Embedded Files
July 1, 2022
July 1, 2022
We have COVID-19 test kits for you. If you need them, please stop by one of the buildings or district office. Our summer hours are Monday through Thursday 8 AM – 3 PM and Friday 8 AM – 1 PM. For the first two weeks of July, the District Office will be relocated due to asbestos abatement. Our office locations are provided at the entrance to district office so you will know how to find us.
June 17, 2022
June 17, 2022
Data below is from the week of June 13th.
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from June 14 Surveillance Testing: 2 BRS students
Positive Cases from Parents and Staff : 4 BRS students, 1 staff; 1 PHS staff
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of June 13: 6 BRS students, 1 staff; 1 PHS staff
June 11, 2022
June 11, 2022
Data below is from the week of June 6th.
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from June 7 Surveillance Testing: 0
Positive Cases from Parents and Staff : 6 BRS students; 2 MS students, 6 staff; 3 PHS students; 0 District Office
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of June 6: 6 BRS students; 2 MS students, 6 staff; 3 PHS students; 0 District Office
June 4, 2022
June 4, 2022
Data below is from the week of May 30th.
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from May 31 Surveillance Testing: 1 MS student, 1 MS staff
Positive Cases from Parents and Staff : 2 BRS students, 1 staff; 5 MS students, 1 staff; 3 PHS students, 1 staff; 1 District Office
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of May 30: 2 BRS students, 1 staff; 6 MS students, 2 staff; 3 PHS students, 1 staff; 1 District Office
May 27, 2022
May 27, 2022
Data below is from the week of May 23rd.
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from May 24 Surveillance Testing: 0
Positive Cases from Parents and Staff : 12 BRS students, 1 staff; 12 MS students; 1 PHS student, 5 staff; 0 District Office
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of May 23: 12 BRS students, 1 staff; 12 MS students; 1 PHS student, 5 staff; 0 District Office
Please continue to use mitigation strategies to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As Memorial Day weekend is upon us, I am sure people will be travelling, Please consider using a COVID-19 test kit prior to returning to school on Tuesday, May 31st.
May 20, 2022
May 20, 2022
Data below is from the week of May 16th.
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from May 17 Surveillance Testing: 0
Positive Cases from Parents and Staff : 20 BRS students, 5 staff; 27 MS students, 4 staff; 13 PHS students, 11 staff; 1 District Office
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of May 16: 20 BRS students, 5 staff; 27 MS students, 4 staff; 13 PHS students, 11 staff; 1 District Office
According to the CDC, community level of COVID-19 for Westchester County is high. There are a host of COVID-19 prevention measures the CDC has provided for individuals and communities when the community level is high. The measures include:
Wearing a mask indoors in public regardless of vaccinations status.
If positive, the required isolation period is 5 days. Students and staff are required to wear a mask for days 6 through 10 following a positive test.
Get tested if you are exposed or have symptoms. You may pick up home test kits to use at your discretion at any of the school buildings or district office.
Please consider the recommendations above as highly encouraged. Together we can help ensure our students enjoy the final five weeks of the school year where many celebratory events have been planned.
May 13, 2022
May 13, 2022
Data below is from the week of May 9th.
Positive cases for the week of May 9th:
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from May 10 Surveillance Testing: 2 BRS students; 1 PHS staff
Positive Cases from Parents and Staff : 25 BRS students, 5 staff; 35 MS students, 5 staff; 25 PHS students, 7 staff
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of May 9: 27 BRS students, 5 staff; 35 MS students, 5 staff; 25 PHS students, 8 staff; 0 District Office
According to the CDC, community level of COVID-19 for Westchester County is high. There are a host of COVID-19 prevention measures the CDC has provided for individuals and communities when the community level is high. The measures include:
Wearing a mask indoors in public regardless of vaccinations status.
If positive, the required isolation period is 5 days. Students and staff are required to wear a mask for days 6 through 10 following a positive test.
Get tested if you are exposed or have symptoms. You may pick up home test kits to use at your discretion at any of the school buildings or district office.
COVID-19 symptoms parallel allergy symptoms. We have test kits. Please use them to make a determination. We need to work together to ensure the health and safety of our students, staff, and families. We can easily follow the prevention measures of the CDC to support our students being able to enjoy the planned events for the last six weeks of school.
May 9, 2022
May 9, 2022
COVID-19 positives reported to us today from over the weekend were as follows: BRS - 11, MS - 6, and HS - 7.
I am writing to remind you that the District has COVID-19 test kits available for free. The greeters/main offices have them in the school buildings and we also have them at district office. The test kits must be picked up by an adult.
Also, if your child would like to wear a mask at school and forgets theirs, we have them available upon request.
May 6, 2022
May 6, 2022
COVID-19 Update - Cafeterias
The COVID Ops Team met this week to discuss physical distancing in the cafeterias. There were many views on the topic but in the end, this is the status based on administrative decisions. Tables were brought back into the HS cafeteria because the desks were needed for AP exams. Tables will be brought back to half of the middle school cafeteria on Monday. Students at BRS will no longer be eating on the gym floor starting Monday. We will be working on the BRS lunch configuration this weekend. Mrs. Hunger will be emailing BRS families with details. Thank you in advance to our custodial staff for working on this project this weekend.
COVID-19 Data
Data below is from the week of May 2nd.
Positive cases for the week of May 2:
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from May 3 Surveillance Testing: 0
Positive Cases from Parents and Staff : 9 BRS students, 2 staff; 7 MS students; 2 PHS students
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of May 2: 9 BRS students, 2 staff; 7 MS students; 2 PHS students; 0 District Office
April 29, 2022
April 29, 2022
COVID-19 Data
Data below is from the week of April 25th.
Positive cases for the week of April 25:
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from April 26 Surveillance Testing: 1 PHS staff
Positive Cases from Parents and Staff : 7 BRS students, 4 staff; 4 MS students, 1 staff; 2 PHS students, 3 staff
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of April 25: 7 BRS students, 4 staff; 4 MS students, 1 staff; 2 PHS students, 4 staff
April 22, 2022
April 22, 2022
COVID-19 Information
If your child is absent from school due to symptoms that resemble COVID-19, please provide one of the following for your child to return to school once your child is symptom free for 24 hours (without the use of fever reducing medications):
A written note from a doctor following an evaluation stating that the diagnosis is not COVID-19 related and is cleared to return to school.
A copy of a negative COVID-19 test (PCR or antigen) from a healthcare facility. A negative home test is not acceptable.
Or, once your child is without symptoms, call the nurse’s office at your child’s schools to schedule an appointment for the school nurse to test your child. If the test is negative and your child is symptom free, off to class they go!
BRS nurses’ office: 741-1446
PMS nurses’ office: 741-1436
PHS nurse’s office: 741-1418
Please note that this is an abbreviated version of our COVID-19 Operating Plan.
According to the CDC, community level of COVID-19 for Westchester County is medium. The CDC has recommended individual- and household-level prevention behaviors as well as community-level prevention strategies.
You may pick up home test kits to use at your discretion at any of the school buildings or district office.
COVID-19 Data
Data below if for both spring break week (April 10) and this week (April 18).
Positive cases for the week of April 10:
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from April 5 Surveillance Testing: 0
Positive Cases as per Parents and Staff : 9 BRS students, 2 staff; 6 MS students, 1 staff; 5 PHS students
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of April 10: 9 BRS students, 2 staff; 6 MS students, 1 staff; 5 PHS students
Positive cases for the week of April 18:
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from April 19 Surveillance Testing: *
Positive Cases as per Parents and Staff : 6 BRS students; 6 MS students; 1 PHS student, 1 staff
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of April 18: 6 BRS students; 6 MS students; 1 PHS student, 1 staff
* Results not provided by surveillance testing company yet
April 17, 2022
April 17, 2022
I am writing to remind you to please test your child for COVID-19 prior to returning to school tomorrow, Monday, 4/18/2022. Anyone who tests positive is subject to a mandatory 5-day isolation period and required to wear a mask for an additional 5 days.
I am writing to remind you to please test your child for COVID-19 prior to returning to school tomorrow, Monday, 4/18/2022. Anyone who tests positive is subject to a mandatory 5-day isolation period and required to wear a mask for an additional 5 days.
April 8, 2022
April 8, 2022
Happy Friday afternoon before spring break! If you are travelling, stay safe and have fun. Please consider using a COVID-19 test kit prior to returning to school on Monday, April 18 th . If you would like to pick up COVID-19 test kits, the school buildings and District Office are open Monday through Thursday next week.
Pleasantville COVID-19 Data:
Positive cases for the week of April 4 are shown below.
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from April 5 Surveillance Testing: 1 BRS student
Positive Cases as per Parents and Staff : 2 BRS students; 2 MS students
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of April 4: 3 BRS students; 2 MS students
April 2, 2022
April 2, 2022
Pleasantville COVID-19 Data:
Positive cases for the week of March 28 are shown below.
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from March 28 Surveillance Testing: 0
Positive Cases as per Parents and Staff : 1 BRS student; 1 MS student
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of March 28: 1 BRS student; 1 MS student
March 27, 2022
March 27, 2022
Pleasantville COVID-19 Data:
Positive cases for the week of March 21 are represented below.
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from March 22 Surveillance Testing: 0
Positive Cases as per Parents and Staff : 1 BRS student; 2 MS students, 1 MS staff
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of March 21: 1 BRS student; 2 MS students, 1 MS staff
March 19, 2022
March 19, 2022
Pleasantville COVID-19 Data:
There are no positive cases for the week of March 14.
March 12, 2022
March 12, 2022
Pleasantville COVID-19 Data:
Positive cases for the week of March 7 are represented below.
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from March 8 Surveillance Testing: 0
Positive Cases from Parents and Staff : 3 BRS students, 1 BRS staff; 4 PMS students; 2 PHS students
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of March 7: 3 BRS students, 1 BRS staff; 4 PMS students; 2 PHS students
March 6, 2022
March 6, 2022
Our District’s COVID-19 Ops Team met this week to review our COVID-19 health and safety protocols. The COVID-19 Operating Plan is updated and accessible on our website. Below are some highlights.
COVID-19 Protocols That Have NOT Changed:
The following COVID-19 protocols will continue to be in effect to support the health and safety of our students and staff. We continue to use multi-layered mitigation strategies. These strategies include:
Physical distancing in classrooms will remain at 3 feet. All lunch room distancing and protocols will remain the same;
Hand and respiratory hygiene will continue to be reinforced and hand sanitizer will continue to be provided;
Weekly surveillance testing for those with consent and for unvaccinated staff will continue;
Enhanced ventilation practices will continue to be implemented; and
Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting practices will continue to be used.
COVID-19 Protocols That HAVE Changed:
Below is a brief overview of the protocols that have changed. Further information may be found in the updated Plan.
We have removed the health screener but please ensure your child is well before sending them to school. This is the most important mitigation strategy we have!
Masking is NOT ALWAYS OPTIONAL. It is required for individuals on days 6-10 of isolation, strongly recommended for exposed individuals, and optional for all others.
Isolation requirements for COVID-19 positive individuals is 5 days and the individual must be well to attend school/work on days 6 through 10. They MUST wear a mask for days 6-10 of the isolation period.
Exposure notifications will commence at the middle and high school and quarantine protocols strongly recommend exposed or potentially exposed individuals wear a mask 10 days following the exposure and test upon notification, at day 5 following the exposure, and frequently throughout the 10-day period.
The operational definition of an exposed individual in a mask optional environment is the entire classroom in which the infected individual was present 48 hours prior to becoming symptomatic or if asymptomatic 48 hours prior to positive test date. This group definition considers all individuals in the classroom as exposed or potentially exposed.
Therefore, parents will receive an exposure notification under the following conditions:
Who will be considered exposed or potentially exposed? Rationale
BRS: The entire class Elementary students spend the day together with their class, including lunch
MS: The entire grade level Students are in grade level classes and the entire grade eats lunch together which could lead to an exposure
HS: The entire class Students are in mixed grade-level classes and lunch periods. We will run the positive student's schedule and notify the families of students who were in a class/classes with the positive individual.
Pleasantville COVID-19 Data:
Positive cases for the week of February 28 and vacation week are represented below.
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from March 1 Surveillance Testing: 0
Positive Cases from Parents and Staff : 1 BRS student ; 1 MS student; 3 PHS students; 1 PHS staff
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of Feb 28 and Vacation: 1 BRS student ; 1 MS student; 3 PHS students; 1 PHS staff
Conclusion:
Thank you to the COVID-19 Ops Team members for your time, energy, and thoughtfulness, it is appreciated. Thank you to all our students, staff, and families for always prioritizing the health and safety of all. If you have any questions, please reach out to the administration or nurses. We are happy to help clarify any of our protocols. We will continue to be vigilant and adjust accordingly.
February 27, 2022
February 27, 2022
Dear Pleasantville Families,
I hope you had an enjoyable week. This afternoon at a press conference, the Governor announced that New York schools in a county with a low COVID-19 community level will not be required to wear masks effective Wednesday, March 2. We are waiting for written guidance about this change and any other changes to COVID-19 protocols and I will communicate any changes with you.
As you know, our District has Policy 5631: Health and Safety Measures During Pandemics and Epidemics in place which requires masking indoors. We have a Board meeting on Tuesday, March 1. At that meeting the Board will be discussing this policy and making adjustments so that we can be mask optional on Wednesday, March 2.
Prior to leaving for break, the administration, coordinators, and support services personnel began researching and planning age-appropriate instruction to support students with the change. We will be delivering these lessons to students on Monday, February 28, and/or Tuesday, March 1. We will engage our students in discussions that provide strategies for managing emotions associated with this change, support students with understanding choice and respect, and outline behavioral expectations.
Additionally, there are a few things I would like to make you aware of:
For Faculty, Staff and Visitors - Choosing to wear a mask or not to wear a mask is a personal decision for each adult, and one that should not be judged by others. Faculty, staff, and visitors will not express their personal feelings on masks.
For Students - The decision for a student to wear or not wear a mask is a family decision. If students ask whether or not they should wear a mask, faculty and staff will tell students they need to speak with their parents/guardians.
Classroom Arrangements and Assignments – Students will not be relocated or moved within a classroom based on their mask decision. Classroom seats will remain three feet apart. Class assignments will not be changed based on masking choices.
Emotional Challenges – We will support the family’s decision on masking. Some of our students have never attended school without a mask. Removing masks may be strange and unsettling for some, and our faculty and staff will be mindful and supportive as students navigate this change. Additionally, some students will not be comfortable removing a mask, and we will be supportive of them, too.
Behavioral Challenges – We will be monitoring for any student-student pressure, bullying, or interactions based on whether or not a student is wearing a mask. No one is to be ridiculed, taunted, or mistreated by peers for their mask choice.
Contact Tracing – On January 14, 2022, NYS DOH informed school districts they did not need to contact trace. Pleasantville will not be contact tracing.
Masking has become polarizing among some adults, and we cannot allow that divisiveness to enter our schools and classrooms. Schools and classrooms must be safe, nurturing places for our students and colleagues. I know that I can count on our partnership for this.
Families, please begin having conversations with your children about coming to a mask optional school environment beginning Wednesday. Your children may express thoughts and feelings to you that you may not expect and come to their own decisions about where and when they feel comfortable with or without a mask. Our school system is built on respect, and we must do our best to always be respectful of the personal choices of others.
Finally, please remember to use your test kits. We are well supplied with COVID-19 test kits for families to test their children as they see fit. Families can continue to pick up test kits from the reception desk of your child’s school.
If you have any questions, please reach out to me or your child’s building principal. We look forward to having our buildings filled with your beautiful children and our amazing team of professionals tomorrow.
For the youth,
Tina DeSa
February 18, 2022
February 18, 2022
COVID-19 Testing:
We are asking families to please test each student prior to returning to school on Monday, February 28. All staff were also asked to test. If you did not get a test kit this week, please stop by District Office next week. We will be open 8 AM – 3 PM Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and 8 AM – 1 PM on Friday.
Pleasantville Weekly Data:
Positive cases for the week of February 14 are below.
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from Feb 15 Surveillance Testing: 0
Positive Cases from Parents and Staff: 1 BRS student
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of Feb 7: 1 BRS student
COVID-19 Protocols:
Please note that our current protocols are outlined in our COVID-19 Operating Plan. We continue to use multi-layered mitigation strategies. These strategies include:
Daily health screening;
Enhanced ventilation;
Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting;
Weekly surveillance testing;
Contact tracing and quarantining protocols; andUniversal masking for all students and staff regardless of vaccination status while indoors, on a bus or in the locker rooms. Students are provided with mask breaks during the school day at 6 feet distances.
Any changes to our COVID-19 Operating Plan will be communicated to you via a K12Alert letter. Our COVID-19 Operating Team will be meeting the week we return from break and any changes will come directly from me to you via K12Alert letter. It can be confusing that there are policy changes that do not impact our practices.
February 13, 2022
February 13, 2022
COVID-19:
Since winter break is a week away, February 21st through the 25th , each building will be distributing COVID-19 home test kits this week. Our goal is to have a test kit (there are two tests in each kit) for each student in your homes by this Friday. We are asking families to please test each student prior to returning from the winter break.
Pleasantville Weekly Data:
Positive cases for the week of February 7 are represented below.
Positive Cases from Testing Program : 0
Positive Cases from Feb 8 Surveillance Testing: 0
Positive Cases from Parents and Staff: 4 BRS students, 1 BRS staff; 1 PMS student
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of Feb 7: 4 BRS students, 1 BRS staff; 1 PMS student
February 7, 2022
February 7, 2022
COVID-19:
If you need a negative test for criteria to return to school or Test to Stay, please call your child’s school health office.
We have home test kits for students and employees to use at their discretion. Test kits will not be distributed to students. Adult family members and employees may pick up test kits at each school.
