COVID-19 REOPENING INFORMATION FOR 2020-21

COVID-19 SAFETY COORDINATOR
Mr. James Brennan
585-336-2993
[email protected]

COVID Testing

Reopening Resources Documents/Sites


NYS COVID-19 'REPORT CARD'

NYS Fully Vaccinated Guidance - May 19

Outdoor mask restriction change - June 7
 NYS New Distance Guidelines - April 9

K-6 Phased Reopening Plan

7-12 Phased Reopening Plan

Superintendent Update Page

 

Only COVID case updates are listed below - after April 1st other updates can be found on the SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE PAGE

May 21, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

Since our last communication a week ago on May 14, the Monroe County Dept. of Public Health has reported one new case in our District, an Iroquois Middle School student. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555.


May 14, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

Since our last communication a week ago on May 7, the Monroe County Dept. of Public Health has reported one new case in our District, a Dake Jr. High School student. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555.

May 7, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

Since our last communication a week ago on April 30, the Monroe County Dept. of Public Health has reported four new cases in our District: one student at Brookview, one student at Iroquois Middle School and two students at IHS. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555.

April 30, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

Since our last communication on Monday, April 26th, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported three new cases in our District: two students and one staff member at Irondequoit HS. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555. 

April 26, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE


Since our last communication on Friday, April 23rd, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported one new case in our District: one Irondequoit High School student. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the 
MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555. 

April 23, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE


Since our last communication on Monday, April 19th, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported four new cases in our District: two Irondequoit High School students and one student each at Dake Junior HS and Seneca School. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the
MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555. 

April 19, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

Since our last communication on Friday, April 16th, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported six new cases in our District: four Irondequoit High School students and two Iroquois Middle School students. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555. 

April 16, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE


Since our last communication on Monday, April 12th, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported two new cases in our District, both Irondequoit High School students. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555.

April 12, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

Since our last communication on Friday, April 9th, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported five new cases in our District: two students at Irondequoit HS, one student at Dake Jr. HS, one student at Rogers Middle School and one staff member at Iroquois MS. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555. For Superintendent Updates, go to THIS PAGE

April 9, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

Since our last communication on Monday, April 5th, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported six new cases in our District: three students at Rogers Middle School and one student each at Irondequoit HS, Dake Jr. HS and Briarwood schools. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555. For Superintendent Updates, go to THIS PAGE. Our next communication is scheduled for Monday, April 12th.

April 5, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

Since our last communication on Thursday, April 1, the MCDPH has reported seven new cases in our District: Three students and one staff member at Irondequoit High School, one student at Dake Junior HS and two students at Rogers Middle School. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For COVID-related updates, visit our COVID-19 Information page. For previous Superintendent Updates, CLICK HERE.

Our next communication is scheduled for Friday, April 9th.

April 1, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE 

Since our last communication a week ago on Thursday, March 25th, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported eight new cases in our District:

  • 4 Irondequoit High School students
  • 2 Iroquois Middle School students
  • 1 staff member at IHS
  • 1 staff member who works at Brookview and Listwood schools

Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For all COVID-related updates, please visit our COVID-19 Information page.

Our next communication is scheduled for Monday, April 5th. Here’s hoping you have a safe and restful remainder of Spring Recess!

March 25, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

WATCH THE REPLAY: COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

We answered a lot of questions about the potential full reopening of schools in Tuesday’s “Community Connections” Zoom (video) webinar. If you missed it and want to watch the replay, it’s 90-plus minutes and available at THIS LINK.  A PDF of the slides is available at this link.

THURSDAY COVID-19 UPDATE

Since our last communication on Monday, March 22 , the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported nine new cases in our District: four students at IHS, two at Dake JHS, one at Rogers and one at Brookview. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For all COVID-related updates, please visit our COVID-19 Information page.

COVID-19 TESTING UPDATE

We have administered 1,516 rapid tests randomly to students/staff to monitor our schools. Including this morning’s results, we have had two positive cases since Jan. 14, 2021.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

March 22, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

Since our last communication on Thursday, March 18th, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported one new case in our District, a student at Irondequoit High School. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For all COVID-related updates, visit our COVID-19 Information page. For previous Monday Reports, go to our new Superintendent Update page.  

Our next communication is scheduled for the Thursday, March 25th.

