Dear Parents/Caregivers:
Thank you for your continued support as we navigate the challenges posed by COVID-19 and our extended closure. As we prepare for September, there are numerous scenarios to be explored. Although the ultimate goal is to have all students return to our buildings, we are awaiting further guidance from NYS and need to be prepared for all of the possible phases. Below is some information for your consideration:
- We may need to return to virtual learning during the 2020-2021 school year. The success of this plan depends on a partnership between home and school, in which parental involvement and assistance is essential to bridging any gaps in communication, needs, access, and learning.
- Students may need to return to school on an alternating day basis, such as Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday. Please think about childcare needs that may arise if students are not in the building every day.
- Please click to complete this important survey regarding transportation.
Reducing the number of students on buses is essential to safely reopen. This will help in our planning.
- For the safety of our children, there will be changes to our protocols regarding bus pick-up and drop-off. Each parent needs to designate a single pick-up/drop-off location for the year. I know that this is a very big change for you, so please plan accordingly.
- To accommodate additional health, safety, and social-distancing protocols, our start and end times will shift slightly. Buildings will open at 8:00 a.m. and buses will leave at 3:15 p.m.
- Please do not send your child to school if he/she is not feeling well or has a fever. We may be required to do a daily wellness check for each person in the building. Any child in school who presents with a fever will need to be picked up.
- Students may need to wear masks in school when social distancing is not possible. Please begin having conversations with your children about the need to wear masks, the requirements to stay 6 feet apart from others, and refraining from touching/being right next to others.
Please keep in mind that our school structure may change based on evolving guidance from NYS. Regardless of the format, students need to be prepared to participate fully. In order for learning to occur, students need to attend school when assigned, log on to online sessions, and complete work if they intend on passing classes and being promoted in the next school year.
As a school community, we are working tirelessly to build systems that will support the unique needs of each student. We will keep you informed as changes occur. Although we are all experiencing challenges, we need to be mindful and water the seeds that we want to grow. By collectively maintaining a positive attitude and outlook, we will be able to provide hope and comfort for our students. Your encouragement and positivity when discussing these options is appreciated. Please do not hesitate to reach out with comments or concerns.
Sincerely,
Robert G. Berson
Superintendent of Schools
Posted 7/8/2020