Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Christ’s eternal grace and peace to you as we approach the final weeks of the academic year!

Do not be anxious about anything, 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 your minds in Christ Jesus. Philipians 4:6-7

As noted in our April 24 email regarding second semester grades, we are confirming that at the close of the semester students will indeed be receiving letter grades; furthermore, if your student's grade has increased in a course during this period of being online, he or she will be awarded that grade. If your student's grade in a course has gone down since March 13 (when we transitioned online) or March 30 (Progress Reporting Period 4), and you or your student are concerned that the transition to online instruction may have been a significant factor in the lower grade, please read on for additional details and possible recourse.

On Friday, April 24, we emailed out an update related to end-of-semester grading. We shared our belief that it is necessary to consider our move to an online modality, the challenges facing students, and the need to consider avenues of grace and multiple data points when determining final semester grades. We also provided a link to a parent survey and advised you that we would be releasing specific details today, May 15.

Over the last few weeks, we have had opportunities for rich collaboration. We have held discussions between teachers, counselors, and members of the Academic Team, all regarding end-of-semester grading and the appropriate implementation of grace and equity. We have also carefully considered data and comments from both the student and parent surveys we have released since transitioning online.

Based on the myriad factors noted above and input from various sources, including teachers, counselors, parents, and students, final second semester letter grades will be issued. Final second semester letter grades awarded at Crean Lutheran High School will be based on the following criteria. If you have questions related to the following points, please direct those questions to our Vice Principal of Academics, Mrs. Eun Chu Kim. If your student has questions concerning a specific course grade, please have your student contact their teacher and counselor.

1. If at the end of semester 2 a student has a grade in that course that is equal to or higher than the grade he or she had on March 13 (when we transitioned online) or March 30 (Progress Reporting Period 4), he or she will receive that higher grade.

2. If at the end of semester 2 a student has a grade in that course that is lower than the grade he or she had on March 13 (when we transitioned online) or March 30 (Progress Reporting Period 4), then in partnership with the student’s teacher and the student’s counselor, the Academic Team will review several data points in determining the student’s final semester 2 course grade. The data taken into consideration shall include:

   1. The student’s grade on March 13;
   2. The student’s grade on March 30, as recorded in Aeries for Progress Reporting Period 4;
   3. Observations from the teacher of the course;
   4. Observations from the student’s counselor;
   5. Information from Canvas (e.g. test scores, missing assignments, etc.)

In utilizing this criteria, we have four goals: (a) to provide grace for those students who have worked diligently, yet have faced challenges given this unexpected learning environment, (b) to consider the student’s progress throughout the semester, including prior to transitioning online, (c) to consider input from the teacher and counselor related to the student’s participation, work ethic, use of office hours, and/or a need for additional grace, and (d) to use objective data from Canvas to further support the school’s decision pertaining to the student’s final semester 2 grade in each course. Final course grades for semester 2 will be available for review in Aeries on Wednesday, June 3.

This decision was not made without it being preceded by significant discussion and the involvement of counselors, teachers, and the Academic Team. Furthermore, proactive communication from both students and parents also aided us in determining an equitable solution. Since the time of our transition, we have been blessed by you, our Saints families, who have continued to communicate messages of partnership, support, and unity. We again encourage students and families to remain connected to school, their teachers, their classmates, and to maintain a healthy routine while sheltering at home.

In Christ,

Dr. Daniel Moyer, Principal

And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.  Galatians 6:9-10

Click here to watch a video message from Mr. Fink

Older adults are arguably the most isolated population in America and have become even more isolated as a direct result of the COVID-19 outbreak. Many older adults in skilled nursing homes and assisted living communities, for health and safety reasons, are not being allowed outside of their rooms. They cannot even visit the common community areas within their own facilities. Virtually all enrichment programming for these individuals has been cancelled.

Crean Lutheran High School, in partnership with Orange County Amazing Grace Ministries, now presents you with the opportunity to bring personalized encouragement cards directly into the hands of older adults and the hardworking staff at these homes. These cards will be laminated and sent to nursing homes all across our region. The laminated cards will be safely disinfected before they end up in the hands of the residents. If you know of churches or other Christian organizations that would like to participate in this effort, please feel free to share this document with them and personally invite them to participate.  

In order to send encouragement cards, please follow these steps:

Step 1:

• Here is a suggested Amazon link to purchase encouragement cards.

• The following three coloring books are recommended: this one, this one, and this one. You may choose to purchase one of these books, decorate a page of your choosing, and send it in as your encouragement card. 

• If you have any card stock that is cut to 8x10 inches or less, you may use it for your encouragement notes. Do not fold your encouragement notes.

Step 2:

Decorate/color the materials in any way you want and write a positive, inspirational note of encouragement on the card or picture (back of the card or picture is fine to write on). Uplifting Bible verses are encouraged. Sign the card with your first name and “Crean Lutheran High School, Irvine, CA.” Do not include your last name or any other personal information.

Step 3:

Send your finished materials by Friday May 29. You have two options to send your materials. 

• Mail them to:
  OC Amazing Grace Ministries
  700 W. First St Suite #9
  Tustin, CA 92780

• Hand deliver them to a drop box outside of the Front Desk at Crean Lutheran High School anytime during business hours Monday to Friday. (Please wear a mask if you choose to do this) 

Thank you for your gift of encouragement in Jesus’ name! If you have any questions, please contact Ryan Fink, Outreach Coordinator at Crean Lutheran High School. 

Christ’s grace and peace, Saints!

On April 3, I shared our belief that online instruction would continue for the duration of the school year. At this point in time, and considering the latest announcements from Governor Newsom, we can now state with certainty that face-to-face instruction will not resume this academic year. Our teachers and students have done a terrific job and a yeoman’s task in adapting to this online modality; however, our efforts would be thwarted if not for the partnership of parents and families. We have been blessed by you throughout this uncertain time and pray you are equally blessed by our teachers and counselors.

Parents of Crean Lutheran students broadly believe that we honor the mission of Proclaiming Jesus Christ through excellence in education and that we provide an academically rigorous and appropriate education; however, the top two reasons families come to Crean Lutheran are the (1) Christian culture and identity and (2) relationships with one or more faculty or staff members. During the month of May, our teachers will be increasing their investment of time in offering live Zoom gatherings. While we find that asynchronous instruction is widely appreciated and appropriate when there is a need for online learning, asynchronous instruction does not have the capacity to support relationships to the degree found through synchronous interactions. For this reason and others, please join us in encouraging your students to take advantage of opportunities for live interaction, to see their teachers face-to-face, and to see their peers prior to the end of the academic year.

Early next week, the inaugural issue of The Mirror will be mailed to your home. The Mirror is Crean Lutheran High School’s literary magazine and includes contributions from some of Crean Lutheran’s top writers and artists, including alumni. At a time when students and families feel less connected than ever before, our hope and prayer is that in sending this publication to your home, you are provided one more tangible opportunity to connect with the Saints community.