Updated isolation and quarantine guidance was released Friday night from the New York State Department of Health. These updates do not necessitate any changes to our current COVID-19 Operating Plan.
Pleasantville Weekly Data:
Positive cases for the week of January 31 represented below.
Positive Cases from Testing Program: 0
Positive Cases from Feb 1 Surveillance Testing: 1 BRS student
Positive Cases from Parents and Staff: 2 BRS students; 2 PHS students
Total Positive COVID Cases Week of Jan 31: 3 BRS students; 2 PHS students
January 30, 2022
January 30, 2022
COVID-19 Testing Program:
If you need a negative test for criteria to return to school or Test to Stay, please call your child’s school health office. Our school nurses will provide testing at a time that is mutually convenient for the family and the nurse. This option is open to our students and staff who are asymptomatic and would like to return to school/work with a negative test result or participants in our Test to Stay program. Parents may not leave the school until the test results are complete. Parents and children will wait in the isolation areas for test results. If negative, the child may go to class. If positive, parents must bring children home.
We have home test kits for students and employees to use at their discretion. Test kits will not be distributed to students. Adult family members and employees may pick up test kits at each school.
Pleasantville Weekly Data:
Positive cases for the past week are represented in the table below.
BRS PMS PHS DO
Positive Cases from
Testing Program
Positive Cases from Jan 25
Surveillance Testing 1 staff
Positive Cases from 4 students 6 students 8 students
Parents and Staff 1 staff
Total Positive COVID 4 students 6 students 8 students
Cases Week of Jan 24 1 staff 1 staff
Board of Education Meeting:
We have a Board of Education meeting Tuesday night that will begin at 7:00 PM in the auditorium. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss Policy 5631: Health and Safety Measures During Epidemics and Pandemics.
January 27, 2022
January 27, 2022
Last night the COVID Ops Team, formerly known as the Reopening Committee, met to discuss several changes to our COVID-19 protocols. This meeting was planned and facilitated to respond to changes in quarantine and isolation requirements that took place in the first couple of weeks of January. It was not in response to anything related to the mask mandate.
Below is an outline of the changes you can find in our revised COVID-19 Operating Plan.
Return to School After Illness:
If symptomatic, returning to school after waiting 10 days from symptom onset was removed. This is no longer relevant since students who are no longer symptomatic can test negative and return to school.
Isolation and Quarantine:
This entire section was revised to reflect the January 14, 2022 updated quarantine and isolation guidance from NYS DOH. In general, isolation and quarantine minimum time frames are 5 days. See the tables linked for details. These tables are also written into our revised Plan.
Test to Stay:
Test to Stay time periods were adjusted to reflect a 5-day quarantine period.
COVID-19 Testing:
There is no change to our practice with home tests. We are accepting home tests for positive cases. A negative home test will not be considered for criteria to return to school or Test to Stay.
We are making an adjustment to our testing program. Moving forward, if you need a negative test for criteria to return to school or Test to Stay, please call your child’s school health office. Our school nurses will provide testing at a time that is mutually convenient for the family and the nurse. This option is open to our students and staff who are asymptomatic and would like to return to school/work with a negative test result or participants in our Test to Stay program. K-8 parents may not leave the school until the test results are complete. Parents and children will wait in the isolation areas for test results. If negative, the child may go to class. If positive, parents must bring their child home to begin isolation.
We have home test kits for students and employees to use at their discretion. Test kits will not be distributed to students. Adult family members and employees may pick up test kits at each school and via the PTA/PCO/SEPTA groups. We will get this organized and get back to you with details.
January 26, 2022
January 26, 2022
My email was flooded yesterday, and I was not able to respond to each email so, I made you this video message. When you have a moment, please take 7 minutes to listen. I hope you have a wonderful day and enjoy the sun shine!
January 25, 2022 (Mask Mandate Follow-up Part 2)
January 25, 2022 (Mask Mandate Follow-up Part 2)
As per the New York State Department of Education, the Appellate Division granted the application by the Department of Health and the Governor’s office, confirming the lower court’s decision is stayed pending further proceedings. As such, the mask mandate remains in effect for schools across the state.
I know that this finding will be met with mixed emotions. Many people are tired of masking, distancing and of all of the other things that we have had to deal with during COVID. I feel your frustrations but ask that you continue to be patient.
January 25, 2022 (Mask Mandate Follow-up)
January 25, 2022 (Mask Mandate Follow-up)
I am writing to address inquiries about the decision to maintain the mask mandate in light of the Attorney General’s appeal of the Decision and Order issued late yesterday afternoon by Judge Rademaker. Section 5519 of the NYS Civil Practice Law and Rules (“CPLR”) maintains the State’s masking rules during the pendency of the appeal brought by the state from the Nassau County Supreme Court Decision and Order. CPLR 5519(a)(1), reads in relevant part as follows:
§ 5519. Stay of enforcement. (a) Stay without court order. Service upon the adverse party of a notice of appeal or an affidavit of intention to move for permission to appeal stays all proceedings to enforce the judgment or order appealed from pending the appeal or determination on the motion for permission to appeal where:
1. the appellant or moving party is the state or any political subdivision of the state or any officer or agency of the state or of any political subdivision of the state. . . .
For your reference, the Notice of Appeal can be found here. As of this writing, I am seeking additional information to inform the decision about maintaining the mask mandate. First, a written legal position from the Attorney General on whether the stay is or is not automatic would be helpful to mitigate against the confusion as to the current status of this matter. The last correspondence that school districts received from the State earlier was that: “The Governor and State DOH have filed a Notice of Appeal and are seeking confirmation that the Court’s order is stayed. While these legal steps occur, it is NYSED’s position that schools should continue to follow the mask rule.”
Second, it is our understanding that the parties to this proceeding are currently in court regarding this litigation and the matter may be acted upon in court, possibly as soon as this afternoon and hopefully by tomorrow.
Third, the current procedures of the NYSDOH and PUFSD, consistent with CDC guidance, condition the ability for individuals who would otherwise be quarantined to return to school/work under the provision they wear a mask in the school setting. Additionally, students are not considered close contacts to positive students in the school setting as long as three feet distance is maintained and both students are wearing masks.
Related to this, the District also has implemented Board Policy 5631 which includes, along with other health and safety protocols to be in effect during a pandemic, a requirement for masks to be worn by all students and staff when at school or at a school function. Thus, irrespective of the status of the above-referenced litigation, the District has a current mandate in place as a matter of Board Policy.
The District will need some time to consider whether or not to amend Board Policy 5631, and to consider any adjustments to our COVID-19 Operating Plan that may be necessary. Since these changes may impact our goal of providing in-person learning each day for our students, we will need to consider and evaluate them carefully and thoughtfully.
I know this is very confusing and frustrating. Our goal is always to maintain a safe and healthy learning environment in our schools. Our focus needs to be on teaching and learning and continuing to nurture the positive culture and climate that exists in our district. Sweeping changes in the middle of the night do not support this. Each decision needs to carefully consider all our staff, students and families.
I continue to ask for your time and patience. We will continue to monitor this evolving situation and alert you to any changes to this decision.
January 25, 2022
January 25, 2022
There is no change to the requirement to wear masks in our school buildings.
Yesterday a NYS Supreme Court Justice from Nassau County issued a decision that school districts are no longer authorized to require wearing masks. This is in direct conflict with a recent Albany County Supreme Court Judge’s decision. An appeal of the Nassau decision was filed, and a stay order is in effect. In short, the appeal grants an automatic stay and masks are in effect until further notice.
We will continue to monitor this evolving situation to alert you to any changes to this decision.
January 23, 2022
January 23, 2022
I hope you are well and staying warm. I have updated weekly data and information on COVID-19 included in this letter. I have asked the Reopening Committee to convene on Wednesday evening. I will write again with an update late in the week.
COVID-19 Testing Program:
We continued our COVID-19 testing program this week. We tested Tuesday morning and Wednesday and Thursday afternoons. In total, this week we tested 8 students and 1 staff member. We will continue testing this week. Please see this flyer for additional information.
COVID-19 Test Kit Distribution:
On January 19 th we distributed 502 test kits. Our process went well, and I thank everyone involved in the planning and distribution processes. Test kits are yours to use at your discretion. We have received our third shipment and are being informed we will continue to receive more.
Pleasantville Weekly Data:
Positive results of COVID-19 are coming from 3 sources: our testing program, surveillance testing, and parents/staff. While positive results may come from either a home test administration or a lab/doctor, negative tests must come from a doctor, certified lab, or our testing program.
Numbers for the past week are represented in the table below.
BRS PMS PHS DO
Positive Cases from
Testing Program
Positive Cases from 1 student 2 students
Jan 18 Surveillance Testing
Positive Cases from 12 students 11 students 15 students
Parents and Staff 6 staff
Total Positive COVID Cases 12 students 12 students 17 students
Week of Jan 17 6 staff
Isolation and Quarantine:
There are no changes since last week’s letter about isolation and quarantine. These include:
Contact Tracing – While contact tracing is no longer required, we will continue communicating with staff and parents regarding COVID-19 positives so that the quarantine requirements can be complied with.
Quarantine – The current quarantine period for those not fully vaccinated is 5 days. We are still seeking guidance on the definition of fully vaccinated per age group and whether the reduced quarantine period applies to extracurricular activities (i.e. athletics, arts, clubs).
Isolation – The isolation period is a minimum of 5 days for all positive individuals. The information on isolation from my January 11, 2022 K12alert is current.
COVID-19 Conclusion:
The best way to protect yourself and others is to stay home if you are sick. Once you feel better and are asymptomatic, come to our testing program. If you test negative and remain asymptomatic, you can attend school/work.
January 18, 2022
January 18, 2022
We are excited to share that we are in receipt of additional COVID-19 home test kits. We are able to provide one test kit per student. Student test kits will only be provided to parents/guardians.
We have set up the following schedule for distribution of test kits tomorrow, Wednesday, 1/19/2022:
Time Location Logistics
2:30 – 3:00 PM BRS – pick up line This time slot is for BRS parents.
BRS parents waiting to pick up students may pick up one test kit per student (can include your children from other buildings).
3:00 – 3:30 PM BRS – inside main gate This time slot is for BRS parents.
BRS parents may come up the steps to pick up one test kit per student. If driving, park along Academy Street, then come up the steps to the building to pick up one test kit per student (can include your children from other buildings).
6:00 – 8:00 PM PHS – front circle This time slot is for all parents.
Parents should enter the high school campus via Sunnyside Avenue and Clinton Avenue, NOT ROMER. You will be directed to pull through the front circle and you can pick up one test kit per student.
If none of the above work for your family, we will be getting additional test kits out to the schools in the near future.
As a reminder, at this time for our district, tests administered at home may be used to confirm a positive and the positive person would need to isolate. Tests administered at home cannot be used to confirm a negative, which is required for return to school/work after illness or for Test to Stay.
January 15, 2022
January 15, 2022
COVID-19 Testing Program:
Our COVID-19 testing program went well for our first two days. We tested 12 students on Wednesday and 5 on Thursday. We will continue to administer on-site testing until further notice. Note next week we will have our morning testing session on Tuesday at 6:30 AM and afternoon testing on Wednesday and Thursday. Please see this flyer for additional information. Many thanks go to our nurses and administrators who got this program up and running to help us keep our kids in school!
Surveillance Testing:
Between January 4 th and 11 th we were able to complete our January gateway – all consenting participants were able to test if they were in school/work. We will continue January 18 th with testing 20% of the participants each week.
Pleasantville Weekly Data:
Positive results of COVID-19 are coming from 3 sources, our testing program, surveillance testing, and parents/staff. While positive results may come from either a home test administration or a lab/doctor, negative tests must come from a doctor, certified lab, or our testing program.
Numbers for the past week are represented in the table below.
BRS PMS PHS DO
Positive Cases from 1 student
Testing Program
Positive Cases from 2 students
Jan 11 Surveillance
Testing
Positive Cases from 4 students 16 students 14 students
Parents and Staff 2 staff 3 staff 5 staff
Total Positive COVID 5 students 18 students 14 students
Cases Week of 2 staff 3 staff 5 staff
Jan 10
Isolation and Quarantine:
Additional NYSDOH guidance regarding isolation and quarantine requirements was issued late Thursday night and then reissued Friday. There are parts of the guidance that are clear and others which require additional clarification. Colleagues met with the local health department and county personnel yesterday to discuss the new guidelines and we will meet again Tuesday morning. Our administrative team will continue to meet to discuss how to apply the new guidelines.
Contact Tracing – While contact tracing is no longer required we will continue communicating with staff and parents regarding COVID-19 positives so that the quarantine requirements can be complied with.
Quarantine – The current quarantine period for those not fully vaccinated is 5 days. We are still seeking guidance on the definition of fully vaccinated per age group and whether the reduced quarantine period applies to extracurricular activities (i.e. athletics, arts, clubs).
Isolation – The isolation period is a minimum of 5 days for all positive individuals. The information on isolation from my January 11, 2022 K12alert is current.
Conclusion:
The best way to protect yourself and others is to stay home if you are sick. Once you feel better and are asymptomatic, come to our testing program. If you test negative and remain asymptomatic, you can attend school/work.
Thank you for your patience as we navigate an ever-changing landscape. We appreciate your support. I will update the COVID-19 Operating Plan as soon as possible.
January 11, 2022
January 11, 2022
There are two very important updates related to our COVID-19 Operating Plan that I would like to share with you.
COVID-19 Testing Program:
We will be up and running tomorrow. Please see this flyer for information.
Isolation and Quarantine:
Isolation, for those who test positive, is a minimum of five days, regardless of vaccination status.
Students, teachers, and staff who test positive for COVID-19 and never develop symptoms should isolate for at least 5 days. Day 0 is the day of the positive viral test (based on the date of testing) and day 1 is the first full day after the specimen was collected for the positive test.
If they continue to have no symptoms, they can end isolation after at least 5 days.
They should continue to wear a well-fitting mask around others at home and in public until day 10 (day 6 through day 10). If they are unable to wear a mask when around others, they should continue to isolate for 10 days.
If they develop symptoms after testing positive, the 5-day isolation period should start over. Day 0 is the first day of symptoms.
People who have COVID-19 and have or had symptoms should isolate for at least 5 days. To calculate the 5-day isolation period, day 0 is the first day of symptoms. Day 1 is the first full day after their symptoms developed.
They can end isolation after 5 full days if they are fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication and other symptoms have improved (loss of taste and smell may persist for weeks or months after recovery and need not delay the end of isolation).
They should continue to wear a well-fitting mask around others at home and in public for 5 additional days (day 6 through day 10) after the end of their 5-day isolation period. If they are unable to wear a mask when around others, they should continue to isolate for 10 days.
If they continue to have fever or other symptoms have not improved after 5 days of isolation, they should wait to end isolation until they are fever-free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication and their other symptoms have improved. They should continue to wear a well-fitting mask and contact their healthcare provider with questions.
Quarantine is for those identified as an unvaccinated close contact. Unvaccinated and asymptomatic close contacts may Test to Stay and attend school with a negative COVID-19 test result. See our information on COVID-19 Testing. Vaccinated and asymptomatic individuals are not required to quarantine from school.
Conclusion:
Our administrative and nursing team is meeting first thing tomorrow morning to discuss these changes and how they apply to our currently isolated and quarantined students and staff. Thank you for your patience as we navigate an ever-changing landscape. We appreciate your support. I will update the COVID-19 Operating Plan as soon as possible.
January 8, 2022
January 8, 2022
Wednesday evening the reopening committee met to discuss several changes to our COVID-19 protocols. Below is an outline of the changes you can find in our newly created COVID-19 Operating Plan. The document includes both established and the changed/new protocols discussed Wednesday. We now have one document that articulates all our protocols. Consider it one stop shopping with everything you need in one place. When we make changes/updates, I will communicate them via a K12alerts communication and memorialize them in the COVID-19 Operating Plan. The “Plan” is on our website. We will continue to update the “Reopening Our Schools” site to ensure it is current.
Return to School After Illness:
Please read this section carefully. The big change is that we are now using either NAAT or antigen tests to be able to return to school. NAAT are molecular tests, usually called PCR tests. Antigen tests are typically called rapid tests, although there are rapid PCR tests. We are NOT accepting tests administered at home. All tests must be accompanied by a lab result OR be administered at school. Please see the section titled “COVID-19 Testing” below. In order to return to school or be eligible for our testing program, students must be asymptomatic.
Isolation and Quarantine:
The new part of the isolation and quarantine section is with regards to critical staffing. Please read this section carefully. It only applies to fully vaccinated staff. There is NO change to isolation or quarantine periods for students or unvaccinated staff. We are NOT following CDC recommendations for shortened quarantine because it requires local endorsement and we do not have that yet. As a reminder, unless there is an executive order, regulation, or mandate, recommendations and guidance documents must move from the federal to the state to the local level and then be implemented by our district. I will communicate any changes to the community directly via K12alerts as timely as possible. We know that the rules are sometimes confusing and in flux (and coming from different sources). We will do our best to try to be timely and clear in explaining the most confusing information to you. Please keep in mind that all of this is being done with the best intentions to keep our children, teachers, and staff safe and in school.
Test to Stay:
This program is new to Pleasantville. Please ensure you read this section. Test to Stay is for unvaccinated close contacts and participants that test negative are only permitted to attend school. Participants are not allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities including athletics and quarantine still applies to anything outside of school.
COVID-19 Testing:
This section is new. We are accepting home tests for positive cases. A negative home test will not be considered for criteria to return to school or Test to Stay.
We will be administering our own testing program as soon as possible (we are ironing out some logistics). We will be using the test kits provided by NYS via FEMA. This program is open to our students and staff who are asymptomatic and would like to return to school/work with a negative test result OR participants in our Test to Stay program.
