomings - oversized classes, underfunded, oversized district, and a lack of resources. Lack of PPE? I bet parents would donate it. I know I would!

Instead of posting ignorant, out of touch posts on social media and pep talk emails telling us to have a can do attitude while our kids are suffering so miserably, please make some decisions and execute a plan to return our kids to school!

Jen Bott

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 16 of 101 Lisa Chrapcynski [School Board Office]

19 suicides in Clark County since pandemic 1 message

'Nicole' via BoardMtgComments Tue, Jan 26, 2021 at 5:46 AM

Dear Governor Sisolak,

It has come to my attention in the following New York Times article

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/24/us/politics/student-suicides-nevada-coronavirus.html

that we in Clark County have lost 18 students to suicide since the pandemic hit our nation. And I was just informed of a 19th that happened this month. If this has occurred since the announcement of cancellation of sports.....There are no words to accurately describe my feelings about this. Esteemed Governor, you have the power to end this disastrous impact that the lack of any real movement forward since the 14 days to flatten the curve and slow the spread. All across our nation we see a majority of states that have been fluid and flexible in learning to co-exist with this virus. We have better treatments. We have vaccines. We know how it is most easily spread. We know who is most affected. Why are we spinning our wheels in stagnation?

Our children are watching the nation and how our state is responding with multiple inconsistencies about who gets to do what. Please free our children, Nevada's future, from this stranglehold of depression, anxiety, and self harm. These high school aged kids will become a voting block very very soon and will remember who was for them and who was against them. They see state after state complete fall season sports. They see state after state working their way through the winter season of sports. They see state after state move ahead with the sports whose seasons were postponed. They see fluid flexibility in action as these states navigate through their athletics with their cohorts either attending school completely in person, in a hybrid model, and/or a complete distance model. They see colleges and professional athletes playing, oftentimes in front of fans. They see friends who have means travel out of this state for tournaments and return to the city. They see strip clubs are open in the valley. They see so many inconsistencies while their lives are being held up by what appears to be the governor's office. And then they are told it's their superintendent and the school board. And then they are told it's the NIAA, And then they are told it's their principals. Do you know what this tells them? It speaks volumes that there is a leadership vacuum and possible corruption. No one it taking responsibility for the continuation of their misery while the watch the rest of the nation, save a handful of states who are also stagnating in the same manner as Nevada and many with similar inconsistencies.

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 17 of 101 I have long been a proponent of getting our kids back in the classrooms. We had from Mid-March 2020 through the summer to get something together. But, I have to say that the foot-dragging by CCSD is appalling. They tabled the vote to re-open in November and did not revisit until mid-January and voted to re-open K-3rd grades. It is not this age group that is in danger of self harm. With that being said, to re-open now, is almost nonsensical. First of all, there is so much discord among the school board that they cannot seem to come to any agreement. If and once the vote yes comes down, it is going to take time to set things up as to who is in and who is still remote. Then there will be a disruption in learning as teachers and students attempt to settle into, likely, entirely new teacher-student relationships and teaching and learning styles. It's a disaster waiting to happen, at best.

Now to my point that I have stated and re-stated multiple times to multiple people "in charge" and still have no answers and most recently, a possible untruth being uncovered as I have tried to get to the bottom of the reasoning that student-athletes cannot compete unless and until there is in-person education. I had been told the who put this into place until I inquired of one of those "whos" and was told they knew nothing of it among himself and his colleagues and was then pointed back to the superintendent and the school board. To say this is beyond frustrating is an understatement. So I will pose the question again. Why does it matter where the student is receiving their education, in classrooms, hybrid, or at a distance, as long as they are achieving the goals of the proper GPA and not failing any classes, why can they not reap the reward for all of their hard work and dedication to be able to practice and compete? By placing this stipulation, it hamstrings the process and is causing more harm to the mental health of these students, resulting in self harm.

So again, I respectfully and humbly come to you, Governor Sisolak, to ask, please, would you, modify directive 034 to allow for all sports, including high contact sports, to be able to be resumed based on how a majority of states have been able to successfully navigate with some but not disastrous issues with the virus, so much so, they are moving forward with the next season's sports.

Once that is done, I ask the school board to move to allow the moving forward of allowing these student- athletes, who have done what is asked, with the hope that they will return to what keeps them on point with their grades, regardless of where they are seated to receive their all important education. These student athletes and their families know how important education is and sports, for many is what keeps them from getting into trouble, dropping out, or failing. By cancelling the postponed fall seasons in the decision made on 1/22/21, I would not be surprised if you start to see more failing grades as these pupils believe they no longer have a good reason to make good marks. The district certainly has given them plenty of time to give up and fail. They are frustrated that they are not even given a chance to attempt their season. I expressed to the principal of my son's high school that it may actually be better for avoiding the virus in an NBA-style bubble where they would continue distance education. I asked my son if he was told his team could participate and compete, would he be willing to only socialize with his teammates during downtime and only participate in team activities like practice, weight lifting, conditioning, film review, and competition for the duration of his season? His answer was an emphatic, "absolutely". It is the lack of thinking out of the box by people in leadership positions that is frustrating. The board gives the appearance that it can only happen one way and there is no compromise or flexibility. It is damaging and it needs to end.

Thank you again for your time and consideration for out kids who are needlessly suffering,

Nicole Goughnour

I will continue to attach my prior emails to this group because I have added addresses who may not have seen my prior correspondence and also so those who have received my prior emails can refer back to them with the data points I have provided.

-----Original Message----- From: Nicole

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 18 of 101

Sent: Sun, Jan 24, 2021 3:22 pm Subject: In person education and high contact sports

Dear Governor Sisolak,

As you are quite likely aware, Clark County School District has made a decision to cancel the fall 2020 sports season that was postponed to spring 2021.

I am writing you today to humbly and respectfully request that you please modify Directive 034 to approve high contact sports as quickly as possible so that these student athletes can get the required amount of practice in before the season commences. Upon reading the directive it is clear that you completely understand how sports benefit not only the physical well-being but also the mental well-being of our students.