If you didn’t have a chance to review last week’s Friday email (April 24), I invite you to do so. The email briefly discussed grading and noted that more information would be released on the 15th. Note that we plan to release information related to summer school, summer youth camps, summer athletic offerings on May 15 as well. Last Friday’s email also included a link to a parent survey. If you did not have an opportunity to take the survey, please take a few moments to complete the survey in the coming days. Your feedback is extremely valuable! Thank you all so very much for your encouragement and partnership. We are blessed to have a Saints family that stands united, supporting one another during this difficult time.

In Christ,

Dr. Daniel Moyer, Principal

Blessings in and through Jesus Christ!

On March 12, 2020, Crean Lutheran High School personnel announced the suspension of on-ground classes and transition to online instruction; however, it was much earlier, near the beginning of February, when the Academic Team began readying teachers for such a move, which was becoming increasingly likely. Executive Director | CEO, Jeffrey Beavers, has noted that preparations actually began over ten years ago, when Crean Lutheran first implemented “Online Learning Days,” providing students opportunities to learn from home on faculty in-service days. 

This week, we are over one month into the transition and notably, many districts and schools have been unable to provide a quality education to meet their students’ educational needs, instead calling for the retroactive termination of the school year, effective March 13, 2020. Other districts and schools have adopted “Credit/No Credit” policies, depriving students of the opportunity to receive the grades they have worked so hard to earn. Rest assured, at the conclusion of this academic year, Crean Lutheran’s students will be earning well-deserved letter grades. In determining semester grades, it is imperative we consider our move to an online modality and the challenges facing students, students who have had no option but to take courses online; therefore, avenues of grace and multiple data points will be accounted for when determining final semester grades. More information will be released on Friday, May 15, after teachers, counselors, and the Academic Team have determined specific details. In the interim, if you have specific concerns, a need for additional grace, or questions, please reach out to your student’s teacher, your student’s counselor, or to our Vice Principal of Academics, Mrs. Eun Chu Kim.

Since the time of our transition, we have been blessed to partner with our Saints families who have continued to communicate messages of both support, and unity. Communication from you allows us to make adjustments to our curriculum, our eLearning tools, and our assignments. Therefore, we would ask parents to complete the following Crean Lutheran Online Modality Parent Survey, which will aid us in further garnering feedback for end-of-year decisions.

We have received a few questions related to workload expectations and therefore will address that topic here. We want students to achieve content mastery and be adequately prepared for the fall; however, we do not want our students to be overwhelmed. For each class a student takes, he or she should have no more than roughly two hours of work for each day of the week that class “meets.” For example, if a student has Christian Doctrine on a “Blue” day, that student should have no more than approximately two hours of work, including both instruction and homework, for that class each “Blue” day. A student with three classes on a “Blue” day and four classes on a “Gold” day should have approximately six hours of work on “Blue” days and eight hours of work on “Gold” days. Again, this estimate includes instructional hours. Also, if a student is preparing for one or more Advanced Placement tests, he or she may choose to spend more time reviewing for those tests.

Feedback from you is greatly valued and through this process, we come to better understand the reality of our online classes and our eLearning methodologies. Please continue to share your thoughts, concerns, and questions with us. Our counselors, along with our Academic Team, will continue to closely monitor student progress, examine learning trends, and support our students. At the same time, we will continue to deliver the highest quality education possible, despite the circumstances confronting our nation and world. We encourage students and families to remain connected to school, their teachers, their classmates, and to maintain a healthy routine while sheltering at home. We will continue to pray for everyone’s safety and health.

In Christ,

Dr. Daniel Moyer, Principal

Expectations and Guidelines for Online Instruction

Dear Saints Family, Christ’s grace and peace to you this day!

As you know, COVID-19 has necessitated the need for increased efforts and enhancements related to distance learning opportunities. Crean Lutheran students are regularly being asked to use audio and/or video programs as a means for virtual meetings, help sessions, and live classes, including Zoom meetings, in which they interact with teachers and fellow students. Students may also be asked to use other online learning tools and upload projects (e.g. presentations, videos, and other assignments). Given the necessity for the use of these online tools, Crean Lutheran does not offer an opt-out option for students or their families. If you have questions or concerns related to this stance, please carefully review the guidelines below and contact our Director of eLearning, Mr. Ben Fisher, if necessary.

Zoom Expectations

The main video program for designated use by Crean Lutheran is Zoom. Zoom has several features that enhance security for these virtual meetings. Teachers are encouraged to use these features to ensure the safety and security of their Zoom sessions. Examples include:

• Locking the Zoom session after it’s started so no one else can join;

• Controlling screen sharing so that only the teacher can share their screen and allow students to share their screen as necessary;

• Enabling a waiting room that allows teachers to admit students;

• Locking down chat within Zoom to prevent private chats between students;

• Requiring students to use a blank background, a virtual background, or to turn off their video;

• Removing individuals who are not supposed to be in meetings

Distance Learning Expectations

Synchronous instruction through live streaming, videoconferencing, or other interactive methodologies by which students are engaged in live electronic communication with their teachers will occur.

• Parents, guardians, and students do not have a reasonable expectation of privacy in information and images that can be perceived through audio and/or video during the use of such programs.

Asynchronous interactions will also occur. Crean Lutheran students are required to post online (e.g. Canvas, unlisted Youtube, etc.), which allows their work to be viewed by teachers and peers (evaluative purposes, group work, fostering interaction and relationships, etc.)

• Parents, guardians, and students do not have a reasonable expectation of the privacy of those videos, recordings, projects, assignments, performances, etc., given that these videos may be accessed and distributed by other individuals.

• Parents, guardians, and students understand that their images, videos, audio recordings, projects, designs, artwork, choreography, etc. may be viewed, distributed, or altered without their permission or the permission of Crean Lutheran High School, given that they are accessible by multiple individuals.

Continued participation in Crean Lutheran’s online learning courses represents an understanding of these expectations and guidelines, acceptance of the risks associated with online learning, and your agreement to hold Crean Lutheran High School, its teachers, and its staff members harmless. 

Please feel free to reach out to our Director of eLearning, Mr. Ben Fisher or to me directly for further clarification. Your partnership is appreciated!

In Christ, Mrs. Eun Chu Kim
Vice Principal of Academics

Below are updates as of March 16, 2020 regarding SAT, ACT, AP Exam, and College Admission Dates scheduled for March through the Spring. Please save the links for future updates from the College Board and ACT.

SAT Dates

• The May 2, 2020 SAT is cancelled.
• The March 14, 2020 make-up SAT (scheduled for March 28, 2020) is also cancelled.
• Students who have already registered for May, whose March test centers were closed, or who do not receive March scores because of any irregularities will receive refunds.
• The June 6, 2020 SAT is not yet canceled.
• College Board will continue to assess and share details directly with registered students and test centers.

ACT Dates

●  The April 4, 2020 ACT has been rescheduled to June 13, 2020.

●  Students registered for the April 4, 2020 ACT will receive an email from ACT.org over the next few days informing them of the postponement and instructions for next steps.

AP Exams

● The College Board just announced that traditional face-to-face AP exams will not take place this year. Rather, students will take a 45 minute exam online. We are hopeful Crean Lutheran students will return to campus prior to AP exams; however, all students throughout the country will be taking AP exams online. The College Board will release another update on April 3. Click here to read the full update from College Board.