While the tests were provided by the state, none of this would be possible without the efforts of our amazing staff, including our unbelievable team of nurses. They have worked tirelessly throughout this entire pandemic to support the health and safety of our students and staff, helping navigate the everchanging landscape and keeping the children of Pleasantville in school.
Daily Health Screening:
Beginning Monday, January 10, 2022, the daily health screening questions will be:
1. Have you tested positive for COVID-19 and therefore required to isolate?
2. Are you designated as a close contact and required to quarantine?
3. Do you have any of the following symptoms (the list will be presented, same as before)?
4. What is your temperature?
5. Do you have diagnostic COVID-19 test results pending, meaning you got tested because you were symptomatic?
The follow up will say:
If you answered yes to any of the questions above or your temperature was above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, you may not go to school/work. Families should contact the school nurse and employees should contact their supervisor.
Current Data:
We wish all our sick students, staff, and family members a quick recovery. Please see the data below for positive cases. Thank you to our assistant principals for pulling this information together.
BRS PMS PHS DO
Total Positive COVID 25 students 27 students 35 students
Cases During Vacation 7 staff 5 staff 7 staff 3 staff
Total Positive COVID 5 students 12 students 10 students
Cases Week of Jan 3 1 staff 4 staff 1 staff 1 staff
Positive Cases from Jan 4 1 student 3 students 2 students
Surveillance Testing 1 staff 2 staff 1 staff
included in totals for
the week of Jan 3)
Total Positive COVID 30 students 39 students 45 students
Cases Vacation Week 8 staff 9 staff 8 staff 4 staff
and Week of Jan 3
Conclusion:
The Reopening Committee had 36 people on the call Wednesday night. I cannot express my gratitude for your time, energy, and thoughtfulness. You are appreciated.
Managing this pandemic is beyond a team effort. Our entire administrative team continues to spend hours upon hours ensuring we remain up and running well and trying to obtain clarity around the changing rules.
December 30, 2021
December 30, 2021
Our district has and will remain committed to these three priorities:
Maximize the health and safety of all students and staff
Maximize in-person instruction for all students, all grades K-12, all day, every day.
Minimize the impact of quarantining on students, staff, and their families.
Our current plan is to continue in-person learning with students returning on Monday, January 3, 2022. This is consistent with our established priorities and follows guidance from NY State Governor Kathy Hochul and the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Our administrative team will continue to monitor data over the weekend, with a focus on whether we can adequately staff our buildings and classrooms. Should the need arise, we will communicate any changes as quickly as possible.
In order to achieve our goals, we will continue with our layered mitigation strategy. The mitigation measures include:
Daily health screening – fill it out with fidelity each morning;
Enhanced ventilation;
Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting;
Weekly surveillance testing – see below for more information on how to be included;
Contact tracing and quarantining protocols – see below for clarification on implementation; and
Universal masking for all students and staff regardless of vaccination status while indoors, on a bus or in the locker rooms.
Weekly Surveillance Testing:
We appreciate that many of our families have been participating in our weekly surveillance testing program which started in September. It helps with early detection in pre-symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. Each Tuesday, our partner company that administers the program, comes to our buildings for testing. We are going to test all participants that have registered on either January 4 or 11. On January 18, 2022 we will transition back to testing 20% of the participants per week.
If your child has not been participating in the weekly surveillance testing program and you would like to register them, there is a 2-step process. First, an invitation was sent to you in Operoo on December 22, 2021. Parents and guardians will need to complete the consent forms for each child. Second, you must complete the Quadrant registration forms. Please complete the registration process by January 6 so we can plan accordingly. The invite from Operoo contains a Q and A and contact numbers if you have any questions.
We are encouraging all students to participate in the weekly surveillance testing program.
Isolation, Contact Tracing and Quarantining Protocols:
On December 24, 2021, New York State issued an advisory regarding shortened isolation periods for fully vaccinated individuals considered part of the critical workforce. We will be implementing this for vaccinated staff only.
On December 27, 2021, the CDC provided an updated recommendation on shortening the isolation and quarantine periods for the general public. We are awaiting further direction from New York State and in the meanwhile have not made any changes to quarantine or isolation periods for students and unvaccinated staff.
As a reminder, any students required to isolate or quarantine, or have pending COVID-19 test results, may engage in remote learning. Remote learning will include livestreaming and/or asynchronous work and will depend upon the age and needs of the student and the coursework. Parents electing to keep children out of school for reasons other than mandatory isolation, quarantine or pending test results must regularly check Schoology (5-12) or reach out to your child’s teacher (K-4) in order to obtain missed work from the day.
Conclusion:
This week, New York State also indicated they will be providing each school district with test kits. We are encouraged that we will be receiving the kits soon and await their arrival.
December 22, 2021
December 22, 2021
Quadrant Testing, Tuesday, December 21
We had a significant increase in the numbers of registered families participating in yesterday’s surveillance testing program. As per Quadrant’s reporting and notification protocols, only those individuals whose test reveals a positive result will be contacted via email. The notification will be sent directly from Quadrant. We do not know when those notifications will be sent out. Typically, they are sent out within 36 to 48 hours of the test. However, there may be a delay given the volume testing labs are experiencing at this time.
2022 Quadrant Gateway Testing for Families Currently Registered
On Tuesday, 1/4/22, and Tuesday 1/11/22, we will have an expanded gateway testing process for ALL families who are already registered with Quadrant.
2022 Quadrant Gateway Testing for NEW Families/Staff
Tomorrow an invitation will be available via Operoo for new families/staff to register. Families/staff who did NOT respond to the September invitation or said NO in September will receive a new invitation. For those who decide to participate, there is a 2-step process. First, parents and guardians will need to complete the consent forms for each child. Second, they must complete the Quadrant registration forms. The invite from Operoo contains a Q and A and contact numbers if individuals have any questions.
December 20, 2021
December 20, 2021
Allow me to take a moment of your time to provide you with an update on our Quadrant Surveillance Testing Program. I hope this Q and A will provide families with the information requested over the weekend and earlier today.
Question: Is there an expanded opportunity for families already registered with Quadrant to participate in this week’s testing pool IF they are not part of this week’s schedule?
Answer: Yes, families who are currently registered in the weekly testing program but are not scheduled for the Tuesday pool can participate in tomorrow’s testing. Communicate your request to the Assistant Principal at your child’s school.
Question: How can I sign up for the weekly surveillance testing and when will it start?
Answer: An invitation to participate for NEW families will be sent out Wednesday afternoon. The sign-up process has 2 steps – an invitation through Operoo, which includes a link to the Quadrant Registration system. Current participants do NOT need to re-register. New registrants will start the surveillance testing program on January 11, 2022.
Question: What type of tests are used?
Answer: Our Quadrant Labs surveillance tests are non-invasive, self-collected cheek saliva samples that are processed using accurate and reliable PCR analysis to identify positive cases.
Please reach out to your child's school if you have any questions. A registration email will be sent out on Wednesday afternoon for new families.
December 18, 2021
December 18, 2021
Yesterday's K12 Alerts included language regarding vaccination after a recent positive case that needs clarification. While individuals will likely have protection from re-infection for 90 days and will wait 90 days after monoclonal antibody treatment, individuals can get vaccinations sooner than that. Here is the link to the updated CDC guidance.
Please reach out to your Health Care Provider for specific Information related to your family.
Thank you, I apologize for any confusion.
December 17, 2021
December 17, 2021
COVID-19
This week we uploaded the following positive cases into the New York State portal:
BRS - 6 students, 1 adult
MS - 7 students, 1 adult
HS - 15 students, 1 adult
District Level - 1 adult
Surveillance Testing
BRS- negative pool
MS negative pool
HS – 1 positive pool (1 adult)
Updated Vaccination Rates (fully vaccinated and in process)
We are aware that some families could not complete the vaccination process due to a positive case. Please note that individuals cannot get the vaccine until 90 days after a COVID-19 infection.
PHS – 88%
MS Grades 7/8 – 86.3%
MS Grades 5/6 – 68.2%
BRS – 67%
Pleasantville, along with many communities in our area and in the US, continues to see an increase in infections and spread. We know that this spread is taking place predominantly at get-togethers, both inside and outside of the home. This new influx of infections appears to have a high contagion rate. However, individuals who are fully vaccinated are reporting mild to cold-like symptoms. Good news.
I know families are looking for accessible information when making decisions – especially as we prepare for the holiday week. Many are healthy, vaccinated and boostered and looking forward to celebrating with a level of normalcy that they miss. Yet, families care about curbing the spread, protecting those more vulnerable, and want to avoid getting sick or infecting loved ones if they can help it. What can we do to better inform risk-assessed decision-making?
We ask that families consider taking measured and intentional steps with regard to decisions. While our schools are controlled environments, we need your help to maintain in-person learning every day for all students.
Answer the Daily Health Screener with fidelity.
Consider participating in our weekly surveillance testing program. The Quadrant saliva-based test is simple to administer and the results are informative. I will send out information on the registration process for new participants on Monday.
Thank you to our students and families for your continued support and cooperation. Our schools remain controlled environments and we are committed to the protocols and requirements outlined by the NYS Department of Health. Please click here for the recent determination and information from the NYS Commissioner of Health on universal masking.
December 10, 2021
December 10, 2021
We are into the Holiday season and the colder weather is upon us. This has brought an uptick in COVID cases within our school community, region, county, and state.
Today we uploaded the following numbers into the New York State portal:
4 individuals associated with BRS have tested positive.
6 individuals associated with the Middle School have tested positive.
9 individuals associated with the High School have tested positive.
The weekly surveillance testing had one positive pool/case – in the Middle School. That case is included in the Middle School numbers.
After analysis by our team, consultation with medical and outside agencies, we know that none of these cases are based upon exposure in school. Our layered risk-mitigation protocols are working, our environments are controlled. Also, as outlined in the Department of Health protocols, fully vaccinated individuals who are asymptomatic are not required to quarantine. Due to the large percentage of fully vaccinated students in grades 6-12, this protocol has lowered the impact of quarantining for our school community. As I shared last week, we know that our younger grades are in the process - with over 60% of families obtaining vaccinations for their younger children.
As a school community, we are 100% committed to our Reopening Goals: in-person learning for every child, every day, K-12, in a safe and healthy environment. Our schools are safe, staffed, and open. While we are encountering periodic staffing challenges based upon Department of Health quarantining requirements and the regional shortage of substitute teachers, we are addressing those challenges on a day-to-day basis. Our instructional staff has been outstanding, and I thank them for their commitment to the children of our school district.
Based upon the conversations we are having with families as well as input from the county, we know that exposures are occurring at after-school events, outside clubs and activities, family gatherings, and get-togethers - both in and outside of the home. They are occurring at the myriad of events that fill the normalcy of life that folks enjoy and have missed. However, while I understand the desire for normalcy, it is important that I remind everyone that COVID-19 is still with us and measured, intentional responses are needed, particularly now until mid-January.
To ensure that we stay committed to the goals of our Reopening Plan we need your continued support of the following:
Answer the Daily Health Screener with fidelity and purpose. Do NOT click through it. Do NOT give false information. If you have any questions, call your Health Care Provider and the school nurse. We know that the cold and flu season is with us, and children are catching the typical colds of the season. However, to ensure that it isn’t COVID-19, pay attention to the symptoms and reach out to your health care provider.
Continue to reinforce the importance of universal masking. We know that this key element of our health and safety protocols has had a significant positive impact on our ability to have in-person learning.
Take advantage of COVID-19 testing opportunities and consider participating in our weekly surveillance testing program. We will be opening our weekly surveillance testing system to new participants in January. I will provide more information next week.
Be mindful and thoughtful regarding your activities outside of school. Consider planning wonderful events and gatherings that take advantage of the outdoors.
Lastly, please continue to support each other with kindness, compassion, and care. No one wants to contract COVID-19. If you know of anyone who isn’t well, consider reaching out, sending a friendly text or email, and asking if they are ok or need any help. We have nine more days until the break, and we will get there safely - together.
December 3, 2021
December 3, 2021
COVID Update
We are experiencing an uptick in positive cases.
BRS – 2 individuals associated with BRS have tested positive.
MS – 7 individuals associated with the Middle School have tested positive.
PHS – 2 individuals associated with the High School have tested positive.
Individuals who are required to quarantine based upon these cases have been contacted.
Families are reminded to complete the Operoo Daily Health Screener with fidelity. That first piece of our layered risk-mitigation strategy is an important step for protecting the health and safety of your family and our community. However, it only works if folks answer it with intention and purpose. Thank you for your continued cooperation.
Vaccination Information
Grades K-6 data as of this week:
56% of BRS students completed the vaccination cycle or have received one shot.
67% of grades 5/6 completed the vaccination cycle or have received one shot.
Grades 7-12 data from earlier this fall (we will update the numbers by the end of the month):
75% of the students in grades 7/8 are fully vaccinated.
83% of the HS students are fully vaccinated.
Updates from New York State Department of Health
Test to Stay and Test Out of Quarantine
The District is working with the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) and the Westchester County Department of Health (WCDOH) regarding the options under two practices that have gained media attention and are used in Massachusetts. NYSDOH has issued a memo on the “Test to Stay” and the “Test Out of Quarantine” protocols. As of this writing, WCDOH has not given us official approval to adopt them, which is a requirement. When the official notice is given, we will update the community on our process.
Vaccine Side Effects
NYSDOH has released an algorithm or chart that addresses school attendance and requirements for children who have symptoms consistent with vaccine side effects shortly after receipt of the COVID vaccine. Click here for the details.
Please note that the official guidance documents relating to the operation of schools during the COVID-19 pandemic can be found on our website at Reopening our Schools>Home>Updates and Resources.
Thank you for your support as we continue to navigate these uncharted waters together. Our goals and priorities remain the same! These are our unequivocal priorities for the 2021-2022 school year.
Maximize the health and safety of all students and staff.
Maximize in-person instruction for all students, all grades K-12, all day, every day.
Minimize the impact of quarantining on students, staff, and their families.
November 24, 2021
As of this writing, we do not have the results of yesterday’s pool tests. This week we updated the NYS database with one positive BRS case. Individuals who need to quarantine have been contacted.
November 24, 2021
As of this writing, we do not have the results of yesterday’s pool tests. This week we updated the NYS database with one positive BRS case. Individuals who need to quarantine have been contacted.
November 19, 2021
November 19, 2021
As a community, we are experiencing an uptick in cases. This isn’t unexpected as it is 2 plus weeks after Halloween. Here’s the Westchester County Data link for positive cases.
Surveillance Testing
This week’s surveillance testing revealed one positive pool at the MS – that pool resulted in one positive case.
Negative pools at BRS and PHS
NYS COVID Report
Four individuals associated with the MS tested positive.
Two individuals associated with the HS tested positive.
Any individuals who may be required to quarantine based on these cases have been contacted.
Vaccination Information
We had 88 responses to our survey on hosting a vaccination pop-up site for our students (64 yes and 24 no). This doesn't meet the Westchester County Department of Health's (WCDOH) threshold number (approximately 500) for hosting a pop-up site. Based upon feedback and NYS data, we are aware that many of our families have already worked with their pediatricians and other health professionals regarding vaccinations for younger children. Those families who are interested in vaccination access can click on this WCDOH link.
The NYS COVID-19 mass vaccination site at the Westchester County Center closed yesterday. Vaccinations are being moved to the Westchester Medical Center Campus and are being given at Maria Fareri Children's Hospital: in the lobby, Monday-Saturday, for children 5-11-years-old; and at the Taylor Care Pavilion, Monday-Sunday, for 12 years and over. Appointments can be made through the NYS website.
November 12, 2021
November 12, 2021
COVID-19
Surveillance Testing – all the pools from this week are negative.
Reports to NYS – this week we have uploaded 4 positive cases into the NYS Database.
An individual associated with BRS has tested positive.
Three individuals associated with PHS have tested positive.
We did not close any classrooms/instructional programs for students based upon these cases.
We encourage all families to answer the Daily Screener questions with fidelity and intent. The Screener is meant to provide everyone with a pause as they start their day. A moment to reflect upon their family’s health. It only works as a preventative measure when everyone participates with fidelity.
Vaccine Clinics
Westchester County has asked school districts to survey their families regarding interest in pop-up vaccine clinics. Depending on interest, the county's Department of Health may request that we allow them to set up a pop-up clinic at our district or at a neighboring district. If you wish to participate in the survey, please click here.
November 5, 2021
November 5, 2021
COVID-19
This week's surveillance pool test ( staff only, due to Superintendent's Conference Day on Tuesday) - all negative pools.
No positive cases were reported to New York State this week.
October 29, 2021
October 29, 2021
This week’s Quadrant surveillance testing uncovered no positive cases/pools.
There are no positive case reports from the schools to upload to New York State for the week of October 25.
The NYS Department of Health updated their Testing and Quarantining Information on Thursday. Click here to read the latest from NYS on quarantining and Test to Stay. This information is also available on our website – under the Reopening of Schools>Home>Updates and Resources.
October 22, 2021
October 22, 2021
Surveillance Testing
As of this writing, we have the results back from 2 of the 3 schools. BRS and the Middle School have negative pools. No positive cases. We are still waiting for the High School results – the company shares that they are still in process. The tests results were slower to process this week – this may be due to an increase in testing volume at Quadrant Labs.
COVID-19 Cases
An adult associated with the High School has tested positive. No classes were closed or students quarantined based upon this case.
October 15, 2021
October 15, 2021
Surveillance Testing
Once again, I am happy to report that this week’s surveillance tests from all 3 schools had NEGATIVE results. A big thank you to our Assistant Principals, as well as the staff and students/families who have volunteered to participate in this program.
COVID-19 Cases
No positive COVID cases at PUFSD the week of Oct 11 (BRS, MS, HS).
