West Irondequoit

Central School District

Greetings Families,

Below is a brief update of the positive COVID-19 cases reported by the Monroe County Department of Public Health since our last correspondence on Monday. I hope you are enjoying a fulfilling holiday recess and that everyone has a Happy New Year’s Eve tonight!

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

The MCDPH has confirmed the following cases since our last communication. They are:

Dec. 28 (PM) – Dec. 31 (AM)

• One staff member at Rogers Middle School
• One student at Dake Junior High School
• One student at Irondequoit HS
• Two District-wide staff members

MCDPH’s contact tracing found that these cases were 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 any cases. If you have questions about these cases, 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.

Thank you,


Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Dear Families,

Happy Holidays and I hope everyone is enjoying the school break. Below are the new COVID-19 positive cases reported by the Monroe County Public Health Department from 12/24 - 12/28. Thank you and remember, our next COVID-19 update will be sent on Thursday, 12/31.

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

The MCDPH of Public Health confirmed the following cases since our last communication. They are:

12/24

• One IHS student (hybrid)
• Two Dake Jr. HS students (both remote)
• Two Rogers MS students (both hybrid)

12/26

• Two IHS students (both hybrid)

 12/27

• One IHS student (hybrid)
• One Iroquois MS student (remote)

MCDPH’s contact tracing determined these cases were 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 any cases. If you have questions about these cases, 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 

Dear Families & Staff, 

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

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

• Two students at Irondequoit High School
• One student at Rogers Middle School
• One student at Colebrook School
• One staff member at Seneca School

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.

Please note that we plan to send only two COVID-19 updates next week: Monday, Dec. 28 and Thursday, Dec. 31^st next week. Have a safe and happy Holiday Recess!

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools 

Dear Families & Staff,
 

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

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

• One student at Irondequoit High School
• Two students at Dake Junior High School
• One student and one staff member at Rogers Middle School
• One student at Seneca School
• One staff member who works in multiple elementary buildings

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 

Dear Families, 

Happy Holidays! We have reopened schools and sustained our learning thanks to a shared effort. In 2016, colleague Anthony Lipani combined our Eagle logo with the term "One Heartbeat." This phrase captures the spirit of community and commitment to each other in West Irondequoit. We work together through the ups and downs and remain focused on our purpose, which is our children. As we near Holiday Recess, I am most thankful for the opportunity for my family to be a part of that heartbeat. 

SUGGESTED GUIDANCE – RETURN TO PLAY/RETURN TO PHYSICAL EDUCATION

During a School and Community Health Care forum on Monday, Dec. 14th, interim guidance published by the University of Rochester Pediatric Workgroup was introduced to schools. It reflects growing concerns about the effects of moderate to severe COVID-19 symptoms on the heart. Please click THIS LINK to read more of these critical resources provided by the U of R.

Please note the introductory line: "...for release to participate in physical education, sports and moderate to vigorous play for pediatric patients." In consultation with our medical advisors and out of an abundance of caution, beginning January 4^th, 2021 any student who tests positive for COVID-19 will be required to submit an “Assessment/Release for Return to Play” form. It must be completed by their primary care physician prior to resuming play and/or physical education class. Those students may return to school upon their release from isolation by the Monroe County Department of Public Health, but they will remain out of physical education, recess and athletics until after the primary care physician has completed and verified this evaluation. The Assessment/Release for Return to Play form is also at THIS LINK, if you need to print it.

We understand that families may have different levels of access to health care, so if you have concerns about that or any other supports related to this latest guidance, please contact your building principal and social worker to identify potential next steps.

NEW COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS ZOOM WEBINARS

An essential part of "One Heartbeat" is ensuring our community is engaged and well-informed. To support that, we are creating a new opportunity for dialogue. In January, we will begin hosting bi-monthly Zoom video webinars on the fourth Tuesday of the month. We are calling them “Community Connections" to reflect the intent. These sessions start at 6:30 p.m. We will email you Zoom links in advance. The dates:

• January 26 (Topic: equity, diversity and inclusion)
• March 23 (Topic: health and safety)
• May 25 (Topic: 2020-21 school year)

COVID-19 DAILY UPDATE

The MCDPH confirmed two new cases today in our District, both Dake Junior High School students. MCDPH’s contact tracing determined each 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 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.

Wishing you and your family the very best for an enjoyable and safe holiday recess!

In partnership,

Dear Families & Staff:

DAILY COVID-19 Report

The Monroe County Dept. of Public Health confirmed today five new cases across our District:

• Three students at Rogers Middle School
•  One staff member at Rogers
•  One staff member who works district-wide

MCDPH’s contact tracing found 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 these case or others or about contact tracing and quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected]. For all COVID-related updates/information, visit our COVID-19 Information Page at THIS LINK.

FREE MEALS DURING BREAK

The East Irondequoit CSD is welcoming families from our district for its free meal program the week of Dec. 28th over holiday recess, but you must pre-order by tomorrow (Friday, Dec. 18).

Thank you,

Dear Families and Staff:

DAILY COVID-19 Report

The Monroe County Department of Public Health confirmed today one new case in our District, a staff member at Rogers Middle School. MCDPH’s contact tracing determined that this 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 this case or others or about contact tracing and quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/information, visit our COVID-19 Information Page at THIS LINK.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Dear Families:

DAILY COVID-19 Report

The Monroe County Dept. of Public Health confirmed today four new cases across our District:

• One student at Irondequoit High School
• One student at Dake Junior High School
• Two students at Rogers Middle School

MCDPH’s contact tracing found 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 this case or others or about contact tracing and quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/information, visit our COVID-19 Information Page at THIS LINK.

In partnership,

Greetings,

Today, Gov. Cuomo announced updates to the NYS Micro-Cluster Strategy that did not impact West Irondequoit. We remain a Yellow Zone. As a reminder, as a Yellow Zone we were required to test 20% of our in-person students and staff and if the results were lower than the current regional positivity rate at the time, we were not required to test again. We completed our tests prior to Thanksgiving with zero positive results. As of now, we are not required to continue testing our in-person students and staff. We'll continue to monitor the Governor's guidance this week. If our district is elevated to an Orange Zone we will be required to commence testing within a few days. The latest NYS Dept. of Health guidance on Orange and Red zones can be found HERE.

DAILY COVID-19 Report

The Monroe County Dept. of Public Health confirmed today three new cases across our District:

• Two students at Irondequoit High School

• One student at Dake Junior High School

MCDPH’s contact tracing determined these cases to be the result of community spread with no close contacts made 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 this case or others or about contact tracing and quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/information, visit our COVID-19 Information Page at THIS LINK.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

DAILY COVID-19 Report

The Monroe County Department of Public Health confirmed today three new cases in our District, a staff member at Rogers Middle School and one student at Iroquois Middle School and one student at Irondequoit High School. Contact tracing has been completed by MCDPH and found these to be the result of community spread with no close contacts made in school. Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose more details or personally identifiable information about this or any other cases.

If you have questions about this case or others or about contact tracing and quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/information, visit our COVID-19 Information Page at THIS LINK.

In partnership,

Dear Families and Staff,

DAILY COVID-19 Report

The Monroe County Department of Public Health confirmed today one new case in our District, a Dake Junior High School student. Contact tracing has been completed by MCDPH and found this to be the result of community spread with no close contacts made in school. Per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose more details or personally identifiable information about this or any other cases.

If you have questions about this case or others or about contact tracing and quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates, visit our COVID-19 Information Page at THIS LINK.

In partnership,



Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools 

Dear Families and Staff,

I hope this midweek communication finds you well and that reverting to daily COVID-19 updates helps. I promise to keep them concise. The decision to increase our communication again offers an opportunity to talk more about why we see an uptick in reported school cases. It's simple math. We expected that as our community's positivity rate rapidly increased over the past month, we would also see an increased number of student and staff cases reported by the Monroe County Department of Public Health. Thanks to the collaboration between the MCDPH and our staff, this has not impacted our schools' safety. We continue to swiftly work through the contact tracing process together to identify close contacts and quarantine people as needed. These quarantines are mostly family members and contacts made through the small community and household gatherings. With consistent safety precautions like regular masking and physical distancing, we continue to safeguard our children and staff against school spread. I cannot praise our children and staff enough for sticking with it. Their hard work and determination are the reason why we remain in session.

You may have noticed that a local school district recently had to transition all students to a fully remote model due to staffing challenges. That is something every school is managing, including us. Our staff, building principals, and human resources office have been like superheroes brainstorming to find creative solutions to cover staff absences. To do this, we've had to take an "all-hands-on-deck" mentality with people jumping in sometimes at a moment's notice to cover for colleagues. This is becoming increasingly difficult and a statewide staffing shortage mixed with the sharp increase in the positivity rate is quickly exhausting our options. I can't define a specific bar when we would have to make a similar decision, but we are tracking this closely. We may find ourselves at a point where we don't have enough available staff, even with all our creativity and flexibility. Please know, we will give you as much advanced warning as possible and are committed to maintaining our momentum to the best of our ability. 

DAILY COVID-19 Report

The MCDPH has confirmed one new case today in our District, a student at Seneca elementary who has not been in attendance since November 24^th. The MCDPH’s contact tracing found this to be the result of community spread with no close contacts made in school. Per federal privacy laws, we can’t disclose more details or personally identifiable information. If you have questions about these cases, contact tracing or quarantining, call the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

For all COVID-related updates/information, visit our COVID-19 Information Page at THIS LINK.