March 18, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE & WEBINAR REMINDER

Dear Families:

THURSDAY COVID-19 UPDATE

Since our last communication on Monday, March 15th, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported two new cases in our District: one student each at Briarwood and Seneca schools. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For all COVID-related updates, please visit our COVID-19 Information page.

COVID-19 TESTING UPDATE

We have administered 1,341 rapid tests randomly to students/staff to monitor our schools. Including this morning’s results, we have had two positive cases since Jan. 14, 2021.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS WEBINAR NEXT TUESDAY

Our next “Community Connections” Zoom (video) webinar, a Town Hall-type meeting with parents/guardians, is 6:30 p.m. next Tuesday, March 23. The topic: The potential move toward a full reopening. Please join me and a few other administrators for an interactive discussion. We will provide you with the link for that webinar in our Monday Report on March 22.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

March 15, 2021: COVID-19 CASES 

Since our last communication on Thursday, March 11, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported one new case in our District, an Iroquois Middle School staff member. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call (585) 753-5555. For all COVID-related updates, visit our COVID-19 Information page. Our next report will be Thursday, March 18.


March 11, 2021: COVID-19 CASES/TESTING UPDATE

Dear Families:

THURSDAY COVID-19 UPDATE

Since our last communication on Monday, March 8th, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported three new cases in our District: one student each at Dake Jr. High School, Colebrook School and Southlawn School.

Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For all COVID-related updates, please visit our COVID-19 Information page. Our next communication is scheduled for the Monday Report on March 15th. Have a great weekend.

COVID-19 TESTING UPDATE
We have administered 1,149 rapid tests randomly to students/staff to monitor our schools. Including this morning’s results, we have had two positive cases since Jan. 14, 2021. Our next communication is scheduled for Monday, March 15th.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

March 4, 2021: COVID-19 CASES/TESTING UPDATE

Dear Families:

COVID-19 UPDATE

Since our last communication on Monday, March 1, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported five new cases in our District: Three students at Dake Junior High School, one student at Irondequoit High School and one IHS staff member.

Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For all COVID-related updates, please visit our COVID-19 Information page.

We have now surpassed 1,000 rapid tests administered randomly to students/staff to monitor our schools. Including this afternoon’s results, we have done 1,039 tests with only two positive cases since Jan. 14, 2021.

Our next report is scheduled for Monday, March 8.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

March 1, 2021: SUPERINTENDENT REPORT FOR MONDAY

Dear Families:

As we welcome in March and look forward to the warmer weather soon, I want to begin by again thanking you. Our children continue to progress, thanks to teamwork and the commitment we share in making sure we meet their needs. A special thanks go to our special educators today as we begin Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. We are proud of their work and the caring relationships they foster to ensure every child has the supports they need to achieve.

Today we are pivoting our Monday communication to become more than merely COVID-19 information. It includes pertinent districtwide updates. We will continue having a Thursday update, too. Four months left until graduation – they will go fast. Keeping you informed continues to be a priority, and this new style gives us one more tool to meet that goal. 

REOPENING TASK FORCES

Last week, we kickstarted two reopening task forces, much like the one operated over the summer. One will focus on a full reopening of our K-6 Elementary Schools and the other on 7-12 Secondary Schools. Under the direction of Assistant Superintendent for Instruction (ASI), Mrs. Chrissy Miga, our Directors have gathered a collection of staff, union representatives and parents to reimage the current COVID-19 school structures, starting with instruction.

We don't have any inside information, but know that at some point the guidance will change to allow schools to fully reopen in-person. That change could happen next fall or sooner, depending on the NYS Department of Health. The current requirements we are operating under were written in August with the biggest hurdle to a full reopening being the 6-foot physical distancing requirement. Through Dr. Zucker last week, we heard the state is considering a move to align NYSDOH guidance with that recently released by the CDC. A move like this will create newly defined zones that would allow “K-12 schools open for full in-person instruction [with] physical distancing of 6 feet or more to the greatest extent possible.” This will put the decision on schools and allow us to break 6-foot rule if other mitigating factors are in place.

The charge of our reopening task forces is to consider how we will stepdown our hybrid learning models to increase in-person learning when these parameters change. To be prepared, we'll make a plan that can be implemented starting this school year or next fall. You can be sure that our reopening of schools will be driven by the NYSDOH and CDC guidance/requirements and data. The safety of students and staff will remain our top priority. We’ll have to continue to be flexible thinkers who work collaboratively. If we’ve learned anything, it’s that decisions will be made with imperfect data and constantly changing requirements and it’s our job to do what’s best for West Irondequoit. 

