February 1, 2021
To Parents and Guardians,
We all look for signs of hope during this time. Certainly, any progress or further opportunities for students is welcomed and celebrated. We look for additional time and experiences during the school day, have recently increased opportunities for Fine Arts and Athletics, have moved out of the Yellow Zone Micro Zone status, and have seen a decrease in positivity rate in Onondaga County. Also, there has been a noticeable decrease in students and staff testing positive for COVID-19 as seen on the tracker found on the West Genesee CSD website “Information about Coronavirus (COVID-19)” found here.
The above happens as we remain focused on strong habits of good health as discussed for many months. We should be proud of the diligence of mask wearing, physical distancing, and hygiene etiquette seen in our schools. The limited movement and gatherings, while not ideal long term, have been an important strategies in fighting spread. The work with Onondaga County and the Health Department are unparalleled with support with symptomatic testing in our area, asymptomatic testing for staff and students, contact tracing, and communication with regard to vaccines. As with the evidence of success, it is important to remember these encouraging signs, even if they seem small.
Travel continues to have requirements. As we approach the upcoming Winter Recess, we ask you to review these requirements as you consider travel.
- Travelers must obtain a COVID-19 test within three days of trip departure, prior to arrival back home in New York. The traveler must, upon arrival in New York, quarantine for three days.
- On day 4 after arrival home, the traveler must obtain another COVID-19 test. If both tests are negative, the traveler may exit quarantine early upon receipt of the second negative diagnostic test.
- The NYS COVID-19 Travel Advisory with information and Traveler Health Form is available HERE.
Frankly, we are concerned with the connection that could arise from travel and congregating that may impede our shared progress. We are moving past a recent surge in cases with hopes of continued momentum. This is shared from a perspective of concern, as part of the responsibility of our roles, and without judgment. The above guidelines serve as reminder of protocols and will hopefully be considered in decision making.
Thank you for your ongoing support seen in so many ways. We were thrust into a pandemic unexpectedly and have relied on and strengthened our partnerships. We will eventually move past this temporary normal. In the meantime, be well, stay positive, and remain WG Stronger Together!
David C. Bills
Superintendent of Schools
West Genesee CSD
Kimberly Coyne
President, Board of Education
West Genesee CSD