Assumptions Made in the Planning Process

In May 2020, the Mohawk Valley region was in Phase 1 according to New York State’s phased reopening.

According to the state’s plan, schools reopening was part of Phase 4.

https://www.governor.ny.gov/sites/governor.ny.gov/files/atoms/files/NYForwardReopeningGuide.pdf

On July 14th, Governor Cuomo notified school districts that they may reopen if it was determined that the rate of infection was low enough to reopen safely. The New York State Department of Health and the New York State Education Department released subsequent guidance documents.

https://www.governor.ny.gov/sites/governor.ny.gov/files/atoms/files/Pre-K_to_Grade_12_Schools_MasterGuidence.pdf

http://www.nysed.gov/common/nysed/files/programs/reopening-schools/nys-p12-school-reopening-guidance.pdf

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Assumption Number 1:

Schools in our region have been given permission to reopen.

Passage from one stage to another is based upon data collected. In order to move to the next phase, regions must:

  • Maintain a low infection rate
  • Health care system must have the capacity to absorb a potential surge in cases
  • Diagnostic testing is high enough to detect and isolate new cases
  • Contact tracing must be in place to help prevent the spread

Assumption Number 2:

We are committed to safely reopening school because we believe that the relationship between a teacher and a student is critical to the student’s learning, growth and development.

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Assumption Number 3:

Schools will be asked to develop plans that will be submitted to the state education department that describe how the safety of staff and students will be protected and how the learning needs of all children will be addressed within the school environment where social distancing protocols, proper use of personal protection equipment (PPE), hygiene protocols, mental health protocols, screening protocols and cleaning protocols are identified. 

The plan must adequately address all aspects of the schools reopening in such a manner that staff, parents, students and school community members are confident that reopening can occur safely. The plan must address:

  • Transportation
  • Screening, monitoring and intervening on behalf of students and staff
    • Health and Safety
      • Students and Staff
      • Facilities
      • Child Nutrition
      • Social Emotional Well Being
  • Before, During and After the Instructional Day
    • Attendance and Chronic Absenteeism
    • School Schedules
    • Technology and Connectivity
    • Teaching and Learning
    • Special Education
    • Bilingual Education
  • Communications
    • Family and Community Engagement
  • Other Elements
    • Budget and Fiscal Matters
    • Staffing and Human Resources

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