DISTRICT STRATEGIC PLANNING

Attached is an outline of key components of our District’s Strategic Planning process, including a timeline of events. Two rapidly approaching pieces of the process are Perception Gathering and the Planning Council. Perception Gathering is a chance for constituents to share their perceptions and ideas about our District. I am working with our consultant, Lynne Erdle, to finalize a schedule for the Perception Gathering days that will include time(s) for everyone to participate as interested. Please watch for more information soon.

We're also working on enlisting members for a Planning Council. It will be a group of 25-30 people who will be charged with taking all the data and perceptions gathered and taking a dive deep into translating that information into a multi-year road map. The target for the due date to hand over the polished plan to the District is June 30, 2021. If you’re interested in serving on the Planning Council, please email me by this Friday ([email protected]). Selections will be made to balance the group and may include those who respond and may also require me reaching out to specific people.

WELCOME NEW ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT FOR INSTRUCTION

Today is the first official day for Mrs. Chrissy Miga as our new Assistant Superintendent for Instruction (ASI). Welcome, Mrs. Miga! As ASI, she is responsible for leading K-12 curriculum, instruction, assessment and professional development in the District. Having spent the bulk of her career in West Irondequoit, Chrissy understands the community and our schools. She brings with her a network of well-established relationships that will help move our work forward.

COVID-19 UPDATE

Since our last communication on Thursday, Feb. 25th, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported five new cases in our District. They are three Irondequoit High School students and two Dake Jr. High School students. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For all COVID-related updates, please visit our COVID-19 Information page.

Our next report is scheduled for Thursday, March 4.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Feb. 25, 2021: COVID-19 CASE & TESTING UPDATE  

Dear Families:

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

Since our last communication on Monday, Feb. 22, the Monroe County Department of Public Health reported one case in our District, a student at Brookview School. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose more details or personally identifiable information. Questions? Call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For all COVID-related updates, visit our COVID-19 Information page.

Our next COVID-19 case report is scheduled for Monday, March 1.

SURVEY TESTING UPDATE

Since we resumed COVID-19 rapid testing of students and staff on Jan. 14, 2021 as a way to monitor our schools, we have administered 826 tests. There have been only two positive cases, one student and one staff member. These numbers reflect testing through this morning. We will continue testing at least through March 26, 2020 (the final day before spring break). Below is a chart that breaks down the results.

COVID graphic












Thank you,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Feb. 22, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE  

Hello Families and Staff:

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

Since our last communication on Saturday, Feb. 20, the Monroe County Department of Public Health reported one case in our District, a student at Irondequoit High School. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For all COVID-related updates, please visit our COVID-19 Information page.

Our next COVID-19 case report is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 25.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Feb. 20, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE 

Dear Families and Staff,

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

The Monroe County Department of Public Health has reported 14 new cases in our District since our last communication to you nine days ago on Thursday, Feb. 11:

  • Eight students and one staff member at Irondequoit High School
  • One student and one staff member at Brookview School
  • One student and one staff member at Iroquois Middle School
  • One staff member at Southlawn School

Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information about these or any cases. If you do have questions about contact tracing or quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/resources, visit our COVID-19 Information page. I hope that you have had a fun and safe Winter Recess!

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools


Feb. 16, 2021: COVID-19 UPDATE

Please click THIS LINK to see a COVID-19 update letter/release from Superintendent, Aaron Johnson, regarding Irondequoit High School Athletics.

Feb. 11, 2021: COVID-19 UPDATE  

Dear Families:

Visiting schools and chatting with people, I keep hearing how surprised and pleased everyone is about our reopening success. Given the circumstances, the safety and instructional rigor of our programming is 100% a reflection of you. Together, we continue to stand resolute in our commitment to our children and their success.

With the restart of higher-risk winter sports and sharp decrease in community COVID-19 positivity rates, many people are asking about a return to full in-person instruction. Having all students back full-time is an aspirational goal we all share – when and if it can happen safely. We are working with local and state officials to advocate for consideration if specific safety criteria are met. Staff must gain equitable access to vaccinations. School and community positivity rates must remain low or negligible. We must monitor transmission in schools to ensure that spread does not happen here. With these factors in place, in addition to the research-based safety precautions like masking and sanitization, I do believe that given time, "opening the valve" in schools can happen. When it does, safety will continue to be our priority.

