Today, Governor Cuomo held a conference call announcing that all schools are authorized to open; every region is below the threshold – 5% over a 14-day period – that has been established by the state for reopening. A dashboard showing regional infection rates can be found here.
The Governor noted that it was the responsibility of local school districts to come up with plans for reopening and schools must work with parents and teachers on implementation. Although charters were not explicitly addressed, it is our guidance that charters implement the requirements outlined by the state. Of particular note, the Governor is requiring that districts specifically post the following components of their reopening plans on their website:
- Plans for remote learning, including how equity issues will be addressed;
- Plans for COVID-19 testing for students and teachers/staff; and
- Plans for contact tracing.
These aspects of reopening plans must be separately posted to websites by August 14th.
In addition, districts and charter schools must host a minimum of three discussion sessions for parents before August 21st; the “big 5” districts must host five of these meetings. Districts and charter schools must also host one teacher discussion session before August 21st to ensure that all staff members have been engaged in discussions about reopening concerns and considerations.
To listen to a playback of today’s conference call, click here.
During our weekly Tuesday webinar, we will discuss today’s announcement. To join the August 11, 4 pm webinar, use the information below:
- Join by link: https://nycharters.zoom.us/j/330684941 Use this option to submit questions live via the Q&A function.
- Meeting ID: 330 684 941
- Join by phone: +1 9292056099,,330684941# US (New York)