Your directive states:

We also understand that there is an unwritten (at least as far I have been able to tell) edict passed by the principals of NIAA member schools that until and unless students are back on campus that these sports cannot be played. I have asked multiple times the reasoning behind this requirement and have received only an answer that it was from the administrations of the member schools of the NIAA. This "answer" did nothing to explain the thought process behind and the efficacy of such a mandate. Across the nation and even in our own state we have seen that distance education and sports have been successfully carried out, even here in Nevada's Lincoln and Washoe counties. As much as I would love to see all of our students back on campuses county-wide, there is still much fear and trepidation among the community at large, causing pushback on the decision to implement a return to the classrooms despite the science that says the risk of covid19 and in person education is low. It is understandable the hesitation by some to return this school year. With that said, the failure to allow our student-athletes to return to what keeps them out of trouble and getting good grades is tantamount to dereliction of the duty of the school district.

On January 21, 2021, I sent you an email with detailed reasoning for returning these students to their activities despite being in the actual classroom. Our Let Them Play NV Facebook page (hereon out to be denoted by LTPNV) is filled with stories of kids that are hurting, especially when they see the majority of our nation completing their fall seasons, beginning their winter and postponed fall seasons. Since then I have found an article from the National Federation of High School Associations suggesting that Sports and Performing Arts could play a role in the healing of our nation. I have already seen this happening in our community with our LTPNV page. The only hurdle left to heal our state is for politicians to do the right thing backed by the data points I outlined in my previous letter. State after state has demonstrated how sports can be safely returned to our student-athletes, even in the midst of infection spikes. https://www.nfhs.org/articles/high-school-sports-performing-arts-can-play-role-in-healing- our-nation/?fbclid=IwAR09x5RCJMcgZ1vEhVdUydO2iZIU bjIhYHjZxIsrsNN3CF2PKvu9VaXF8LY#

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 19 of 101 I do not have to include any more links to articles of a teen committing suicide over the locking out of their activities they love, I am sure that you have seen them. It's bad enough that they cannot be in the classrooms with their peers but to take away the last outlet they have is cruel. Teenagers will find an outlet and we run the risk of that outlet being unproductive and possibly damaging. Why would we not allow for organized, supervised, and healthy outlets for them, especially in the absence of in person education?

In case you did not receive the email I sent on 1/21/21, I will copy and paste it at the end of this correspondence.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, Nicole Goughnour

January 21, 2021

Dear Governor Sisolak, Distinguished Superintendent Jara, Respected Regional Superindendents Jakolski and Barton, Esteemed NIAA Chairman Thompson, and Honored HHS Chairwoman and Assemblywoman Nguyen,

I want to thank each of you for your hard work, in an effort to balance the safety of our students, teachers, and support staff of CCSD to safely begin to reopen our schools so that students may begin to return to class for in person instruction, if they choose. I cannot imagine the task that it must be to balance what the CDC and WHO state about the safety and need for students to be back in school as well as a community that finds some who are fearful of infection from the virus, which we have been facing. Studies are being completed, peer reviewed, and submitted for publication regarding in-person instruction such as this:

https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/pediatrics/early/2021/01/06/peds.2020- 048090.full.pdf?fbclid=IwAR0_zHtK8M0HxmL1Mmoyli4JkKK2a_ys- HzsCXZ7l7qV4kqZaMZIkM8VIMo

With that being said, I wish to ask for your consideration in allowing the students to also return to extracurricular activities. My focus will mainly be on football, as it is the sport with which I am most familiar, but I will also include other sports. I am not going to sugar coat anything to downplay the gravity of Covid19, especially for some of the most vulnerable among us. Being an essential worker in healthcare, I obviously cannot deny it. However, I also do not want to deny the fact that most people who contract the illness recover without lasting effects. As far as we have been led to believe, you, Governor Sisolak have recovered well from your infection, as have I.

We have strong evidence from across our great nation that over half of the states have been able to complete their football season. many even getting to their state championships. There was an article stating that over 1000 football games had been played without a substantial Covid19 outbreak early in the fall season. https://www.saturdaydownsouth.com/sec-football/report-no-covid-19-outbreaks-with-over-1000-hs- football-games-played/

Neighboring western states like Arizona and Colorado, went ahead with their competitions, even while each state saw spikes of cases, they were, however. able to complete their seasons with some interruptions and cancellations due to exposures.

Colorado:

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 20 of 101 https://chsaanow.com/sports/football/ ; https://www.denverpost.com/2020/11/11/colorado-high-school-football-coronavirus-pueblo-west/

Arizona: Had more difficulty but were flexible and still played even during the state's cases spiking https://www.kold.com/2020/11/23/football-game-cancellations-rampant-among-arizona-high- schools-covid-cases-rise/

Another neighbor, Utah made it through their season during a Covid19 spike, and still went ahead with their championships: https://kslsports.com/445718/uhsaa-releases-statement-on-high-school-sports-following-new- covid-19-mandates/

Michigan:

Below is an article from the state of Michigan stating that Coronavirus testing of student athletes was 99.6% negative. https://www.mlive.com/highschoolsports/2021/01/coronavirus-tests-for-michigan-high-school- athletes-has-resulted-in-996-percent-negative-results-state-officials-say.html

I know there are many more examples of successful seasons as many of the states who have completed their fall seasons are now into their winter seasons. In the interest of the length of this correspondence, I wish to move on to a white paper written by a club soccer organization which was found to be so impressive that a national club soccer league picked it up and applied it to the entire nation to prove that outdoor competition does not demonstrate to be high risk with a nationwide cohort of 90,000 athletes. http://surfcupsports.com/2020/08/14/youth-sports-covid-safety-whitepaper/ https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.09.25.20201616v1.full.pdf

In addition to California, Governor Sisolak, at the outset of the pandemic joined Nevada to other western states such as Washington and Oregon who are going to forge ahead with plans to resume their football practices and seasons.