In partnership,

Dear Families and Staff:

COVID-19 CASE UPDATE

The Monroe County Department of Public Health has confirmed two new cases in our District, one student at Irondequoit High School and one student at Iroquois Middle School. The MCDPH’s contact tracing for these cases determined them to be the result of community spread with no close contacts made in school.

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

For all COVID-related updates/information, visit our COVID-19 Information Page at THIS LINK.

Thank you,

Dear Families and Staff,

COVID-19 REPORT

Since our last email on Friday, we received confirmation from the Monroe County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) about eight new COVID-19 cases who are now in isolation. Those include one student at Colebrook Elementary, a staff member at Listwood/Southlawn elementary schools, three students at Rogers Middle School, one student at Iroquois Middle School, and one student and one staff member at Dake Junior High School. MCDPH’s contact tracing determined all cases as community spread transmission with no close contacts at school. Any individuals who may have had contact with these people outside of school have been contacted and are now in quarantine. If you have any questions about these cases or other items related to COVID-19, please contact the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555.

Sincerely,

COVID-19 CASE UPDATES

Due to the recent uptick of positive COVID-19 cases in our schools that mirrors the trend in Monroe County, we have decided to return to regular updates from our district rather than just weekly. The case load will dictate frequency; we do not want to overwhelm families with emails, but it is important to be aware.

NEW CASES

Since Superintendent Aaron Johnson’s video update Wednesday, the Monroe County Department of Public Health has confirmed six new cases across our District. The students who tested positive attend Southlawn Elementary (2 cases), Brookview Elementary (1), Colebrook Elementary (1) and Rogers Middle School (1); an Irondequoit HS staff member also has tested positive.

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

LEARNING MODEL SWITCH DEADLINE

Just a reminder for families that 3 PM Dec. 21, 2020 is the deadline to switch your child’s learning model. These changes will go into effect at the start of the 3rd marking period and will remain in place for the remainder of the school year. Please use the links to change forms we emailed directly to you. Questions for grades K-6? Email K-6 Director of Instruction, Mrs. Chrissy Miga ([email protected]). Questions for grades 7-12? Email 7-12 Director of Instruction, Mrs. Karen Finter ([email protected]).

Dear Families and Staff,

Weekly COVID-19 Report

This past week the Monroe County Department of Public Health confirmed 17 new COVID-19 positive student cases across our District. These students attend Southlawn Elementary (2 students), Rogers Middle School (4), Dake Jr. High School (2), IHS (3), and there were six fully remote students. The MCDPH has completed contact tracing and found each case to be a result of community spread with no close contacts made in school. At this time, individuals have been contacted by the MCDPH and provided direction to quarantine if they had close contact with these individuals outside of school.

If you have any questions about these cases or other items related to COVID-19, please contact the MCDPH COVID-19 Hotline at (585) 753-5555.

Town of Irondequoit Rapid Testing- CORRECTION

One correction from my communication on Monday, 11/23. At this time, the Town of Irondequoit has not finalized the date and times for drive-thru testing. They anticipate the tests to be available sometime next week. Please watch their Facebook  page and Twitter for more information. Community testing will provides our town with a more representative snapshot of our positivity rate.

Continue the Fight

According to the NYS Forward COVID-19 School Report Card, we have had the following cases:

Notice that for the entire year, 41 total students have tested positive (in-person and remote), 20 in the last two weeks and 14 of those this past week as of 11/23 (excluding three additional cases reported today). We can see the post-Halloween spike. Heading into Thanksgiving break, we have more control over our gatherings than we did at Halloween because they’re mostly in our homes rather than spread out across the community. I’m very pleased to hear the extra care and precautions reflected in your plans. I can tell that people are giving deep consideration into how they can their keep loved ones safe. 

With test results to back it up, we know our schools are the safest place outside of your home for your children and we are committed to fighting for in-person learning to remain an option. We look forward to your ongoing partnership.

Wishing you all the best for a happy and safe holiday week and thank you again for your trust and support in our schools.

Sincerely,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D

Superintendent of Schools 

Dear Families and Staff,

Monday’s Announcement

Governor Cuomo announced today, as it relates to his Micro-Cluster Strategy, that parts of Monroe County are being elevated to an Orange Zone status. That includes portions of Irondequoit but for now is limited to the 14609 and 14621 zip codes. Town Supervisor Seeley has been in direct communication with the Governor’s office and they have said that if our District’s zip code of 14617 continues on its current trajectory, West Irondequoit could be next. Friends, we have the ability to flatten the curve in our school community and keep our houses of worship, businesses and most importantly schools open. We have done a great job of keeping school safe so far. We know this because we had zero positive cases out of the nearly 800 people tested last week. Please, remember the following:

• Limit social gatherings
• Wear a mask over the nose and mouth around people outside of our immediate household
• Regularly sanitize our hands

The Town of Irondequoit is planning to offer free drive-thru testing this weekend (CORRECTION: This may happen soon but not this weekend). Whether it’s there, through your health care provider, or a local clinic, having your family tested will help to drive down our numbers. Just like last week’s testing in our schools, which yielded zero positive cases, you can drive up the denominator in our zip code’s 7-day positivity rate by adding more negative tests. For the sake of our children, please, consider having a COVID-19 rapid test if offered and being cautious while interacting with people outside of your home during this holiday season.

Orange Zone Overview

We dodged one today but must keep our eyes on the criteria for becoming an orange zone. To help, here is a quick review of the ORANGE ZONE classification regarding schools:

Ø  Zip Code has a 7-day rolling average positivity rate above 4% for 10 consecutive days

• Schools:
  • Must remain closed for at least 4 calendar days after the zone designation announcement and all learning will happen remotely
  • All faculty, staff, and students must receive a negative COVID-19 test before returning to in-person instruction
    • Specimen collection must be after the date the zone was established
  • Once open, schools must test a unique group of 25% of their in-person students and staff each week. If testing occurs through the fifth week, schools will loop back to test the first 25%.

Reopening under an Orange Zone

If our zip code is elevated to Orange, all classes grades K-12 will be limited to only full-remote learning starting the day after the announcement. Depending on the timing and our ability to offer onsite testing, we will do our best to reopen schools on the fifth day. To do this, we will need the vast majority of our in-person student population to participate in testing. If not, all students will fall into full-remote learning. Here is a breakdown of the two scenarios: 

1. 95-100% In-person students participate in testing

1. We have analyzed our capacity to add more remote learning to our current classes and have very limited availability, about 3-7 students per grade in K-6. For us to offer both a hybrid and remote learning model under the Orange Zone guidelines, the majority (95-100%) of current in-person students must participate in testing. If a current in-person student does participate in testing but tests positive, they will not be added to the 100% remote classes. Instead, they must follow the defined protocols to return to their in-person placement.
2. Many of you have already consented your children for the rapid antigen testing we offered last week that allowed us to easily reach the 20% needed. To entertain in-person learning under in an Orange Zone designation we need a lot more. If you have not given consent to testing your child(ren) and want to now, please complete this COVID-19 TEST CONSENT FORM. This will help us determine whether we can pursue a return to in-person learning.

2. Fully remote learning ONLY

a. If most of our current in-person students do not test negative after being designated an Orange Zone, all students will fall to full-remote leaning. CLICK HERE to see what that would look like for our K-6 and 7-12 students:

Please note: For WICSD families who live in 14621, you are not impacted. The Orange Zone only applies if the school your children attend falls with the zone. 

Like me, you’re probably on information overload right now. It is frustrating that these COVID-related guidelines continue to change. However, those are beyond our control. What we CAN DO is focus on our own behaviors. As your Superintendent, I am not trying to nose my way into your business. All I ask is that you carefully consider your options and if you gather with friends and/or family. Please be safe. 

I am thankful for so many things in my life, such as continued health, faith, family and the outstanding community that I serve. Thank you for staying engaged and supporting our schools through the thick and thin.

With gratitude,

Dear West Irondequoit Families and Staff, 

This is the first weekly COVID-19 communication since adjusting our procedures to share updates on positive cases within our district only on Wednesdays. Again, based on feedback, the stream of multiple individual reports became counterproductive for many people. Individuals who must know about each case are contacted directly by the Monroe County Department of Public Health (MCDPH), and for everyone else these communications are to keep us informed without becoming cumbersome.

Since our last COVID-19 update on November 14^th, the MCDPH confirmed two new positive student cases, one at Rogers Middle School and one at Irondequoit High School. Contact tracing for both cases is complete and the MCDPH deemed both the result of community spread with no close contacts found at school.

A third case at Listwood School was incorrectly reported. Through direct communication with the parent and confirmation by the student’s health care provider, this student case is confirmed NEGATIVE but was incorrectly uploaded to MCDPH. District Office has contacted top officials at MCDPH to correct the error.

At this time, the MCDPH has completed its contact tracing. If the MCDPH did not contact you or your child, there is no risk of exposure. As you know per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose more details or personally identifiable information about COVID-19 cases. If you have information, questions, or concerns, please contact the MCDPH’s hotline at (585) 753-5555.

Thank you for your continued support and please, continue to wear those masks, wash hands, and stay physically distanced. 

In partnership,


Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Dear West Irondequoit Families and Staff:

Let me open with a quick thank you for your diligence in helping our community and school district determine best ways to manage another unprecedented situation caused by this pandemic. We are receiving helpful feedback via the Thoughtexchange sent to you on Thursday. Keep it coming. We cannot do this alone – on any front, so thank you. We understand there is a lot coming at you very quickly. Please stay with us and reach out to myself or your children’s principal with any questions along the way.

