Dear Schuylerville families,
Three months ago students returned to campus for in-person learning on Sept. 10. We started school with the usual excitement that a new year brings, but also entered a period of uncertainty. The delivery of education was reimagined in every way through our reopening plans. Our goal as a district was to implement the new health and safety practices for our students and staff to the best of our ability. I believe we are doing just that. While we have had COVID-19 cases, the cases have not forced a districtwide shutdown, for which I am grateful. This is a time where vigilance inside and outside of school is crucial. Whether your child is learning in-person, in a hybrid model, or remotely, thank you for the support you are providing at home. 2020 has been a true reflection of the importance of the home and school partnership.
As we enter the winter season, we are seeing an increase in COVID-19 cases in our county and general region. Preparation will be key moving forward. We are prepared if we are given the designation of a yellow zone to carry out in-person testing on campus. We continue to prioritize in-person learning in the midst of a pandemic, which the governor has stated is a priority of the state’s as well. However, we must also be prepared to pivot to remote learning. Whether the timeline is a few days or a few weeks for a shift to a temporary model of instruction, the difference between today and last March is we can prepare. I cannot emphasize enough that in-person learning will always be the goal. But if our area’s infection rate says otherwise, we will consider other options at that time. We will always do our best to give as much notice as possible if a shift in learning were to occur, as we know a school schedule largely affects families’ home and work schedules as well. The last day of school before the December holiday break will be Wednesday, Dec. 23.
Enjoy the days with your families as we look forward to 2021. I wish you a happy and healthy holiday season!
Dr. Ryan Sherman
Superintendent