2021-22 SCHOOL BUDGET

The Board of Education and District began formally planning for next year's school budget in January with our regular Budget Workshop. We discussed the preliminary Tax Cap, which will be much less than 2% and less than last year. Working from the proposed 2021-22 Executive Budget, we remain guarded on State Aid projections as their proposed structure has changed along with flow through federal CARES Act monies included. This ambiguity, along with a proposed freeze in Foundation Aid (the primary categorical State Aid component), paints a bleak financial forecast for schools next year. The Board and District are committed to sustaining a comprehensive, supportive and safe learning environment for students and staff. We will be persistent in ensuring the efficient and well-planned use of financial resources. Please watch our website and social media for more information regarding the 2021-22 budget planning process.

NEW DISTRICT RECEPTIONIST

Mrs. Adrinne Raines has been hired as the new Receptionist at District Office. She is married and the mother of three children, including two IHS students. Mrs. Raines has worked as an Attendance Clerk at Dake Junior High School the past two years. She is also a PTSA building representative. Mrs. Raines replaces Mrs. Susan Bottazzo, our longtime receptionist who served the District for 28 years. Please join me in welcoming Mrs. Raines.

ATHLETICS REGISTRATION OPEN FOR CHEERLEADING, FOOTBALL, VOLLEYBALL

Our full restart of winter athletics included season openers this week for boys/girls basketball, ice hockey and wrestling is scheduled for Saturday. Our FamilyID registration is also now open (CLICK HERE) for the “Fall II” season, which includes cheerleading, football and volleyball. That season is scheduled to start March 1.

MUSIC UPDATE

An email was sent to families on Wednesday, February 10 regarding evolving plans for the music program, including an invitation to a Zoom webinar with Mr. Zugelder on Tuesday, February 23 at 6 p.m. to learn more. Look for a reminder email on Monday, February 22.

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

Since our last communication on Monday, Feb. 8, the Monroe County Department of Public Health reported 3 new cases in our District:

  • One student at Listwood School
  • One student at Dake Jr. High School
  • One staff member at Rogers Middle School

The MCDPH’s contact tracing determined that these were the result of community spread with no close contacts happening in school. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. Questions? Call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected].

Our district has issued a total of 706 COVID-19 tests to students and staff in our schools since Jan. 14, 2021. This week there were 2 positive cases, which were isolated and reported to MCDPH.

For all COVID-related updates, please visit our COVID-19 Information page. Our next COVID-19 case report is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 22. Thank you again for everything you’ve done to support a safe learning environment. Wishing you the best for a well-deserved February break.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Feb. 8, 2021: COVID-19 UPDATE 

Dear Families:

Since our last communication with you on Thursday, Feb. 5 there have been no new reports of COVID-19 cases in our District.

Feb. 5, 2021: COVID-19 UPDATE 

Dear Families and Staff:

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

Since our last communication on Monday, Feb. 1, the Monroe County Department of Public Health reported two new cases in our District, both students at Iroquois Middle School.

The MCDPH’s contact tracing determined that these were the result of community spread with no close contacts happening in school. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For all COVID-related updates, please visit our COVID-19 Information page.

Our next COVID-19 case report is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 8.

Thank you,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Feb. 1, 2021: COVID-19 UPDATE

Hello Families:

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE
Since our last communication on Thursday, Jan. 28, the Monroe County Department of Public Health reported two new cases in our District:

•    One student at Rogers Middle School
•    One staff member at Irondequoit High School

The MCDPH’s contact tracing determined that these were the result of community spread with no close contacts happening in school. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For all COVID-related updates, please visit our COVID-19 Information page.

Our next COVID-19 case report is scheduled for Thursday.

Thank you,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Jan. 28, 2021: COVID-19 UPDATE

Dear Families and Staff:

In addition to our usual update, I wanted to share some additional information about athletics, extra-curricular activities and COVID-19 testing.