COVID-19 TESTING CONSENT

As you know, the state has designated most of Monroe County as a Yellow Zone regarding COVID-19 infection rates. As a result, we must begin administering free rapid COVID-19 tests to 20% of our students and staff starting next week. We do not plan to start this process for students until next Thursday, Nov. 19^th. No student will be tested without the consent of a parent/guardian. How do you give us your decision on that? Please use the link we emailed families to fill out the form if you want to give us your consent. The deadline for this is 10 AM Tuesday, Nov. 17^th.

VIDEO: WHAT DOES A TEST LOOK LIKE?

We know this is a big concern for families/students, so I took the same Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 test that we will administer in our schools. Watch a video of that at THIS LINK.

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE

Testing will be conducted in each school building. Each week, staff will be tested Wednesdays when most students are working remotely. In a normal testing cycle, schools will test a random sample of 5% of their students every day M-T-Th-F to reach the overall 20% weekly requirement. Test locations are being identified in each building and once finalized, will be relayed to families/students. Test locations will be large enough to accommodate up to 10 students at a time physically distanced and masked except at the elementary schools. Due to their smaller populations, testing can occur through the Nurse’s Office. Locations will be setup with privacy screens to allow discretion for individuals during the test and all personnel will be outfitted with the recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) per the Monroe County Department of Public Health. Buildings will target non-instructional times for student testing as much as possible to minimize classroom disruptions, but some may occur.

TRAINING

All personnel involved in administering the Abbott BinaxNOW Rapid COVID-19 test will receive training provided by the MCDPH and our District. Training covers proper techniques for safe specimen collection and handling along with appropriate disposal. Staff are also informed on the necessary safety precautions and how to securely manage personally identifiable information to ensure confidentiality.

PROCESS OVERVIEW

Each week, principals will receive a list of students randomly selected from the list of known consent. We are working on details and schedules to minimize the impact to instruction. Students will be informed of their test and report to their designated location under the supervision of our test personnel. Upon arrival, students will confirm their identity and sanitize their hands while remaining physically distanced. Specimen samples will be gathered by individual students by a trained individual behind a privacy screen. Once collected, the student’s test will be labeled, and students will return to class under proper supervision. Parents and guardians of students tested will receive an email that day to indicate its completion. If a positive test is encountered, staff will follow the established protocols to isolate the individual in the building’s COVID isolation room and parents will be informed and asked to pick up their child. Any positive tests will be reported to the MCDPH for relevant contact tracing. Read more about the entire process in the new FAQ section on our website. Access it at THIS LINK.

GIVE US YOUR FEEDBACK

Remember to use the link emailed to you to access the “Thoughtexchange,” which is an anonymous way for you to share feedback/ideas and a valuable tool for us to gather and quantify it. The deadline to submit your thoughts/feedback is 9 AM on Monday, Nov. 16^th.

BEING PREPARED

Currently the WICSD falls within the "Yellow Zone” of the NYS Micro-Cluster Strategy.  If we remain above 4% for 10 days, or jump above 5% as a rolling average, NYS officials could quickly transition us from in-person/Hybrid model instruction to temporary Full-Remote Instruction only.  Our teachers and staff are diligently preparing for in-person instruction but are taking actions to ensure that our students are prepared if we do have to make the transition to full remote. You may have noticed that students are bringing home resources that they may need if we do transition.  Please keep the materials in a safe space. We will continue to update families with any changes.

JOIN US MONDAY

We will host a “Town Hall Meeting” via a Zoom Video Webinar at 6 PM Monday, Nov. 16th. We’ll address your concerns received via the Thoughtexchange and share as much information as we can. Access that webinar again via the link emailed to you. We’ll post it on our YouTube channel for you to view at your convenience.

POSITIVE CASE
We were informed today by the Monroe County Department of Public Health that a staff member at Colebrook elementary school has tested positive for COVID-19. This individual was last in school on Monday, Nov. 9th. The MCDPH has started its contract tracing. Federal privacy laws prevent us from providing any more details or personally identifiable information. Questions or concerns? Please call the MCDPH’s hotline at 753-5555 or your healthcare provider. 

Gratefully,

Dear West Irondequoit Families and staff:

We know you all have questions about the state-mandated COVID-19 testing that area schools must start next week in order to stay open for in-person instruction. It’s our goal to keep you well-informed about this process. Keep in mind we are learning new details and adjusting daily, but please keep reading because just as we did before re-opening in September, we want your feedback.

• Tell us your thoughts: We emailed all families today a link to access a “Thoughtexchange,” which is an anonymous way for you to share feedback/ideas and valuable tool for us to gather and quantify it. The deadline for this is 9 a.m. Monday, Nov. 16^th.
• Testing details: No student will be tested without parental/guardian consent. Very soon we’ll send a form that includes more details, including an “opt-out” of testing option. It also will have a choice to allow testing your child only when a parent/guardian is present.  
• Tests en route: We expect to receive our allotment of Rapid Testing Kits by this weekend and plan to show you via video what that less invasive, nasal swab test looks like. We need 20% of our students/staff to undergo this starting next week.
• Join us Monday: We will host a “Town Hall Meeting” via a Zoom Video Webinar at 6 PM Monday, Nov. 16. We’ll address your concerns received via the Thoughtexchange and share as much information as we can. Access that webinar via THIS LINK and by using the passcode: 595657. Can’t watch it live? We’ll post it on our YouTube channel for you to view at your convenience.

Indeed, there are once again a lot of moving parts, but this is what state officials say we must do to keep your children in classrooms. So, please give us your feedback and ideas. Please keep practicing all of the safety protocols we know can help drop the area’s infection rate below that 3% threshold again; more negative tests = the way to achieve that. And finally, please stay safe.

In partnership,


Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

COMMUNICATION CHANGE FOR COVID-19 CASES

Starting Monday, Nov. 16th, we will limit our reporting of COVID-19 cases in our district to once a week – Wednesdays – to streamline the process. We understand the amount of communication you are receiving collectively from the district, principals and teachers can be overwhelming. We may make COVID-19 exceptions, as needed, but moving forward look for it on Wednesdays. Note: We will continue to share each case immediately with our staff. Students and staff will continue to be involved in contact tracing, as needed. Any communications regarding potential exposure will continue to happen directly through the Monroe County Department of Public Health and district.

Thank you again for your support and diligence in managing life for you and your children during what continue to be challenging times. We are in this together. Stay safe.

Dear West Irondequoit Families and Staff,

We were informed today by the Monroe County Department of Public Health that an Irondequoit High School student has tested positive for COVID-19. This student has been in our Full-Remote Instruction model this school year and not on campus. Federal privacy laws prevent us from providing any more details or personally identifiable information. Questions or concerns? Please call the MCDPH’s hotline at 753-5555 or your healthcare provider.

COMMUNICATION CHANGE FOR COVID-19 CASES

After today, we will limit our reporting of COVID-19 cases in our district to once a week – Wednesdays – to streamline the process. We understand the amount of communication you are receiving collectively from the district, principals and teachers can be overwhelming. We may make COVID-19 exceptions, as needed, but moving forward look for it on Wednesdays. Note: We will continue to share each case immediately with our staff. We also will involve students and staff in helping us in contact tracing, as needed. This communication change will not impact people’s awareness about potential exposure.

Thank you again for your support and diligence in managing life for you and your children during what continue to be challenging times. We are in this together. Stay safe.

In partnership,

 
Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Dear West Irondequoit Families and Staff, 

Since recording my video on Monday, plans have continued to develop. Thank you to everyone who reached out and shared questions and support. Both go a long way in helping our efforts to sustain our programs and services. Some have also voiced concern and even anger about the directive to test our children. I understand the fears and am strongly advocating for options, but these are the cards we've been dealt. With that comes power -- the power to rewrite the narrative by taking action to drive those infection rates down.

We know that information is critical. First and foremost, know that your child will not be tested without your consent. We also know that testing comes with a cost. As you read this letter, a shipment of rapid tests is en route from New York State to the Monroe County Department of Public Health. By next Monday, we must be ready to test 20% of our in-person students/staff and these free tests provided by the state will allow us to do that. Where, when and how will this testing occur? We are addressing those questions and plan to provide a more comprehensive update Friday outlining all the logistics.

Also planned for release this Friday will be the official Parent Consent Form and an FAQ about operating within a yellow zone. Until then, here’s a LINK to a distilled overview of the NYS Micro-Cluster Strategy as directed by Executive Order 202.68. As you’ll note, we should do everything we can to see our 7-day rolling positive test average trend down because if we don’t, the restrictions and hurdles only increase.

Before we break for Wednesday, I want to call attention again to why. In our schools and across our community, we have numerous Veterans, active-duty service people and families who have made tremendous personal sacrifices for us. On behalf of our District and Board of Education, thank you for your service to our country.

Kind regards,


Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

The Monroe County Department of Public Health reported today that three Irondequoit High School students have tested positive for COVID-19. There were no close contacts found related to students or staff. According to the MCDPH, all three cases are the result of community spread. Two of the students last attended in-person instruction on November 5^th, the other’s last day was October 29^th.

If the MCDPH does not contact you or your child, there is no risk of exposure. As you know per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose more details or personally identifiable information about COVID-19 cases. If you have information, questions, or concerns, please call the MCDPH’s hotline at (585) 753-5555 or your healthcare provider.

If you have other questions, do not hesitate to reach out to your child(ren)’s principal.