Washington https://www.maxpreps.com/news/jmcXo2Dl8Uuc1i1Mt_T2Lg/high-school-football--washington- planning-for-seven-week-season-beginning-feb-1.htm

Oregon https://www.oregonlive.com/highschoolsports/2020/12/high-school-football-coaches-chime-in-on- rescheduled-season-start-effects-of-the-coronavirus-pandemic.html

Next, I would like to address that while we have been vigilant with regard to the physical health of our students, we have only grazed the subject of the mental health of our pupils. These young people need physical activity not only for their physical health but their mental health as well. We are all aware of the studies that have linked the pandemic and the increase of suicide and suicidal ideation among our future leaders.

https://www.aappublications.org/news/2020/12/16/pediatricssuicidestudy121620 January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 21 of 101 https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/orange-county-family-shares-teen-suicide-story-as- pandemic-warning-to-other-parents/2509206/ https://www.thecollegefix.com/parents-say-covid-restrictions-contributed-to-illinois-student-athletes- suicide/ https://www.8newsnow.com/news/local-news/4th-ccsd-suicide-raises-concern-of-mental-health- crisis-during-covid-19-pandemic/

Additionally, many of our youth do not have a productive outlet for their teenaged angst which is exacerbated by the "pause" we have all been enduring and may indeed be turning to crime. There is a neighborhood that is being "terrorized" by youth. http://northlasvegas.8newsnow.com/news/2725612-neighborhood-terror-some-southern-highlands- concerned-about-violence ; This was difficult to find so in case it has been removed the text of the short article is as follows:

LAS VEGAS (KLAS) -- Concerns are developing in the southwest valley's Southern Highlands community. Some who live there are turning to social media to express frustration over what they are calling 'terror in their own neighborhood.'

They say a group of young people has been jumping pedestrians, breaking into cars and riding their bikes in traffic while trying to run cars off the road.

This has allegedly been happening for months, and neighbors are now scared to walk around outside.

"They've just wreaked so much havoc, and everyone is so scared," shared neighbor Chelsea Bell. "A lot of parents are saying they don't feel safe taking their kids to the park, like me just taking her without your significant other or some sort of protection."

According to neighbors, Metro Police have been notified and so has neighborhood security. 8 News Now was not able to reach out to Metro today because of the holiday, but we will keep an eye on this situation and bring you more as we learn details.

Over and above suicide, suicidal ideation, depression and anxiety, drug and alcohol use/abuse, and crime, I do not know the statistics for Nevada and her counties, but I recently saw an alarming set of statistics out of 105 San Diego football programs from the Golden State Coaches Community where 1087 players have been ruled ineligible, 253 drop outs, 64 student athletes have been incarcerated, 85 have joined gangs, and 38 have become new fathers. How long are we willing to allow these young people to make decisions that put their once promising futures in jeopardy? Moreover, the lives these statistics represent pose a great cost to the states in which they reside. As I mentioned above, I am an essential worker in the healthcare industry, specifically OB/Gyn and I have definitely noticed an increase in teen pregnancies. When teenagers are not filling their time with productive activities, they will find a way to fill the void with short term "fun" which leads to detriment and hardship in the long term. It is, however, encouraging to note though that with the resumption of extracurricular activities, our young people, due to the pandemic have become more conscientious of others and if given the opportunity, would adhere to common sense precautions in order to return to competition and could actually lead the way to encouraging the community at large to comply better. Another reason that extracurricular activities promote leadership skills such as this. https://www.ksl.com/article/50050165/the-statistics-behind-why-we-all-need-to-start-acting-like- high-school-athletes-in-fight-against-covid-19?fbclid=IwAR1SmdPZtHOmrBk-8aad58pBOyx1o_ rkL23ARnGsJkWhOMX-ilZPeRz5fPw January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 22 of 101 "I believe there is a strong argument to be made that allowing high-school sports to proceed, is actually SAFER than not allowing them to, and would actually DECREASE the spread of the virus, which is in fact the #1 stated goal of the state and CCSD.

Furthermore, thousands of Nevada kids are now rushing to play club sports, where there may or may not be safety precautions in place. Additionally, this leaves out those in the community that may not have the available resources to join and participate and travel with club teams. Many of these young people count on athletics to move them and their families out of less than ideal situations.

My questions is this: wouldn't it actually be safer for the entire Nevada population to have these teens actively involved in high-school sports, which would consume much of their spare time with disciplined and regulated physical activity? With regular testing and safety precautions in place (which we know how to do from other states), we can quickly identify and quarantine any of our teens who may be exposed and/or be infected by the virus. The alternative is they are hanging out with their friends and/or playing club sports, with the risk of contracting and mass spreading the virus because they are not being tested.

By allowing high-school sports, not only would the state and CCSD be able to better control the spread of COVID and monitor our teens, but our teens would also finally have a legitimate incentive to take safety precautions. At this time, if they are infected with COVID, they have to miss practices, games, and time with their teammates. After going through the past 10 months of misery and complacency, our teens, who are eager to play their high-school sports will not want to take the risk.

Ultimately, the state and CCSD can have their cake and eat it too here, just by allowing high-school sports under strict safety conditions. You will not only save the state and health-care systems, you will have the added side benefit of saving thousands of Nevada's youth."

The above quote was taken and adjusted to fit Nevada and CCSD purposes, from "Let Them Play CA".

I sincerely welcome a challenge to this reasoning, especially from the state or CCSD

Finally, Emergency Directive 034 states the following

"WHEREAS, the lack of opportunities for social connections and typical life events for our youth, such as interacting with peers in-person during athletic events, increase the risk of isolation, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and unrecognized distress; and WHEREAS, youth participation in recreational and competitive sports promotes healthy connections with other caring adults who are trained to detect youth distress and signs of abuse and neglect; and WHEREAS, re-engaging in sports activity in a balanced way has physical, mental, and psychological benefits for youth and adults, including overall fitness and well-being; reducing isolation; and returning to a more structured routine and healthy interaction. The second part of Section 13 of the emergency directive states: "... Student athletics training, practices, and competition may reopen in accordance with guidance promulgated by the NIAA and any applicable conditions set forth by this and subsequent Directives regarding allowable sports and athletic events."