WINTER ATHLETICS

Plans are underway to safely reopen more winter Athletics next Monday and the new “Fall II” season (football, volleyball, cheerleading) in March. Preparation has been ongoing since our successful fall season and we awaited a decision from Gov. Cuomo. Friday, that news came, pending approval from the Monroe County Department of Public Health (see release on approval). Thanks to the work of our athletic department, nurses and support staff, we are almost ready. For updates, go to our Athletics website.

Earlier this week, MCDPH Commissioner, Dr. Mendoza, informed superintendents and athletic directors of his approval. Given the decreasing community infection rates, negligible infection rates in county schools, and the sound health and safety precautions established in our schools, all sports may resume under New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) and NYSDOH guidelines. Tonight at 6:30, we are hosting a special Zoom (video) Athletics webinar (watch the replay) to share more about the sport-specific structures and precautions planned to keep our children and staff healthy and safe. IHS and Dake families received a link to that on Wednesday. As we lay these plans, we will continue to monitor the latest expert guidance from state and local health officials to make adjustments and remain alert and flexible. They have been foundational in sustaining our schools' safety.

OTHER EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

There is no crystal ball, but we are optimistic that this is a sign of more to come for other extra-curricular activities such as Visual and Performing Arts. If we deem it is safe for one, deep consideration for the others must be given as a matter of equity. We will continue to advocate for this with public health officials. As the COVID-19 vaccination becomes more prevalent and if infection rates remain low, we also hope government officials and public health experts are considering additional measures to reopening schools. But, only if the data supports that a full reopening is safe.

So, stay the course and practice what’s proven. Keep those masks on, stay socially distanced as needed, practice good hand hygiene and monitor your symptoms daily. Your persistence is keeping our positivity rates extremely low and safeguarding the spread from creeping into our schools. We will watch state and local guidance closely and remain ready to react if and when the state directs a change.

COVID-19 TESTING

Since Jan. 14, 2021 we have administered 458 rapid COVID tests to students and staff. It has produced zero positive results. Although Gov. Cuomo has lifted zone restrictions, we plan to continue to test 5% of our students/staff weekly through late February and into March. We will do this as a way to continue to self-monitor safety in our schools.

COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

Since Monday’s communication, the MCDPH reported three new cases in our District, one student at Irondequoit High School, one at Dake Junior High School and one at Rogers Middle School.

The MCDPH’s contact tracing determined that these cases were the result of community spread with no close contacts in school. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions, call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates, visit our COVID-19 Information page.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Jan. 25, 2021: COVID-19 UPDATE  

Families,

We have two other important updates today in addition to our daily COVID-19 information.

JOIN US TUESDAY NIGHT – COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

"Community Connections" is a new Zoom video webinar series so we can keep families informed on key initiatives in our District. Please join myself and a few other WICSD administrators at 6:30 PM tomorrow (Tuesday, 1/26) to discuss our first topic: The District's efforts toward Equity, Diversity & Inclusion. You will have time to ask us questions during the session.

  • Please check your email for information on how to view the webinar

IHS ATHLETICS CAN ‘UN-PAUSE’

On Friday, Gov. Cuomo gave the OK for winter sports currently on pause to start Monday, Feb. 1 as long as they adhere to safety protocols (read the guidance) and pending the approval of the Monroe County Department of Public Health. Ms. Kim Schon, our Director of Health, Phys. Ed. & Athletics, is working with league/Section V officials on details that we will soon communicate. In fact, we will have an Athletics Zoom video webinar at 6:30 p.m. Thursday (link to come). We plan to open  FamilyID registration for the paused winter sports soon. The state also cleared the way for football, lacrosse and volleyball to compete later this year. Again, when we have more details, we will share them. I am confident our coaches and support staff will handle this “un-pause” with the same attention to safety details that we’ve shown since September.

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

Since Thursday’s communication, the MCDPH reported seven new cases in our District:

  • Two students at Irondequoit High School
  • Two students at Dake Jr. High School
  • Two students at Rogers Middle School
  • One staff member at IHS

The MCDPH’s contact tracing found that these were the result of community spread with no close contacts in school. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose any more details or personally identifiable information. Questions? Call the MCDPH Hotline at 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For all COVID-related updates, visit our COVID-19 Information page.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Jan. 21, 2021: COVID-19 UPDATE   

Dear Families,

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

The Monroe County Department of Public Health reported two new positive cases in our District since our last communication on Tuesday. They are an Irondequoit High School student and an Iroquois Middle School student.