Dear West Irondequoit Families and Staff, 

Over the weekend, the Monroe County Department of Public Health confirmed six new positive COVID-19 cases in our district: Four Irondequoit High School students, one Iroquois Middle School student and a Dake Junior High School staff member. All six cases are a result of community spread, and there were no close contacts found related to students or staff. All six individuals proactively self-quarantined early last week to limit contact, including those in the full-remote instructional model.

The MCDPH continues to do an excellent job with contract tracing. If the MCDPH does not contact you or your child, there is no risk of exposure. As you know per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose more details or personally identifiable information about COVID-19 cases. If you have information, questions, or concerns, please call the MCDPH’s hotline at (585) 753-5555 or your healthcare provider.

As noted by MCDPH Commissioner, Dr. Michael Mendoza, schools are the safest place in our community with virtually no transmission of COVID happening in our buildings. We need to keep our children in school and safe but unfortunately, the rising infection rates may direct otherwise. Today the seven-day rolling average for Monroe County is 3.4%. I mentioned the NYS Micro-Cluster Strategy in my most recent letter on Friday, and as you can see, the Governor may soon identify “yellow precautionary zones” in our county. As stated in the past, we must take action to control this outbreak. The only way to do that is for everyone to take precautions. For schools to remain open, we must apply the following precautions with fidelity to gatherings outside of school. They are:

• Limit large gatherings
• Face coverings covering nose and mouth when gathering
• Maintain physical distance when possible
• Regularly practice appropriate hand hygiene

We do expect more cases this week resulting from Halloween gatherings. I know people are sick and tired of this pandemic, but we must stay vigilant. Please watch your family’s daily health closely and if you see any changes, be proactive. Self-quarantine and seek out a healthcare provider. Thanks to your self-awareness and our practices in school to date we’ve kept the spread at bay. Now, it could potentially be taken out of our hands. I urge us all to tighten up for the next month for the benefit of our children.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Dear West Irondequoit Families and Staff, 

Earlier today, the Monroe County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) confirmed three new positive COVID-19 cases who are Irondequoit High School students. MCDPH determined that this cluster is traced back to community gatherings last week and was not transmitted at school. Any of these students who attend in-person instruction were last in attendance on October 30^th.

At this time, the MCDPH has completed its contact tracing. If the MCDPH did not contact you or your child, there is no risk of exposure. As you know per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose more details or personally identifiable information about COVID-19 cases. If you have information, questions, or concerns, please call the MCDPH’s hotline at (585) 753-5555.

This letter offers another chance to reinforce the importance of practicing these safety precautions:

• Face coverings (over the nose and mouth)
• Physical distancing
• Hand hygiene

These must be followed at all times, including outside of school. We know there will be gatherings throughout the holiday season, and I don’t believe it’s my place to direct you on whether you should or shouldn’t gather. I will, however, continue to strongly encourage everyone to protect our community’s health and the integrity of our instructional programs by staying vigilant and following these precautions. We cannot let our guard down, not even with close friends and family outside of our household. This isn’t a scare tactic, simply the reality if we hope to keep our children learning in an in-person, face-to-face model with our staff.

There was a rumor floating around last week that schools will be directed to close between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I can tell you this: That has not been given to me or the District by the County or State. What will dictate whether in-person learning continues will be the infection rate. If our regional infection rate elevates above the established guidelines, schools will be directed to only full-remote instruction or will need to establish complex, regular COVID-19 testing strategies to return. Again, we hold the power to manage this. Let’s work together to make sure we minimize COVID-19 transmission by practicing the safety precautions outlined above.

For more information about the NYS Micro-Cluster Strategy, visit the NYS Forward website HERE.

Together,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Dear West Irondequoit Families and Staff, 

The Monroe County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) has confirmed that an Irondequoit High School student tested positive for COVID-19 as a result of community spread. It’s important to note that this student has not been on our campus since Monday, October 26^th. At this time, the MCDPH stated there were no close contacts between the student and any staff or other students thanks to everyone following proper safety protocols.

If the MCDPH did not contact you or your child, there is no risk of exposure. As you know per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose more details or personally identifiable information about COVID-19 cases. If you have information, questions, or concerns, please contact the MCDPH’s hotline at (585) 753-5555.

A few questions have been raised about a recent MCDPH update and where it can be found for you to review. The full October 20, 2020 “Clarification to NYSDOH COVID Toolkit for PreK-12 Schools” is available on our District website at Dept. of Health Update (symptoms)- 10/20/20 .

Thank you,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Dear West Irondequoit Families and Staff, 

The Monroe County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) confirmed today that a Rogers Middle School staff member tested positive for COVID-19 as a result of community spread. This staff member last attended school on Friday, October 30^th. Based on its contact tracing, the MCDPH did not identify any close contacts between this person and any staff or students thanks to the safety precautions we have in place. As a precaution, Rogers was thoroughly cleaned, sanitized and disinfected over the weekend.

If the MCDPH did not contact you or your child, there is no risk of exposure. As you know per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose more details or personally identifiable information about COVID-19 cases. If you have information, questions, or concerns, please contact the MCDPH’s hotline at (585) 753-5555.

As a reminder, here are some recent updates from MCDPH that were sent last week:

• If you are unsure if a symptom is new or worsening, treat it as a potential symptom of COVID-19 and quarantine pending a consultation and screening with your health care provider.
• Symptomatic students or staff  MUST consult with a health care provider AND receive an alternate diagnosis OR negative test result within 48 hours of symptom onset. People who do not meet these criteria will be placed in isolation per the MCDPH.
• If a student or staff member experiences fever and/or loss of smell, the individual’s immediate household members (including siblings) must quarantine per the MCDPH pending COVID-19 test results of the symptomatic person.

Masking, physical distancing and hand hygiene works. Please continue to reinforce these habits at home and in the community and together we will contain the spread in Irondequoit despite the recent regional surge.

In partnership, 

Dear West Irondequoit Families and Staff, 

We were informed Thursday that an Irondequoit High School student recently tested positive for COVID-19. At this time, the Monroe County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) has completed its contact tracing and determined that the student contracted the virus outside of school. Thanks to our consistent use of face coverings and what we’re doing to promote physical distancing and hand hygiene, the MCDPH also found minimal chance of further spread in school. The student self-quarantined last weekend after feeling ill. 

If the MCDPH did not contact you or your child, there is no risk of exposure. As you know per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose more details or personally identifiable information about COVID-19 cases. If you have information, questions, or concerns, please contact the MCDPH’s hotline at (585) 753-5555.

In addition, here are a few important points of clarification from recent updates from MCDPH:

• If you are unsure if a symptom is new or worsening, treat it as a potential symptom of COVID-19 and quarantine pending a consultation and screening with your health care provider.
• Symptomatic students or staff MUST consult with a health care provider AND receive an alternate diagnosis OR negative test result within 48 hours of symptom onset. People who do not meet these criteria will be placed in isolation per the MCDPH.
• If a student or staff member experiences fever and/or loss of smell, the individual’s immediate household members (including siblings) must quarantine per the MCDPH, pending COVID-19 test results of the symptomatic person.

With the holidays approaching, I am asking everyone to remain focused on what is working. Your efforts to monitor temperature and symptoms prior to arrival at school are making a big difference. That, along with consistent use of face coverings, are keeping people healthy and our schools open. We all own a piece of our success, but also the burden to stay the course. Remember, we’re doing this for our children.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

We were informed that an Irondequoit High School student recently tested positive for COVID-19. At this time, the Monroe County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) has completed contact tracing and determined that the student contracted the virus outside of school. As a precaution, the student self-quarantined and has not been on campus since October 9^th. The MCDPH also indicated that the student was not a carrier of the virus prior to their last day of attendance.

If the MCDPH did not contact you or your child, there is no risk of exposure. As you know per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose more details or personally identifiable information about COVID-19 cases. 

As you hear in the news, COVID-19 positive cases are to be expected especially as the weather gets colder. Earlier this week, I shared advice about the precautions we need to take when moving our small family and friend gatherings indoors. Like this case, we need to continue to closely monitor the possible physical signs and symptoms daily. Our staff and you are doing a great job completing your daily health screens and taking necessary precautions. Let’s keep up the good work and stay the course. Transmission will happen in the community, but we can contain the spread.

Again, thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to our children.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Dear West Irondequoit Families, 

We were informed that a student at Dake Junior High School recently tested positive for COVID-19. At this time, the Monroe County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) has completed its contact tracing and determined that the student contracted the virus outside of school and that no other staff or students are impacted.  To add to this reassurance, the student has not entered a school facility since September 29^th.

If the MCDPH did not contact you or your child, there is no risk of exposure. As you know per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose more details or personally identifiable information about COVID-19 cases. 

I believe our cases reflect a shared understanding and ownership for our community’s health and especially that of our students and staff. Thank you for buying in, for coaching your children and for practicing proper:

• Physical distancing of 6 feet or more
• Face coverings over the nose and mouth
• Regular hand hygiene

News from Monroe County shows an increase in community transmission within small groups that have regularly associated with one another outdoors. As you move family and social gatherings indoors, please consider those safety measures and be cautious around those you feel comfortable with outside of your immediate family. We all travel to grocery stores, gas stations and places of business and could unknowingly become infected.

