Dear OBT School Families,
We have all struggled with the recent news of the consequences of the Coronavirus. In concert with Portland Public Schools effective immediately, Friday, March 13, 2020, both OBT School locations, Portland and West Linn, will remain closed for all classes, masterclasses, workshops, and rehearsals through March 31, with continued connection to any PPS closures beyond that date.
We have been monitoring growing concerns and are dedicated to taking the necessary steps and precautions to mitigate the possible spread of the COVID-19 virus. We are remaining vigilant and very busy formulating options for our students. There are many considerations for us, not the least of which is the continued training of our students. We have several options and will communicate details very soon.
As you can imagine, the school is part of the lifeblood of our organization. Those OBT School staff members who are able will continue to work either remotely or on campus to perform necessary duties and develop thoughtful strategies for our families.
OBT School is an active member of the larger dance community through Dance/USA, and will be sharing information, strategies, and solutions with our affinity group. Our group includes major professional training institutions across the country, all of whom have been communicating similar scenarios and challenges.
We hope to pull the spirit of our OBT community together in these very challenging times, and ask for your patience, understanding, and support. Closing our beloved school in this period of uncertainty for any amount of time will undoubtedly cause budgetary hardships. For those of you able to grant OBT your generosity and help mitigate any potential revenue losses as tax deductible donations, we call on you for your charitable contributions to link us into the foreseeable future. Donations can be made at https://www.obt.org/contribute/.
Sincerely,
Marion Tonner
School Director
Oregon Ballet Theatre