Nevada parents have been under the assumption that until, and unless the students are back on campuses for in-person instruction, extracurricular activities and athletic practices and competition January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 23 of 101 cannot resume. If this is the case, Nevadans deserve a scientific explanation as to why it is necessary for the students to be back on their campuses, when most universities and some high schools utilized remote and distance learning and still held competitions. I am of the belief, that should the board vote no to allow return to classrooms, these activities can and should still be allowed to resume. It may even be beneficial, creating a "bubble-like" atmosphere comparable to what we have seen at the professional and university levels.

Again, I wish to thank each of you for your efforts to keep Nevada and her students safe. Now is the time, I believe, to begin assisting our students, Nevada's future, toward a careful, yet complete return to what they love and what has been not only a productive outlet for them, but to help them excel in their life’s activities. It will also keep them motivated to maintain their grades so that they may become productive members of society.

Sincerely, Nicole Goughnour

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 24 of 101 LET THEM PLAY 1 message

Kate Underwood Tue, Jan 26, 2021 at 8:14 AM

To those in charge of our children’s future,

I hate this. I have a senior who has worked hard, never missed a practice, trained ON HER OWN for the past year. All she wanted is to defend her teams state cross country title, and vie for state track titles. She’s a great kid, phenomenal student (4.0 unweighted GPA), and dedicated athlete. Thank God she’s committed and signed already. But she’s now worried about “sucking when she gets to college, maybe losing her scholarship”. She’s losing her whole senior year and all that goes with it. Her drive has always been fierce, now I’m watching her break down and struggle. I also have a junior whose ranked #1 in the state in her sport, pole vault, but only had 2 actual high school meets. She recovered from kidney failure, and 2 back surgeries, only to lose her sophomore and now possibly her junior season. She’s trying to be recruited. She’s also holding a 4.0 unweighted GPA. I’m not being insensitive to the situation. I currently coach full time. Indoors. We’ve had 75-150 kids at a time depending on what’s allowed. We take all possible measures of safety. We’re OSHA compliant. Yes, we’ve had covid cases, but no widespread outbreaks. I just don’t understand how club and private sports can operate within what’s allowed but school sports can’t. I also come from a family of teachers so I don’t want to teacher bash. But if I can be at work, if grocery stores, retail stores can be at work, YES you can work too. Also if homeschool athletes can compete for their zone school, why are all of our kids not considered homeschool athletes? If that sport is allowed under current situations? Also STOP the suicides. We’ve lost more kids to suicide than to covid. Please stop now. I’m not minimizing the situation just providing data. Please let sports continue. It’s enough. These kids need it.

Kate Underwood Proud parent

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 25 of 101 Distance Learning 1 message

Ginger Gunnell Tue, Jan 26, 2021 at 9:47 AM To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]

Administrators,

Today it is with great concern that I come to you as a mother, wife, friend, and supporter to plead with you to put our kids back in the classroom. I have four children, three school-aged and one toddler. At the beginning of March when things shut down to slow the spread of Covid-19, I knew it was a step that needed to be taken to support the health and well-being of our community and health care workers. I as a parent did my part. We stayed home. We wore masks. We didn’t play with friends or parcipate in any extra-curricular acvies. We worked hard on our distance learning, spent more me together as a family, and we all got through it. Here we are, 36 weeks of distance educaon later, and the health and well-being of our children is now at stake. I’m asking you now to do your part to slow the spread of the mental and emoonal illness that is spreading rampantly through the children in our community due to the never-ending cycle of distance learning we’ve thrown our kids into. I’ve seen it ﬁrsthand in my own children this year.

My family is one of a long line of healthcare workers. Among those, my brother Paul Gunn is an MD in Medford, OR. He has worked long hours on the front lines of the covid-19 pandemic, risking his own health for the sake of others. He has seen ﬁrst hand the devastang physical aﬀects of this virus. And yet, in his words, “there is ample evidence that in-person instrucon can be carried out safely in most circumstances with reasonable aenon to infecon prevenon measures. In light of these observaons, many professional sociees who advocate for our kids, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, have promoted returning to school as soon as possible.” There is a growing body of data that shows that children are not catching covid-19 at school. Private schools in our area have been parcipang in in-person learning since the beginning of the school year and we are not seeing major outbreaks of the virus in these environments.

What we are seeing in our children involved in full me distance learning is outbreaks of depression, child abuse, anxiety, stress, loneliness, academic difficules, domesc violence, and even suicide. Mental and emoonal health are greatly related to physical health. When emoonal health decreases, issues such as heart disease, cancer, and even illnesses like the common cold increase. These are not trivial correlaons, these are potenally life-altering and destrucve consequence that can affect the trajectory of our future as a society. These issues are not only affecng our children. They are affecng our teachers, our parents, our friends and neighbors.

We now have a vaccine available for teachers. This vaccine has proven to be 95% eﬀecve two weeks aer the second dose. If the teacher’s health is a main concern, why isn’t the vaccine being distributed as quickly as possible to our teachers? Why are we not demanding beer distribuon pracces for them?

I fear for the future of my children, for the future of our society, if this goes on much longer. This is why, if things connue in this never-ending cycle of abstract plans for the future connues, I will be pulling my children from CCSD and moving to an enrely diﬀerent state. Take acon now. I hear many teachers and educators say they care so much about the wellbeing of our children. I’m losing faith in this senment. Acons speak louder than words. Take acon now and stop the plague of social, emoonal, and mental health issues. Get our kids back in the classroom. Our very lives depend on it.