Thank you again for your ongoing support.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Dear West Irondequoit Families, 

Over the long weekend we were informed that a staff member at Iroquois Middle School recently tested positive for COVID-19. At this time, the Monroe County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) has completed its contact tracing and determined that the staff member contracted the virus outside of school and that no other staff or students are at risk. Since being informed that they had close contact with a known case last weekend, the staff member self-quarantined awaiting the results of their own test.

If the MCDPH did not contact you or your child, there is no risk of exposure. As you know per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose more details or personally identifiable information about this or other COVID-19 cases. 

This latest case is a great example of personal awareness. Each day our students and staff report to school, they complete a health screen that asks key questions such as:

• Do you have a fever of 100 degrees F or higher or chills?
• Do you have any symptoms not typical to you such as a cough, headache, sore throat, runny nose, congestion, diarrhea, muscle aches or shortness of breath?
• Has your sense of taste or smell been impacted?
• In the past 14 days, have you been in close contact with anyone who tested positive for COVID-19?
• Have you travelled internationally or from a state with widespread community transmission of COVID-19 per the NYS Travel Advisory?

Each is a critical question to consider before sending your child(ren) to school. To err on the side of caution, is to consider the well-being of not only your loved ones but also all of our children and staff. With cold and flu season upon us and the weather changing, it is critical that we remain vigilant and stay the course together. Thank you for the ongoing support and extra work you’re giving to safeguard our schools. Teaching and learning cannot safely continue as it is without your support!

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Dear West Irondequoit Families, 

I wanted to share with you that we have two new positive COVID-19 student cases, one at Dake Junior High School and the other at Rogers Middle School. At this time, the Monroe County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) has completed its contact tracing and determined that the students contracted the virus outside of school. Neither student has been on campus since the last full week of September. 

If the MCDPH did not contact you or your child, there is no risk of exposure. As you know per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose more details or personally identifiable information about this or other COVID-19 cases. 

Last week, the NYS Department of Health provided updated guidance on how attendance should be handled for staff and students. These easy-to-follow flowcharts are important for parents and guardians to help clarify the process and illustrate how decisions are made to quarantine or allow re-entry to school. For your reference you can find them on our COVID-19 Resources page: http://bit.ly/COVID_Resources_WI

As the weather continues to cool, I cannot stress enough how important it is to apply COVID-19 safety precautions when gathering indoors or in the community. Please limit your gatherings to the recommendations from the CDC on gatherings and community events and make sure to practice physical distancing and hand hygiene and wear face coverings. Regardless of whether you’re gathering with extended family or friends, we must remain committed to these safeguards. Together, we share the responsibility to protect our schools from community-based COVID-19 infections. Your child(ren)’s education depends on it.

In partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

• For Students
• For Staff

Dear West Irondequoit Families,

I wanted to share with you that we have a new positive COVID-19 case for a student at Dake Junior High School. At this time, the Monroe County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) has completed its contact tracing investigation and determined that the student contracted the virus outside of school. This student has not physically entered a school facility since early last week.

If the MCDPH did not contact you or your child, there is no risk of exposure. As you know per federal privacy laws, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information about this or other COVID- 19 cases.

To help you understand the protocols followed for a student exposed to COVID-19, please read the current MCDPH guidelines regarding quarantine measures and health screening. This county guidance is based on the direction of the NYS Department of Health requirements: The student is symptom-free for 14 days from the last date of contact with a COVID-19 case.

More information on local COVID-19 testing sites is located at NYS Information on Novel Coronavirus. Please direct any questions about potential exposure, testing, contact tracing or quarantining to the MCDPH. Call (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

According to the Monroe County Commissioner for Public Health, Dr. Michael Mendoza, face coverings and physical distancing in schools are working. That, along with the contact tracing and precautionary quarantines, prevents spread and keeps our infection rates low. As Dr. Mendoza shared in a recent news article, we must carry these habits outside of school, especially as the weather turns colder. I urge you to consider the use of face coverings and physical distancing when gathering in groups indoors. If we can agree to these terms together, we can protect our children, staff and schools to sustain the excellent teaching and learning happening in our classrooms.

In partnership,

Dear West Irondequoit Learning Community,

This letter is to inform you about a new positive COVID-19 student case, a Dake Junior High School student, reported today by the Monroe County Department of Public Health (MCDPH). The student has not physically attended a school building this school year and is being isolated.

Based on its investigation, the MCDPH has determined that the student contracted the virus outside of school. At this time, contact tracing is complete, and the MCDPH has contacted anyone who could potentially be at risk of exposure to this student. If you or your child were not contacted, there is no risk of exposure. As you know, we cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information per federal privacy laws.

As in past communications, I urge families to remain diligent outside of school and in the community. Continue to practice the recommended State Department of Health safety measures and track your symptoms daily. That includes limiting the amount of people you are around in group gatherings. If you experience health symptoms not typical to you, make sure to swiftly report them to your health care provider and initiate a precautionary quarantine.

Please direct any questions about potential exposure, testing, contact tracing or quarantining to the MCDPH. Call (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

Thank you,

Dear Families,

This weekend, the District was informed by the Monroe County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) that two new students have tested positive for COVID-19, one at Dake Junior High School and one at Irondequoit High School. 

After completing its investigation, the MCDPH has determined these cases are not related to one another. Both students contracted the virus outside of school and neither were in school buildings while infectious. The infected students are in isolation and will not return to in-person learning until being released by County health officials. At this time, contact tracing has been completed. Anyone at risk of exposure to these students outside of school has been contacted by MCDPH and placed into a mandatory quarantine. If you or your child were not contacted, there is no risk of exposure. We cannot disclose any more details or personally identifiable information per federal privacy laws.

Please direct any questions related to potential exposure, testing, contact tracing or quarantining to the MCDPH. Call (585) 753-5555 or email [email protected].

To clarify information about last Wednesday's news release on positive tests: Two new cases were reported at that time – both students at the Rogers Middle School. One was found to be transmitted outside of school, and contact tracing on the other case was inconclusive on where transmission occurred. In an abundance of caution, a single class was placed in mandatory quarantine as a result. Those students and staff will not return in-person to school until released by the MCDPH.

Except for the one inconclusive case, the transmission of COVID-19 continues to occur outside of school. I urge students, families and staff to remain diligent and always practice the recommended State Department of Health safety measures. They are:

• Remain physically distanced by 6 feet or more when possible
• Wear a face covering over your nose and mouth when in close contact
• Practice hand hygiene regularly

Even though the local infection rates remain low, we can continue to minimize the spread of COVID-19 through our collective commitment to these recommended practices. Together, we will continue to safeguard the joint health of our schools and the Irondequoit community.

In partnership,

The Monroe County Department of Public Health’s investigation of a Rogers Middle School student who tested positive for COVID-19 has determined that the student came into close contact with at least one other student who is in the same class. That other student also has tested positive. Although it is unclear if this transmission occurred in or outside of school and using an abundance of caution, the MCDPH has placed all staff and students in that single classroom into Mandatory Quarantine.

These individuals will not return to in-person learning until being cleared by the MCDPH. It also recommends that they remain distant from others in their households. Unless a quarantined individual tests positive for COVID-19 and is placed in isolation, other members of their households are not considered “close contacts” by the Public Health Department and can continue with in-person instruction at school.

Families and staff impacted are being notified tonight. No other students or staff at Rogers Middle School need to take any further action unless contacted by the MCDPH or School District. Any questions related to potential exposure, testing, contact tracing or quarantining should be directed to the MCDPH at (585) 753-5555 or by emailing [email protected].

“I am glad we are taking assertive measures to ensure the safety of our students and staff,” said Aaron Johnson, Superintendent of Schools for West Irondequoit. “This reaffirms how important face coverings and physical distance is to preventing the spread of COVID-19. We must remain vigilant. Special thanks to our COVID-19 Safety Team and administrators along with the Monroe County Department of Public Health for quickly assessing this situation and guiding us to take these additional precautionary measures.”

Dear Families of Grades K-6 Students,

Thanks to the “can do” attitude of our staff and you, our students are settling into their respective pandemic learning models and off to a solid start. Together, we’ve tackled many obstacles to create new systems and structures to support our students academic, social and emotional needs given the circumstances. At every turn, there has been new information or changing guidance requiring flexible thinking. Thank you for trusting the process.

More K-6 families opted for the 100% remote learning model than we initially expected. Based on data from August, we expected 250 grades K-6 students to learn remotely. Since then, this number has increased to 380 students. To meet that number of more than 100 additional students, we’ve had to collapse in-person sections to accommodate the requests. The District has been committed to preserving the option for families to change their learning options. In August, we expected this to include the option for students to change from remote to hybrid at the 10-week mark and from hybrid to remote at any time. Since then, we’ve learned that the initial response rate to 100% remote learning will limit our ability to deliver on the vision we had in August.

Where does this put us? Below are the key points to understand:

• At grades K-5, we have approximately 20 seats available across each grade level to accommodate students moving from remote to hybrid learning AFTER the 10-week mark.
• These seats are distributed unevenly across our buildings. This is due to the unique variance to the hybrid learning requests by building and grade level. This means that at 10 weeks, students requesting a return to hybrid learning will be placed in their home neighborhood schools on a first come, first served basis. Some students may not be placed back at their home school building for this year only.
• At grade 6, space is even more limited and complex. We will need to analyze the number of requests to return to hybrid learning to determine how to best proceed.
• Due to the higher than expected number of requests, our 100% remote learning classes are near capacity. This now constricts our ability to deliver on the vision to allow students to switch from hybrid to 100% remote at any time. We must now limit requests to the 10-week mark. At that time, we will assess how many students are requesting a move in both directions and make decisions from there.

