Messages FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

June 15, 2022

Dear Westfield Public Schools Community,

At our May 3 meeting, Board of Education members began an initial conversation into the feasibility of moving Board elections from November to April and presenting the school district budget to Westfield taxpayers for a vote. This would mean a substantial shift in the current district budget approval process, one which we continued to discuss at our meetings on May 17, and June 14.  There are both complicated and compelling reasons for making such a shift and, in this letter, we hope to help answer some of the questions that are expected to arise.

What is the current budget process?

1. October/November of current school year:  District administration begins work on the budget for the following school year.

2. February:  Public discussion at Board of Education meetings begins. 

3. Late February/Early March: Aid provided by the State to districts for the coming school year is announced.

4. Mid-March: Preliminary budget is submitted to the County Office of the Department of Education for review by mid-March, as statutorily required. 

5. Late April:  Board of Education holds a public hearing and votes on the final budget at the last meeting in April to meet the deadline set by the State.

Why shift the Board election from November to April?

1. Before 2010, the district budget was voted on annually by the Westfield community in April.  The average tax levy increase was 4.9%.

2. In 2011 and 2012, the State of New Jersey reduced the amount of aid it provides school districts by 65%; this resulted in reductions in excess of $4-million made to the Westfield Public Schools operating budget. The State also placed a 2% cap, with eligible waivers, on tax levy increases for districts opting out of a community vote on the district budget.

3. Until this year, the District has been able to submit budgets at cap with minimal reductions due to proactive changes. Two years of a global pandemic and the related economic disruptions to supply chains and labor markets have contributed to sharply rising costs in health benefits, transportation, out of district tuition, supplies and equipment, and other expenditures which severely outpace the District’s sources of revenue.

4. Moving the Board election from November to April would simultaneously lift the District out from under the state mandated 2% tax levy cap and afford the taxpayers the opportunity to directly vote on a school budget that not only supports the staff who provide a high quality education for our students, but enables the District to move forward with enhanced programs and initiatives to further that education.

What happens if voters do not approve the District Budget?

If Westfield residents do not vote to approve the school budget, it becomes the responsibility of the Town Council to make decisions on where to make cuts to the school budget.

What is the timeline for Board action on moving the election from November to April?

1. June 21:  Board votes on a resolution moving the Board election from November to April.

2. If the resolution is approved, the Board notifies the Union County Clerk, as required by statute.

3. The Board and District then begin planning for and communicating about the budget for the following school year.
   
   

The decision to return to requiring the voters of Westfield to make another trip to the polls, every April, is not one we make lightly. However, if we have learned anything from this past budget cycle, it is that the current funding formula with a 2% tax levy cap is unsustainable if the district is to continue offering our students the quality education that Westfield parents and residents have come to expect of the Westfield Public Schools. While we have been able to maintain our programs over the years, we have not been able to grow those programs or expand our academic offerings. We have discussed the problems associated with public school funding in our state and the impact it has on our operating budget. On June 21, at the next public meeting of the Board of Education, we will vote on a resolution to return the Board election and budget vote to April. 

Sincerely,

Brendan Galligan

Board President

Good afternoon, 

In the wake of the mass shootings in communities across the country, several people have understandably reached out to me to inquire about the Westfield Public School District measures to prevent such a tragedy in our schools. While we try to make sense of these senseless events, one thing is clear – there is no simple answer. That is why we focus our attention on implementing a layered approach to school security that relies on planning for the unthinkable, partnering with law enforcement, and attending to our students’ social and emotional needs.

SECURITY PLANNING: For obvious reasons, most of the details of our plans are confidential; however, what I can share with everyone is the following:

• we have a state-mandated comprehensive security plan that includes the best practices in school security and is reviewed annually by education, school security professionals, and law enforcement; 

• evidence of components of the security plan can be seen in our monthly drill notifications, visitor management protocols that require a single point of entry and prescreening by trained office staff prior to entry, and a district-wide interior door replacement project inclusive of enhanced locking mechanisms; 

• per policy and statute, we maintain a panic alarm for use in a school security emergency and we conduct a school safety audit for each school building using the checklist developed by the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security and Preparedness in collaboration with the Department of Education; and

• we incorporate various technology-based security solutions for surveillance, emergency and mass communications, and door access.

PARTNERSHIP WITH LAW ENFORCEMENT: Westfield Public Schools is fortunate to have the full support and cooperation of our partners in law enforcement which includes:

• consultation and participation in the development of our school security plans; 

• a shared service with the Town of Westfield for on-premises school resource officers stationed at the high school and intermediate schools; and

• regular patrols and walk-throughs by other officers at all schools.

Some have asked why we do not have police officers stationed at our elementary schools. While such a suggestion may seem straightforward, there are many factors that should be considered at the district, Board, municipal, and community levels before making such a decision. I am committed to continuing to explore our needs and options moving forward. 