Regards, Ginger Gunnell January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 26 of 101 LET THEM PLAY 1 message

Feather LAKE Tue, Jan 26, 2021 at 10:19 AM To: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]

Dear CCSD, I’m a parent of twin senior student-athletes: They have been students in the Clark County School District since day 1. I am also a graduate of CCSD; born and raised cizen of Las Vegas. I HAVE NEVER BEEN SO DISAPPOINTED AND UPSET WITH CCSD BEFORE NOW. Although I had many reasons and chances to be in the past, the way the school board has handled COVID-19 is a disgrace. The long-term effects of COVID-19 and the restricons put in place due to the virus will live on FOREVER. The lack of empathy and fight shown by CCSD this year, shows that they would rather roll over and take an easy road instead of finding ways to ensure that the children of our community do not connue to suffer. These kids need more. They need social interacon. They need their teachers, their counselors, their coaches, their friends – and not just virtually. There are ways to make this happen, safely and securely. But CCSD has connually chosen the easy route and where has that goen us? Nevada sll connues to have some of the highest COVID numbers. I honestly do not feel that giving these kids a chance to set foot in their schools or play a football game (similar to other states) will make a difference in our numbers. The Senior Class of 2021 is geng the short end of the sck this year in Las Vegas, Nevada under CCSD. As Juniors they watched their upperclassmen shocked by the unexpected ending of their final school year due to COVID-19. Their spring season sports were cancelled and their friends’ proms and graduaons soon followed. The only glimmer of hope we could give them as parents was “that we are all in this together” and “it will get beer next year.” Well, here we are, end of January, 2021 with no hope of returning to classrooms this year in sight. Yet, they connue to hold on to hope and breathe. They haven’t taken one step inside their high school that has been the temple of pre-adulthood memories for students all the years before them. They did not get a chance to have a fall sport season, homecoming, winter performances, winter sport season, and now they are expecng no prom, graduaon or anything else to commemorate their last 12 years of academic success. What are we trying to teach these kids? What memories will they hold on to as adults? Will they remain bier that COVID-19 and the policians and school board administrators decided it was easier to roll over instead of fight to work out a plan for the youth of our country? Let’s fight for our kids, our community, our future. Take a stand – do something. LET THEM PLAY!!! Both of my twins are exemplary student-athletes at High School in their respecve sports. It’s been a tragedy to see that taken away from them in their senior year. The least CCSD can do is give them a chance to play in the final months of their final year of school. There is a way to do it… so let’s do it!!! I am willing to DO ANYTHING to assist with making this happen. Please DO NOT HESITATE TO CONTACT ME.

Very concerned parent, Feather Lake

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 27 of 101 Agenda item 2.01Public Comment on non agenda items 1 message

Robert Cowles [Rancho HS] Tue, Jan 26, 2021 at 2:33 PM To: BoardMtgComments , "Jesus Jara [Superintendent]" , "Linda Cavazos [School Trustee]" , "Evelyn Garcia Morales [School Trustee]" , "Danielle Ford [School Trustee]" , "Lisa Guzman [School Trustee]" , "Lola Ann Brooks [School Trustee]" , "Irene Cepeda [School Trustee]" , "Katie Williams [School Trustee]"

Madam President, Superintendent Jara, Trustees,

For the record, my name is Robert Cowles.

I am writing today to express my dismay that we are having students and teachers inside classrooms on February 23rd for the ACT given our test positivity rate is still well above the 5% threshold established by the trustees over the summer. And that most CCSD employees have yet to receive the first dose of either vaccine. In fact, most are still unable to even schedule an appointment to receive their first dose.

While I understand this is a state mandated test and a graduation requirement, there is no reason to rush it given the delays in getting CCSD employees vaccinated.

Please delay the ACT until all employees who wish to be vaccinated have an opportunity to have both doses.

Thank you,

-- Robert Cowles

US History AP Human Geography Rancho High School

panem et circenses

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 28 of 101 Public Comment Submission 1 message

Tina Tue, Jan 26, 2021 at 4:49 PM To: [email protected]

Teacher's mental health needs to be taken into consideration by the board and superintendent. Teacher's mental health and retention requires honesty at all times.

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 29 of 101 Public Comment on 8.01 Non-Agenda Item for January 28, 2021 CCSD Board Meeting 1 message

Autumn Tampa Tue, Jan 26, 2021 at 5:29 PM To: "[email protected]" , BoardOfTrustees

For the Written Record:

Autumn Tampa speaking as an individual...on item 8.01 Non-Agenda Items- Reopening of CCSD Schools....

Good Evening to Everyone Listening;

As has been shown on local News stations and Social Media, there has been much difficulty and inconsistency with the COVID19 Vaccine Rollout. Locations and Schedules have been changing from week to week and day to day; making it extremely difficult, if not impossible, for CCSD employees and Nevada citizens to be able to get both doses of a COVID19 vaccine to protect them from the virus.

Yet, there has still been a push by many to have students and staff go back to school buildings. This may be motivated by concern for our students...OR... it may be motivated by political agendas, or by the desire of some... for things to go back to "normal".

With COVID-19 cases raging, and hospitalizations and deaths extremely high, and no guarantee of getting both doses of the COVID19 vaccine in a timely way; this is a huge mistake....

Please wait until ALL CCSD employees have had the chance to get both doses of the COVID19 vaccine, and time to build immunity; AND... until all children's family members who wish to do so, have also had a chance to get fully vaccinated and build immunity....

Please make your decisions as if your lives depended on it...because...if your life does not depend on the decisions and choices that you all make...someone else's life surely does....

Thank-you...Respectfully,

Autumn Tampa

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 30 of 101 Let Them Play 1 message trvlrhodes Tue, Jan 26, 2021 at 6:40 PM To: [email protected]

Good Evening Board Members,

I watched Dr. Jara’s interview on Today. He understands the toll this distance learning is having on students, and I applaud him for beginning the steps to bring PK – 3rd grade back to school. I feel that you need to work on getting all grades back to school as soon as possible, because most of the suicides are happening in older students. Another way to help with mental instability is allowing our students to play sports. I feel that if you make a change this week, we should be able to bring Winter, Fall and Spring sports back. As stated before this will give them motivation to get up and complete their school work and attend classes. I would appreciate anything you can do to get our students back in sports and back in the classroom as soon as possible. My understanding with your plan, Middle Schoolers and High schoolers do not have a chance of going back until middle of May. That is not acceptable. We need to get this students back to some sense of normalcy. There have been private and charter schools that have been in person either full time or hybrid model since August with very little incident.