MCDPH’s contact tracing determined that both cases were the result of community spread with no close contacts happening in school. Click the link to learn more about the definition of “close contacts” by MCDPH. Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information about this case. If you have questions about contact tracing and/or quarantining, call the MCDPH  COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/resources, visit ourCOVID-19 Information page.

NEW COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Just a reminder: Our new "Community Connections" Zoom video webinar series starts next week. Please join myself and a few other key WICSD leaders at 6:30 PM on Tuesday, Jan. 26 to discuss our first topic: The District's efforts toward Equity, Diversity & Inclusion. We will email parents/guardians a link next week to join the conversation!

In partnership,,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Jan. 19, 2021: COVID-19 UPDATE  

Dear Families,

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

Today the Monroe County Department of Public Health reported six new positive cases in our District:

  • Two students at Irondequoit High School
  • One student and one staff member at Dake Junior High School
  • One student at Southlawn School
  • One student at Iroquois Middle School

MCDPH’s contact tracing determined that these cases were the result of community spread with no close contacts happening in school. Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information about these or any cases. If you have questions about contact tracing and/or quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/resources, visit our COVID-19 Information page.

In partnership,,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Jan. 15, 2021: COVID-19 TESTING & CASE UPDATE  


Dear Families,

I wanted to provide a few updates as we head into the long weekend that will honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on Monday. Our resumption of voluntary COVID-19 rapid testing this week yielded ZERO positive results out of 151 students and staff tested. That’s great news. If your child was tested you should have received an email from their principal. We will continue testing on Tuesday.

We also will modify our communications on COVID-19 cases starting next week. Instead of daily updates, we will switch to sending notifications on Mondays and Thursdays only. At this point, we do not want to burden families with so many emails.

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

Today the Monroe County Department of Public Health reported ZERO new positive cases in our District. It has been quite a while since that happened and more good news. My hope: We all continue to take the necessary steps, ones we have learned over 10 months, to keep us all safe. If you do have questions about contact tracing or quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

Remember, for all COVID-related updates/resources, visit our COVID-19 Information page.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Jan. 14, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE  

Families and Staff,

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

Today the Monroe County Department of Public Health reported one new positive case in our District, a staff member at Rogers Middle School.

MCDPH’s contact tracing found that this case was the result of community spread with no close contacts happening in school. Click the link to learn more about the definition of “close contacts” by MCDPH. Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information about this case. If you have questions about contact tracing and/or quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/resources, visit our COVID-19 Information page.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Jan. 13, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE 

Families and Staff,

You will see our daily COVID-19 case report below. Here’s a final reminder: We will resume voluntary COVID-19 rapid testing on Thursday. We are doing this to be proactive and self-assess the safety of our schools. You can read more details about this in our communication on Tuesday, Jan. 12.

Only students with consent will be tested. After 5 p.m. today, any changes to consent – whether you have given it prior or wish to rescind it – must be made by contacting your child’s principal. Thank you once again for understanding the importance of this process for your child, family and the community.

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

The MCDPH today reported three new positive cases in our District:

  • Two students at Irondequoit High School (one remote learner)
  •  One student at Dake Junior High School

MCDPH’s contact tracing found that each case was the result of community spread with no close contacts happening in school. Click the link to understand how the MCDPH defines “close contacts.” Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information about these or any cases. If you have questions about these, contact tracing and/or quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/resources, visit our COVID-19 Information page.

Sincerely,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools


Jan. 12, 2021: TESTING DETAILS & COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

Hello Families and Staff,

We have finalized plans for our second round of random COVID-19 testing of students and staff who have given consent. It will begin Thursday and continue daily. Our goal: Test 10% of our students/staff over the next two weeks and 20% over the next month. That aligns with the latest state COVID-19 Micro-Cluster Strategy for schools located in an Orange Zone (we are still a Yellow Zone).

We resume testing as a proactive measure and to self-monitor the safety of our schools. We are not under any state mandate to do so. This COVID-19 rapid test is the shallow, nasal swab (Abbott BinaxNOW) that we also used in November (watch the video). Staff who will administer tests to students have been trained to do so and will follow all safety and privacy protocols, including PPE, sanitizing and privacy screens.

CONSENT

Students who have not given consent will NOT be tested. If you did not consent prior to our first round of testing and now wish to so, click THIS LINK and submit the form (one for each child) by 5 p.m. Wednesday. Changes to consent after that must be made by contacting your child’s principal (school directory).