October 7, 2021
October 7, 2021
Surveillance Testing
Thank you to our partners at the Westchester County Medical Center and our amazing Assistant Principals. We had another successful and smooth week of COVID-19 Surveillance Testing. I’m happy to report that all the pools from all three schools have returned a NEGATIVE result. No positive cases.
Report of COVID-19 Cases
This week there are NO positive cases (staff or students) from all three schools to report.
October 1, 2021
October 1, 2021
Surveillance Testing
A huge “shout out” to the students, staff, Assistant Principals, and the many, many families who opted into the very successful Surveillance Testing Program. This morning, we received the reports from the HS - the last school tested. The results – all 3 schools – NO positive cases – all negative. Hopefully, this is a sign of a positive trend. Once again, thank you to this incredible community for the partnership.
Moving forward, the weekly sampling testing information will be shared by the individual schools. Please contact your child’s school – the Assistant Principal or the school nurse – if you have any questions.
Vaccinations
I’m happy to share the following vaccination rates:
Staff – (teachers, teaching assistants, and administrators) – 95.2%
Grades 7-8 – 75%
Grades 9-12 – 83%
COVID-19 Case(s)
Since my last alert, we have updated the New York State portal with one case. An individual associated with the Middle School has tested positive – no quarantining required.
September 26, 2021
September 26, 2021
Thank you to everyone who registered to participate in the surveillance testing. We had a great response from both staff and students.
All of the registered staff and students will test this week during the school day.
Monday, September 27th: Bedford Road School
Tuesday, September 28th: Pleasantville Middle School
Wednesday, September 29th: Pleasantville High School
Moving forward we will test 20% from each building, each week, and your building administration will notify you with more details.
September 24, 2021
September 24, 2021
COVID Updates
Surveillance Testing – We still have a number of families who have said YES to testing but are NOT registered with Quadrant Biosciences for next week's Surveillance Testing.
Please click on the following link to Quadrant Biosciences website to complete the process: https://app.clarifi-covid-19.com/ (deadline to register with Quadrant is 2:30 today - 9/24). This is a required step.
When you are on the Quadrant site: Select 'No Insurance' when prompted to provide health insurance information. The testing agreement with the County does not require that individuals provide this information. Thank you for your cooperation.
Positive Cases – Last night we received word that an individual associated with BRS has tested positive. Any individuals who are considered “close contacts” have been notified.
COVID-19 Q and A – Westchester County Department of Health has created a thorough, easy-to-read Q and A for schools. It's on our website. Click here to access the important guidance we are required to follow.
September 22, 2021
September 22, 2021
Surveillance Testing
Thank you to all families who have signed up for Surveillance Testing. We have had a strong response. Overall, 73% of our families have responded with 72% consenting. In order to complete the process for those families who said YES, we need your help.
Today, when we were looking at the numbers we noticed that a good number of families who said YES to surveillance testing did not finish the process.
For those who have consented to testing, you need to visit the Quadrant Biosciences website to complete the registration process: https://app.clarifi-covid-19.com/ (deadline to register with Quadrant is 9/24). This is a required step. When you are on the Quadrant site - Please note: Select 'No Insurance' when prompted to provide health insurance information. The testing agreement with the County does not require that individuals provide this information. Thank you for your help!
COVID-19 Cases
As of this writing, there are NO new cases to report.
September 15, 2021
September 15, 2021
A quick update on 2 important items:
Surveillance Testing
As of this afternoon, 53% of our families have responded to the Operoo survey regarding Surveillance Testing – and almost 80% have opted in! This is great news! Thank you to those families who have responded and opted in! I highly encourage all families to consider participating in this free, highly effective PCR cheek swab test. Information on the Testing is located on our website. Sign-up is simple through the Operoo platform.
COVID Numbers
This week we have updated the New York State portal with the following information:
Two individuals associated with Bedford Road School have tested positive.
An individual associated with the High School has tested positive.
Moving forward, I will share this information during my weekly updates. Please note that any individuals who may have had to quarantine based upon these cases have been contacted.
September 10, 2021
September 10, 2021
SURVEILLANCE TESTING
As announced last week, the District's Surveillance Testing provider is Quadrant Biosciences. Quadrant has partnered with the Westchester County Medical Center. Quadrant is providing the surveillance testing laboratory services and the Medical Center will provide the staff for the testing process. The 15-second PCR saliva-based cheek swab testing program has 2 components:
An initial “gateway" test of all students and staff who have opted into the program. Our plan at this moment is to have the gateway testing take place over a 3-day period starting September 27. Additional information will be forthcoming.
Weekly surveillance testing of 20% of our school population. This will take place every Tuesday after the gateway testing is completed. Grouping information for the weekly testing will be shared once the consent forms have been returned.
The District is using the Operoo platform to deliver the Surveillance Testing Program information, which will include the overview letter, the required Consent Forms, as well as a Q&A and contact information. On Monday, September 13, families and staff will receive two notices from Operoo - a notice for the regular Daily Health Screener and a Notice for the Surveillance Testing Program. Once families/staff have completed the Consent Form they will automatically receive the Quadrant Registration Information. We ask that families and individuals complete the process by Friday, September 17. Families must decide to opt-in or out. Operoo will continue to send out a Surveillance Testing notice if no response is received.
The Surveillance Testing materials are also available for review on our website. Click here to read the information. Again, the actual consent and sign-up process will take place over the Operoo Platform.
August 13, 2021
August 13, 2021
Good morning! I hope you are enjoying the day and looking forward to a relaxing and restful summer weekend. Allow me to share a number of important updates.
Summer Capital Projects
Our summer projects are moving ahead. I am happy to report that the asbestos removal projects at the Middle School and High School and the Bedford Road School metal roof recoating process have been completed. Next week, we will start the BRS gutter and downspout replacement work. Work continues on the BRS library media center and on the MS renovation of the OT/PT space and gym locker rooms.
School Calendar 2021-2022
The 2021-2022 School Calendar is at the printer and will be mailed to our school families and any resident who has asked for a paper copy. A printable version of the calendar is available on our website. Click here to download a copy.
School Reopening 2021-2022
We are strongly committed to the three goals of our Reopening Plan. These are our unequivocal priorities for the 21-22 school year.
Maximize the health and safety of all students and staff.
Maximize in-person instruction for all students, all grades K-12, all day, every day.
Minimize the impact of quarantining on students, staff, and their families.
To meet those goals, the District will continue with the protocols outlined in our Reopening Plan : Daily Health screening, enhanced ventilation, and cleaning, contact tracing and quarantining protocols, and universal masking for all students and staff regardless of vaccination status. Earlier this week we were informed by the Westchester County Department of Health (WCDOH) that students who are socially distanced within 3 plus feet of a positive case will NOT be required to quarantine IF they are wearing a mask. We expect written guidance on this shortly.
Thursday afternoon the NYS Education Department issued important Back to School information and guidance. The Goals of the NYSED Plan align with ours.
We understand that the month of August as well as the Labor Day/Jewish New Year Holiday Break will present more opportunities for travel and celebrating with family. We also understand that there is a rise in typical childhood upper respiratory infections, which will require screenings when the school year starts. Therefore, our proactive, health-focused Reopening Plan is our best path forward at this time.
If you are planning to travel, please review the CDC requirements for both domestic and international travel.
We are very excited about the upcoming school year. Yes, these are challenging times. Yet this community is amazing in its support for each other and our children. We will continue to meet these challenges with the same spirit of kindness, compassion and care we have shown each other throughout this pandemic. Thank you for your continued support.
August 4, 2021
August 4, 2021
Welcome to the month of August! I cannot believe that in 4 weeks we will be welcoming our students back to our schools. We are having a very busy summer preparing for the new school year and are excited for September. Allow me to take a moment of your time to share important back-to-school information.
As I am sure you are aware, we are seeing an increase in the regional infection rate for COVID-19. According to Westchester County, our regional rate of 2.39% is classified as “substantial.” This is a significant increase compared to where we were in late June. In addition, we are seeing the Delta variant causing some “vaccine breakthrough infections.” This is due to the fact that the Delta variant behaves differently and is more contagious. The good news is that the breakthrough infections are not requiring hospitalizations or causing severe illness or death in those who are fully vaccinated. Most cases are mild. The concern is for the unvaccinated.
Please be advised that we take our responsibilities as public education officials very seriously. Our decision-making for September is informed by our local medical and health care professionals, our regional partners in the County, the CDC, and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Based upon these considerations we will start the school year with our current layered prevention/risk mitigation plan. The Plan involves a deep commitment to the following three goals:
The health and safety of all students and staff.
In-person instruction for all students, all grades K-12, all day, every day.
Minimization of the impact of quarantining on students, staff, and their families.
To that end, the elements of our current plan include:
Daily health screenings;
Enhanced ventilation;
Contact tracing protocols in combination with quarantine and isolation as determined by the Westchester County Department of Health;
Enhanced cleaning/disinfection;
Masks indoors for all students and staff regardless of vaccination status.
While this information may not be what some of our families were expecting to hear, we believe that this puts us in the best possible place to ensure the three important goals of our Plan. I am confident that we can move forward as a community with a very successful opening. We've got this!
Last week, the New York State Education Department (NYSED) shared that remote learning for the upcoming school year is not required. We will not offer unrestricted remote learning access for the 2021-22 school year. However, we will implement a Remote Learning option based upon certain medically verified pandemic-related illnesses and quarantining situations. In other medically verifiable situations, the NYSED “homebound instruction” regulations will apply. Families with specific questions are advised to reach out to their child's school.
It is anticipated that the state will be issuing new information in approximately two weeks that may impact our opening plans. To provide you with the latest information, I will send out a weekly communication and each school will host a town hall meeting before the start of school. Information on those meetings will be forthcoming from the Principals.
June 18, 2021
June 18, 2021
I hope this email finds you well and looking forward to a relaxing weekend. I am happy to share that once again, the Pleasantville School District did not report any new cases of COVID-19 to the New York State Department of Health. In New York, our COVID-19 numbers continue to hit record lows and our vaccination rate continues to climb – excellent news!
As of yesterday, Juneteenth National Independence Day is a federal holiday. This is the statement from the White House marking the significance of the holiday. In the District today, all three schools marked the holiday with important age-appropriate activities. Happy Juneteenth to all our families!
In closing, enjoy the weekend and Happy Father's Day to all our dads. May you have a terrific day surrounded by family and friends.
June 11, 2021
June 11, 2021
Tuesday, June 15, Board of Education Meeting
The June 15 Board of Education meeting will be held in the Pleasantville High School Cafeteria, at 7:30 p.m. Members of the public may attend and will be required to complete health screening questionnaires, wear masks and maintain six-feet social distance. Attendees must be in good health and have not: tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 10 days; been in close contact with anyone, in the past 10 days, who tested positive for COVID-19 or who had symptoms of COVID-19; experienced any symptoms of COVID-19, including a temperature of greater than 100.0°F, in the past 10 days; or traveled internationally per the New York State Travel Advisory in the past 10 days. Members of the public may also view the meeting, via Zoom. Click here for the link to the meeting.
During Recognition of Audience, in-person attendees will be given the opportunity to provide comments. Following in-person comments, any comments submitted in advance, via email, will be addressed. The meeting will be recorded, and a transcript will be made available. To submit comments in advance, email District Clerk Veronica Shea at sheav@pleasantvilleschools.org by 4:00 pm Monday, June 14. Please be sure to include your name and address in the email.
COVID-19 Update and Reminder
We have modified our Reopening Plan to include the June 7 New York State Department of Health guidance that states face masks are no longer required when individuals are OUTDOORS on school grounds. Masks still remain required when individuals are indoors. We also removed the use of desk shields from the plan.
Please be reminded to complete the Daily Health Screener with intention and fidelity. The Daily Health Screener is an important risk mitigation strategy. Although the regional infection rate is low and vaccinations are increasing, there have been reports of positive cases in schools in our region. Indoor positive cases require individuals in proximate contact who are not fully vaccinated to quarantine. We are very much aware of the impact quarantining has on students and families. The end of the school year is marked with events, celebrations, and ceremonies. We want everyone to be able to participate - in person - in those events as well as other family celebrations that were missed last year. Let us continue our work together in keeping the PUFSD infection rate low and the need to quarantine at a minimum.
June 8, 2021
June 8, 2021
At this morning's Pleasantville Union Free School District Reopening Committee Meeting, the Committee supported the following administrative modifications to the Reopening Plan.
Effective Wednesday, June 9, 2021, face masks are not required to be worn outdoors on school grounds, including outdoor school sports. While strongly encouraged, face masks are optional when outdoors on school grounds. No student, teacher, staff member, or visitor may be prevented from wearing an acceptable face mask voluntarily on school grounds.
Effective Wednesday, June 9, 2021, desk shields are no longer required as a risk mitigation strategy in classrooms where social distancing is below 6 feet.
These modifications are in alignment with the recent New York State Department of Health Guidance for In-Person instruction in New York State public schools.
June 6, 2021
June 6, 2021
This afternoon we received confirmation from the governor's office, the New York State Education Department and State Senator Shelley Mayer that the information shared in yesterday's alert was correct. There is no change to the New York State rules regarding present mask requirements in schools. As of this writing, masks continue to be required in Pleasantville School District schools. If/when NYS Department of Health guidance changes, we will follow the legally required stakeholder engagement process and update our Reopening Plan. Any changes will be immediately communicated with our families.
Thank you for your patience and support as we navigate this challenging and fluid situation. Let's continue to support each other with the kindness, compassion and care that this incredible community has demonstrated throughout this pandemic. I am so proud of our community and all that we have been able to accomplish...together...this year.
June 5, 2021
June 5, 2021
We are aware of the letter by New York State Health Commissioner Howard Zucker to the CDC expressing the state's intent to change its mask requirements. The letter's intent is to await a response from the CDC before changing the state's formal guidance. The letter has created confusion and a flurry of media reports that are filled with interpretations, unanswered questions and a number of inaccuracies. The majority of media outlets are reporting an actual change in the existing guidance - which it is not. Our state organizations have reached out to the governor's office with these concerns.
As of this writing, there has been no formal change in state requirements. Also, please be reminded that any changes to our individual reopening plans require engagement with stakeholders through a process. This is also the legal interpretation of a number of school attorneys.
We absolutely understand that these are challenging times and the lack of clarity regarding the NYS Department of Health letter has added to stress and confusion. It also has created a level of expectation for which no clear process has been outlined.
Please be assured we are monitoring this situation. If/when we have new guidance, we will share it with our community.
June 4, 2021
June 4, 2021
COVID-19
This week we did NOT have any new positive cases of COVID-19 to report to New York State. Once again, good news! Yesterday, County Executive George Latimer announced that the number of cases is dropping dramatically. Westchester has the lowest number of positive cases in over a year. Please click on the Westchester County Data Dashboard for more local and regional information on COVID-19, including vaccination rates. A big thank you to the Pleasantville community for all the support!
May 28, 2021
May 28, 2021
I hope this email finds you well and enjoying the start of the Memorial Day Holiday weekend.
The COVID 19 Infection rate in New York State continues to decline. On Thursday, the governor announced that it dropped below 1%. That is excellent news. This week, the District did not report any new positive cases to the state portal. The lower infection rates and updated guidance have allowed us to prepare for in-person graduations this year. We thank all the families, parent organizations, class parents and our community partners for their great efforts and support in making these events possible. As per NYS Department of Health guidance, COVID-19 protocols will be in place. Specifics have been sent out from the individual principals. The dates of the ceremonies are as follows:
BRS: June 16 and June 17, 5:30 pm, outdoors at BRS
MS: June 24 – 7:00 pm, outdoors on the main turf field
HS: June 25 – 6:30 pm, outdoors at Parkway Field
On Tuesday, June 1, our regular Board of Education Meeting will take place over Zoom. All BOE meeting information is available on our website, under the Board of Education link. While we had hoped to offer a hybrid meeting format, with the Board attending in person while allowing others to attend via Zoom, some technical challenges have prohibited us from implementing that option at this time.
In closing, please remember the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice as you take time to relax with family and friends this weekend. On Memorial Day, we honor our nation's heroes. Let us never forget their courage and dedication. Pleasantville's Memorial Day celebration will take place on Monday, May 31, at 10 am in Memorial Plaza.
On behalf of the Board of Education, administration, and staff, I wish you a relaxing and memorable Memorial Day.
May 21, 2021
May 21, 2021
I am happy to share that there have been no reports of positive cases of COVID-19 from our schools for the third week in a row. Thank you for working together with us on keeping the rate low! The Pleasantville community vaccination rates are strong and opportunities for vaccines for students 12-15 are expanding. Please see below two vaccine opportunities that were shared with us this week.
As promised, New York State released its updated Protocols this week. Click here to see the new document. IMPORTANT: Pre-K to 12 schools, public transit, homeless shelters, correctional facilities, nursing homes, and healthcare settings will continue to follow the state's existing COVID-19 health guidelines until more New Yorkers are fully vaccinated. The existing guidance requires MASKS – including while attending games or events which take place on school grounds.
TWO FREE VACCINATION OPPORTUNITIES
Northwell - In collaboration with Phelps and Northern Westchester Hospitals
Northwell has opened a new community vaccination site at 792 North Bedford Road in Bedford Hills (the former Pier 1 retail site). This regional vaccination center is a joint Northwell Health effort with Northern Westchester Hospital and Phelps Memorial Hospital.
This site can provide vaccination to anyone who meets the New York State eligibility requirements, including adolescents aged 12-15 who are in the newly approved age group to receive the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine under Emergency Use Authorization. Minors now account for 20% of new COVID-19 cases in the US.
This Saturday, May 22, they will provide their last round of vaccines at Chappaqua Crossing, with all future vaccinations taking place at the Bedford Hills location. Click here to schedule a vaccination appointment at the Bedford Hills site. Read more.