●  As of March 13, 2020, AP Exams remain as scheduled for schools that will be open on May 4-8 and 11-15, with late testing scheduled for May 20-22.

Class of 2020: College Admissions Postponements

●  Seniors: Due to campus closures, the release of admissions decisions may be delayed.

●  Some colleges have postponed their deposit deadlines to accept offers of admission to June 1, 2020.

● Contact your colleges directly for date and procedural updates.

Crean Lutheran teachers will continue to deliver daily planned lessons with the same content as they would on-site via Canvas. Below is a set of actions with resources to help implement a plan that works best for each course to promote the welfare of our students.

Each parent has a personal login for Canvas, through which student progress may be tracked.  If a parent is unable to restore a lost or forgotten password through the “forgot password” link, he or she may email Mr. Ben Fisher for assistance.

The Counseling Department will be posting a handful of resources and updates for students on the Counseling Services Canvas page. Resources and updates include; time management videos, stress & anxiety management videos, COVID-19 updates from the CDC, AP, SAT and ACT updates from the College Board, and more! Counselors are also staying in touch with students via Instagram and Tik Tok posts that encourage student engagement, as well as texting using the Remind 101 app.

As we transition to our online learning modality, please remember our Academic Integrity Policy: students value learning for its own sake, and that we therefore demand personal integrity and intellectual honesty in all academic work. Having academic integrity means valuing and demonstrating Intellectual honesty, personal truthfulness, learning for its own sake, and the creations and opinions of others. Students act with academic integrity when they represent your own work honestly and accurately, collaborate with other students only as specifically directed and authorized, and report breaches of academic integrity to a teacher, counselor, or administrator. 

Mrs. Mary Oliver will continue to work with our teachers to meet LSP needs. Students will continue to receive their accommodations for their assignments, quizzes, and tests in an online setting. Students interested in receiving extended time must make their request to their teacher in writing, a minimum of 48 hours prior to the date of the test.

Communication with teachers is important during this time. Please note that teachers are expected to respond to email within 24 hours (two business days) Monday through Friday.

Temporary loaner laptops are available for students and are to be used for academic-related activities while the student’s laptop is repaired or replaced. The program shall not be used for the permanent replacement of a device.  Upon the request for a loaner laptop, an electronic signature form will be sent out to the student, and then the parent. This form must be electronically signed by both the student and parent before the loaner laptop is checked out. Students may check out loaner equipment twice per academic year and loaner equipment must be returned within 14 days after receiving the loaner equipment.

Should your student need a loaner laptop, please reach out to Mr. Rutherford.

Notify the attendance office (949-398-6563) if your student is sick during online instruction.  We realize that while work may be able to be completed at home when sick, we would like to partner with students, providing them time to rest and recover. In addition, many absences may be considered excused, including those for illness, medical/dental appointments, bereavement, court appearances, pre-approved college visits. When emailing the attendance office, include the following:

• Parent/Guardian name and relationship to the student
• Student's name and grade

• Parent or guardian’s phone number

• Reason

For planned absences, please submit an email (from parent). Emails should be directed to the attendance office. If and when the request is approved by the student’s counselor, the student will be asked to contact their teachers prior to the absences.

If your student or someone who has contact with your student will be traveling outside the United States in the coming days, weeks, or months (prior to graduation), complete this travel form.

For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control. 2 Timothy 1:7

Dear Saints Students and Families;

As we end our second week of distance learning, I find the verse above comforting during this different season of everyday life in which we currently find ourselves. During a time where we may experience feelings of uncertainty or fear, we are reminded that God, through the Holy Spirit, has given us the gift of power, love, and self-control -- not in our strength, but in HIS strength. We are blessed to be able to work through this ambiguous time in our lives as a Saints family and lean on the truths presented in scripture through His word.

We all face significant changes to our daily lives due to COVID-19 and therefore we realize the importance of tending to the social and emotional needs of not only our students, but our families. If we reflect and meditate on the verse above, we are guided to focus on three areas: power, love, and self-control. These are just three of the ways in which we can charter these uncertain waters.

We begin with the power of knowledge. When considering COVID-19 and the stress it may bring to our students, it is best to communicate effectively with our students regarding what this virus entails. Information shared should be factual, age appropriate, and serve to ease anxiety. We encourage each family to talk about COVID-19 to increase awareness and prayerfully to lessen the likelihood for exposure and protect one another. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website is a terrific resource for these purposes.

That brings us to love. During this time, in order for us to love thy neighbor we encourage social distancing and following the at-home guidelines. What is social distancing? Social distancing is where we make a conscious effort to provide physical space between each other to avoid spreading the virus. Please continue to only leave your house when absolutely necessary. As Dr. Moyer referenced in a previous email, the measures being taken now are to flatten the curve of those infected with the virus so as to not overwhelm our healthcare system and to minimize exposure to others in the at risk category. Social distancing is difficult and you may experience a variety of emotions. Here is a link to a recent article on how to prevent loneliness during this time and how to preserve your mental health. Suggestions include video chats, acts of kindness in written form, broadening or deepening friendships, and using apps to optimize online interactions with loved ones. 

Finally, there is self-control. During times of social distancing, we are ever more present in the virtual world. While continuing relationships on a virtual platform over social media, it is important to exhibit self-control in a manner that is appropriate and respectful to others within our community. It is much easier to “talk” through a screen than it is to have a face-to-face and meaningful conversation in person. Sometimes, individuals have artificial courage when communicating through a screen or video, stating information that they would never say when face-to-face with another. Remember to protect yourself, your identity online, to always treat others the way you want to be treated, and to love and support each other during this delicate time of uncertainty. According to the Child Mind Institute, “limiting the amount of time you spend plugged into computers provides a healthy counterpoint to the tech-obsessed world, it also strengthens the parent-child bond and makes kids feel more secure.” 

Please continue to check the Crean Lutheran COVID-19 webpage under Counseling/Academics for additional resources and articles related to social and emotional wellbeing during this sensitive time. If at any time you would prefer to speak to a CLHS counselor in person, please do not hesitate to fill out this form. We will continue to pray as a Saints community during and rely on the gifts we have blessed with from our Lord and Savior -- power, love, and self-control. 

In Christ,
Christine Cosenza, Vice Principal of Student Services

Staying active and exercising daily is essential to mental and physical health. In order to align with orders from the Health Department we have created workouts that can be completed at home. The workouts provide options based upon equipment available to you at home. Along with the Workout Resources there will be a Workout of the Day posted Mondays-Friday. These workouts will have a video to review the exercises listed. We encourage everyone at home to get involved and stay active.

https://tinyurl.com/creanhomeworkout

Workout Disclaimer

As with all exercise programs, when using these workouts, you need to use common sense. To reduce and avoid injury, you will want to check with your doctor before beginning any fitness program. By performing any fitness exercises, you are performing them at your own risk. Crean Lutheran High School will not be responsible or liable for any injury or harm you sustain as a result of our workout programs, online fitness videos, or information shared on our website. This includes emails, videos, and text. Thank you for your understanding.

