WCSD News & Updates
July 31, 2020 Update
July 25, 2020 Update
July 29, 2020 Update
Long Range COVID-19 Instructional Plan for WCSD
EMERGENCY COMMUNICATION CHAIN
Updates
WCSD Prekindergarten Program Update
The WCSD Pre-Kindergarten program follows the WCSD calendar and procedures for closing. At this time, the Pre-Kindergarten programs are not in session. This includes all 3 year-old and 4 year-old programs.
The 2020 – 2021 application can be found on the district website. If you have a need or interest in Pre-Kindergarten for one or more of your children for the 2020-2021 school year, please complete the application and mail them to 532 South Massey St. Watertown, NY 13601.
While we will continue to accept applications sent in via USPS, they will not be processed until school is back in session. Any lotteries that need to occur will be held once schools re-open, and acceptance letters will be mailed out thereafter.
Update Wednesday-Friday March 18-20, 2020
Wiley/Case/WHS: Specific directions for the pickup of Chromebooks, belongings (eyeglasses, winter clothing, musical instruments, etc.) will be given from the Grade 5-12 building principals via School Messenger.Grade Pre K-4: If your child needs an essential item, please contact your school to make arrangements.· During the closure, all school buildings and buses will undergo a rigorous cleaning/disinfecting of all areas and surfaces. Though enhanced measures have been in place for some time, we are committed to preventing further spread of any and all viruses through contact.· Under the guidance of the USDA, plans for the distribution of meals to students are underway through designated pickup sites. Check website for updates!· We are working with North Country Family Health Center School-Based Clinic personnel on a plan to meet our students' basic health/mental health needs.Additional details will be forthcoming.Thank you for your continued support and understanding during these ever-changing circumstances.Patricia B. LaBarrSuperintendent of SchoolsUpdate March 17 & 18, 2020
- Each school building will communicate specific directions for the pickup of instructional materials, books, and personal belongings needed prior to April 20th.
- During the closure, all school buildings and buses will undergo an even more rigorous cleaning/disinfecting of all areas and surfaces. Though enhanced measures have been in place for some time, we are committed to preventing further spread of any and all viruses through contact.
- Under the guidance of the USDA, plans for the distribution of meals to students are underway through designated pickup sites.
- We are working with North Country Family Health Center School-Based Clinic personnel on a plan to meet our student's basic health
as well as mental health needs.
Update March 16, 2020
Our staff will be busy on Monday finalizing academic plans for the closure period. Please limit any visitation to our school buildings to immediate medicinal/medical needs only. Please contact the school or school nurse in advance for assistance.Update March 15, 2020
Yesterday, Steve Todd, Superintendent of Jefferson-Lewis BOCES, made a joint statement from local Superintendents, County Officials, and the Departments of Health describing that all Jefferson-Lewis school student attendance will cease immediately. It is important to note that this is a preventative measure and NOT a result of any confirmed COVID-19 cases in the region.Update March 14, 2020
Student attendance in all schools in Jefferson and Lewis Counties, and at Town of Webb Union Free School District and Adirondack Central School District will cease, effective Monday, March 16, and will continue through Friday, April 17, 2020. School staff should, however, still report to schools on Monday, March 16.Update March 12, 2020
In light of the recent Coronavirus developments and the incidents of cancellations and closures around the world, Watertown City School District is taking a proactive approach to prepare for possible school closure(s) in our region. The District is taking the following preparatory steps:Update March 12, 2020
First Student Update: At First Student, keeping our employees and the students we serve healthy and safe is a top priority.Update March 5, 2020
Dear Parent/Guardian:While the Watertown City School District does not have a confirmed case of COVID-19, caused by thenovel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in our schools, we are aware of concerns in the community about thespread of this relatively new virus.Update March 3, 2020
Coronavirus is a respiratory illness that can spread from person to person. Symptoms include fever, cough and trouble breathing or shortness of breath. Thousands of cases have been confirmed in China and new cases have been diagnosed in a number of countries, including the U.S.Update March 2, 2020
We are being as proactive as possible by relying on the recommendations of our school physician, Jefferson County Health Department, New York State Department of Health and the CDC. Further information about WCSD’s response to the COVID-19 virus will be shared as plans develop.COVID-19 (coronavirus) Update
Talking to Children About COVID-19 (Coronavirus): A Parent Resource
Concern over this new virus can make children and families anxious. While we don’t know where and to what extent the disease may spread here in the United States, we do know that it is contagious, that the severity of illness can vary from individual to individual, and that there are steps we can take to prevent the spread of infection.
The Importance of Hand Washing
According to the CDC, the most important thing people can do to reduce infection is to practice good hand washing. Wash hands often with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds (orsing "Happy Birthday" twice). If clena water and soap are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. By practicing good hand washing and sanitizing, we can help stop the spread of germs.