The City School District of New Rochelle is seeking the community’s input on re-entry plans for the coming school year. The District has introduced a survey for community members, and will hold a Town Hall meeting on the re-entry plan Wednesday.
“Whether we re-open fully, continue our distance learning or implement a hybrid program combining the two, we will continue to deliver a high-quality challenging education for our students,” said Superintendent Dr. Laura Feijóo. “Everyone in the District has been bringing their expertise to explore all aspects of the plans. Input from the community will be invaluable in formulating a plan that meets state requirements and best serves New Rochelle.”
District administrators have been revising the distance learning plan with input from community members who called for more synchronous (live) classes and training for teachers, parents and students. At Tuesday’s board meeting, the administration presented a hybrid option under which students would return to school buildings two days a week and participate in virtual lessons the other three days. Each school population would be split in half, with groups alternating days they are in class or learning remotely. On Wednesdays, all classes would be conducted via distance learning.
The plans will follow New York State guidelines; it must be submitted to the state by Friday, July 31.
“Each building is being assessed for social distancing capacity of class and office space, with specific protocols for arrivals, entrances and dismissals,” District Medical Director Dr. Brooke Balchan said at the meeting. “Those reporting to our buildings will be expected to wear a cloth face covering and sanitize hands before entering. Mandatory health screenings will be required daily for staff and periodically for students as per the guidance.”
Each individual entering a school will have to have his or her temperature checked each day, ideally at home to avoid to help the groups arriving at the school to enter more smoothly.
Dr. Balchan said it is “critical” for parents and guardians to ensure that their emergency contact information with their child’s school is up to date.
The 21-question online survey can be found here.
The Town Hall meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 29. The meeting will be held via Zoom, and will offer the public a chance to engage with District administration and ask them questions. Details on how to view and participate in the meeting will be posted on the District’s website,
www.nred.org, as the meeting approaches.