Our dance teachers have sent our students some fun warm-ups and dance videos to stay active. We encourage you to take a break and learn with the whole family. These links are just some ideas to stay active by using music and fun movement. One of our favorite tools is CLI Studios because you can take some fun classes by famous dancers and choreographers in the industry. Enjoy!

• CLI Studios Free Live Classes

• Warm up and Stretches

Workout Disclaimer

As with all exercise programs, when using these workouts, you need to use common sense. To reduce and avoid injury, you will want to check with your doctor before beginning any fitness program. By performing any fitness exercises, you are performing them at your own risk. Crean Lutheran High School will not be responsible or liable for any injury or harm you sustain as a result of our workout programs, online fitness videos, or information shared on our website. This includes emails, videos, and text. Thank you for your understanding.

• Tips for Protecting Your Mental Wellness

• Pacific Southwest District LCMS Coronavirus Resources

• LCMS Resources for Coronavirus Pandemic

• LCMS Church Worker Wellness Resources

• LCMS Coffee Hour: Mental Health Mondays

• National Association of School Psychologists (Parent Resource): Talking to Children About COVID-19

• CDC Guidelines for Managing Anxiety and Stress

• SAMHSA:Coping with Stress During Infectious Disease Outbreaks

• Young Adult and Family Center Self-care Toolkit

• Coping Strategies

Workout Disclaimer

As with all exercise programs, when using these workouts, you need to use common sense. To reduce and avoid injury, you will want to check with your doctor before beginning any fitness program. By performing any fitness exercises, you are performing them at your own risk. Crean Lutheran High School will not be responsible or liable for any injury or harm you sustain as a result of our workout programs, online fitness videos, or information shared on our website. This includes emails, videos, and text. Thank you for your understanding.

Prevention Strategies

• Clean your hands often.
• Avoid close contact.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover coughs and sneezes.
• Wear a facemask if you are sick.
• Clean and disinfect.

Saints Athletic Families,

May Jesus’ grace, peace, mercy, and love be with you all! On Friday, April 3, CIF-SS announced the cancellation of spring sports championships. We are heart-broken for our spring sport athletes that they will not have an opportunity for playoff competition, and we look forward to all our sports teams being able to train and compete again once it is safe to do so. The Athletic Department will communicate further details next week.

Saints families,

We pray you are all keeping safe and healthy during this uncertain time. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of those who have been adversely impacted. Since our last update and the suspension of Crean Lutheran athletic operations, we have continued to hold onto hope that athletic operation would start again soon. Saints athletics and our coaches are committed to doing our part to slow the spread of COVID-19, representing a responsible partnership with our local and global community.

It remains our prayer that we will see a resolution in the coming weeks, thus allowing our student-athletes to have the opportunity to return. If we do return, our in-season student-athletes and coaches will be ready. Spring sports student-athletes have remained involved in a daily commitment, continuing to work out and sports train remotely. Using the Saints Athletics Hub, Coach Shumate posts the “Workout of the Day” and each head coach posts their daily “Sports Specific Training” exercises for their student-athletes to complete. Each team has their own specific page,the athletes simply access the Hub each day and check in for the training and practice plan. In the Hub coaches can have video chats and team meetings as well as video analysis sessions with their team.

We were blessed to finish the winter season with the exception of some of the banquets, which have been postponed. All of our spring sports have had some competitions to begin the year, but now we have missed two weeks. Our hearts go out to the athletes, parents, coaches, and fans. There is a possibility the spring season will not resume.  The Athletic Operations Fee for athletes involved in sports only for the spring season was scheduled to be billed to April 1. This billing will not take place at this time. If we are blessed with the opportunity to return and finish the season, a prorated AOF will be billed. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to me.

In Christ,
Mr. Eric Olson, Athletic Director

My heart goes out to you as you adjust to being at home with your sons and daughters. Unfortunately, in the present reality, our teams are not able to practice together or attend competitions, which is extremely disappointing to student-athletes, parents, fans, and coaches. At this time, with unknown expectations for the weeks ahead, it is important for us to maintain connectivity; therefore, in partnership with our coaches, we have instituted the following plan for our athletics program, which involves engagement, connectivity, and innovation.

At Crean Lutheran, our mission is Proclaiming Jesus Christ through Excellence in Education. I take this mission to heart as I work with coaches to ensure the best possible spring for our student-athletes, given the present conditions. While on-ground classes and face-to-face meetings can be suspended, excellence cannot! Our coaches have a great opportunity to rise above the present restrictions and support our student-athletes to the best of their ability.

Our athletes, coaches, and teams will not meet in person at least until April 6; however, our spring coaches will be strategizing to coach remotely. Some coaches have already done something similar, creating custom practice and nutrition plans for student-athletes who were unable to come to school, but moving forward, all of our spring coaches are expected to be more actively involved in the lives of their student-athletes.

• Each day, Coach Shumate will send coaches a customized daily workout. Spring coaches will review this workout plan and then distribute it to athletes. When possible, Coach Shumate will create sport-specific workouts designed for various situations, including bodyweight, lightweight, and traditional (for athletes who have access to weights and appropriate supervision).

• Each day, your student-athlete’s spring season coach will send out a daily plan. The daily plan may contain (a) a video from the coach, (b) one or more videos to watch, (c) drills to complete, (d) information related to sport-specific techniques or strategies, (e) articles related to performance psychology and mental fortitude, (f) and more. Our coaches will strive to be creative and utilize resources that are available to your student-athletes. The simplest stretch, movement, drill, or technique can be helpful and provide a student-athlete an advantage when he or she is able to return.

• As the days ahead progress, we have asked coaches to make contact with their athletes, to provide them with feedback, words of encouragement, and to further foster the relationships that our Crean Lutheran families are thankful for.

I have asked the coaches to include me on daily emails so that I may follow along and share best practices with other coaches.  We are in this together, partnering to provide the best environment possible for our students. I personally thank you for that partnership. Prayerfully, parents will appreciate the added engagement for their sons and daughters that comes through this addition. Please reach out to me by email or phone if you have any questions or concerns. I expect these new opportunities to improve each day as our coaches further investigate available resources. To God be the glory!

Addendum: While this new protocol is expected for our spring coaches, it is optional for our fall and winter coaches. If your son or daughter is involved in a fall and/or winter sport and you would like to learn more about home workouts, please email his or her coach and CC me.

Auditions for performing art classes (e.g. Honors Dance Ensemble, Honors Concert Choir, Honors Chamber Orchestra, etc.) will be conducted via video submission. Please view the audition requirements information for Choir, Dance, Acting, Worship, and Instrumental Music at creanlutheran.org/audition. All videos must be submitted by Thursday, April 9.

Parent Information Night (for Cheer, Song, Mascot, etc.) will take place April 20th at 6:00 p.m. via Zoom. Access information will be distributed next week. Tryouts will be conducted via video submissions due May 1, 2020. If you would like to receive an invitation to the meeting, please fill out this form  Spirit Parent Conference Meeting.