Please let’s bring our students back to school and back to sports.

Sincerely,

Cathy Rhodes

Parent of 2 seniors in CCSD

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 31 of 101 We are about the whole student at let them play NV 1 message

'Nicole' via BoardMtgComments Wed, Jan 27, 2021 at 6:55 AM

Dear Governor Sisolak and Superintendent, Dr. Jara,

On 1/22/21, CCSD removed all postponed fall 2020 from the schedules, effectively cancelling all fall 2020 athletics after cancelling all winter sports prior to that. On 1/23/21 CCSD suffered it's 19th suicide. I am not going to say that they are related but the coincidence is suspect. I cannot imagine what the families of these 19 students are going through right now. I am absolutely furious with the district dragging their feet for so long. They have had plenty of time to make adjustments and return to play guidelines and yet here we are. This is beyond maddening. The board voted to bring preK-3rd grade back in March. March. That is more than 5 weeks away. How many more of our students will harm themselves in 5 weeks? Of the 19 students we have lost, one was age 9, likely a 3rd grader. As there are no words to describe how tragic that is, what is the point of bringing these younger students back when, statistically, they are the least affected by suicidal ideation and the least likely to carry it out? I am not saying they are not at risk as I have heard first hand accounts from parents whose young children are searching on their computers used for school and their phones for "how do I kill myself". I had a mother just reach out to me, She is on our site for her two student athletes but also has younger children. When she saw how concerned we are about the kids' mental health, she told me this horrible story. I will not disclose her name. but should you want to contact her let me know and I will reach out to her and make the connection for you. Hello, I am writing because I am concerned as a parent for the kids in our district. I keep reading about suicide rates going up and I want to share my experience on how the principal in our school handled a situation. My daughter is in 3rd grade and she searched something in her school issued chrome book. She typed “I want to kill my self”. She had gotten in trouble and was grounded from playing video games. My husband and I work opposite shifts to have our 6 kids supervised at al times, however the principal called to inform me she had searched that. It was quick and rushed me off the phone. He even said he had to make this calls every day for kids watching inappropriate stuff. Weeks later my same daughter searched up the same thing from her brother’s computer. Again I received a call and he quickly rushed me off the phone. This time I asked for an email with this information. I have not told anyone due to fear of all the judgement. My kids are fine and we now are even more careful but I can’t stop thinking how many kids are actually calling out for help and being ignored. Please help us parents get our kids back into school and sports. CCSD has failed parents and students. I have the email from the principal still. I have 2 athletes as well freshman and senior. Thank you for the time and dedication. My kids are fine but I can’t imagine these kids that don’t have anyone to go to. I was expecting them to do a welfare check on my kids and although it would of been uncomfortable it was the least they could have done. January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 32 of 101 Let Them Play NV began as a Facebook group to support our student athletes. It has turned into a movement for the complete student. We fully understand and completely support education being the top priority which is why "student" comes before "athlete". The group has always wanted the students to be back in school because it is where they belong. CDC Makes The Case For Schools Reopening : Coronavirus Updates : NPR To us, and our children, academics, athletics, all of our performing arts, and mental stability are so intertwined we cannot tell where one begins and one ends. Let Them Play NV is not just about sports. It is about the entire student.

Yesterday, I watched Dr. Jara on the Today Show and on KTNV at 6 PM last evening. I learned of the date of the latest CCSD tragedy from the Today Show. I cannot tell you how. with all due respect, disappointed I am in you as superintendent. Dr. Jara, you have been with CCSD since June of 2018 and now you have the nerve to complain about the math and reading scores with the challenges of distance learning and the district which you oversee not building a clear and decisive return to school plan over the 10 months we have endured this pandemic. While you are not completely to blame as many of your predecessors have been abysmal. Since my son has entered CCSD, there has been very little change in academics under multiple superintendents. Maybe the district is just too large, but that is another issue all together and voters had at one time approved the breaking up of the district.

On the local broadcast, Dr. Jara, you appeared more concerned about optics than than the actual whole student. With the snail's pace the district is moving on in opening the schools back up this leaves no time for the athletics and the arts this year. Student athletes MUST maintain a certain GPA and have no failing classes. Most of these student athletes, with the hopes of returning not only to school but also to their passion for whatever sport they pursue, have worked very hard to maintain their grades and their physical health this entire time. Now they feel they are being punished. It's no wonder they are having mental health challenges with their psyches being toyed with for almost a year. Why not start somewhere to end the stagnation? Why not help some of CCSDs students instead of none at all and from there begin to move forward?

Both You, Governor Sisolak and Dr. Jara, have an opportunity to help at least some of CCSDs suffering students while you work to come up and move on with a solution to get all of the students back on campuses. Governor Sisolak, I once again implore you to please modify or rescind Directive 034 to allow all sports to be returned to our youth just as we in the valley watch our professional and college teams play. Yes, they do have more money than the district (and that is an entirely different fiasco) but I see free pop up COVID testing all over the valley so testing is not an issue. Once again, I suggest to you that if you are so concerned about athletes contracting and spreading the virus, we could have them promise on the stipulation that they are allowed to return to competition, for their season, they are distance learning, maintaining their grades, and only socialize with teammates and go to practice and other team activities and games in an NBA style bubble. It can be reproduced and these kids are starving to get back to what they love.

