Dear Schuylerville families,

On Friday June 4, Dr. Howard Zucker, New York State Commissioner of Health issued a letter (click here to read) to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding differing mask policies for summer camps and schools. Media coverage of this letter has led to some confusion and inferred that mask wearing in schools was optional. 

On Sunday June 6, we wrote to you after receiving guidance from the New York State Department of Education which was contrary to the letter from Dr. Zucker. The New York State Department of Education informed schools that the Department of Health’s letter has not changed any existing arrangements. “Therefore, schools should continue to operate under their existing procedures until further notice.”

Today, Governor Cuomo announced that after conferring with the CDC “school districts can choose to lift the requirement that their students must wear masks outdoors. Guidance on mask use indoors remains in place”. To view the Governors full press release, click here.

Tomorrow, June 8, will be a regular day of in-person instruction in Schuylerville CSD schools for hybrid and in-person learners. Frequent mask breaks will be taken throughout the day where masks do not have to be worn. Principals will work closely with teachers to support this.

In regard to the Class of 2021 graduation ceremony, we are awaiting and expect further guidance and will communicate that as it comes. 

In regard to athletics, sectional home games at Schuylerville CSD will be open to the community, with a 500 person max capacity, no masks required. While playing on Schuylerville CSD fields, athletes will no longer be required to wear a mask. Students and spectators will be expected to adhere to individual school’s district protocols regarding capacities and masks during away games. 

Thank you for your continued patience as we finish out the last few weeks of the school year. Please reach out if you have any questions.

Dr. Ryan Sherman
Superintendent

Gregg Barthelmas
Director of Pupil Personnel Service
COVID-19 Coordinator