First, I would like to thank you for your support as we navigated together through this unprecedented time in history. We hope that you were able to gain an appreciation for our efforts to educate your child, as we were charged with implementing a new and unanticipated Virtual Learning Program. I am sure by now you have heard that Governor Murphy and Commissioner of Education announced that barring any major changes in health data collected, districts should plan to prepare for in-person instruction in some capacity, beginning September 2020.

Some of the main points referred to in the guidelines presented are:

·      Schools must comply with CDC, state, and local guidelines

·      School staff and visitors are required to wear face coverings

·      Students are strongly encouraged to wear face coverings and are required to do so when social distancing cannot be maintained

·      Schools and districts must allow for distancing to the maximum extent possible

·      School districts must minimize use of shared objects

·      School districts should also consider closing locker rooms and encouraging students to wear comfortable clothing and safe footwear to school so they can participate in physical education classes without needing to change

·      Extra curricular activities must comply with applicable social distancing requirements and hygiene protocol

In addition, there are several recommendations for screening, sanitizing, and notifications that must be followed. In the coming weeks, the administrative team will be working together with the educational community to discuss the various options and develop a plan that best fits the needs of our district. We are asking parents to complete a district survey to assist us in the development of our plan. We encourage everyone to participate.  Our proposal will be shared with you as soon as it is developed and approved.

     In-Person High School Graduation 

This Tuesday districts finally got the optimistic news they have been long waiting for. In light of the new guidelines established by our Governor surrounding the increased numbers allowed for gatherings and after polling the entire board, the board has decided that we will be planning a modified graduation ceremony to honor our deserving seniors on Wednesday, July 8. The expectation is that the graduating seniors and 2 parents will be seated together on the field in their cap and gowns, be awarded their diploma and provided with the all important photo-op they have been asking for. Details will be forthcoming as soon as they are finalized.