This Sunday, Northwell will run a community vaccination pod from 8am-4pm and has close to 300 people currently registered, the majority of whom are ages 12-18. At full capacity, this site can administer up to 1000 vaccines per day.
Click here to register for Sunday's vaccination pod or future dates.
The Greenburgh Health Center
The Greenburgh Health Ccenter located at 295 Knollwood Road in White Plains is offering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine to children starting at the ages of 12+. Walk-ins are most welcome!
Children and parents can come in and receive their vaccinations on Tuesday, May 25, 2021, from 9am to 4pm. They can also make an appointment to ensure that their spot is held using this contact information: (phone) 914-989-7600 ext 7650; (email) Mpeoples@mvnhc.org
May 17, 2021
May 17, 2021
COVID-19 Update
Good news! The regional infection rate is approximately 1% and the number of cases within the County continues to decrease. As of this writing, we do not have any new cases of COVID 19 to report. It is anticipated that the NYS Department of Health will be issuing updated information on May 19. Please be reminded that NY public schools and other public agencies report to the NYS Department of Health for all matters relating to public health. Click here to see the latest information.
May 7, 2021
May 7, 2021
COVID-19 UPDATE
I am happy to share that the PUFSD did NOT have new cases of COVID-19 to report this week. Thank you for your help and support. We appreciate the attention families are taking with the Daily Health Screener. High School students- we appreciate your arrival to class on time! In order to ensure prompt arrival – PLEASE complete the screener BEFORE arrival.
In New York, we continue to see a gradual return of events such as sports, performing arts, and social activities. In order to continue to maintain the health and safety of all who are participating in such events, New York State has updated its protocols. Please be reminded that masks are still an important part of those protocols.
2020-21 CALENDAR
Just a reminder. The PUFSD calendar for the 2020-21 school year has changed. Please click on the calendar link to see the changes and updates regarding important end-of-year events and schedules.
Lastly, please join me in recognizing the following:
Teacher Appreciation Week – A BIG thank you to the entire staff of the Pleasantville Schools for all that you do – each and every day. Also thank you to our parent organizations for providing the delicious treats.
National School Nurses Day – May 12 – is a special day to recognize the important role our School Nurses play in ensuring our students and their families are healthy and supported. Thank you to the PUFSD nurses!
Mental Health Awareness Month – The PUFSD is committed to supporting our students and their families as we work together to meet the mental health and Social Emotional Learning (SEL) needs that challenge us. We thank our PUFSD counseling staff along with Break the Hold (BTH), Pleasantville STRONG and Sources of Strength for partnering with us in this important work.
Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month – The Library of Congress, National Archives, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution and the US Holocaust Memorial Museum join us and many regional and NYS partners in paying tribute to generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America's history and are instrumental in its future success.
Eid al-Fitr – May 12. Many blessings and peace to our families who are celebrating this important holiday marking the end of Ramadan.
Mother's Day – Sunday, May 9. Happy Mother's Day to all our Pleasantville moms – may your day be filled with happiness and the love of family.
April 30, 2021
April 30, 2021
Thank you for your help and support as we complete another successful week of a “full return” to schools. This week we updated the New York State portal with the following information:
An individual associated with BRS tested positive.
An individual associated with the Middle School tested positive.
An individual associated with the High School tested positive.
Families or individuals who may have been impacted by these cases have been contacted by the schools.
Your cooperation with the #maskuppleasantville campaign is much appreciated and it is having an impact.
We continue to need your help and support with the Daily Health Screening Process. Please ensure that the screening form is completed before arrival to school in order to ensure a smooth arrival process. High School families and students are especially encouraged to complete the screening ahead of time. The number of High School students who need to be manually screened is increasing. The increase in numbers can result in a delay to class.
Please be reminded that we want to keep our kids in school and avoid large quarantines as best we can. Due to the impact of the new variants on young children, the District will continue to be conservative with children exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. We will only accept standard “send out” PCR tests for symptomatic children, as the rate of “false negatives” associated with Rapid Tests is problematic. If you have any questions, please call the health office in your child's school.
April 23, 2021
April 23, 2021
Thank you for your help and support this week! Our first week of “full return" for all three schools was filled with lots of energy and excitement. Your cooperation with the #maskuppleasantville campaign is much appreciated and it is having an impact.
This afternoon we updated the New York State portal with the following:
An individual associated with the Bedford Road School tested positive.
An individual associated with the Middle School tested positive.
Any individuals who may be required to quarantine based upon these cases will be contacted by the schools.
While we are enjoying the spring semester of school and the promise of more and more things opening up, we need to remain vigilant about our protocols. We want to keep our kids in school and avoid large quarantines as best we can. Our medical team has also informed us that children are getting these new variants and actually getting sick in the region. Based on this information, the District will continue to be conservative with children exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19. Therefore, due to the rate of “false negatives” associated with Rapid Tests, we will only accept standard “send out” PCR tests for symptomatic children. If you have any questions, please call the health office in your child's school.
American Academy of Pediatrics News
April 16, 2021
April 16, 2021
EXPANDING IN-PERSON ATTENDANCE - HS/MS
We are looking forward to welcoming all our Middle School and High School students back to in-person attendance on Monday, April 19. As stated during our town hall meetings, our “full return” of students requires support from our school community, specifically careful attention to the Daily Health Screener and strict adherence to our mask policy. It is critically important to understand that in the event an individual who has been “in-person” tests positive, the number of individuals required to quarantine will increase. The only way we can keep those quarantine numbers down is with your help. If someone in your household has tested positive or is experiencing the signs and symptoms of COVID-19, STAY HOME and contact your health care provider. When tested, await the results of a PCR test as the RAPID Antigen tests can produce false-negative results 50% of the time for individuals who are asymptomatic. A PCR is the “Gold Standard in COVID -19 detection.
Recently we updated our NYS portal with the following:
2 individuals associated with the Middle School have tested positive.
2 individuals associated with the High School have tested positive.
April 13, 2021
April 13, 2021
We updated our portal with two new cases of COVID-19. An individual associated with the High School tested positive and an individual associated with BRS tested positive. The High School case has no impact on the instructional program. However, the BRS case requires the quarantine of 31 students and two adults for 10 days. The families impacted have been contacted by the BRS administration.
As we continue with our “full return to school” plan, it is important to remember that we are still in this pandemic and while there is “light at the end of the tunnel”, we must remain vigilant about protocols. First, it is essential that all families answer the Daily Health Screener with fidelity – do NOT simply click through it. As per the Daily Health Screener, if you or someone in your household has tested positive for COVID-19 or is symptomatic, stay home and call your health care provider.
Second, continue to be consistent about wearing a properly fitting mask. The following points from the CDC are important health and safety reminders regarding the use of masks that will keep all members of our community healthy and safe.
When you wear a mask, you protect others as well as yourself. Masks work best when everyone wears one.
Masks should completely cover the nose and mouth and fit snugly against the sides of the face without gaps.
Masks should be worn any time you are traveling on a plane, bus, train, or other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and in U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations.
People age 2 and older should wear masks in public settings and when around people who don't live in their household.
#maskuppleasantville – click here to see our joint School District and Village mask campaign.
Thank you for your cooperation and support.
April 5, 2021
April 5, 2021
NEW BEDFORD ROAD SCHOOL PRINCIPAL
I am pleased to announce the selection of BRS assistant principal Rachel Hunger as the new BRS principal. The selection of Mrs. Hunger is the result of a comprehensive search process that included input from multiple stakeholder groups. Before joining the BRS family three years ago, Rachel served as an administrator and teacher in the NYC public schools. Throughout the interview and selection process Rachel consistently demonstrated an extensive range of academic leadership and instructional experience. I want to thank staff, parents, administrators, and Board of Education members who took part in the interview process. Please join me in extending a warm welcome and congratulations to Rachel Hunger as the new principal of BRS. Her appointment will be on tomorrow night's Board of Education agenda.
BRS DISMISSAL AND ACADEMY STREET
Just a reminder: Beginning Wednesday, April 7th, Bedford Road School will resume full in-person learning for all students. To facilitate dismissal and abide by COVID-19 health and safety rules, Academy Street will be closed to traffic from 2:30-3:15 PM. This decision was made with careful input from our Police Department and a review of safety concerns. Resident access will not be restricted. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Our sincere appreciation to the community, particularly our Academy Street neighbors, for their support and understanding, and tremendous gratitude to our Pleasantville Police Department for their continued partnership and assistance.
COVID-19
Today, at our school superintendents' meeting with the Westchester County Executive, it was reported that while there is a slight increase in the number of cases for the region, the numbers are well below what they were after the New Year's break. This afternoon we updated the New York State portal with three new cases at BRS and one at the High School. These cases do not impact school programming. We encourage our families to stay vigilant, continue to monitor for signs and symptoms, and to wear a well-fitted mask.
#maskuppleasantville
March 30, 2021
March 30, 2021
Beginning Wednesday, April 7th , Bedford Road School will resume full in-person learning for all students. To facilitate dismissal and abide by COVID-19 health and safety rules, Academy Street will be closed to traffic from 2:30-3:15 PM. Resident access will not be restricted. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Our sincere appreciation to the community, particularly our Academy Street neighbors, for their support and understanding and tremendous gratitude to our Pleasantville Police Department, for their continued partnership and assistance.
Beginning Wednesday, April 7th , Bedford Road School will resume full in-person learning for all students. To facilitate dismissal and abide by COVID-19 health and safety rules, Academy Street will be closed to traffic from 2:30-3:15 PM. Resident access will not be restricted. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. Our sincere appreciation to the community, particularly our Academy Street neighbors, for their support and understanding and tremendous gratitude to our Pleasantville Police Department, for their continued partnership and assistance.
March 26, 2021
March 26, 2021
COVID-19
As you are aware, our schools will be launching their full return schedules during the month of April. Those plans are contingent upon keeping the infection rate low. This week we had only one new case reported (PHS). That is great news! Please continue to be consistent and vigilant about health and safety protocols. We now know that individuals wearing well-fitted masks have a protection rate of 95%. #MaskupPleasantville.
TRAVEL AND QUARANTINE
Governor Cuomo recently made statements about ending the need to quarantine following out-of-state travel, effective April 1. However, as of this writing, the New York State Travel Advisory has not been updated to reflect the Governor's statements. The most recent update was on March 10. That update created quarantine exemptions only for those who are fully vaccinated and those who have contracted COVID within a certain timeframe of their travel. All other travelers are, at this moment, still subject to quarantine, and all travelers are still asked by New York State to complete a traveler health form.
It is New York State that requires and enforces travel-related quarantine. Our student health screener will continue to ask if the student is under any mandatory quarantine order, as an important reminder.
I advise all community members who are contemplating out-of-state travel to continue checking the state's website to see if additional changes are reflected by April 1.
I wish all our families a restful and healthy spring break. To those celebrating Passover and Easter, may the blessings and joys of the holiday be with you and your family.
March 19, 2021
March 19, 2021
EXPANDING IN-PERSON STUDENT ATTENDANCE
Thank you to our families for your excellent attendance and participation in our school level town halls. We deeply value all the feedback and questions as they have greatly informed our specific school-based plans. Thanks also to our building-level administrative teams and teachers/staff. They are hard at work preparing for our full return.
As reiterated during our town hall meetings by our own excellent medical professionals, Dr. Roye and Dr. Nolan, appropriate mask compliance is over 95% effective in protecting against COVID-19. Our layered risk-mitigation protocols also include HVAC air handling systems with MERV filters, the strategic use of HEPA room purifiers, a comprehensive daily cleaning/disinfecting process and hand sanitizing procedures as well as our Daily Health Screening of students and staff. These give us the confidence to expand in-person student attendance. In addition to our layered risk-mitigation protocols, we are also informed by the very recent studies regarding 6-foot vs 3-foot social distancing in school settings. Studies in Massachusetts, Virginia, and Indiana are showing that there was no discernible difference. It is important to note that the 6-foot rule is not a recent recommendation; rather, it was based on studies done over the past century and didn't adjust for the proper wearing of masks. Lastly, New York State schools that go below the 6-foot guidelines are required to use barriers/desk shields.
Our projected full return dates are:
Bedford Road School – April 7;
Middle School and High School – April 19, the start of the 4 th quarter.
While we are excited about the plans to expand in-person student attendance, we are reminded that there will be challenges as the COVID-19 pandemic is still with us. We will encounter cases of the virus and quarantining will be part of our response plan as directed by the Westchester County Department of Health. Recently New York State has made adjustments to its quarantine rules. As mentioned at the town halls, those adjustments have reduced the number of individuals needing to quarantine. Let's continue our health and wellness efforts — #maskuppleasantville!
VACCINATIONS
To date, approximately 94% of our staff have been vaccinated or are in the vaccination process. A big “shout out” to NYSUT and Westchester County for their partnership in securing vaccine access for educators! Last Thursday and Friday, Pleasantville educators were given direct access to the vaccine.
COVID-19
COVID-19 continues to challenge us. Case spread is occurring within families and small gatherings. We encourage all families to be very mindful of contact without a mask, as well as the importance of daily health monitoring. This week we updated the New York State portal with the following information:
Two individuals associated with BRS tested positive.
An individual associated with the Middle School tested positive.
An individual associated with the High School tested positive.
PHS PLAY VIRTUAL EVENT – A GRAND NIGHT FOR SINGING
Join us this weekend for the PHS production of “ A Grand Night for Singing," a musical revue showcasing the music of Richard Rodgers and the lyrics of Oscar Hammerstein II.
SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH
The Board of Trustees of the Pleasantville Union Free School District would like to remind everyone of our Superintendent Search Community webinar, March 22nd from 7:00-9:00 PM, to provide an opportunity for community members who do not have children in the Pleasantville Schools to participate. This webinar is also open to parents/guardians/staff/students or others who were unable to attend prior focus group webinars. Advance registration is required. The link to register for this event is located here. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
March 8, 2021
March 8, 2021
Re-Opening of Schools - Expanding In-person Student Attendance K-12
The three evening Town Hall meetings are an important part of our work towards expanding in-person student attendance. Invitations to attend have been sent out by the individual schools. Registration is required.
BRS Town Hall is this Thursday, March 11.
MS Town Hall is Tuesday, March 16.
HS Town Hall is Thursday, March 18.
In order to address all questions and comments in a detailed, inclusive and informative manner, the principals are requesting that families submit questions ahead of time. Please contact your child's school if you missed the invite or have any questions about the process. Thank you in advance for your participation.
As of this writing, NYS Department of Health has NOT updated its documentation. Barriers are required in any classroom where students are placed below 6 feet.
Last week, we received a statement from the New York Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics urging the full return to in-person instruction and asking the NYS Department of Health to take the necessary steps to facilitate this. Click here for the link to their statement.
COVID-19
Although we are encouraged by the regional numbers regarding infections, please be reminded that we are still in this pandemic. The proper wearing of a mask is an essential piece of our health and safety protocols. Click here for the recent CDC guidance on masks. #maskuppleasantville
We updated the NYS Portal with these new cases:
An individual associated with BRS has tested positive.
Two individuals associated with the Middle School have tested positive.
Superintendent Search – Update from the Pleasantville Board of Education
Parent/Guardian Focus Groups
Pleasantville school district parents and guardians are invited to join one of two online opportunities to meet with our superintendent search consultants from Strategic Educational Advantage to provide input on the characteristics the school community would like to see in Pleasantville's next school district superintendent. The two webinars will take place over Zoom on Monday, March 15 -- one at 3:30 p.m. and the other at 7:30 p.m. Registration is required.
IMP – specific email invites were sent out by the Principals on Thursday afternoon and THIS afternoon. Please see the emails sent to you by your school principal and from the Board of Education for registration details.
Community Focus Group
Hold the Date - Please note that a separate session will be held for community members who do not currently have children in the school. That meeting is scheduled for Monday, March 22 at 7 PM. Login and registration details on that meeting to come shortly.
Superintendent Search Survey Strategic Educational Advantage, LLC
The Pleasantville Union Free School District Board of Education is excited to share with you and the community this survey, which will help to inform the Board and shape the characteristics the community is looking for in Pleasantville's next Superintendent. The survey was sent out last Thursday directly from the Board of Education. If you have not had a chance to complete the survey, we ask that you take a moment and please click on the link below and complete the survey by March 24, 2021.
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/BB25B98
Additional information on the survey can be found here.
March 1, 2021
March 1, 2021
Increasing In-Person Student Attendance
Pleasantville has joined many of our regional colleagues with plans to expand in-person student attendance in the spring based upon the following factors:
Vaccine access for educators.
Press release on February 17 , 2021, from Westchester County Assembly Delegation members Tom Abinanti, Amy Paulin, Chris Burdick, Steve Otis, Gary Pretlow, and Ken Zebrowski to the field regarding their conversations with NYS Department of Health (NYS DOH) to permit an increase in student attendance in schools based upon NYSDOH language on the use of barriers when 6-foot social distancing cannot be maintained.
NYS DOH clarification in late February to our regional superintendents regarding the application of social distancing guidelines.
Westchester County support for changes in our re-opening plans.
Based upon these factors as well as the confidence in our layered risk-mitigation strategy, the District is preparing to address the requirements needed to increase in-person attendance on a school-by-school basis. On Friday, February 26, our District Reopening Committee discussed the use of desk barriers to increase in-person student attendance when 6 feet of social distancing cannot be maintained. The Committee supported the District's planning efforts , which include :
Ordering new individual desks.
Purchasing age-appropriate desk shields.
Examining every instructional space in all 3 schools regarding social distancing rules.
Reviewing parent survey feedback.
Revising our approach to the Daily Health screener.
School -based community town halls or forums during March.
We received 845 responses to our In-Person Student Attendance survey. The overall results show strong support for increasing in-person student attendance if we are authorized to reduce social distancing below 6 feet.