Dr. Jara if you are so concerned with reading and math scores, why on earth would you take away the very thing that keeps student-athletes achieving eligibility? If, after Governor Sisolak modifies or rescinds Directive 034, you do not allow a return to sports, with or without and in person education, you will see those scores go even lower. You have taken away their incentive to excel in their academics. These student athletes are actually helping your numbers the best they can, so there is your optics and you should thank them for doing so. What better thanks than to let them return to their reason for getting good grades. And along the lines of helping you. When did you give us direction to help you get these kids back in school as you asked for in the KTNV broadcast. You also said that

Once again I will be attaching my prior correspondence as I have again added new addresses to the CC and I do not wish to repeat myself. If there is an objection to what I may have said above, I may have addressed it in prior correspondence.

Thank you for your time and consideration, January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 33 of 101 Nicole Goughnour

Begin attached prior correspondence which has at this time gone unanswered

Dear Governor Sisolak,

It has come to my attention in the following New York Times article

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/24/us/politics/student-suicides-nevada-coronavirus.html ; that we in Clark County have lost 18 students to suicide since the pandemic hit our nation. And I was just informed of a 19th that happened this month. If this has occurred since the announcement of cancellation of sports.....There are no words to accurately describe my feelings about this. Esteemed Governor, you have the power to end this disastrous impact that the lack of any real movement forward since the 14 days to flatten the curve and slow the spread. All across our nation we see a majority of states that have been fluid and flexible in learning to co-exist with this virus. We have better treatments. We have vaccines. We know how it is most easily spread. We know who is most affected. Why are we spinning our wheels in stagnation?

I have long been a proponent of getting our kids back in the classrooms. We had from Mid-March 2020 through the summer to get something together. But, I have to say that the foot-dragging by CCSD is appalling. They tabled the vote to re-open in November and did not revisit until mid- January and voted to re-open K-3rd grades. It is not this age group that is in danger of self harm. With that being said, to re-open now, is almost nonsensical. First of all, there is so much discord among the school board that they cannot seem to come to any agreement. If and once the vote yes comes down, it is going to take time to set things up as to who is in and who is still remote. Then there will be a disruption in learning as teachers and students attempt to settle into, likely, entirely new teacher-student relationships and teaching and learning styles. It's a disaster waiting to happen, at best.

Now to my point that I have stated and re-stated multiple times to multiple people "in charge" and still have no answers and most recently, a possible untruth being uncovered as I have tried to get to the bottom of the reasoning that student-athletes cannot compete unless and until there is in- January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 34 of 101 person education. I had been told the who put this into place until I inquired of one of those "whos" and was told they knew nothing of it among himself and his colleagues and was then pointed back to the superintendent and the school board. To say this is beyond frustrating is an understatement. So I will pose the question again. Why does it matter where the student is receiving their education, in classrooms, hybrid, or at a distance, as long as they are achieving the goals of the proper GPA and not failing any classes, why can they not reap the reward for all of their hard work and dedication to be able to practice and compete? By placing this stipulation, it hamstrings the process and is causing more harm to the mental health of these students, resulting in self harm.

Once that is done, I ask the school board to move to allow the moving forward of allowing these student-athletes, who have done what is asked, with the hope that they will return to what keeps them on point with their grades, regardless of where they are seated to receive their all important education. These student athletes and their families know how important education is and sports, for many is what keeps them from getting into trouble, dropping out, or failing. By cancelling the postponed fall seasons in the decision made on 1/22/21, I would not be surprised if you start to see more failing grades as these pupils believe they no longer have a good reason to make good marks. The district certainly has given them plenty of time to give up and fail. They are frustrated that they are not even given a chance to attempt their season. I expressed to the principal of my son's high school that it may actually be better for avoiding the virus in an NBA-style bubble where they would continue distance education. I asked my son if he was told his team could participate and compete, would he be willing to only socialize with his teammates during downtime and only participate in team activities like practice, weight lifting, conditioning, film review, and competition for the duration of his season? His answer was an emphatic, "absolutely". It is the lack of thinking out of the box by people in leadership positions that is frustrating. The board gives the appearance that it can only happen one way and there is no compromise or flexibility. It is damaging and it needs to end.

Thank you again for your time and consideration for out kids who are needlessly suffering,

Nicole Goughnour

-----Original Message----- From: Nicole

Sent: Sun, Jan 24, 2021 3:22 pm Subject: In person education and high contact sports

Dear Governor Sisolak,

As you are quite likely aware, Clark County School District has made a decision to cancel the fall 2020 sports season that was postponed to spring 2021. January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 35 of 101 I am writing you today to humbly and respectfully request that you please modify Directive 034 to approve high contact sports as quickly as possible so that these student athletes can get the required amount of practice in before the season commences. Upon reading the directive it is clear that you completely understand how sports benefit not only the physical well-being but also the mental well-being of our students.

Your directive states:

I do not have to include any more links to articles of a teen committing suicide over the locking out of their activities they love, I am sure that you have seen them. It's bad enough that they cannot be in the classrooms with their peers but to take away the last outlet they have is cruel. Teenagers will find an outlet and we run the risk of that outlet being unproductive and possibly damaging. Why would we not allow for organized, supervised, and healthy outlets for them, especially in the absence of in person education?

In case you did not receive the email I sent on 1/21/21, I will copy and paste it at the end of this correspondence. January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 36 of 101 Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely, Nicole Goughnour

January 21, 2021

Dear Governor Sisolak, Distinguished Superintendent Jara, Respected Regional Superindendents Jakolski and Barton, Esteemed NIAA Chairman Thompson, and Honored HHS Chairwoman and Assemblywoman Nguyen,

https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/pediatrics/early/2021/01/06/peds.2020- 048090.full.pdf?fbclid=IwAR0_zHtK8M0HxmL1Mmoyli4JkKK2a_ys- HzsCXZ7l7qV4kqZaMZIkM8VIMo

Colorado: https://chsaanow.com/sports/football/ ; https://www.denverpost.com/2020/11/11/colorado-high-school-football-coronavirus-pueblo-west/

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 37 of 101 Another neighbor, Utah made it through their season during a Covid19 spike, and still went ahead with their championships: https://kslsports.com/445718/uhsaa-releases-statement-on-high-school-sports-following-new- covid-19-mandates/

