Dear Parent/Guardian,

It is hard to believe that school has been closed for more than two weeks because of the coronavirus pandemic. I’m so proud of the work our staff has done during this challenging time. So, as we now head into April, I wanted to provide some updates as it relates to instruction, the scheduled Weedsport April break, meals for students, and more.

On March 27, Gov. Andrew Cuomo issued an executive order closing schools until at least April 15. During this time, schools are required to provide continuity of instruction and meals for students every weekday, including days originally part of the previously scheduled Weedsport April break (April 6-10).

Therefore, staff will continue to provide and support students with remote instruction during our scheduled April Break given this new guidance. To be clear, students and staff will continue with instruction during week of April 6. Meals will also continue during that time.

I know many of us have been looking forward to a scheduled break from learning – especially with the weather changing for the better outside – but the Governor’s office believes consistency for our school children with regard to instruction and food is a priority and should continue unabated.

During this time, we will continue to follow guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the New York State Department of Health, New York State Department of Education (NYSED) and our local county health department.

Specifically, school leaders continue to closely monitor guidance from NYSED about how these circumstances will impact the school calendar for the remainder of the academic year, including Regents examinations and graduation. We will share more information as soon as it is available.

We are still in uncharted territory as this health crisis continues and I cannot say how much I appreciate everyone’s dedication and flexibility as we work together to find our way forward. If there’s a silver lining in any of this, it’s the fact that many of you have put your best foot forward and showed incomparable perseverance and devotion to this community. When this is over, that will outshine any negativity associated with this awful virus.

Peace of mind to all,

Shaun A. O’Connor
Superintendent of Schools