Please accept my regrets and apologies for overextending ourselves initially. Our District’s mindset is rooted in a spirit of service and errored on the side of flexibility that we now know isn’t possible. Understanding these limitations, we suggest the following events for families considering a change. They are:

1. SUBMIT QUESTIONS: Families may submit questions regarding these grade K-6 changes by Friday, Sept. 25 via a Microsoft link that was emailed on Wednesday.
2. ZOOM WEBINAR: We will host a video webinar on this at 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 28 to address questions submitted on the form above. Join the webinar via the link emailed to you on Wednesday.
3. REQUEST CHANGE AT 10 WEEKS: Families must submit their request to change their learning model by Monday, Oct. 19. Access the request form via the link in the email sent on Wednesday. Students requesting a change will begin their new learning model on Monday, Nov. 9. If the number of requests exceeds our ability at this time, we will accommodate as many as possible and reconsider the remaining at the 20-week mark.
4. REQUEST AT 20 WEEKS: Families will be given a final chance to request a change to their child’s learning model at the end of 20 weeks. They must do so by Monday, Dec. 21. Access the request form via the email sent on Wednesday. Students requesting this change will begin their new learning model on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021. This will be the FINAL chance to request a change for the 2020-21 school year.

Thank you for your continued patience and partnership. This news will likely catch some by surprise and again, I am sorry. We continue to do our best to stay ahead of the changes and are doing our best to manage a structure that is new to us all while putting student and staff safety first.

Gratefully,


Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Dear Families,

The Monroe County Department of Public Health informed us early this morning that a Rogers Middle School student has tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Friday, Sept. 18th and based on contact tracing conducted by the MCDPH, it determined the virus was contracted outside school. Per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.

Following our safety and cleaning protocols, all areas of the school were thoroughly disinfected and sanitized.

The student and their family have been quarantined. In reviewing our COVID-19 Safety Plan with the MCDPH and based on its contact tracing, the MCDPH determined a very low risk of transmission. That is the result of our mitigation protocols, such as face coverings and physical distancing implemented throughout our buildings. The MCDPH also has advised us that classes should continue as scheduled and that you do not need to take any further action unless contacted directly by them. Rogers is the only school in our district impacted.

Although this is the first known case of COVID-19 occurring in our student population, we can expect that it won't be our last. If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing and wearing face coverings, we will minimize risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with everyone. Please continue to practice these safety precautions with fidelity and take our daily health screens so that, as in this case, we reduce the chance of infection to others.

Special thanks to our own health and safety staff and Rogers Principal, Ms. Michelle Flood, for supporting this family and also to the MCDPH for managing this case effectively. If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact your child’s building principal or me. You also will find helpful resources posted on the COVID-19 Reopening section of our website.

Thank you,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D

Superintendent of Schools 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced it will continue its free meals program for schools until further notice (and at no cost to West Irondequoit taxpayers). Other than 50 cents for milk, meals served in our buildings and to remote learners are free starting when school reopens Thursday, Sept. 10th. Families that planned to fill out a Free-and-Reduced Meals application should still do so because the USDA says its program may be discontinued without any advanced notice.

FOR REMOTE LEARNERS: We’ll serve a grab-and-go breakfast and lunch for Full-Remote Instruction students Monday-Friday from 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM at the back entrance to Irondequoit High School (Door #5), 260 Cooper Road. On Wednesdays, when there is no in-person instruction and all WICSD students learn remotely, any student K-12 can use this meal option at IHS.  

SEE ALL MENUS: Access all menus by clicking the “Food Services” quick link at westirondequoit.org, then “Menus.”

NO CASH ACCEPTED: There will be NO CASH transactions, so parents/guardians should make sure their child(ren)’s My School Bucks has funds.

Dear Families and Colleagues,

I hope this email finds you and your loved ones healthy and well. Thanks to our relentless staff and leaders, we are heading into the home stretch in the right place. Your physical and mental health and safety remain at the forefront of our plans as we anticipate seeing you back and engaged with one another. Speaking on behalf of our staff, we have missed the discussions and smiles that come with children being in school and can't wait to reacclimate them to learning.

Thanks to your feedback, we’ve worked hard to consider every aspect. With that said, these plans will only work if we all commit 100% to each other and our public health. That means completing the daily health screen and temperature check at home and staying home if there are any symptoms of illness. I remember what my parents would tell me when I was a student and felt a little under the weather; they’d say to do my best to get through the day. That isn't the case anymore. Students and staff must check their signs and symptoms daily and commit to staying home if there's any reason they think they're sick. That's a pledge we must make to each other. Together, we can and will ensure our collective health.

Below are reminders and updates regarding safety protocols. Our building administrators and staff are doing an outstanding job of communicating details through their letters. Please remember that our website has a tremendous amount of information as a resource. Additionally, look for more information soon in the form of videos about what to expect next week. It’ll be posted on our websites, YouTube channel and social media. Please continue to reach out to us with any questions along the way.

UPDATES

• Schedules: Earlier today the student/parent portal opened up for grades K-12, including transportation schedules and grade 7-12 class schedules. Grade 4-6 schedules will be available this week and we will let those families know when they’re posted.
• Masking Regulations: As an FYI, our District plan already excluded the use of neck gaiters, buffs and bandanas as acceptable face coverings. Last week, our school physician and the Monroe County Department of Public Health released information that aligned with those as unacceptable face coverings due to the increased risk of human aerosols passing through the barrier and air.
• Mask breaks: Questions have surfaced about student masking breaks. Principals will work with their building-based teams to create a plan to reduce unreasonable masking durations. An example: Any masking period that exceeds 4 hours. A natural break from masking may include physical education, independent recess or other independent activities. Masking breaks will only be offered pending staff and student comfort. Conversations cannot occur during those breaks and a minimum of six feet physical distance must be maintained. 
• Temperature checks/health screens: All students and staff are REQUIRED to conduct a DAILY temperature check before reporting to school. We also plan to recheck student and staff temperatures at the door using infrared scanners. Staff is also REQUIRED to complete a daily health screen, which asks an individual to rule out symptoms. Students must complete them periodically. We plan to offer a web-based health screening program before Sept. 10. Staff will be asked to complete a daily paper-based screen prior to each of our four upcoming professional development days.

Thank you again to everyone involved in our emergency planning and advisory workgroups, including students, parents, staff, administration and the Board of Education. It’s clear evidence that West Irondequoit rallies for its children. We are a community that cares.

In Partnership,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Dear Families and Staff:

Please click THIS LINK to watch a video, as Superintendent Aaron Johnson takes you inside classrooms and a cafeteria, onto a playground and more. He shares more on how we plan to keep our students, staff and buildings safe as we start the school year on Sept. 10th.

Also, as per the governor's order, here are links to additional resources we shared last week on our website about: 

• Public meetings
• Remote learning
• Contact tracing

For all updates, visit our COVID-19 Reopening Information page to read and watch more as our plans continue to develop. 

Dear Families and Staff, 

Our work to prepare our schools and self for reopening continues. Whether you will be engaged in the Remote or Hybrid (in-person) model, this dialogue and partnership remain critical. Thank you for the continued engagement through discussion forums and email. Your questions help us consider every angle and to make sure we are clear communicators. 

This past weekend the portal to request our Full Remote Instruction model to start the school year closed. Thank you for making your decision based on evolving information. We will be notifying those families this week that we did receive their request. That plan is binding for the first 10 weeks of the school year. Why the deadline? It was critical for us to determine how many students will be back in our buildings on Thursday, Sept. 10 – the first day of school – and to help us continue to build a Hybrid model that meets safety guidelines while still offering effective instruction.

Remember, students can still go remote. They can do that at any time. Those requests should now be made to building principals. You’ll find a directory of them at this link. Families who do not plan to have their children ride the bus this school year should also fill out our Transportation Opt-Out form ASAP. Constructing efficient transportation routes with children seated safely on our buses is another tall task for us. You can opt back into transportation at any time.

Regarding your instructional model of choice: If a need arises for your family to reconsider this due to an extending circumstance, please contact your child’s principal. We will continue to work with families as necessary. As mentioned above, communication is essential. As a resource for you, our website’s Reopening Resources Documents and Links page continues to grow. If you missed it, we recently added a WICSD Grades 7-12 Reopening Plan Summary. That page, along with our COVID-19 Reopening Information for 2020-21, provides access to internal and external resources and prior COVID-19 related communications. 

We also are offering three more reopening informational webinars/forums this week:

• 6:30 p.m. today: For families of students in grades 7-12
• 2:30 p.m. Tuesday. Aug. 18: For Irondequoit High School students
• 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19: For families of students in grades K-6

Families will be emailed links to those sessions by grade level.

Planning for a safe reopening is riddled with stress, anxiety and at times, frustration. I am incredibly grateful for how our community has rallied around our students and staff and am thankful for the leadership of our Board of Education, administration, staff and you. Together, we will carry one another through. Our children are counting on it.

In Partnership, 

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

This is certainly a common question from parents/guardians, so we wanted to share more details. Remember, choosing Full Remote Instruction before the Friday, Aug. 14^th deadline is binding for the first 10 weeks of the 2020-21 school year. We expect after that, students may have the option to switch to the Hybrid model based on available space, staffing and safety regulations. Students may also decide to stay in Full Remote Instruction. By doing nothing before Aug. 14^th, students are defaulted into the Hybrid model.