All participants will need to fill out the Spirit Application Form by May 1. Each participant will also need two letters of teacher recommendations, which must be completed by May 1.

Spirit tryouts have been postponed from May 1 until further notice. Our Spiritline, TCC, Stunt, and Competition Song coaches are working together to create plans, which will be emailed to all prospective students and families. 

It breaks my heart that our students may not have their final performances for the year. I know our students look forward to having that special show or concert. Although there may not be a final special show or concert, our department is working hard to foster student learning. Also, our faculty members are naturally relational and will continue to foster relationships with their students.

Each of the performing arts teachers is a part of a larger team and we are supporting one another in an effort to provide the best education possible to our students. We are continuing to share resources and keep our programs thriving, engaging, and creative. I pray your students are seeing the results of these efforts. In addition to a standard curriculum, our teachers are working on additional plans, which will come to fruition in the coming days. Some of our teachers have even created spaces in their own homes to continue teaching dance, music, and acting monologues.

• Our dance teachers will be providing physical warm-ups through Zoom, Youtube, and/or other resources. They will also continue teaching choreography and other essential elements as if preparing for a showcase. Students will be invited to send video submissions, which will be assessed by our teachers. Feedback will be provided.

• Our music teachers have provided music for students to practice at home. These resources are available on Canvas. Our choral and instrumental music teachers will also be connecting with students via email and Canvas. Students will continue to work on vocal warm ups, learning new music, and practicing instrumental music.

• Our student actors are working on creating a play. Their screenplays require writing, the drafting scene work, lighting, and other stage production elements. Our advanced student actors continue to work on “The Odd Couple” and record various scenes.

This medium does not compare to a live audience and our performing art students crave the audience response to the work they are doing. It is the heartbeat of our performing arts program. We know our God is a good God and a creative God. He created each of us and we are able to be creative. That is exactly what we will continue to do! Please continue to reach out to me by phone or email. I’m here for all our students and families. I appreciate all the hard work that has been created so far.

We continue to lift up our saints families during this time. We understand the impact, especially our performing arts students. At this time, our teachers are using technology to create a showcase platform. Our dance program is encouraging students to post videos on their social pages #CLHSsocialdisDANCING & @creanlutheranperformingarts. Our music department is working to record one of their spring concert pieces. 

We have not been informed about how the OC Register will continue the Artist of the Year program; however, please join me in congratulating the following students for becoming this year’s finalists.

• Elias Kim - Clarinet (Concert Band)
• Aaron Jin - Oboe (Chamber Orchestra)
• Stephanie Chung - Viola (Chamber Orchestra)
• Izzy Nelson -Commercial (Dance)
• Mia Diaz- Digital Art (Visual Art)
• Thomas Cho- Handcrafted (Visual Arts)

The musical, “Beauty and the Beast,” is still being monitored. We are looking to possibly perform this show in our school gym in mid-May or June. There are myriad variables to consider when producing the show. Please know it is our priority to perform this show when the campus opens; however, patrons may exchange, donate, or receive a refund for their ticket. To receive a refund, email boxoffice@creanlutheran.org. In the meantime, our cast members are working to record a virtual song.

Visual Arts Updates

• Spring Art Show - May 14th

  • The exhibition of our students' work will be happening virtually. Students will be notified of instructions when the time comes. We are excited to still show off our students' work!

• Art Museum Visits 

  • Students are still required to virtually visit an art museum. All resources for virtual tours and assignment instructions are available on Canvas. 

Joyfully in Christ, Mrs. Alyssa Jones

Director of Performing Arts I Spirit Advisor, Dance Department Chair

Captive Hearts and Minds for Christ Jesus

And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7

In chapter four, the closing chapter of the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippians, Paul requests steadfastness and unity in Christ. As he closes his letter, Paul shares love and appreciation for the faith and the support that his Philippian family has developed for him and given to him. 

In this chapter, there are many gems of scripture that Paul uses to emphatically urge and encourage the Philippians and us; for example, these three could each be a whole devotion: 

4:4 - “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!” 4:4

4:5 - “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.”

4:6 - “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.”

Just after these three is a verse that has gained my attention, devotion, and recent meditation. It is a verse that causes hope, peace, and comfort. Paul, in verse seven, says where peace comes from, how mysterious peace is, and how it will protect us in Christ Jesus. Peace comes from God -- a peace that we cannot create or understand -- and surpasses all of our understanding; and it protects our minds and hearts in Jesus. 

What has captivated your mind or heart these days? 

When this first started, a friend, an education executive from China, gave me this advice; “You know this is going to be a marathon, not a sprint; be patient and pace yourself.” Of course, I said, “Thank you; great advice;”...and took off sprinting. Through the twists and turns of this journey, I have found my mind captive to media hype, panic, feelings of anxiety, and even fear -- none of which have served me well...or the Lord.

On the contrary, the more I’ve meditated on God’s Word, the inspired words of authors like the Apostle Paul, the more the peace that surpasses my understanding has dwelled in my heart. Like Paul, I am grateful for the Crean Lutheran Saints family, the faithful hearts for Christ, the stories of blessings even in these times, the prayers, and the love. Be careful Saints, don’t let the world captivate your minds and hearts; they belong to Christ!

We pray:

Lord, thank You for Your inspired Word, the Bible. Thank You for guarding our minds and hearts that by nature wander and become captivated by anxiety, fear, and even panic as we try to create our own peace. Thank You for the peace that You give us in Jesus, the peace that guards our minds and hearts, and the peace we don’t understand. Amen.

Devotional thought by:
Jeffrey S. Beavers, CEO
Crean Lutheran High School

• May we who are merely inconvenienced remember those whose lives are at stake.
• May we who have no risk factors remember those most vulnerable.
• May we who have the luxury of working from home remember those who must choose between preserving their health or making their rent.
• May we who have the flexibility to care for our children when their schools close remember those who have no options.
• May we who have had to cancel our trips remember those who have no safe place to go.
• May we who are losing our margin money in the tumult of the economic market remember those who have no margin at all.
• May we who settle in for a quarantine at home remember those who have no home.
• During this time when we cannot physically wrap our arms around each other, let us yet find ways to be the loving embrace of God to our neighbors. Amen.

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 Dear Saints Family,

 As we approach the journey to the cross, to Jesus Christ’s selfless death and glorious resurrection, I pray that joy and peace found in and through Him abounds in and through you!

First, I want to thank each student, each family, each faculty member, and each staff member for contributing to the strong partnership that exists between all parties at Crean Lutheran High School. Without this partnership and belief in our Lord as sovereign, we would have great difficulty enduring the current realities we now face. Students have both impressed and humbled us with their willingness to be flexible. They are turning these challenging times into opportunities, not only for continuing their education, but also for increasing quality time with family and building those familial bonds that are so important as they move through their high school years, into college, and into life beyond.

