It’s hard to believe that our students haven’t been in the building for close to a month, but during this pandemic, I think we’ve all learned not to be surprised anymore.

With that said, I’m excited to welcome back our students and staff for in-person learning on Jan. 19. Our school community has shown they have untapped wells of resilience during the last year. They’ve adapted, adjusted, and continued to push forward. And for that, you have my deepest respect and gratitude.

We’ve just finished two days of asymptomatic testing and I’m very happy with the turnout and the results. With the vaccine now circulating throughout the state, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. But we are by no means out of the high grass yet. Infection rates continue to be high along with the number of hospitalizations around the region.

There are many reasons for optimism but we must remember to keep our guard up and remain vigilant.

As Superintendent of Schools, and on behalf of our school nurses, I urge anyone that might be symptomatic, please stay home. And, if someone in your house is symptomatic and awaiting Covid-19 test results, please do not enter the school environment. Schools continue to be one of the safer places in the community because everyone has done his/her part to keep it that way.

We must continue to draw from the well of resilience we all have and do our best to safeguard our students and staff. Spring is right around the corner – both literally and figuratively – and now is the time for renewed strength and dedication as we make the long and sustained push back to normalcy.

-Superintendent Shaun O’Connor