Click the links below for more details from our K-6 Director of Instruction, Mrs. Chrissy Miga, and our 7-12 Director of Instruction, Mrs. Karen Finter. We appreciate your feedback and understanding as our plans continue to develop.

• K-6 Full Remote Instruction overview
• 7-12 Full Remote Instruction overview
  
• 7-12 Reopening Summary (Full Remote & Hybrid model glances)

Dear Families and Staff,

On Friday, Governor Cuomo announced that all New York State schools would open with the proper plans in place. As most of you know, the reopening plans are listed by school on our District's website. Added to the guidance previously provided, schools must include posting the following items separately on our website:

• Explanation of how we will accomplish remote learning
• Testing protocols and procedures for COVID-19
• Details about how schools will work with, support and supplement the contact efforts of their local health department
• Public meeting dates held between Aug. 7-21 with staff (1 meeting) and families/community (3).

The conditions for remote learning, testing, and contact tracing are included in our comprehensive reopening plan posted to our websites and will be extracted and posted soon separately. As essential voices to the success of our reopening, many of you have participated in past surveys, Thoughtexchanges and online meetings. Building-specific meetings with our staff will begin routinely starting next week. We are incredibly grateful for your insight because it helped us create our best plan. Since most of these meetings were before Aug. 7, we are holding the following opportunities for additional dialogue:

REOPENING INFORMATION SESSIONS

For Families and Community

• All Families, Reopening Town Hall Webinar: : Tuesday, Aug. 11 – 6:30 p.m.
• Any residents/Board of Education meeting: Thursday, Aug. 13 – 5:30 p.m. (watch live on our website/YouTube channel) 
• Grades 7-12: Monday, Aug. 17 – 6:30 p.m.
• Grades K-6: Wednesday. Aug. 19 – 6:30 p.m.

(Note: Families will be emailed links to the informational sessions the day of the event)

Our informational sessions with families will dive deeper into the details of the plan at the building and classroom level. Some work remains, and we will continue to share what we know to help you prepare. This journey has been the epitome of a process that reflects a lot of input, reflection and refinement. As we've shared before, managing this pandemic will continue to be a fluid and dynamic experience. Our collaboration is critical to the safety, health and ultimately success of our children and staff.

Reflective of that process, here are a few notable points of clarification based on your questions and feedback.

Masks: Guidelines require students to wear masks on buses and allow masks to be removed when socially distanced and seated during instruction. However, the recommendation is that students wear masks at all times, and based on overwhelming feedback from parents/guardians, West Irondequoit will require that. But we will build in many mask breaks. We also will monitor and possibly adjust this as we settle into the new year. If the proper habits form and people are comfortable, we may consider mask removal during instruction if a student is seated and socially distanced.

Temperature checks: Again according to guidance, families are responsible for checking and acknowledging their students' temperature at home before they come to school. Families must comply with this state requirement. For an added layer of safety, we are finalizing plans to verify student and staff temperatures before entering the school buildings — more information to come.

Building cleaning: Extensive cleaning and disinfection will happen every single night in every area occupied by students and staff. This process will include using safe products that eliminate viruses, including COVID-19, from all high-touch vertical and horizontal hard surfaces. Our cleaners and custodians will follow the Centers for Disease Control guidelines as defined on its website. Extensive training and professional development, along with a log system, will ensure these measures will happen with fidelity. These measures will minimize the risk of any potential spread between the Blue and Gold student cohorts in grades 7-12.

The engagement and productive dialogue we’ve maintained throughout this process has made all the difference. Please don't stop asking your questions and contacting us with ideas. You can email questions to our Director of Public Information, Jeff DiVeronica at [email protected]. We are all coming at this from a different place. I know there is no perfect plan, but I feel strongly that our plan is just that, our plan. Together, our children belong to all of us.

In Partnership, 

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

Dear Families and Staff,

Thanks everyone involved, we successfully submitted our District’s reopening plans to the NYSED on Friday. The insight and perspective you provided was critical to making sure we’ve considered every angle. But the work is far from finished. As I’ve noted on several occasions, our plan to offer a choice between hybrid or remote learning is fluid and will continue to evolve over the next few weeks. We’re doing our best to share information as it’s confirmed. If at any time you have questions or ideas, please contact a member of our team – either a Director, building principal or me, as appropriate. The success of our ability to reopen in some fashion is tied directly to our collaboration and support of one another.

Student and staff safety come first. During our presentation to the Board of Education on July 30 we shared details about the precautions we’ve planned to ensure this. To give you a better idea about what to expect, we’re including further details about three critical components of our plan:

• Face coverings/masks
• Cleaning and disinfecting
• Social distancing

I hope this information helps you to visualize what to expect. In the end, our community’s health rests on us all. We all have to commit to these practices and execute them with fidelity. Masking, social distancing and proper hygiene isn’t a matter of courtesy – it’s dedicating ourselves to the safety of everyone involved.

Last, below is a schedule of events for your information. Please note that we anticipate a change to the first day of school for students. At our next Board of Education meeting on August 13, I am recommending that we approve a revised 2020-21 calendar to provide more time for our staff to prepare. If approved, this will make the first day of instruction for students Thursday, September 10, 2020.

• • Friday, July 31: WICSD "Living" Plan Submitted/Posted
  • Monday, August 3: K-6; 7-12 Staff Town Hall Meeting
  • Friday, Aug. 7: Expected decision date (at the latest) from Gov. on reopening
  • Early August: Reopening FAQ    
  • Thursday, August 13: BoE Study Session- Reopening Update
  • Friday, August 14: Requests Due- Trans. & Full Remote
  • Weekly "Reopening Reports:" Ongoing through School Opening
  • Mid-August: Student Schedules
  • September 2,3,8,9: Potential Staff Development Days
  • Thursday, September 10: Potential Opening Day of instruction for Students

As we work to ready to ourselves to welcome students and staff back in September, thank you again for being allies. Together we will ensure that quality teaching and learning takes place for all students in an equitable and fair way. In doing so, we will not cut any corners in keeping our students and staff safe.

In Partnership, 

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

MORE ON WEARING MASKS

Quite simply, wearing a face covering or mask is a mandatory requirement by State Education Department (SED) and Department of Health (DOH). No mask, no admittance to a building. We have purchased masks for students and staff. They must be worn whenever it’s not possible to be socially distanced. We are considering the added precaution of requiring masks even when socially distanced. The same is true for riding a school bus. Acceptable face coverings for COVID-19 include but are not limited to cloth-based face coverings and surgical masks that cover both the mouth and nose. Face coverings will be supplied to any student who does not have their own, at no cost. Through the day, opportunities will be provided by the teacher(s) or administration to allow your child to take mask breaks.

Educating students on how to put on, take off and clean applicable masks properly will be taught at the start of school and periodically re-visited during the required masking period. The Center for Disease Control has several helpful resources on How to Wear Masks. If you or your child need assistance with face coverings, please see your school principal, school nurse or counselor. Please also consider sharing the tips below, especially for younger students.

CLEANING & DISINFECTING

West Irondequoit’s dedicated staff of custodians, custodial assistants and cleaners have received ongoing training on best practices for effective cleaning and disinfecting. That must follow the latest guidelines. All schools must develop a cleaning and disinfecting protocol that follows Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and DOH guidelines. Building logs will be maintained that include the date, time and scope of cleaning and disinfection completed.

The WICSD is committed to daily cleaning and disinfecting of spaces. Daily cleaning of high contact surfaces, such as light switches, handrails, desks surfaces, door handles, faucets, toilets, etc., will take place throughout the day. Specific high-risk locations (i.e. health office) within a school will warrant a high level of disinfection regularly throughout the day. Cleaning and disinfecting frequency will be building specific.

 The cleaning and disinfecting chemicals that the district utilizes meet the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as effective against COVID-19.  The chemical dwell time equates to how long it takes for the chemical to kill the virus. In WICSD, we use a range of approved products throughout the day, and the dwell time ranges from 60 seconds to 10 minutes.  

 The State DOH has provided the following for you to review (CLICK LINK).

HOW A SOCIALLY DISTANT CLASSROOM LOOKS

State guidance requires classroom personnel (students, teachers, etc.) to be socially distanced (at least 6 feet apart). As recommended, we will place desks in rows with students facing the front of the room. If able, some rooms may have one larger table with two seats at each end. If masked, two people could meet safely at the table for a discussion. We anticipate using a similar model in other larger learning spaces such as art rooms, music rooms and our All-Purpose Rooms (APRs) in K-3 buildings. An APR room, for example, can be split in half and allow for two classes of approximately 10 students each.

Dear Families and Staff,

Thanks to the work of many and input from you, we have a model for reopening our schools in September. It maximizes in-person instruction while safeguarding student and staff health and safety in a fluid and flexible way. We know that everyone is in a different place with a school, which makes working together critical. Recognizing how extremely challenging and unique this is for every family and staff member, we built in time for reflection, support and adjustments along the way. Our team combed through every inch of the state guidance documents and survey data to customize a structure for West Irondequoit that honors the complexity of opportunities and experiences. In the coming year, we are committed to making sure your children receive the education they deserve.We expect to hear the week of August 3-7 Governor Cuomo decides that in-person instruction is an >option. That guidance will determine what happens for all NYS schools.However,we believe at some point during the 2020-21 school year our model will be implemented and valuable.

