State of the District Presentation – January 5, 2021 Board Meeting

As we begin a new calendar year, I thought it would be appropriate to review where we are, and what we are doing to prepare for the future. Since October, school has been operating on a hybrid schedule with approximately 55% (4,890 students) of our student body choosing all-remote, and the remainder on an in-person hybrid schedule. Students in Grades K- 8 are on an A/B schedule and the High School is on an A/B/C schedule. Since opening for hybrid, we have had to close the High School for 14 days on three separate occasions, the Middle School once for 14 days, and the intermediate and primary schools have all remained open since October 12 without any closures.  We have had 149 individuals test positive and through contact tracing we have identified approximately 451 who were quarantined for 14 days.

Recently, there have been a number of questions from the community relative to how decisions are made and what our plans are for the future. It is important to note that while the final decisions are made by the superintendent, I have made any and all decisions regarding the opening and scheduling of school, based upon the NJDOE The Road Back - Restart and Recovery Plan for Education for opening schools, NJDOH and CDC guidelines and in collaboration with our local and county health officials.  It is important the public understands that the administrative decisions made are not based on the politics or popular opinions surrounding the pandemic. We are strictly adhering to New Jersey State Guidance with advice from health professionals.
If you were unable to attend our virtual Board meeting on January 5, 2021, linked below is the presentation slides and an audio to the meeting.

Wishing you all a safe and healthy New Year!
Dr. Thomas Ficarra
Interim Superintendent

COVID-19 FAQ Presentation – January 5, 2021

Audio of Board Meeting – January 5, 2021 (The presentation begins around 31:40)

Youtube Video of Presentation – January 5, 2021 – (The presentation can be found around 46:32)