As I often and unapologetically reiterate, our mission is Proclaiming Jesus Christ through Excellence in Education. We are called to provide the best education possible for each of our students. Since its inception, and for over ten years, Crean Lutheran has offered online classes, blended classes, and monthly online learning days each academic year, ensuring that our teachers are able to put into practice what they learn through professional development. Crean Lutheran not only has dedicated teachers and an academic team supporting those teachers, but also Christ-centered and professional counselors who continue to regularly interact with students and their families via phone calls and Zoom, ensuring that relationships are maintained and social and emotional learning resources remain available. We are here for each student, and we will continue to be throughout the remainder of the year.

On April 1, Governor Gavin Newsom announced “...the expectation that schools will not reopen.” The response to the announcement from our surrounding school districts has been varied, with some viewing the statement as an executive order and others taking a more tentative approach. At this point, we are confident Crean Lutheran students will not return prior to May 4. Furthermore, we believe it to be most probable that online instruction will continue for the duration of the academic year.

Whether you as a family or we as a school pray for a possible return date in May, and we absolutely do, it is prudent to plan for the continuation of distance learning for the remainder of the academic year. For this reason, we are continuing to gather feedback from student surveys and enhance online instruction. Our latest survey, released March 31, provided valuable information from students related to their current perceptions of stress, anxiety, communication from teachers, coursework, and related items. In the interest of proactive planning, our next survey will be sent to seniors and their families, likely at the start of next week. If our traditional graduation must be reformatted or rescheduled due to a prolonged period of social distancing, we very much want to hear from seniors and their families. We want to hear of their preferences and their constraints so that we may provide a celebration that properly honors the diligent effort they have put forth over the last four years.

Crean Lutheran’s students will continue to be educated by committed Christian teachers, teachers who love the Lord and value positive relationships with students. Using data from Canvas, students, parents, teachers, and surveys, we will continue to make adjustments to ensure our students are not overwhelmed and we will continue to provide grace at this uncertain time. We will also honor the work of our students by not compromising the education they receive, nor the standards they master, thereby granting them credits earned through their diligent effort. In maintaining this approach, we will ensure that our students are academically prepared for next year, for college, and for life beyond. Our faculty and staff members are called to glorify Christ through excellence in education. Our plan is to continue providing that quality Christian education.

In the coming days and weeks, we will continue to provide updates. As questions arise, please reach to our Vice Principal of Student Services, Mrs. Christine Cosenza, our Vice Principal of Academics, Mrs. Eun Chu Kim, or to me directly.

In Christ, Dr. Daniel E. Moyer
Principal

Saints Families:

Christ’s peace and joy to you as we quickly approach the celebration of Christ’s resurrection!

Just as on-ground teachers have different teaching styles and modalities for their instructional practices, online teachers also tailor their learning experiences according to their students’ needs. During this unprecedented time, we cannot expect that the schedules and situation of all families are aligned to make synchronous instruction feasible for all students. In fact, the vast majority of schools across the world are not able to deliver 100% of instruction synchronously for this very reason. However, unlike other schools, Crean Lutheran has not opted to fall back on enrichment activities, but rather has continued to serve CLHS families by maintaining curricular standards and rigor. Asynchronous online education has been a successful means of educating students for decades, but it takes a little time and adjustment on everyone's part. Our teachers are working diligently to ensure high-quality delivery of content through means such as recorded videos, interactive presentations, office hours via Zoom, and collaborative opportunities for assignments. For students, we recommend that they create a schedule to assist with time-management, that they use online resources posted by the teacher, and that they take advantage of teacher office hours via Zoom or reach out to their teachers to schedule a Zoom meeting if they have questions or need help. As you can see, teaching and learning in an online setting look a little different than in a face-to-face setting, however, it can be a successful means of education if one understands the differences. If you have questions related to one of your student’s classes, please reach out to your student’s teacher. If you have questions related to our philosophy related to our delivery of instruction, please reach out to me.

In Christ,

Mrs. Eun Chu Kim, Vice Principal of Academics

His will be done.

In Matthew 6:9-13, Jesus teaches us how to pray. He says, “Pray then like this: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”

In this prayer, Jesus asks us to consider and pray that God’s Kingdom will come and to pray that His will may be done here on earth as it is in heaven. It's a hard thing giving up our will, isn’t it? Specifically, if I trust God’s will is done here on earth, then I must give up my own will and trust Him. For example, during these trying and turbulent times, it is difficult to trust that somehow this is God’s will and that He is in control. If it were mine, my will, I’d certainly want to will everything back to “normal.” But, is that God's will?

In my devotional reading today, a devotion from A.W. Tozer, “Our Wills Must Surrender,” Tozer reminded me that part of being a sincere Christian means submission, submission of my will and being willing to surrender to God’s will. The text used for this devotion is from Romans, “Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness?” Romans 6:16.

These times do cause angst. They also drive us to our knees. Perhaps part of God’s desire is for the world to know Him. Part of knowing God is studying the Bible, God’s Word. There, in Scripture, we learn more about God. We know God is absolute and has many attributes. He is sovereign, holy, wrathful, righteous, loving...and more. Martin Luther said this five centuries ago: 

“Now in our day, having seen that Scripture was utterly neglected and the devil was making captives and fools of us by the mere straw and hay of man-made laws, we have tried by God’s grace to offer some help in the matter. With immense and bitter effort indeed we have brought the Scriptures to the fore again and released the people from man-made laws, freed ourselves and escaped the devil, although he stubbornly resisted and still continues to do so.” (LW V.37:13-14)

As we continue to pray for God’s mercy during this pandemic, it is comforting to know that He is a God of compassion and love. Ultimately, He loves us so much he gave His very own Son to die for us. Jesus Christ died on a cross for our sin (Peter 2:24). That’s how much God loves us (John 3:16). The Son gave His life doing His Father’s will, and in doing so, He willingly died for our salvation. 

During this solemn season of Lent leading to the hallelujahs of Easter Sunday, may we together attempt to give up our will daily, and live our Father’s will. Let us pray together, “Lord, help me daily to surrender my will. My salvation is a gift of Your grace and not of my efforts, thank You for giving Your Son to die for me that I may live forever with You in heaven. Be with us during this troubling time, reminding us You are always near, and You love us. Help us to share Your great love and the sacrifice of Your Son Jesus with others, so that they too may know Him and be saved. Amen.”

In Christ,

Jeffrey S. Beavers, CEO
Crean Lutheran High School

Joshua 1:9 is a popular memory verse,and reads: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

These words were spoken to Joshua by the Lord at the time of the death of Moses. Joshua was the next anointed leader and the Lord was giving him explicit instructions. Joshua would prepare his people to take possession of the land the Lord had promised and it would mean war. The Lord commanded him to “be strong and courageous” [Joshua 1:7] and to remember the law that Moses had commanded them. “You shall meditate on it day and night and then it will make your ways prosperous, and then you will have good success” [Joshua 1:8]. These are words to live by as we go to war with our enemy, this invisible virus.

To especially our beloved seniors at Crean Lutheran, we are praying for you! We know these times are precious. You are undoubtedly sad and feel as though you are being robbed of your senior year experience. Our hearts break with you. And, so far as it is in our hands, we pledge to do everything in our control to make these upcoming weeks as fun and memorable as possible. We pray for the opportunity to fully engage once again -- and as soon as possible -- and yet in the interim wait, watch, and monitor as is being done around the world.