Dear Families and Staff,

Last week was busy digesting guidance from the NYS Department of Health (LINK) and NYSED (LINK) regarding reopening schools. As the State Education Department framed it in their 145-page document, our task now is “Recovering, Rebuilding, and Renewing: The Spirit of New York State Schools.” Our five COVID-19 school reopening advisory workgroups are working hard this week to operationalize this information to prepare the three plans we’re required to submit by July 31. These plans include:

•    100% In-person instruction: This is the best-case scenario that would leverage every available square inch of our schools to bring all students grades K-12 back together. Given the anxiety, this situation may have not the greatest odds to occur but will be an objective to aim for given time.

•    100% Remote instruction: This situation incorporates all students in grades K-12 learning from home. Applying what we learned from the emergency closure remote learning this spring, we’ll launch a new and improved model. Changes to streamline and enhance instruction, communication, and more direct contact with staff are all included.

•    Hybrid instruction: This plan includes having the bulk of elementary and middle school students in-person for most days. We do have the space to allow this while keeping students physically distanced. At the secondary level, students will be split in two groups by alphabet and will attend in-person a portion of each week with remote learning the opposite days. There will be a heavy focus on social-emotional and mental health supports for students and staff with time built in for ongoing planning, feedback, reflection, and professional development.

As I shared, every school must develop plans for all three scenarios. The state will then decide the first week of August which plan will occur based on the regional infection rates.

Thanks to the over 2,100 families who responded to our recent survey, we know there are varying perspectives on returning to school. With confidence levels across the board, there are differences in how people see the structures and routines needed to support teaching and learning. With health and safety of our students, faculty and staff being the #1 priority, our plans front-load time to process, monitor, and adjust to promote success. Ample time will be spent talking about emotions, rebuilding community, and teaching people how to protect themselves using PPE, social-distancing, and hand hygiene.

Included below are summaries of our current work around health and safety and instruction. As a resource to assist you, we have also expanded the link on our website’s homepage to include a running record of our school reopening communications and resources. Just click on the big yellow box titled “COVID-19 Reopening Information.” Next Monday, expect a breakdown of your feedback from the survey along with detailed updates from all five reopening advisory groups.

Until then, please continue to practice proper social-distancing and masking when needed and keep those hands clean. Together we will have our children back where they belong- in school, working hard, having fun being engaged with their friends and favorite staff learning and growing together. In the meantime, please don’t hesitate to call myself or your child’s principal with questions or ideas.

Thank you,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools

SUMMARIES

Health and Safety

We have engaged our architects and engineers from CPL to evaluate our building ventilation systems. As a result, we are switching to filters that remove smaller particles while at the same time ensure maximum air flow throughout. In certain higher traffic areas, we are investigating the use of specialized electrostatic filters. In our health offices, CPL is working with us to adjust air flow so that it is one directional and fully exhausted to the atmosphere, thereby creating negative pressure within the space. CPL is also assisting us with evaluating our buildings' footprints in order to ensure social distancing through the maximization of usable space as well as developing one-directional traffic patterns in hallways and other common areas.

The District has been purchasing masks for students and staff because their use is required whenever social distancing is not possible. Additional personal protective equipment (PPE) is being acquired, including those for health office staff. Students and staff may provide their own face coverings as well. Acceptable face coverings include, but are not limited to, cloth-based coverings, such as homemade sewn, quick cut, bandana, and surgical masks that cover both the mouth and nose. Soaps and hand sanitizers have also been acquired as well to support best hand hygiene practices. Instruction and promoting hygiene, cleaning, disinfecting protocols will be part of a reopening plan and are currently in place for our 12-month staff that are working this summer.

Instruction/Learning
As we consider instructional delivery models and best practices, we look forward to a continued partnership with the community to achieve our mission of a comprehensive educational experience for our students. Consistent with guidance from the NYS Education Department and Department of Health, we are collaborating across several workgroups composed of a variety of stakeholders in order to create detailed plans for in-person, hybrid and online instruction.

Reinforced by the recently released guidance, the district has made the support of social-emotional well-being and mental health a top priority. Our plans include innovative structures and supports to meet these needs and to provide a consistent foundation for our students’ academic success. We also plan to build in time for teacher collaboration, so that our physical and virtual learning environments provide the rigorous and authentic instruction that our students deserve to help them achieve peak performance. As it crystallizes, our Continuity of Learning plan will keep equity and access at the forefront, considering the needs of all students, while flexibly adapting models to meet the unique needs of special populations, including students with disabilities, English language learners and students who receive academic and social-emotional interventions.

In addition, we want to ensure that our plan incorporates stakeholder feedback regarding its effectiveness. Instructional models need to be fluid and flexible, and so we will have check-in “pivot points” so we can make necessary adjustments through the start of the year.

Technology will again play an important role in each potential instructional model. Our students need consistent expectations for learning management system utilization (K-12) and clear learning outcomes. Resources for parents to support access are an important component of the plan that is in development. No matter the circumstances, we are committed to developing a plan that is fluid, flexible and ensures health and safety for all. 

Dear Families,

I hope this email finds you well and that you are enjoying the outdoors and summer at an appropriate social distance. Thank you for the feedback you gave through last month’s Thoughtexchange regarding COVID-19 and our schools. Click this link for a summary of feedback we received. Starting today, we will begin regular weekly district communications to again keep you informed about our reopening plans. To guide this work, we launched advisory groups to focus on five key areas:

• Public Health and Social-Emotional Support
• Operations and Logistics
• Instructional Services
• Equity and Family/Community Needs
• Transportation and Food Service

Each workgroup includes a cross-section of personnel, including staff and students along with parents and Board of Education members, to make sure we consider all perspectives. You can read in more detail about that below. Also, we emailed you a family survey, so please take a few moments to complete it. If you did not receive it, please email [email protected] and he will send you the link. Your insight will play a significant role in informing the plans of these groups and, ultimately, how our reopening looks. 

Reopening Guidance - Timeline

Today, the governor provided his latest health and safety guidelines for schools reopening in September. The Board of Regents is also meeting today to review guidance collected from several stakeholder groups about reopening. In our next report, we will summarize and break down this information. Now that we have this guidance, the clock is ticking; schools are expected to submit reopening plans by July 31 to the NYS Education Department. For the next two weeks, our advisory workgroups and District administration will be working diligently to finalize the plans we’ve already started to meet the state guidelines. The week of August 3^rd, the governor says he will announce a final reopening decision.

Social and Emotional Supports

Based on our experience from March to June, we know our students and staff will return this fall with an increased need for social and emotional support. Mental health and social-emotional wellness were the most referenced need by parents and staff in our Thoughtexchange. In addition to instructional practices, we have worked to embed social-emotional learning support in our classrooms. Knowing this and working with our Board of Education, we are restructuring the leadership in Pupil Services to include a Supervisor of Counseling, Student Equity and Wellness to oversee the counseling/wellness needs of students and staff. This person will have the time and authority needed to coordinate vital student services and also advocate for families, weaving together our internal and community resources to provide the best supports for every child’s unique needs.

Making this move will also allow us to create a part-time counselor position within our existing staff who will support student needs specific to COVID-19. This person will collaborate with the student’s assigned counselor to provide additional support, as needed. We know that safety, mental health and social-emotional wellness are the priority for students to learn and grow, and this position will free up resources to meet those needs. This is not a permanent role and will be reassessed once the pandemic subsides. Both new roles will be achieved while working within the approved 2020-21 school budget.

Today's update is simply a snapshot of our reopening plans. Please know that we are considering all aspects with more details to come. Whether the governor directs remote learning or allows for a return to our buildings in some form, safety, health, and wellness will always be the priority. Together, we will creatively work within the parameters to provide the best possible educational experience for our children.

Thank you for your ongoing engagement and support of our schools!

Sincerely,

Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D, Superintendent of Schools
*****

REOPENING REPORT - 1

“Rethinking Teaching and Learning”

KEY DATES

July 31 – Schools submit plans to State Education Department

Aug. 3 – Governor expects to announce decision on reopening this week

Sept. 8 – Scheduled as first day of classes, K-12

Workgroups below will review relevant data, address key questions and strategize toward solutions on many topics. Some are listed below:

REOPENING WORKGROUPS

Public Health and Social-Emotional Support

• How will school leaders set aside time early during reopening for students and educators to re-connect, adjust and process?
• Is there sufficient PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to protect students and staff ?
• How will staff conduct COVID screening measures such as temperature checks? What happens if a student or staff member tests positive?
• What number of COVID illnesses would trigger closing school?
  
  

Operations and Logistics

• How can we reduce class sizes to accommodate social distancing?
• Is split-scheduling, such as alternating days of the week/times of the day, a feasible strategy?
• What additional spaces will schools need?
• How will student contact at lunch/recess be minimized?
• How will schools modify fine arts, performing arts, and physical education classes?

Instructional Services

• Learning environment: How can home learning/blended learning experiences be designed to best match the needs of all? What are expectations for at-home learning vs. in-person instruction?
• Communication: What are clear communication pathways to support students/families if we must again navigate home learning? What social-emotional check-ins will best support students remotely and in-person?
• Grading/Accountability: How can we ensure all students are engaged and accountable for their learning? How can we track learning progress and engagement for all students?

Equity and Family/Community Needs

• How can we assess, engage and help students/families of different socio-economic levels and races?
• Which families will need broadband internet at home or online devices?
• Will we be able to conduct clubs, interscholastic sports and other student enrichments?

Transportation and Food Service

• How will bus riders maintain social distance on a bus in a full return or hybrid return to school?
• How many buses would be needed to accommodate proper student social distance?
• Can our transportation partners handle proper sanitizing of buses?