Yes – 668
No – 78
Uncertain – 101
Click here to see the meeting presentation, including specific building-level results .
An important part of our planning process is receiving questions and feedback from the families in each of the three schools. To that end, we are scheduling individual school-based forums or town halls during the month of March. Invitations will be sent out by the building principals. The dates are: BRS – March 11; MS – March 16; HS – TBD , but before March 26.
COVID-19
We updated the NYS Portal with the following:
An individual associated with BRS tested positive.
An individual associated with the MS tested positive.
Three individuals associated with the HS tested positive.
February 22. 2021
February 22. 2021
Travel During February/Winter Break
Families are reminded that any traveling done during the February break needed to comply with the NYS Travel Advisory rules. Travel to non-contiguous states requires quarantining.
Tenure Candidates
This year we have 10 teachers and administrators who are eligible for tenure. In addition to the observations, evaluations, and other factors that are part of the tenure process, we also encourage parents/guardians who may wish to provide input on these candidates to send comments to Superintendent of Schools Mary Fox-Alter, at 60 Romer Avenue, Pleasantville NY 10570, or foxm@pleasantvilleschools.org by March 26. Anonymous comments will not be considered.
February 23 Board of Education Meeting: link
2021-22 Budget Development Process
Tomorrow night's BOE meeting has a full agenda. Our Assistant Superintendent for Business, Tim Whipple, will be presenting the next phase in our annual budget development process – the Expenditure Review of three key areas – Technology, Operations and Maintenance, and Athletics – as well as the Tax Cap Calculation.
Re-Opening of Schools
During my Superintendent's Report at tomorrow night's meeting, I will be sharing the results of the recent School Surveys on Reopening. If you have not completed the survey, please take a moment to do so. The surveys are an important part of our planning process. We need to hear from you! The survey links were sent out via School Messenger by the Principals.
Retirement – Athletic Director John Bauerlein
At tomorrow night's Board of Education Meeting, we will be announcing the retirement of our terrific Athletic Director, John Bauerlein. We celebrate John's 31 years as an educator – 19 in the Dover School District and the last 12 here in Pleasantville. In addition to his service to our school district, John has also held regional interscholastic leadership positions. Of particular note has been his exemplary service as a member of the Section One Executive Committee.
We thank John for his incredible commitment to our student-athletes, his fellow educators, and his coaching staff. As many of you know, John is a constant presence on the sidelines and on the fields - cheering on our beloved Panthers! Pleasantville athletics has thrived under his leadership. We wish John and his family much joy and success as he embarks on the next journey in his life.
Retirements – Eileen Prizeman, Elizabeth Hamel, Mary Ann Meade, Jim Campbell, and Maureen Sacher
Tomorrow night we will also be announcing the retirement of a number of our senior staff members . BRS teacher Eileen Prizeman, HS guidance counselor Elizabeth Hamel, Orchestra teacher Mary Ann Meade, HS student management liaison Jim Campbell, and athletic secretary Maureen Sacher all have contributed to our excellence as a school district and supported the learning and growth of Pleasantville students over the years. Join me in extending our heartfelt good wishes for a wonderful, well-earned retirement and thanking them for their service to our school district.
February 12, 2021
February 12, 2021
COVID-19 Update
The COVID-19 landscape continues to be fluid and is changing with new guidance and information. On Wednesday, the CDC made an important announcement regarding quarantine rules for individuals who are vaccinated. According to the CDC, individuals who are fully vaccinated will not be required to quarantine. It is likely that the New York State Department of Health will follow suit. This change will have an important impact on in-person learning.
Unfortunately, the challenges of the pandemic are still with us. We updated our state portal with the following information. An individual associated with BRS tested positive and two individuals associated with the Middle School tested positive.
Re-Opening of Schools
Today we are told that the CDC will be issuing the new, much-anticipated guidance on the reopening of schools! As with the new CDC guidance on quarantines and vaccines, it is very likely the NYS Department of Health will follow suit. In order to advocate for that much-needed Re-Opening Guidance on this issue, we need your help. New York State created new guidance on sports – why not classroom instruction? Their guidance for schools is old. It is from the summer. It doesn't reflect the data the state has collected from schools since September and the new CDC information. To ensure we get clear and updated information from the state, we have created a new advocacy campaign! Please click on this link and the “full return to school” advocacy letter will go to the Governor, the NYS Department of Health, and our elected officials.
I'd be remiss if I didn't thank the community for the advocacy on vaccine access for educators as well as the surveillance testing. It is working! Vaccine access is improving and many, many staff members have had their first shots and are in the process for shot #2. We have also received positive outreach from the County about surveillance testing! THANK YOU.
Our administrative team has been engaged in thoughtful planning and collaboration to assure a safe and productive transition. An important and essential part of the transition process is feedback from our families. Later this afternoon, the building principals will be sending out a link to a survey. Please take some time to complete the survey. We need your feedback.
We are also planning a number of building-level town hall meetings. I'll share those dates in my next Alert.
February 8, 2021
February 8, 2021
Weather Tonight into Tomorrow
The forecast is calling for a snow weather event -starting at 3 AM and ending by mid-afternoon on Tuesday with accumulations between 2 and 4 inches. Temperatures are forecast to be at or above freezing around 2:30 PM. Based upon this information – tomorrow could simply be a slushy mess or a “flurry type” day with final accumulations between 2 and 4 inches or an icy/snow situation. However, the one thing I do know - this event's impact on tomorrow's school program is impossible to predict this evening. Therefore, I will be monitoring this event overnight. Should the weather necessitate a change in our school program for tomorrow, the decision will be made by no later than 6 AM and announced over K-12 Alerts and other media outlets.
Return to Schools
If you didn't have a chance to participate in our Call to Action campaign regarding the need for an increase in vaccine access for educators and providing schools with proactive free surveillance testing, please do so today. It's simple to do – the link to the campaign is on our website under Board of Education, Advocacy or click on this link. The letter will go to the Governor, Howard Zucker – head of the NYS Department of Health, Senate and Assembly leaders as well as our County Executive. Thank you in advance for your help!
Also, we continue to press the NYS Department of Health and the Governor's office for updated guidance regarding the classroom-based 6-foot social distancing protocol. There is new information from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC. New York State needs to update its protocols. They were able to do this for Sports and Recreation – now the state needs to update their info for our academic programs. Check out this article in the Journal News on the topic.
COVID-19 Update
This afternoon we updated our report to New York State with the following – two individuals associated with the High School have tested positive.
February 5, 2021
February 5, 2021
Return to Schools – We Need Your Help
Yesterday in my K12 Alert, I included a Call to Action regarding the need for an increase in vaccine access for educators as well as the importance of surveillance testing as we plan for a safe, full return to schools. Please join us in our advocacy efforts on those two important items. It's simple to do – the link to the campaign is on our website under Board of Education, Advocacy or click on this link. The letter will go to the Governor, Howard Zucker – head of the NYS Department of Health, Senate and Assembly leaders as well as our County Executive. Thank you in advance for your help!
I know many of you have asked about the 6-foot social distancing protocol. Please note that this is from the NYS Department of Health – NOT the Westchester County Department of Health. While the Governor allowed the individual County Departments of Health to authorize recreational and school athletic programs, he did NOT do that for school academic programs. We continue to work with New York State on the need for updated protocols.
COVID-19
While we are excited about the future, the current situation is still challenging our staffing abilities. Quarantining requirements impact our ability to operate our current hybrid models. It's important to share that sometimes it's not just the fact that an individual may need to quarantine due to a COVID exposure, sometimes it is the childcare issues associated with a quarantine that impact staffing levels.
I'd be remiss if I didn't thank our terrific staff – administrators, teachers, aides, and assistants - for pitching in and helping. It is due to their willingness to help each other that allows us to continue with in-person learning when staffing levels are challenged. I thank our school families for your support and understanding.
Today we reported to New York State: an individual associated with BRS has tested positive and an individual associated with the Middle School has tested positive.
Lastly, please be reminded that we need your continued support of and attention to COVID-19 prevention protocols. What happens at home and in the community impacts what happens in school. Be mindful of maintaining COVID -19 prevention strategies in your home and with close friends. Continue to wear a proper-fitting mask, maintain social distancing, practice good hand hygiene and be thoughtful when completing the Daily Health Screener.
February 4, 2021
February 4, 2021
SPORTS UPDATE
On Tuesday we received the necessary permission, guidance documents and forms from Westchester County regarding High-Risk sports. They were reviewed by our legal and medical professionals and our administrators. The required documents can be found on our web-site.
The County Department of Health also required Board of Education approval. Today the Board of Education held a special meeting to approve “student participation in higher risk sports.”
Families interested in interscholastic athletics need to review the documents, follow up with any medical questions or concerns with their physician/pediatrician and return the signed documents. Please contact the athletic department if you have any additional questions about the process.
COVID-19
We updated the New York State portal with three new cases. Two individuals associated with the Middle School have tested positive and an individual associated with the High School has tested positive.
RETURN TO SCHOOLS – WE NEED YOUR HELP
The District remains committed to a safe and healthy full return to schools. While there are many challenges we will face as we plan for a full return, I know that we can do it with your help! One of the first steps is to advocate for an expansion of the vaccination program for educators and the distribution of free COVID-19 surveillance testing to schools. To that end, we have created an advocacy campaign, a Call to Action, on vaccines and free surveillance testing! Please help us and participate in the campaign! It's simple. You can find the campaign link on our website under Board of Education, Advocacy or click on this link. The letter will go to the Governor, Howard Zucker – head of the NYS Department of Health, Senate and Assembly leaders as well as our County Executive. Thank you in advance for your help! Please encourage your neighbors to participate.
January 29, 2021
January 29, 2021
SPORTS
While Section One and the County Executive have given a ”green light” for High-Risk Winter Sports, we still do not have the required written legal approval from the Westchester Department of Health. It is my understanding that issues on how to proceed with both scholastic and recreational athletics are still being reviewed. They will advise the field when all the issues have been addressed and resolved. This has the potential to impact the “official start” date. Under the law, we cannot start without their approval. The District is monitoring the situation. Any adjustments to schedules will be shared via the athletic department.
Again, as stated yesterday in my K12 Alert, please be advised that New York State still has Winter Indoor Sports listed as “High Risk.” Participation in all interscholastic athletics is a choice. In order to better inform decision-making regarding that choice and the additional risk associated with those individual family-based decisions, families are highly advised to consult with their physician/pediatrician.
WEATHER
As you may have noticed, the weather forecast is predicting a snow weather event starting after midnight on Sunday and lasting through Tuesday. Obviously, it is too early to make any decisions regarding what type of program we will offer on those days should weather require a change. As Monday is a remote day for all students except kindergarten, there is the option to continue with remote instruction that day provided internet service and electrical access are not impacted by weather. I will update the community Sunday evening.
COVID-19
Today I was informed that a good number of our staff still cannot get vaccination appointments and those who have managed to get appointments must wait until late March and early April for their first shot. We need to keep up the advocacy efforts on this front! Vaccinations and proactive testing for surveillance purposes are important steps towards normalcy. Team PUFSD is 100% in agreement – all of us – teachers, staff, administrators, Board of Education, students, and parents. We all want a safe and full return to in-person learning!
We continue to monitor our numbers. As of yesterday, COVID-19 numbers for Pleasantville show 83 active cases. The data continues to support the fact that it is family/small gatherings as the primary pathway for virus transmission – not in school. We need your help to keep it that way. Please be intentional when taking the Daily Health screening. It is also super important to be vigilant about wearing a mask – and ensuring that it fits well. If you still have questions regarding masks and how they should fit, please review this information from the CDC.
We updated our data to New York State with the following new cases: an individual associated with the Middle School has tested positive and an individual associated with the High School has tested positive. There is no impact on the instructional program based upon these cases.
I wish all our families a safe and healthy weekend. Continue to support each other with kindness, compassion, and care as we work together as a community during this challenging time.
January 28, 2021
January 28, 2021
SPORTS
Today we received additional information regarding Winter, Fall II, and Spring Sports. They have been given the “green light” by Section 1 and our County Executive. It is my understanding that we will receive specific details from the Department of Health tomorrow. The “green light” has been given with the caveat that important health and safety protocols will be required. As stated by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association, families are reminded that participation in interscholastic athletics is a choice and families can make their own decisions regarding the additional risks associated with that choice.
Our Athletic Director, Mr. Bauerlein, is preparing preliminary plans with the coaching staff. If you have any questions, please reach out to the coach or Mr. Bauerlein. Additionally, please be advised that indoor sports will require more flexibility and adjustments as 3 of our 4 athletic spaces are currently used for instruction.
SCHOOLS
Some of you may have seen Governor Cuomo's interview with CNN. During that interview, he stated that decisions on the reopening of schools for in-person learning will be made at the local level. While we are excited to hear that, we have no information or guidance on how that would work. We remain encouraged by the vaccination roll-out process and increased testing to ensure a safe expansion of in-person learning. I'm sure you will join me and our regional partners in our advocacy efforts for an increase in the availability of vaccines for educators as well as a comprehensive testing program for surveillance purposes.
January 27, 2021
January 27, 2021
The Good News – The vaccination rollout for our region is progressing well. The Westchester County Center alone is distributing 1100 vaccinations a day in a very efficient and professional manner. The number of individuals tested is also up.
The Concerning News – We need more vaccines in order to keep pace with the demand and the local infection rate continues to challenge us. We updated the New York State portal with the following information:
An individual associated with BRS has tested positive.
Two individuals associated with the Middle School have tested positive.
Two individuals associated with the High School have tested positive.
As with all positive cases, those who were in close and proximate contact as defined by the Department of Health have been contacted and directed to quarantine. Program changes necessitated by these cases have been made and individuals impacted have been notified. We know and understand that quarantining is hard on families, students, and staff! It also adds a significant challenge to our ability to maintain in-person instruction. We ask everyone to continue with the important health and safety protocols. These proactive, responsible steps are important for EVERYONE's good health.
Please continue to wear a mask, maintain social distancing, and take the daily health screener SERIOUSLY – do NOT click through it.
January 25, 2021
January 25, 2021
Winter High-Risk Sports
On Friday, Governor Cuomo and the NYS Department of Health issued the following statement:
“Effective February 1, 2021, participants in higher-risk sports and recreation activities may partake in individual or distanced group training and organized no/low-contact group training and, further, may partake in other types of play, including competitions and tournaments, only as permitted by the respective local health authorities (i.e., county health departments).”
Please click on this link to read the entire New York State Department of Health Guidance. Information on High-Risk Winter Sports starts on page 5.
It is important to note that neither NYS public schools, the NYS Athletic Sections nor the County Departments of Health were given advance notice of this information. As many of you are aware, Pleasantville participates in the NYS Interscholastic Sports Program as a member of Section 1. Section 1 includes schools in four different counties. The four county Departments of Health involved with Section 1 will be meeting this week to discuss the updated NYS guidance document. Of course, we are monitoring the situation and anticipate new information will be announced by the end of the week.
COVID-19
I'm honored and happy to share that this afternoon Dr. Roye and Dr. Nolan did an excellent Q and A Zoom session with our staff on the vaccine. While we are aware that many staff members have either received the vaccine or have an appointment for one, the vaccine supply chain is still a concern. Some staff members are reporting that they can't get an appointment until March or early April.
As of Friday, for the second day in a row, more than 900 new cases of COVID-19 were reported in Westchester County. Also, the new, more communicable variant of the virus is here in Westchester. Today we updated our portal to include the following new cases:
An individual associated with BRS has tested positive.
Three individuals associated with the High School have tested positive.
Weather for Tomorrow
The weather forecast for tomorrow includes a small weather event. Current data points to an event with little or no accumulation. As of this writing, we plan to continue with our regular hybrid schedule for tomorrow. However, as with all weather events, I will continue to monitor the situation and, if that changes, I will send out a K12 Alert.
January 15, 2021
January 15, 2021
This afternoon the Governor announced that school districts may participate in the vaccination administration. However, important details on “how” that would happen have not been announced. We have asked for more information. In the meantime, I am happy to share that many, many staff members have already signed up through the New York State portals to receive vaccinations at the current distribution sites.
As of this writing, the state has NOT changed its health and safety guidance regarding in-person instruction based upon the number of vaccinations received by staff. We are still adhering to the protocols submitted in our re-entry plan and will continue to operate using our hybrid model until further notice.
I understand that the NYS Vaccination Rollout Plan, and the Governor's expanded testing program, are providing “the light at the end of the tunnel.” However, as per the CDC and the NYS Department of Health, COVID-19 infection rates are still rising. It is spreading through small gatherings. We know that to be true for our community. We updated our information to the state to include two additional cases at PHS and two additional cases at the Middle School. Programming has not changed based on these cases.
Please continue to be vigilant regarding safety protocols. Be intentional and thoughtful when completing the daily health screener – do NOT click through it.
If you have are not feeling well – stay home, call your health care provider.
If you have signs or symptoms of COVID-19 - stay home, call your health care provider.
If you have traveled to areas restricted by NYS – stay home and consult the NYS travel advisory requirements.
Continue to wear a mask.
Maintain social distancing.
Practice proper hand hygiene.
Best, MFA
January 13, 2021
January 13, 2021
2021-22 School Calendar
The 2021-22 PUFSD School Calendar was approved at last night's Board of Education Meeting. The calendar is posted on our website. Please click here to review the document. The 2021-22 School Calendar:
Opens schools for students on September 2, 2021.
Maintains the 3 week-long school vacation breaks.
Aligns with New York State's requirement for annual instruction.
Includes a new holiday – Juneteenth.