Seniors, and the entire Saints community, “Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” [Joshua 1:9b]. It is comforting to have our Lord with us now, and to know He is there wherever we go! Yes, He is even with us through this and any other pandemic or crisis. During this national reset, enjoy time together with family, have rich discussions, read God’s word together, be encouraged, and stay well Saints.

Only be strong and courageous!

In Christ’s love,
Jeffrey S. Beavers
Chief Executive Officer, Crean Lutheran High School  

Dear Saints Students and Families:

Then Samuel took a stone and set it up between Mizpah and Shen. He named it Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the Lord has helped us.” 1 Samuel 7:12

I was Called to Crean Lutheran High School in the summer of 2012 and one of the first things that I became familiar with was the importance of 1 Samuel 7:12, which you can read above. Crean Lutheran has a literal Ebenezer, or “stone of help.” It sits in our Fireside Conference Room and reminds us that the Lord has helped us every step of the way. Prior to 2007, Crean Lutheran existed in the hearts and minds of believers, but the doors didn’t open until the 2007-2008 academic year, when we were blessed to host about 100 students at St. Paul's Greek Orthodox Church. Since that time, Crean Lutheran has grown in size, both in terms of physical facilities, but also in terms of the number of students we are able to expose to Jesus Christ. It is only through the Lord’s great goodness that this has happened.

At times like this, when you may be feeling that you’ve been caught up in an alternate reality, it’s important to remember that the Lord has held you close throughout your life and every step of the way. He will continue to hold you, to guide you, to lead you, and to bring you -- and us all -- through this stressful season. Trust in His presence and the love He has for you and your family.

Our mission is Proclaiming Jesus Christ through Excellence in Education. Although the school has grown, we have not and will not drift from that mission. A few weeks ago, I reviewed the results of the stakeholder survey, which was sent out in January. Each year, when I review the results, I am reminded that families come to Crean Lutheran for predominantly three reasons, (1) our Christian culture and identity, (2) relationships with one or more faculty and/or staff members, and (3) the quality of our academic environment and our academic offerings. This week, I’ve been reflecting on these primary reasons, while considering the challenges that are associated with an online learning environment.

The faculty and staff members of Crean Lutheran High School are committed to our mission, whether we are educating students on-ground or online. We are committed to Christian worldview integration. We are committed to fostering relationships. We are committed to excellence in academics. We will not make sacrifices in these areas, especially at a time when many families are already facing increased stress and anxiety. In an effort to ensure that our standards don’t slide, we’ve not only been providing resources to teachers, supporting them, and monitoring student-teacher interactions through Canvas, but also endeavoring to be innovative at a time when some in the world may be content with a lackadaisical approach.

Please also remember the words from 1 Samuel 7:12. In a world greatly impacted by fear and panic, the Lord will continue to guide and lead us. He is our Cornerstone.

In your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15.

Dear Crean Lutheran Students, Families, and Stakeholders,

Last night, we were made aware that a family member of a Crean Lutheran High School student has been tested for COVID-19. While the test has not been confirmed, doctors have assumed, based on ruling out the common flu, that the family member and family, which includes the Crean Lutheran student, have COVID-19.

The family learned that they were exposed through community transmission on Saturday, March 7, while in Riverside County. The Crean Lutheran student has not been in attendance or on campus since exposure on March 7; however, on the evening of March 7, the Crean Lutheran student had dinner in Irvine with four other Crean Lutheran students. We have contacted the families of each of these students. At this time, none of the Crean Lutheran students who attended the dinner are symptomatic. Please keep these families, and all those impacted by COVID-19, in your prayers.

We have reached out to the Orange County Health Care Agency and they recommend no further action at this time.

If you or a member of your family are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 and/or have tested positive for COVID-19, please email our attendance office. This communication assists us in assessing the impact on the Crean Lutheran community. As a reminder, Crean Lutheran High School is closed to students, families, and visitors at this time. If you have a special need that necessitates your presence on campus, please reach out to Vice Principal of Student Services, Mrs. Christine Cosenza. To view all updates from Crean Lutheran related to COVID-19, visit creanlutheran.org/updates.

In Christ,

Dr. Daniel Moyer, Principal

By our love.

A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so also you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another. John 3:34-35

Growing up, I loved the hymn “They’ll Know We Are Christians” by Peter Scholtes, a priest from the south side of Chicago. Although it wasn’t played much in my church growing up, our youth leaders sang it often, especially around the campfire. This song is also known as “One in the Spirit.” The lyrics are simple, and the chorus, “And they'll know we are Christians

By our love, By our love. Yes, they'll know we are Christians By our love” is compelling (letssingit.com) and even a little convicting. 

These past few weeks have been culture building weeks on the Crean Lutheran campus. First the loss of a beloved faculty member and now this pandemic. These times have undoubtedly caused uncertainty, question asking, and a time of deep reflection among many. It has also served as an opportunity to live our faith, and remind each other what we believe and why we believe it. Most importantly, it is an opportunity to share our faith and our message of hope. 

According to St. John, Jesus gives us this commandment saying, “A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so also you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another” (John 3:34-35). In this verse, Jesus declares His love for us by reminding us that He loves us, and instructs us to love one another. He also reminds us that others will know; they will know whose we are [disciples of Jesus] by our love. The community, our neighbors, our city, our country, and the world will know who we are by our love. 

We as Christians and as leaders in the world have this opportunity and honor to lead at this time. We are reassured by our faith and respond by our love. People are anxious, afraid, trying to understand what this pandemic will mean for their lives. We can utilize this anxiety, panic, and fear to educate, reassure, and love. The tendency during times like these is to turn inward, protect, and take care of what’s mine. Although taking care of family is important, at this time we have the opportunity to lean into this, care, share, and reflect the “light of Christ” to others. 

As Christians, we have greater responsibility and even greater capacity than we often realize, not because we are superhuman -- because we are not, as this virus clearly reminds us -- rather, because we have something to point to, something to share - hope. Our hope is not in this world, a world of sickness and despair; instead, our hope is knowing our Lord is sovereign. By His amazing grace He loves us and gave Christ to die for us, and when His Kingdom comes and His will is done we will be with Him in paradise forever. This is the Good News we can share.     

Amidst this unsettling and inconvenient time, we are blessed to be so prepared. Our faculty and staff have been instructing online learning days now for over ten years. They are well-equipped and prepared to forge ahead in an environment they are very familiar with and well-trained in. Our students too are well trained and prepared for this learning environment. We hope this temporary online modality provides a chance for families to connect and have time together. 

In being good stewards, beyond providing effective online instruction, we hope that these efforts are helping our neighbor by doing our part to prevent virus transmission. We also hope for special opportunities to share about where our hope comes from, Jesus. And we hope that “they'll know we are Christians by our love” as we keep each other, our Saints family, and our world in prayer. May God bless you and your family during these difficult times.   

In His love,

Jeffrey S. Beavers
Chief Executive Officer, Crean Lutheran High School

Strength & Conditioning Update

In your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect. 1 Peter 3:15.