If you gave consent in November, it is not necessary to do it again (it covers the 2020-21 school year). However, if you want to void prior consent to remove your child(ren) from the random selection, contact their principal ASAP. Testing/consent does not apply to full-remote students.

CAN A STUDENT BE TESTED AGAIN?

Yes. If your child was tested in November, it’s possible he/she may be selected again. This is a random selection. We also will target non-instructional times for student testing as much as possible to minimize classroom disruptions.

NOTIFICATIONS

Parents/guardians will not be notified prior to your child being tested unless you contact their building principal and ask to be present. Once a student has been tested, families will receive an email later that day to indicate its completion. If a student/staff member tests positive, protocols will be followed to isolate the individual in the building’s COVID isolation room, parents/guardians will be informed and asked to pick up their child. Any positive tests will be reported to the Monroe County Department of Public Health to start contact tracing. We ask that you follow-up with your own healthcare provider.

I know it’s a lot to unpack again, but we are taking these steps to help our community stay healthy and stop the spread while we await official guidance on vaccinations. Thank you for all that you’re doing. We need it and sincerely appreciate the partnership!

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

The MCDPH today reported three new positive cases in our District:

  • One student at Iroquois Middle School
  • One student at Listwood School
  • One staff member at Irondequoit High School

MCDPH’s contact tracing determined that each case was the result of community spread with no close contacts happening in school. Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information about these or any cases. If you have questions about these, contact tracing and/or quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/resources, visit the COVID-19 Information page.

Sincerely,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Jan. 11, 2021: TESTING RESUMES THURSDAY; COVID-19 UPDATE   

Greetings Families,

This Thursday, we will resume random COVID-19 rapid testing of students and staff.

Even though we remain classified by the state as a Yellow Zone, the Monroe County Department of Public Health offered an opportunity for schools to voluntarily resume testing and we will test 5% of consenting students and staff each day. This is the shallow, non-invasive nasal swab test (Abbott BinaxNOW) and testing will occur in a fashion similar to November. Expect more detailed information on Tuesday. As we shared on Friday:

If you gave consent to test your child in November, you do not need to again. Consent carries over for the rest of the 2020-21 school year.

  • If you did NOT consent prior and want to provide that now, we’ll send a link to a form on Tuesday.
  • If you want to void consent given in November, contact your child’s building principal ASAP.
  • Testing/consent does not apply to students in our Full Remote Instruction model.

Students without consent will NOT be tested. If your child was tested in November, it is possible he/she may be selected again because this is a random selection. Thank you again for your cooperation.

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

The MCDPH today reported 12 new positive cases in our District:

  • Seven students at Irondequoit High School
  • Two staff members at IHS
  • One staff member at Rogers Middle School
  • One student at Listwood School
  • One student at Briarwood School

MCDPH’s contact tracing found that each case was the result of community spread with no close contacts happening in school. Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information about these or any cases. If you have questions about these, contact tracing and/or quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/resources, visit the COVID-19 Information page at our website.

Sincerely,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Jan. 8, 2021: MORE TESTING AHEAD & COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

Dear Families and Staff,

Schools are among the safest places in our community. We learned that through data, including COVID-19 testing in our own schools and others locally. We also trust the analysis of experts in the medical field, led locally by the Monroe County Department of Public Health.

As a way to monitor that and as a proactive step, we will soon resume voluntary COVID-19 testing for a portion of our students/staff. This will be the same shallow, non-invasive nasal swab test (Abbott BinaxNOW) as in November that resulted in no positive results (769 tested) in our District. We are still finalizing logistics and will share more next week, but parents/guardians should know:

  • If you gave consent to test your child in November, you do not need to again. Consent carries over for the rest of the 2020-21 school year.
  • If you did NOT consent in November and want to provide that this time, we’ll send a link to a form next week to do so.
  • If you want to void consent given in November, please contact your child’s building principal ASAP.

Just like November, students without consent will NOT be tested. This will be another random selection of students, so if your child was tested in November, it is possible he/she may be called on again. We will provide more details on that next week. We truly appreciate your partnership in keeping our school community and the community at-large safe.

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

The MCDPH today reported two new positive cases in our District, one staff member at Iroquois Middle School and one staff member at Seneca elementary.