COVID 19
The COVID-19 Vaccine is here. The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) has introduced a new section on its website that outlines important information regarding the State's rollout plan. If you have not had a chance to familiarize yourself with the NYS Plan, please click on this link for the latest information. The state also has launched a Hotline that is open from 7 AM-10 PM, 7 days a week: 1 833-NYS-4-VAX / 1 833 697-4829.
While the Vaccine Roll-out is a much anticipated, comprehensive, and proactive plan, we are still combating this pandemic. Therefore, it is essential that we continue to be vigilant and committed to our health and safety protocols as outlined by the CDC, NYSDOH, as well as our local Department of Health.
For our health and the health of our families and neighbors we need to:
Continue to wear a mask.
Maintain social distancing of 6 feet.
Practice proper hand hygiene.
Please continue to support each other with compassion and care! While there is light at the end of the tunnel, we still have a lot of tunnel ahead of us. Locally, COVID cases continue to spike. We updated the New York State portal with one new case from BRS and two new cases from PHS. These cases have not resulted in any changes to our hybrid models.
January 11, 2021
January 11, 2021
The Westchester County Department of Health has updated its guidance regarding quarantine requirements due to a COVID-19 exposure and has provided more specificity regarding close and proximate contact. This update is based on information from the CDC as well as the data that shows COVID-19 is spreading through gatherings outside of school. The new guidance reduces quarantine requirements from 14 to 10 days. Please click here to review the WCDOH memo.
As I'm sure you are aware, New York State has announced a phased vaccination program. The program includes multiple vaccination sites and utilizes a portal for appointments. Educators are listed in phase 1b. The sign-up for vaccination for those individuals identified in 1b starts this week. The state has committed to distribute the vaccine based upon need and risk – as long as quantities of the vaccine are available.
The District updated the NYSDOH COVID Portal with the following information. (Please be advised that none of these cases impacted school programming.) An individual associated with the High School has tested positive and an individual associated with the Middle School has tested positive.
Lastly, please see the following important information from County Executive George Latimer.
George Latimer
Westchester County Executive
We are eager to help you get the vaccine. However, this is a fluid time, and I do ask for your patience as we navigate these uncharted waters.
First, let me be clear, New York State will distribute the COVID-19 vaccine in phases based on need and risk. The State develops the program for distribution and authorizes the vaccination sites.
The County receives this information and passes it along for your use and information.
We are currently in Phase 1a and Phase 1b, which is the below list. However, this is fluid please check the New York State webpage to determine eligibility and find a vaccination location at https://am-i-eligible.covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/.
Teachers and education workers
First responders
Public safety workers
Public transit workers
People 75 and older
High-risk hospital workers (emergency room workers, ICU staff and Pulmonary Department staff)
Residents and staff at nursing homes and other congregate care facilities
Federally Qualified Health Center employees
EMS workers
Coroners, medical examiners and certain funeral workers
Staff and residents at OPWDD, OMH and OASAS facilities
Urgent Care providers
Individuals administering COVID-19 vaccines, including local health department staff
All Outpatient/Ambulatory front-line, high-risk health care workers of any age who provide direct in-person patient care
All staff who are in direct contact with patients (i.e., intake staff)
All front-line, high-risk public health workers who have direct contact with patients, including those conducting COVID-19 tests, handling COVID-19 specimens and COVID-19 vaccinations
Doctors who work in private medical practices and their staff
Doctors who work in hospital-affiliated medical practices and their staff
Doctors who work in public health clinics and their staff
Registered Nurses
Specialty medical practices of all types
Dentists and Orthodontists and their staff
Psychiatrists and Psychologists and their staff
Physical Therapists and their staff
Optometrists and their staff
Pharmacists and Pharmacy Aides
Home care workers
Hospice workers
Staff of nursing homes/skilled nursing facilities who did not receive COVID vaccination through the Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program
Beginning at 4 p.m. on Monday, January 11, the State COVID-19 Vaccination Hotline will open for scheduling vaccination appointments for eligible New Yorkers: 1-833-NYS-4-VAX (1-833-697-4829).
Prior to receiving the vaccination, you must complete the New York State COVID-19 Vaccine Form. This form can be completed online at https://forms.ny.gov/s3/vaccine. You will receive a submission ID.
For more information about eligibility, phased distribution and more, visit https://covid19vaccine.health.ny.gov/what-you-need-know.
I know you want answers quickly, and I know you want the vaccine. I am working as hard as I can to get you both. Please be on the lookout for future emails from me with more information.
George Latimer
Westchester County Executive
January 4, 2021
January 4, 2021
Happy New Year and welcome to 2021! As we prepare a safe return to in-person hybrid instruction tomorrow, Tuesday, January 5th, I'd like to draw your attention to a few important facts.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to be an on-going threat to public health. While there is light at the end of the tunnel, there is still a lot of tunnel ahead of us. At today's briefing with our Superintendent's group, the County Executive shared very concerning numbers. In Westchester County we have approximately 8,000 active cases. Hospitalization rates are up. Tragically, since Thanksgiving 165 lives have been lost to COVID-19. This number exceeds the number of individuals who passed away between May 20 and October 30. With increased infection rates across the state, it is critical that we have your support and cooperation in order to stay open for in-person instruction.
In terms of Pleasantville UFSD cases, here are today's numbers:
four individuals associated with BRS have tested positive.
three individuals associated with PHS have tested positive.
One simple, yet important and effective, safety step is the Daily Health Screening Form. It is essential that you complete the Daily Health Screening Form with sincerity, fidelity and thoughtfulness. Do NOT simply click through it. This critical tool calls for a daily analysis of your family's health in order to protect your health and the health of others.
Also, please be reminded that travel outside of New York State and its contiguous states is restricted. Individuals and families who may have done so over the holiday break are required to follow the guidelines put forth by Governor Cuomo in his COVID-19 Travel Advisory.
Please continue to make choices that protect yourself and your children, relatives, friends, and neighbors.
If you are feeling any symptoms, stay home and call your health care provider.
If you have been exposed to COVID-19, stay home and call your health care provider.
If you have a pending COVID-19 test, stay home and await instructions from your healthcare provider. Contact the school nurse with the results.
If you attended any large gatherings over the break that ignored health and safety protocols, stay home.
Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to the health and safety of our community and for your flexibility during these challenging times.
December 21, 2020
December 21, 2020
New Cases
This afternoon we updated the New York State Department of Health data with two new cases. As per the NYS mandated protocols, we are working with the Westchester County Department of Health. Those who may be impacted by these cases have been contacted.
An individual associated with the HS has tested positive.
An individual associated with the MS has tested positive.
COVID-19 Micro-cluster Information
As you are aware, New York State is requiring surveillance testing for COVID-19 when school districts enter one of the three COVID-19 micro-cluster zones - Yellow, Orange or Red. Although the Pleasantville School District is currently NOT in a zone, it is important that we prepare as the data shows infection rates are increasing due to “holiday spread” and small household gatherings. Also, when you have a moment, explore the state's new “Hot Spot Look-up” tool. The state created the tool in order to increase COVID-19 awareness and transparency. Please click here for the link to the tool.
COVID-19 Surveillance Testing
The Binax Now Rapid Test is a simple nasal swab test. The Westchester County Department of Health created this video to help school communities understand the test and accept its simplicity. Schools in the Yellow and Orange Zones will need to test 20% of their “in-person” learners in order to stay open. Families need to submit a consent form to participate in the testing. Please click on the link if you would like to submit the form ahead of time. Thank you for helping us be proactive!
Lastly, as we prepare to enter the Christmas/New Year's Holiday break, please continue to practice the health and safety protocols as outlined in our school Reopening Plan and the CDC Winter Holiday Guide.
December 16, 2020 (2)
December 16, 2020 (2)
Just a brief COVID-19 Update. Today we have been informed of two new positive cases associated with our schools. One individual associated with BRS has tested positive and one individual associated with the High School has tested positive. We are working with the Westchester County Department of Health and any families impacted by these cases as determined by the DoH will be notified.
December 16, 2020 (1)
December 16, 2020 (1)
The current weather forecast for tonight/tomorrow is calling for snow – with a 100% chance of precipitation. New snow accumulation of 10 to 14 inches possible. Therefore, based upon that forecast, tomorrow Thursday, December 17 will be a SNOW DAY. We will be closed! No in-person classes – no remote classes.
As of this writing, our plans are to open on Friday with our in-person hybrid schedule for Friday, December 18 at PHS and BRS. The principals will send out more specific information. However, we will be monitoring the impact of the storm as well as any new COVID-19 quarantining mandates that may require an adjustment to our schedule. IF we do need to make a change, you will be notified tomorrow evening.
In closing, I ask that you enjoy a traditional snow day tomorrow – have hot cocoa, read a paper book or story, find that sled and maybe build a snowman!
As always, be safe and careful when shoveling or engaging in outdoor activities.
December 14, 2020
December 14, 2020
This week, we continue to be challenged by the Westchester County Department of Health quarantining requirements of individuals identified as proximate contacts of individuals testing positive for COVID-19. This morning we were notified that an individual associated with the Middle School has tested positive. Unfortunately, the impact of this new case, along with cases from last week, has placed us in a situation where we cannot offer in-person instruction at the Middle School in a safe and meaningful way. As a result, the Middle School will be on a full remote schedule through December 23. Additional information will be forthcoming from Mr. Marra.
Please be aware that BRS and the High School are also operating with challenging numbers due to COVID-related scenarios, such as staff members needing to quarantine as a result of family contact; child care issues; and/or illness not associated with the schools. In addition to the significant impact of quarantining, we are facing hazardous weather conditions this week. The forecast for Wednesday afternoon through Thursday evening calls for a significant snow event. Based upon those two safety factors, we will move all programs - districtwide - to a full remote “Monday schedule” for Wednesday, December 16. IF the forecast accumulations of 8-12 inches of snow holds for Thursday, then Thursday, December 17 will be a snow day – NO instruction; as these conditions can lead to outages and connectivity issues. IF the weather necessitates a snow day for Thursday, it will be announced Wednesday afternoon.
Please know that we have reviewed all the important information and factors and these decisions have not been made lightly. You will receive additional information from your building principals and teachers about plans for the days ahead. Thank you for your support and understanding as we navigate these very challenging times.
December 11, 2020
December 11, 2020
Zone Identification Info and new Zone Lookup Tool
Today the Governor announced that on Monday, December 14, New York State will update COVID-19 Zone identifications, which could lead to new Zones and changes to the current ones. To provide timely information on Zone identification, the state has created a “hot spot lookup” tool. The tool allows the user to enter an address and see if that address is in a Yellow, Orange or Red Zone. Click here for the hot spot lookup link.
New Cases
The District updated the COVID-19 Database with the following new cases:
An individual associated with the Bedford Road School tested positive.
Two individuals associated with the MS tested positive.
One individual associated with the HS tested positive.
Those families and individuals who may have been impacted by these cases have been notified and information has been shared with the Westchester County Department of Health. Please note that due to the fact some of the individuals in these cases are “remote”, there was no impact on the schools/families when we followed up with those cases.
Changes to the Learning Schedule
Lastly, as you may be aware, our community experienced a spike in cases after the Thanksgiving Break. This was common throughout the region. While the data supports the Governor's point that transmission of the virus is not happening in schools, the increase in cases required additional contact tracing and quarantining. This has had a significant impact on students, families, and staff. We understand that receiving this type of notification from the School District and the Westchester County Department of Health can be upsetting, unsettling, and present challenges. Therefore, to minimize the risk of potential exposure and subsequent contact tracing, which would require a quarantine during the upcoming Holiday Break (December 24- January 3), the District will operate on a full remote “Monday” schedule from December 21-23. Please contact your child's school with any individual questions or concerns.
Wishing our families who are celebrating Hanukkah eight days of laughter and love and to all in our community, may the light of the season brighten our days and nights.
December 7, 2020
December 7, 2020
Good afternoon. Just a brief update on COVID-19 cases in the Pleasantville Schools. This afternoon we updated the NYS COVID dashboard with 3 new cases. The District has notified those who may have been impacted by these cases. We have also worked with the Westchester County Department of Health for the purposes of contact tracing and quarantining. There are no overall program changes in the schools due to the new cases.
An individual associated with the MS has tested positive.
An individual associated with the HS has tested positive.
An individual associated with the District has tested positive.
As we are in the midst of the Holiday Season, it is important to remind everyone to be vigilant about all safety protocols – wear a mask, maintain social distancing, and practice proper hand hygiene. Also, please review the following considerations from the CDC. They are meant to supplement current health and safety laws in order to slow the spread of COVID-19.
December 4, 2020
December 4, 2020
Good afternoon. I am sure you are aware of the local media reports detailing the significant spike in COVID-19 cases and the impact the spike is having on public schools. Since my last update, we have one new case at the Bedford Road School. BRS operated today on its normal hybrid schedule and individuals impacted have been notified.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to be a fluid situation. As a result, the Governor has made changes to his “Micro Cluster” infection containment approach. The Micro-Cluster Strategy identifies clusters and the areas around them and categorizes them into one or more color-coded Zones with corresponding levels of restrictions based on severity: Red Zones, Orange Zones, and Yellow Zones. New rules and restrictions directly target areas with the highest transmission of COVID-19 cases & surrounding communities. The Governor's new Winter Plan will require schools located in Orange and Red Micro-Cluster Zones to conduct weekly testing. Schools in Orange Zones will be required to test 20% of in-person students, faculty, and staff over the course of a month. Schools in Red Zones will be required to test 30% of in-person students and staff each week over a month. We are not aware of any change(s) to the NYS Yellow Zone classification protocols. Important to note - as of this writing, PUFSD has NOT been designated as operating in one of the three Zones. However, it is important that we continue to plan. Please click on this link to see our current Testing Plan and Consent Form. These are subject to change given any updates or pivots from NYS and the Westchester County Department of Health. Again, as of this writing, we are NOT in a ZONE.
In closing, allow me to share that I understand that these are very challenging times and anxiety is often an everyday feeling. Please take some time this weekend to recharge, relax, and rejuvenate and celebrate moments of happiness with your family and friends. Try to stay in the present - go for a walk, read, share a laugh, and find joy in the simple blessings of the day. I know this is an incredible community. Thank you for your continued support of our schools - and of each other!
December 2, 2020
December 2, 2020
Good afternoon. I'd like to take this opportunity to share with you an important update regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact on our schools.
As you are aware, in an attempt to contain the spread of COVID-19, Governor Cuomo has created “cluster zones” based upon the regional infection rate. When a public-school district enters into a Yellow or Orange Zone, the school district must create a process for random testing in order to remain open. As of Monday, November 30, 2020, the percentage of testing required for Yellow and Orange Zones is 20%; for Red Zones, 30%. In response to that requirement, the PUFSD is finalizing the Testing Process in collaboration with the Westchester County Department of Health and our School Physician.
In order for a school district in a Yellow/Orange Zone to remain open for in-person instruction, it is required that 20% of in-person students, faculty, and staff be randomly tested over the two-week period immediately following the designation. Please be aware that as of this writing, the PUFSD has not entered a Zone. However, as outlined by the Governor this week, the region should be prepared to be designated as a Zone given the anticipated increase in infections due to the Thanksgiving holiday.
The Pleasantville Union Free School District is prepared to offer the Abbott BinexNOW Rapid COVID-19 Test to students, faculty, and staff in order to remain open for in-person learning if we are designated a Yellow/Orange Zone. The test is an anterior nasal swab-based rapid antigen test and will be provided to our school district free of charge by the New York State Department of Health. The distribution will be through the Westchester County Department of Health. This simple test will produce a result in 15 minutes. Please click on this video to learn more about the testing process.
The District is anticipating being able to offer this testing on a Saturday and/or during a Monday afternoon testing block. Parents/guardians will need to complete a consent form for each child. When finalized, we will place the form on the website. I will have those links and additional information in my Friday K12 Alert.
Please keep in mind that this is a fluid process and subject to change based upon new information from the Governor's office or the Department of Health.
As part of our preparation process, the District is seeking community medical volunteers who could assist our staff with the Testing requirement. If you have a few hours of time on a Saturday or Monday after school and are willing to help, we would be most appreciative. Please send an email to me directly at foxm@pleasantvilleschools.org with your availability. Thank you for considering volunteering!
Lastly, we have updated our High School numbers to include two additional individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19. Individuals who may be impacted by these cases have been notified.
Thank you for your support, patience, and understanding as we navigate these very challenging times.
November 30, 2020
November 30, 2020
During today's press conference, the Governor spoke at length about the very real and serious concern regarding the rapid increase in the regional infection rate. By the end of this week, it is highly anticipated that the data from NYS will show a sharp increase in the infection rate due to the “post-Thanksgiving effect.” When our region enters into a Zone due to the increase in the infection rate, the school districts in the region are required to test 20% of the in-person population over a two-week period to continue with in-person learning. In order to fulfill this requirement, school districts will receive the Abbott BinexNOW rapid test from the Westchester County Department of Health. The tests are free and are administered for surveillance purposes. In anticipation of this testing requirement, we have been working with the Westchester County Department of Health, our legal team, and regional colleagues. More information on how this will take place in the Pleasantville Schools as well as a request for volunteers will be sent out by mid-week.
Lastly, we have been informed that two individuals associated with the High School have tested positive for COVID-19. There is no change to the High School hybrid schedule based upon these two cases. The Department of Health is aware and individuals who may be impacted by these cases have been notified.
November 23, 2020
November 23, 2020
Allow me to take a moment of your time to update you on important COVID information. We recently were informed that an individual associated with the High School has tested positive for COVID-19. We have been in communication with the Westchester County Department of Health and any individuals impacted by this case have been contacted. If you were NOT contacted, you are NOT impacted. The regular High School hybrid schedule is in place this week. Please reach out to the High School if you have any questions.