Dear Crean Lutheran Students, Families, and Stakeholders,

We have been closely monitoring the development of COVID-19, a coronavirus the World Health Organization has declared a global pandemic. While the CDC has stated that “for the majority of people, the immediate risk of being exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19 is thought to be low,” there are active efforts in place across the nation to slow the spread of the infection. Mitigation efforts, such as the provision of online classes to facilitate social distancing are said to assist in reducing the disease caseload, thus keeping the healthcare system from becoming overwhelmed.

Adapted from CDC/The Economist/The New York Times

Crean Lutheran stands in support of these mitigation efforts and the health and well-being of the Saints community. Therefore, out of an abundance of caution for our community, as well as the broader Orange County community, and with the approval and support of the Pacific Southwest District of the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod, Crean Lutheran High School, in solidarity and through a collaborative effort with our sister school, Orange Lutheran High School, is transitioning our on-ground and blended classes to an online learning modality, effective Monday, March 16, 2020. 

While no cases of COVID-19 have been reported on our campus and our campus remains open, the safety of our students, their families, and our employees is our top priority; therefore, we have activated this response to limit the spread of the virus. This situation remains fluid and we will update you each week. At this time, we are not specifying a date of return.

Along with on-ground and blended classes, field trips, mission trips, and other Crean Lutheran sponsored excursions are suspended. With regard to the planned New York and Jamaica trips, we ask for your patience as we assess the potential for reimbursement or postponement. Please reach out to Mrs. Eun Chu Kim if you have questions related to these trips.

With the exception of Track & Field, spring sports typically have a reduced number of both spectators and players at both games and meets; therefore, at this time we are mirroring many of the strategies currently being implemented by IUSD and mandating the following guidelines for athletic practices and events.

• Routine athletic practices may continue.

• Routine athletic events may continue without spectators in attendance.

• Larger events, such as tournaments, invitational meets, and track meets will be canceled or postponed.

• Fans and spectators will not be permitted to attend any of our athletic events.

• To support social distancing efforts, students, parents, faculty, and staff attending athletic events will be asked to sit 6 feet apart.

Several additional and relevant details can be found below. Please be sure to review this email fully. The Psalmist reminds us where to turn when we are feeling scared and fearful: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear (Psalm 46:1-2a). May God provide you and your families a measure of comfort and strength in the coming days.

In Christ,
Dr. Daniel Moyer, Principal

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Instruction: CLHS teachers will continue to deliver daily planned lessons with the same content as they would on-site via Canvas. Below is a set of actions with resources to help implement a plan that works best for each course to promote the welfare of our students.

Each parent has a personal login for Canvas, through which student progress may be tracked.  If a parent is unable to restore a lost or forgotten password through the “forgot password” link, he or she may reach out to Mr. Ben Fisher for assistance. 

Academic Integrity: As we transition to our online learning modality, please remember our Academic Integrity Policy: students value learning for its own sake, and that we therefore demand personal integrity and intellectual honesty in all academic work. Having academic integrity means valuing and demonstrating Intellectual honesty, personal truthfulness, learning for its own sake, and the creations and opinions of others. Students act with academic integrity when they represent your own work honestly and accurately, collaborate with other students only as specifically directed and authorized, and report breaches of academic integrity to a teacher, counselor, or administrator. 

Communication: Communication with teachers is important during this time. Please note that teachers are expected to respond to email within 24 hours (two business days). 

Learning Success Program: Mrs. Mary Oliver will continue to work with our teachers to meet LSP needs. Students will continue to receive their accommodations for their assignments, quizzes, and tests in an online setting. Students interested in receiving extended time must make their request to their teacher in writing, a minimum of 48 hours prior to the date of the test.

Counseling: Crean Lutheran understands that the community is experiencing various emotions at this time.  Feelings of anxiety, fear, sadness and a level of uncertainty are all normal and expected. The level of care and concern for our Saints community remains a top priority.  The counseling department will continue to support students with academic, social, and emotional needs. Counselors will be available via email or phone, and are able to make appointments as necessary.  

Attendance: Notify the attendance office (949-398-6563) if your student is sick during online instruction.  We realize that while work may be able to be completed at home when sick, we would like to partner with students, providing them time to rest and recover. In addition, many absences may be considered excused, including those for illness, medical/dental appointments, bereavement, court appearances, pre-approved college visits. When emailing the attendance office, include the following:

• Parent/Guardian name and relationship to the student

• Student's name and grade

• Parent or guardian’s phone number

• Reason

Pre-Planned Absences: For planned absences, please submit an email (from parent). Emails should be directed to the attendance office. If and when the request is approved by the student’s counselor, the student will be asked to contact their teachers prior to the absences.

Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10

Dear Saints,

May Christ’s ever present blessings abound in and through you.

On January 27, 2020, Crean Lutheran High School sent an email out concerning the coronavirus (COVID-19). Since that time, Crean Lutheran has continued to monitor updates related to the coronavirus, working with partner agencies in the process. This week, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) asked individuals, communities, government agencies, businesses, and schools to be prepared for an increase in coronavirus cases. On January 31, 2020, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) declared COVID-19 a public health emergency in the United States.  At this time, the Orange County Health Care Agency has noted that Orange County “...continues to have only one confirmed case of COVID-19, a man in his 50s who has recovered. There is no evidence of person to person transmission occurring here. The risk to the public in Orange County and throughout the United States remains low.”

On April 10, 2020, Good Friday, Easter Break will begin. Students will return to school on April 20, 2020. This break provides families with the opportunity to travel abroad, whether vacationing or visiting family and friends. Students who plan to travel abroad over Easter Break may be required to adhere to a quarantine, abstaining from school attendance for the duration of that time period. The current guidelines for travel, as published by the Orange County Health Care Agency, include the following points.

• Travelers to the United States, who have been in China’s Hubei province within 14 days, will face a mandatory quarantine and will be monitored by public health officials.

• Travelers to the United States from mainland China will face enhanced screening and a self-quarantine of up to 14 days to ensure they do not pose a health risk.

Students under quarantine, while excused from school attendance, will be required to take classes online. Crean Lutheran is well-equipped to facilitate online coursework in the case of a student being quarantined. In addition to the information above concerning mandatory quarantines, all families should be reminded of the following illness prevention strategies, which are recommended by the CDC.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

• Stay home when you are sick.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.

• Follow CDCs recommendations for using a facemask.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

• If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

This information is precautionary in nature and does not reflect a current large-scale outbreak of the coronavirus. In fact, the CDC has advised that the immediate health risk to the general American public is considered low at this time. We will continue to closely monitor details related to the coronavirus and collaborate with agencies. The health and wellness of our community is of the utmost importance.

As a reminder, if at any time your student exhibits flu-like symptoms (e.g. fever, coughing, and/or difficulty breathing), please contact your healthcare provider and follow-up by notifying the front desk at Crean Lutheran High School.  Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Mr. Angelo Marquez at marquez@creanlutheran.org.

In Christ,

Dr. Daniel E. Moyer

Principal