MCDPH’s contact tracing found that each case was the result of community spread with no close contacts happening in school. Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information about these or any cases. If you have questions about these, contact tracing and/or quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/resources, visit the COVID-19 Information page at the District website.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Jan. 7, 2021: 'UNITED WE STAND' & COVID-19 CASE UPDATE  


Dear Families and Staff,

At a time when compassion and kindness should be our priority, our nation was jolted again Wednesday. Like so many others, I could not believe what I saw happening in Washington, D.C. To borrow words we’ve all read and heard often over the past 24 hours, the images were both shocking, disturbing and something I hope we will never see again. They cannot be ignored. So, as educators, we did what we always do; we treated this significant event as a moment for reflection and learning. I asked Ms. Kim Cristal, our K-12 Curriculum Supervisor of Social Studies, to provide us with her perspective on just that. Please read it below under the title, “United We Stand.”

UNITED WE STAND

“Like many communities across the country, West Irondequoit students came to school today confident that our district remains a safe place for all students to process the world around them, express their own thoughts, ask hard questions, and face uncomfortable truths. In our classrooms, we supported one another by listening and learning with our teachers, classmates, and peers. This proves our core value as a community that during unsettling events – divisive, destructive or otherwise – our diversity is a source of strength, and we will continue to forge ahead during unprecedented times. As we strive to do every day, we will continue to problem-solve and grow together, leaning on one another.” 

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

The MCDPH today reported five new positive cases in our District:

  • One Dake Junior High School student
  • Two students and one staff member at Irondequoit HS
  • One Briarwood student
  • One staff member at Rogers Middle School

MCDPH’s contact tracing determined that each case was the result of community spread with no close contacts happening in school. Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information about these or any cases. If you have questions about these, contact tracing and/or quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/resources, visit the COVID-19 Information pageat the District website.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Jan. 6, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE 


Dear Families and Staff,

In addition to our daily COVID-19 update, please take a minute to read new and important guidance from the Monroe County Department of Public Health, titled “What Should I Do While Waiting For A Contact Tracer To Call?" It provides key definitions for isolation/quarantining and close contact. A significant change to earlier COVID-19 guidance is included; beginning this week, self-imposed or MCDPH-directed isolations and quarantines are now 10 days. You can read it on our website.

In a recent discussion with Dr. Michael Mendoza, the Monroe County Commissioner of Public Health stressed an important reminder that I shared with our staff today. Please remain vigilant and honest in assessing and reporting COVID-like symptoms. It is of the utmost importance that students and staff stay home and quarantine if sick or if a household member loses their sense of taste/smell or has a fever of 100 F or more.

Thank you for your partnership.

Jan. 6, 2021 COVID-19 UPDATE

The MCDPH today reported two new positive cases in our District, an Irondequoit High School student and a staff member at Southlawn School. MCDPH’s contact tracing found that each case was the result of community spread with no close contacts in school. Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information about these or any cases. If you have questions about these, contact tracing and/or quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/resources, visit the COVID-19 Information page at the District website.

Sincerely,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Jan. 5, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE 


Dear Families & Staff, 

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

The Monroe County Department of Public Health has confirmed four new cases today in our District:

  • One student at Iroquois Middle School
  • One student at Southlawn School
  • Two staff members at Rogers Middle School

MCDPH’s contact tracing determined that each case was the result of community spread with no close contacts happening in school. Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information about these or any cases. If you have questions about these cases, contact tracing and/or quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/resources, visit the COVID-19 Information page at the District website.

In partnership,

 Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Jan. 4, 2021: COVID-19 CASE UPDATE


Dear Families & Staff, 

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

The Monroe County Department of Public Health has confirmed 11 new cases in our District since our last communication on Thursday, December 31st:

Dec. 31st (PM) – January 3rd

  • Two students at Irondequoit High School
  • Two staff members at Dake Jr. High School
  • Two students at Listwood elementary
  • One student at Iroquois Middle School

Monday, January 4th

  • One staff member and one student at IHS
  • One student at Iroquois MS
  • One student at Seneca elementary

MCDPH’s contact tracing has found that each case was the result of community spread with no close contacts happening in school. Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information about these or any cases. If you have questions about them, contact tracing and quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/information, click THIS LINK.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools


 To view more updates through the year of 2020, go to this link

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