As I'm sure you are aware, there are five Westchester school districts in the Yellow Zone and one in the Orange Zone. The Zones are created by the state using NYS Department of Health data. School districts in the Yellow Zone must test 20% of their in-person students and staff once during a 14-day period. It does not require a school to close. While we are seriously concerned and mindful about the increase in the COVID-19 infection rate, it is promising news from the Department of Health that the infections are not spreading in schools. However, with that said, numerous local, county, and state officials are concerned about “holiday spread” and the impact the Holiday season can have on the infection rate. In order to help curb the infection rate, the CDC has provided an excellent list of considerations for having a safe and healthy holiday season that you may find helpful.
Lastly, as we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, I would be remiss if I did not express a deep debt of gratitude to our families, students, and staff for everything they do – each and every day – for our school community. May you enjoy many blessings of health, hope, and happiness.
November 17, 2020
November 17, 2020
A short while ago we were informed of a positive case of an individual associated with the HS. We are working with the Department of Health. Families who may be impacted will be contacted early this evening. If you are NOT contacted, there is no impact.
November 16, 2020
November 16, 2020
We have received information about another positive case in our schools. An individual in our MS program has tested positive for COVID-19. After a detailed conversation with the Westchester County Department of Health, we were directed to quarantine 25 students and 13 staff members. Individuals who need to quarantine have been contacted by the MS. If you were not contacted, you are not impacted by this case. This positive case has NOT changed the MS instructional program for Tuesday, November 17. The MS will open tomorrow following the regular hybrid schedule.
On Saturday, the NYS Department of Health updated its guidance document regarding the Mandatory COVID-19 Testing in Public and Non-Public Schools Located in Areas Designated as “Yellow Zones” under the NYS Cluster Action Initiative. Effective today, if a school is in a “yellow zone”, we must test 20% of in-person students, faculty, and staff over the two-week period immediately following the announcement of a “yellow zone” designation. If the testing results reveal a positivity rate lower than the “yellow zone” 7-day positivity rate, testing at the school will no longer be required. As of this writing, we continue to seek clarification on what constitutes a “yellow zone” as well as the specific details on the “free tests” outlined in the NYS DoH's recent document.
November 13, 2020
November 13, 2020
Good afternoon. I'd like to take a moment to update you with our latest COVID-19 data. As of this afternoon, we have one additional positive case at BRS and two new cases at PHS. The families impacted by these cases have been directly contacted earlier today. If you have not received a call from BRS or the HS, then you are not impacted. Importantly, these new cases do not require any new program changes at our schools.
It has been 8 months since Governor Cuomo's first Executive Order that closed schools in NYS in order to stem the speed of transmission of COVID-19. I am proud of the health and safety efforts we as a school community have made. While I know this hard work is exhausting and that a certain amount of COVID-19 fatigue is understandable, virus vigilance is critical as we enter the winter months. In his message today, the Governor stated that the current rise in cases is based upon a number of factors such as holiday/event/home gatherings, traveling, and indoor dining. He reiterated that infection in NYS schools is very low. He was clear – “the problem is not coming from the schools.” Westchester County Department of Health has no documented cases of COVID-19 transmission within our schools or other schools in our County. However, the regional infection rate is rising and due to this rise, the Governor and the NYS Department of Health have created a color-coded Zone Identification Process for addressing COVID-19 community spread.
The color-coded Zone Identification Process Governor Cuomo and the NYS Department of Health have created uses micro-clusters, a data-driven strategy that detects small outbreaks and outlines certain steps to eliminate them. Under these NYS Department of Health guidelines, if Pleasantville is identified as a “yellow zone” by the New York State Department of Health, we are required to close our school buildings. In order to reopen, we would need to test at least 20% of the students and staff for COVID-19 on a weekly basis. If we are in an “orange zone,” the required amount of testing is 25%. If we enter into the “red zone,” we will be closed until the regional infection rate drops.
As I mentioned last week, I ask families to consider the following virus vigilant safety precautions for your family's health and the health of the overall community.
If you have college-age students returning home, consider having them test and quarantine for 72 hours before heading home.
Review the CDC guidance on holiday celebrations and home gatherings during COVID-19.
Follow the NYS guidance on travel restrictions.
Please be vigilant about wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, and using proper hand hygiene.
Thank you for your patience and support.
November 9, 2020
November 9, 2020
As of this writing, we are reporting two (2) new positive cases at the High School. BRS has one presumed case. It is important to note that not one of these cases started or is spreading in the schools. The High School cases now total 5. This has a significant impact on our ability to offer in-person instruction at the High School. I also understand that the precautionary DOH-mandated quarantining has created hardship for many individuals and families in all 3 schools.
Please be advised that any program/school level adjustments based upon these numbers will be announced by the building principals.
As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, please consider the following safety precautions for your family's health and the health of the overall community.
If you have college-age students returning home, consider having them test and quarantine for 72 hours before heading home.
Review the CDC guidance on holiday celebrations during COVID-19.
Follow the NYS guidance on travel restrictions.
Please be vigilant about wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, and using proper hand hygiene.
November 6, 2020
November 6, 2020
This afternoon our district learned that we have one positive COVID 19 case at Pleasantville Middle School. We are working collaboratively with the Westchester County Department of Health and our school physician to determine those who had close or proximate contact.
As of this writing, due to the small size of the contact group, there is NO change to the MS schedule for Monday, November 9.
The Middle School will send emails to families notifying them if their children have been identified as having contact with the individual who tested positive. However, if a family does not receive an email this afternoon, their child is NOT believed to have any risk of exposure.
If a child or faculty member is identified as a close contact of the person who tested positive, they may receive a call from a contact tracer with a 518 area code.
Those exposed must quarantine for 14 days from the last exposure date. COVID-19 tests should be administered five days after their last exposure.
Health officials stress that quarantine measures should be honored if you suspect you or child may have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19. Symptoms of the virus include fever, chills, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, or new loss of taste or smell. Other symptoms include sore throat, congestion, runny nose, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
If you have any questions, contact your physician or the Westchester County Health Department at 866-588-0195. Testing information can be found on our website or click here.
Once again, if a family does not receive an e-mail this afternoon, their student is not believed to be at risk of exposure.
Thank you for your continued support.
November 5, 2020
November 5, 2020
This afternoon our district learned that we have one positive and one possible COVID-19 case at Pleasantville High School. We are working collaboratively with the Westchester County Department of Health and our school physician to determine those who had close or proximate contact.
In accordance with Department of Health Guidelines and our District Reopening Plan, we are taking the following actions:
Pleasantville High School will be closed for in-person instruction tomorrow – Friday, November 6.
Staff and students will follow the Monday synchronous remote schedule.
School Administrators and Nurses will begin the Contact Tracing process which will then be communicated to the Department of Health.
This evening, individual e-mails will be sent to parents and guardians notifying them if their student has been identified as having contact with the individual who is positive. If you do not receive an e-mail this evening, your student is NOT believed to have any risk of exposure.
As a precautionary measure, please monitor your student's health status and contact your doctor or the Department of Health if he or she is exhibiting any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
Should testing be recommended, a list of testing sites can be found on the PUFSD website and the WCDOH health website under the testing, results, and treatment tab. Students, faculty, and staff can also call the NYS COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-364-3065 for assistance locating a testing site.
Please feel free to contact the High School Administration or School Nurse if you have any additional questions or concerns.
October 30, 2020
October 30, 2020
Tremendous thanks to you, and the entire Pleasantville community, for your support and patience as we navigate the challenges associated with COVID 19. Your adherence to the safety protocols and the guidance from the Westchester County Department of Health enables us to keep our students engaged in our hybrid model.
Please see the latest Update from the Westchester County Department of Health that addresses the new CDC Guidance, Winter Sports, Contact Tracing and County's Role.
A big thank you to our families, parent organizations, staff and students for the terrific Halloween celebrations that have taken place in our schools yesterday and today. If you are planning any neighborhood-based Halloween celebrations, you may find this CDC communication very helpful.
Just a gentle reminder – next Tuesday, November 3 is Election Day. We encourage everyone to VOTE. Schools will be closed for instruction that day to allow for staff participation in professional learning activities. As part of our ongoing diversity, equity and inclusivity work, the Anti-Defamation League will lead a number of important PD sessions for our instructional staff.
Again, thank you for your support and cooperation. Wishing everyone an enjoyable weekend. Happy Halloween.
October 27, 2020
October 27, 2020
A short while ago, we received information that an individual associated with the Middle School has tested positive for COVID 19. That individual had NO contact with students or persons who work in our instructional program. The person was last on campus 6 days ago. We have contacted the Westchester County Department of Health and they were very responsive. Working with the DOH, we were able to identify one possible exposure. As a precautionary measure, that individual is quarantining but currently has no signs or symptoms.
As always, the safety of our students and staff is our highest priority. Thank you for your patience and support as we navigate these times of uncertainty.
October 23, 2020
October 23, 2020
In an effort to keep our school community informed as we continue to navigate COVID-19 and our school year together, please allow me to share some important updates.
I know many of you are aware of the rise in the local and regional infection rate. In this environment, the importance of our health and safety protocols cannot be understated. The Westchester County Department of Health (DoH) continues to message the need to maintain social distance, practice proper hand hygiene and wear a mask. Adherence to those protocols has a significant impact on risk mitigation. In Pleasantville, we know these precautions work. The two recent cases at the Middle School required the quarantining of almost 90 individuals. However, due to these protocols as well as the daily cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting we have implemented, not one individual tested positive for COVID-19 based upon a potential exposure at the Middle School – not one.
Another critical component of our process is the partnership we have with our families. It is in everyone's best health interests to understand the impact of transmission based upon close contact within a family. If a family member exhibits signs or symptoms of COVID-19 or is undergoing a test for COVID-19, all family members need to contact their health care provider before leaving home. Following this advice will help to keep our school community safe.
This safety-first approach does require us to continue with our hybrid model for now. Fortunately, we are able to offer some modifications to the November instructional calendar which will allow for increased in-person learning. These adjustments are as follows.
BRS – Beginning Monday, November 2, kindergarten classes will be held in person, five days a week, at BRS. The AM and PM cohort model will be maintained.
BRS, MS, and HS – As the weeks of November 2 and November 9 include days when school is closed (Tuesday, November 3/Election Day and Wednesday, November 11/Veterans' Day) the District will offer/has arranged for in-person instruction on Monday, November 2 and Monday, November 9 of those weeks. Specific cohort information will be sent out by the building principals.
A number of you have asked about the New York State DoH COVID-19 dashboard data for schools. The link is here. While we understand the importance of transparency and the state's thoughts when they created this platform, it remains a work in progress. The state is adjusting the input process based upon comments and feedback from the field. One item we have shared with the state is the inability to edit data once better information is received. For example, if we entered positive case data based upon a rapid test that is later corrected by the more accurate and reliable molecular test, there is no way to edit that information. Also, as this database does not automatically cross-reference with Westchester County's, it is possible to have a “double count” in a community.
Lastly, I'm happy to share the following information from Westchester County.
Westchester County Human Rights Commission is hosting an evening with Dr. Warren Chalken - Brave Conversations about Race and Bias with Family, Friends, and Your Community.
Date: Tuesday, October 27, 2020 from 6 to 8 p.m.
Registration: by phone (914) 995-7710; or email humanrights@westchestergov.com with your name and email address
October 5, 2020
October 5, 2020
I know many of you have questions regarding the decision to place Pleasantville Middle School on a full remote schedule through October 16. Please understand that the decision was necessary due to the fact the Department of Health placed 33 staff members in quarantine for 14 days. While those individuals are considered proximate contacts and were following the safety protocols, the Department of Health did so out of an abundance of caution. We understand and agree that a conservative approach is in everyone's best interests. However, it is not possible to staff an in-person Middle School program with 33 staff members in quarantine.
We need your help. Our model works if everyone does their part. Even so, it is fragile, and one or two cases can greatly impact our ability to have in-person learning. As we enter the fall and winter season, COVID-19 will continue to challenge us. Please follow these steps to keep everyone safe:
Wear a mask – in school, on our grounds, and in the community.
Practice social distancing and proper hand hygiene
Do not attend large gatherings of more than 50 people, as per the Governor's Executive Order.
Do not travel to states on the NYS travel advisory list.
If your children are participating in sports, wear a mask as per the protocols and practice social distancing.
We need everyone to take the daily screening seriously. If you or anyone in your household has tested positive, is not feeling well, or is exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms, there is a very strong possibility that other members of your household may develop symptoms or be asymptomatic yet contagious also. If this is the case, we strongly urge you to take this matter seriously and follow up with your health care provider prior to coming to school.
Thank you for your continued support and help as we work towards keeping our schools and community safe.
October 3, 2020
October 3, 2020
Today the District worked extensively with the Westchester County Department of Health. We have confirmed with the Westchester Department of Health that as of late afternoon on Friday, October 2, 2020, the Pleasantville Middle School has one positive case and one presumed case. The person(s) is/are currently isolating, and due to federal health privacy laws, further information about their identity cannot be released.
Those students and staff who were exposed to the individual(s) are being contacted separately. I know this is concerning news, but please respect the privacy rights of the individuals during this difficult time. If you do not receive a message in the next 24 hours, your student is NOT believed to have a risk of exposure.
We are working collaboratively with the Westchester County Department of Health, and as always, the safety of our students and staff is our highest priority.
Those exposed to this individual will be mandated to quarantine for 14 days from the last exposure date. Additionally, it is recommended that any individual exposed be tested for COVID-19, however not until at least five days after a person's last date of exposure.
Persons identified as a contact of a person who tested positive will receive a call from a contact tracer. For such calls, your caller ID may read NYS Contact Tracing or display a phone number with a 518 area code. Please promptly answer these calls. Your identity and the information you share will remain confidential. Please provide Contact Tracers with the information they need to protect all of us.
A list of testing sites can be found on the PUFSD website (Reopening Our Schools/Covid-19 Testing) and the WCDOH health website under the testing, results, and treatment tab. Students, faculty, and staff can also call the NYS COVID-19 hotline at 1-888-364-3065 for assistance locating a testing site. You may also visit the NY State Find a Test Site near You webpage and enter your address to view a list and a map view of the nearest testing sites. For more information go to https://health.westchestergov.com/2019-novel-coronavirus.
In our conversations with the team at the Westchester Department of Health, we reviewed our risk mitigation protocols. They agree that these are excellent practices and will prove to be a very important step in keeping people safe and the risk low. However, as the regional positive case rate is increasing, a conservative, precautionary approach is the best way to maintain a safe school environment for our students and staff. Therefore, out of an abundance of caution, the Middle School will be on a full remote schedule through and including Friday, October 16. Eight live in person-days will convert to eight live remote days.
As we enter the fall months, it is really important for all families to follow the health screening protocols. Temperature isn't reliable as a single measure as it does NOT capture pre-symptomatic signs and symptoms. We will be updating our health screening forms to include a question on whether or not someone in your home is awaiting test results. It is in the best health interests of our community that individuals who respond yes to any of the questions on the form that they do NOT leave the home and follow-up with their health care provider. Also, please continue to wear a mask in school, on our grounds, and in the community.
Please know that we are doing everything in our ability to maintain a safe school environment and are working closely with the Department of Health to manage this specific situation. I wish you and your family good health during these very challenging times.
September 25, 2020
September 25, 2020
Thank you for your support as we finish our second full week back. It is terrific to see and hear the students and staff in the halls, classrooms, and fields. In our schools, our students continue to model the important safety-first behaviors such as wearing a mask and utilizing the outdoors as much as possible for mask breaks, classes, and recreational activities. I am so proud of our students, staff, and families as we work together to ensure an important standard of care is in place. I know many of you are aware of the recent reports regarding a small increase in the local infection rate. In order to keep that rate down, it is critical that we maintain our focus on the 3 pillars of our safety plan – keep our masks on, maintain physical distancing, and practice proper hand hygiene. We know that those were in place at Holy Innocents – and they worked.
We continue to work with the Westchester County Department of Health as we refine our protocols. We appreciate their feedback. We are also very grateful for the excellent medical guidance we receive from our school physician, Dr. Kristen Roye. These partnerships are important as we enter the fall and navigate the COVID-19 waters. I'm sure many of you have seen recent media coverage regarding reports of a positive case of COVID-19 in some schools in our region. As previously stated, the likelihood of an outbreak continues to be very real. Our best preparation/prevention path is to be vigilant with our safety protocols and for you to perform the daily health screening before you leave the house.
As I understand that there is often anxiety, uncertainty, and rumors surrounding a “potential” case, I'd like to take this opportunity to remind everyone of our protocols. If we receive confirmation of a positive case either from an individual, a family, or the Department of Health, we will immediately work with the Westchester County Department of Health (DoH) on the next steps. Those actions will be dictated by the specifics surrounding the case and may require quarantining and contact tracing. There may be situations where a positive case involves an individual enrolled or employed by our schools but for a number of reasons they may have not been positive when they were in our schools and therefore, no action by the schools will be required. Some of those reasons may include the fact that an individual was in quarantine already or the individual is a remote learner. However, if we have notification of a confirmed case and we need to act on that information, the most we can share is that an “individual” tested positive. (As all individuals have privacy rights, we cannot share if that individual was a student or staff member.) In such situations, we need to address that potential exposure as quickly as possible and will do the following:
The District will work with the DoH and our School Physician to determine the potential exposure.
Staff and students impacted are notified, then the school community.
The building and/or program with the exposure will close for 24/48 hours and contact tracing will begin.
Individuals who had close or proximate contact will hear from the DoH Contact Tracer or the District regarding the next steps.
Individuals who are found to be in close contact with the positive case will need to quarantine, monitor their signs and symptoms, and consult with their physician.
Individuals who were in proximate contact may be mandated to quarantine. This will depend upon the unique and individual circumstances of the proximate contact. Determination will be made by the DoH.
Individuals who are contacts of contacts do not need to quarantine.
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