Michigan:

Washington https://www.maxpreps.com/news/jmcXo2Dl8Uuc1i1Mt_T2Lg/high-school-football--washington- planning-for-seven-week-season-beginning-feb-1.htm

Oregon https://www.oregonlive.com/highschoolsports/2020/12/high-school-football-coaches-chime-in-on- rescheduled-season-start-effects-of-the-coronavirus-pandemic.html

https://www.aappublications.org/news/2020/12/16/pediatricssuicidestudy121620 https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/orange-county-family-shares-teen-suicide-story-as- pandemic-warning-to-other-parents/2509206/ https://www.thecollegefix.com/parents-say-covid-restrictions-contributed-to-illinois-student-athletes- suicide/ https://www.8newsnow.com/news/local-news/4th-ccsd-suicide-raises-concern-of-mental-health- crisis-during-covid-19-pandemic/ January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 38 of 101 Additionally, many of our youth do not have a productive outlet for their teenaged angst which is exacerbated by the "pause" we have all been enduring and may indeed be turning to crime. There is a neighborhood that is being "terrorized" by youth. http://northlasvegas.8newsnow.com/news/2725612-neighborhood-terror-some-southern-highlands- concerned-about-violence ; This was difficult to find so in case it has been removed the text of the short article is as follows:

They say a group of young people has been jumping pedestrians, breaking into cars and riding their bikes in traffic while trying to run cars off the road.

This has allegedly been happening for months, and neighbors are now scared to walk around outside.

It is, however, encouraging to note though that with the resumption of extracurricular activities, our young people, due to the pandemic have become more conscientious of others and if given the opportunity, would adhere to common sense precautions in order to return to competition and could actually lead the way to encouraging the community at large to comply better. Another reason that extracurricular activities promote leadership skills such as this. https://www.ksl.com/article/50050165/the-statistics-behind-why-we-all-need-to-start-acting-like- high-school-athletes-in-fight-against-covid-19?fbclid=IwAR1SmdPZtHOmrBk-8aad58pBOyx1o_ rkL23ARnGsJkWhOMX-ilZPeRz5fPw

"I believe there is a strong argument to be made that allowing high-school sports to proceed, is actually SAFER than not allowing them to, and would actually DECREASE the spread of the virus, which is in fact the #1 stated goal of the state and CCSD.

A quick look out your window or walk down your street will reveal that our teenagers, who are overwhelmed by 10 months of COVID fatigue, are gathering more and more - and taking less and less precautions. Right or wrong, it is happening and is just going to get worse, especially since they have no compelling deterrent and they have more spare time on their hands than ever before. January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 39 of 101 Furthermore, thousands of Nevada kids are now rushing to play club sports, where there may or may not be safety precautions in place. Additionally, this leaves out those in the community that may not have the available resources to join and participate and travel with club teams. Many of these young people count on athletics to move them and their families out of less than ideal situations.

The above quote was taken and adjusted to fit Nevada and CCSD purposes, from "Let Them Play CA".

I sincerely welcome a challenge to this reasoning, especially from the state or CCSD

Finally, Emergency Directive 034 states the following

Nevada parents have been under the assumption that until, and unless the students are back on campuses for in-person instruction, extracurricular activities and athletic practices and competition cannot resume. If this is the case, Nevadans deserve a scientific explanation as to why it is necessary for the students to be back on their campuses, when most universities and some high schools utilized remote and distance learning and still held competitions. I am of the belief, that should the board vote no to allow return to classrooms, these activities can and should still be allowed to resume. It may even be beneficial, creating a "bubble-like" atmosphere comparable to what we have seen at the professional and university levels.

Again, I wish to thank each of you for your efforts to keep Nevada and her students safe. Now is the time, I believe, to begin assisting our students, Nevada's future, toward a careful, yet complete return to what they January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 40 of 101 love and what has been not only a productive outlet for them, but to help them excel in their life’s activities. It will also keep them motivated to maintain their grades so that they may become productive members of society.

Sincerely, Nicole Goughnour

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 41 of 101 Let them play 1 message

Tania Mojica Wed, Jan 27, 2021 at 7:59 AM To: [email protected]

High School sports are in serious trouble. Our student/athletes are suffering. Travel, AAU, personal trainers/coaches continue, but we are losing “the be true to your school” mentality.

When you cancel sports- you don’t just cancel opportunities to compete. When you cancel sports, you cancel the 15 minutes before practice, when everyone is in that transition mode from class to training. That’s where you see kids at their most honest.

When you cancel sports, you cancel that 6am training time when an athlete is around an adult that they KNOW cares about them.

When you cancel sports, you cancel an athletes motivation to eat healthy.

When you cancel sports, you cancel goal oriented kids desire to work on a training plan.

When you cancel sports, you cancel some students reason to go to school at all.

When you cancel sports, you cancel common ground for parents and their children.

When you cancel sports, you cancel some students only hope of finding the right fit for college.

When you cancel sports, you cancel opportunities for adults to change kid’s lives for the better.

You cancel opportunities for kids to be seen at their best, but also at their most vulnerable.

When you cancel sports, you cancel trust.

When you cancel sports, you cancel relationships.

When you cancel sports, you cancel CONNECTION.

Look at kids who are successful. They have it. Look at kids that stray- they don’t.

It is that simple. Canceling sports is more than canceling wins and losses. It is cutting kids off from the connection they crave, the connection they need to flourish.

There has never been a time when our population of young people have been more vulnerable. We have to teach them that we are willing to do the hard things.

We have to model that. We have to keep them connected.

January 28, 2021 Reference 8.01(B) Page 42 of 101 Let Them Play!! 1 message

'Liz Martinson' via BoardMtgComments Wed, Jan 27, 2021 at 9:09 AM

LETTHEMPLAYNV

“Enough is enough! Our kids NEED this!! Good grades come from that desire to earn play time!!