Columbia Public Schools school buildings are currently closed to students and in-person classes. We appreciate your continued flexibility and understanding as we all work together during this difficult time.

Academics
We have made adjustments to our alternative learning model and adjusted the extension of time away from school. Our first priority, during this time of great uncertainty, is the health and well-being of our students and families. Based on that commitment, our new plan, which began on Wednesday, April 8, purposefully limits what we are asking of students and sets specific schedules for learning and communications from teachers. Learning will continue. For as long as we are out, alternative methods of instruction will remain in place. It will look different from traditional methods of instruction, and we remain committed to helping students to continue to learn. We believe this moment in time should not negatively impact a student's future endeavors. Our plan reflects that belief. Learning will be focused on review, reinforcement, and enrichment.

• FAQ: Elementary Education Alternative Learning
• FAQ: Middle School Education Alternative Learning
• FAQ: High School Education Alternative Learning

Athletics and Extracurricular Activities
All athletics and activities have been suspended.

Nutrition
Our grab-and-go meal delivery for students in need began on March 30. There are eight buses running multiple-stop routes Monday through Friday. The stops are time-specific. Students can meet the bus at the designated stop and time to pick up their meal. Bus routes have been updated, and new stops began April 13; here is a list of the updated stops and times. Here is a map of the grab-and-go locations. Here are the breakfast and lunch grab-and-go summer menus.

There are many community and faith-based groups that are providing supports for children and families in need to help us bridge the gaps:

• The Food Bank of Central and Northeast Missouri has a list of all the partner agencies that are providing food. The link includes the agency and the hours of operation.
• The Food Bank Central Pantry is offering drive-up service. Supplemental information on how to help is available here.
• The United Way is also responding to families in need. If you need assistance finding food, child care, assistance paying household bills, locating mental health services, or other essential services, contact United Way 2-1-1. It's free and confidential. Specialists are available 24/7. Dial 2-1-1 or 1-800- 427-4626 TTY 1-866-385-6525.
• The City of Columbia has a site set up for those interested in volunteering to help where there are needs.
• Veterans United Home Loans has provided this interactive map of locations offering free meals in the Columbia area.