PEKIN COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

1062 Birch Ave., Packwood, IA 52580

Mr. Derek Philips, Superintendent Central Office phone: 319-695-3039 x-261

Mrs. Jenny Bell, Elementary Principal Elementary phone: 319-695-3707 x-146
Mr. Shawn Dorman, Secondary Principal High School phone: 319-695-3705 x-270
Mr. Alex Rebling, Secondary Dean of Students Dean/AD ext. phone: 319-695-3707 x-242
Fax: 319-695-5130 or 641-661-2351

April 1, 2023

Dear Pekin Families,

Pekin Community Schools would like to address the process and procedure we followed in
light of severe weather in our community on Friday, March 31. After reviewing the forecast
and considering other factors, we decided to keep our students and staff in our secure
buildings where they could shelter in place safely with children having adult supervision.

Keep in mind, some of our students would be sent home to an empty residence with an early
dismissal, so we determined it was in their best interest to keep them safe at school where
they could take shelter with adults. When some of our buses were transporting students at a
time when inclement weather was in our vicinity, we coordinated with our drivers to ensure
they would turn back if necessary to again put student safety first. The storm developed and
moved much faster than anticipated, and some of our routes were impacted. Our drivers
acted accordingly to keep students safe.

Thankfully no one on our campus or buses was injured, so we turn our attention to those in
our community dealing with the emotional and financial impact of property loss and damage.
On Monday, April 3, our 9-12 students will be using the day to assist those in need. We are
working closely with the Hedrick Volunteer Fire Department so we can coordinate our efforts
to best serve our community. If you know of anyone in need, please send an email to:
help@pekincsd.org. This address should be working by 5pm today.

On Monday there will be counselors from the AEA in our elementary. They can meet with
students, staff, and community members as well.

We appreciate your support and efforts to help all involved.

Sincerely,

Derek Philips
Superintendent