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING: In our efforts to keep our schools safe, we do not underestimate the importance of attending to the needs of the whole child so they are raised and taught never to see violence as the answer for anything. Support for the social and emotional well-being of our students comes in many forms, including, but not limited to:

• counselors at all schools who work directly with staff and families to support our students’ mental health;

• requirements under the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights that identify, investigate and address instances of harassment, intimidation, and bullying with an emphasis on remedial measures for students involved as targets or aggressors, and

• character education and anti-hate programming throughout our schools to teach our students about respect, empathy, and inclusion.

While the recent events are tragic, they serve as the sobering reminders that we must continue to do our part to make sure our schools are safe and nurturing places where students can learn and thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We ask our parents and families to support us in our efforts to keep our schools safe by reinforcing the importance of drills, following the directions of staff during an emergency, and practicing kindness and respect for one another. 

Last but not least, I respectfully ask that we refrain from discussing perceived security concerns or vulnerabilities in public forums as it may only serve to compromise our efforts. If you have any further questions about how else our schools keep our children safe, I encourage you to reach out to your school principal.

Regards,

Raymond A. González, Ed. D.

Superintendent of Schools

May 25, 2022

Dear Westfield Families and Staff,

There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for the Uvalde, Texas community in the wake of yesterday’s horrific mass shooting at Robb Elementary School.  We cannot begin to comprehend such senseless violence and tragic loss of life.  Our thoughts and prayers are with the entire school community at this devastating time.

As the nation mourns more innocent lives cut short by another school shooting, I want to take a moment to reassure members of our own school community that the Westfield Public School District has long had a comprehensive emergency plan in place, which is reviewed and practiced on a regular basis with our students, our educators, and the administration of each school building in the District. In addition, in cooperation with the Westfield Police Department, we have School Resource Officers assigned to Edison and Roosevelt Intermediate Schools and Westfield High School, while Westfield police officers make regular, unannounced visits to all of our schools.

Working in tandem with these school security efforts is our commitment to support the social and emotional well-being of our students with classroom lessons, schoolwide assemblies, and other special initiatives throughout the school year.  

While we continue to process the senseless loss of lives, it is important that we maintain a normal routine and be prepared to assure our children that the adults who care for them are working to keep them safe and secure.  As you speak with your children, you may find the following resources helpful:  

• How to Talk to Children about Difficult News

• Helping your Children Manage Distress in the Aftermath of a Shooting

• Managing your Distress in the Aftermath of a Shooting

Please do not hesitate to reach out  to your child’s teacher, counselor, or principal with any specific concerns.  

Sincerely,

Dr. González

Raymond A. González
Superintendent of Schools

April 6, 2022

Dear Westfield Public Schools Community,

As you are aware, the 2021-2022 school calendar reflects three snow/emergency days.  The district has used one of those three days.  At its regular public meeting last night, the Board of Education approved a revised calendar for the 2021-2022 school year which notes that if no additional days are required for a weather-related or other emergency, schools will be closed for all students and staff on Friday, May 27 and Tuesday, May 31.  If it becomes necessary to close schools for one more day, schools will be open for students and staff on Tuesday, May 31.

Sincerely,

Dr. González

Raymond A. González, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Ensuring the safety of our students and staff remains a top priority for all Westfield Public Schools. Since 2010, in addition to fire drills, all public schools have been required by law to engage in monthly safety and security drills, including lockdown, shelter-in-place, and evacuation.

Governor Murphy recently signed legislation requiring school districts to provide written notification to parents or guardians following completion of a school security drill by the end of the school day. In accordance with this updated requirement, beginning in April, an email will be sent out by your child’s school following each security drill to advise you that the event took place. This new notification requirement does not apply to fire drills.

We conduct all emergency drills with seriousness and sensitivity to our students and staff.  Please do not hesitate to reach out to your principal with any questions.

Regards,

Dr. González

Raymond A. González, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools

March 14, 2022

Dear Westfield Public Schools Community,

With COVID hospitalization rates extremely low, milder reported cases of illness, and the effect of warmer temperatures in reducing the number of COVID cases, I am reaching out with an update to our COVID protocols.  

In consultation with public health professionals and in consideration of the above factors, effective immediately, the Westfield Public School District will no longer actively conduct contact tracing for all staff and students, except for our Pre-Kindergartners who are still ineligible to receive the COVID vaccine.

Reporting Positive COVID Cases

It is important that staff and families continue to perform a daily home health screening and to report positive COVID results to your school nurse. COVID-positive individuals will be required to isolate per the most recent guidance and those who self-report or identify themselves as close contacts should follow the quarantine guidelines. As always, our school nurses and staff remain ready to help families navigate isolation/quarantine requirements.

COVID-Positive Notification Update

To assist families in monitoring for COVID symptoms and in consideration of schedules and student movement throughout the building, notification of COVID-positive cases in our schools will be as follows:

• Kindergarten and elementary families will be notified if there is a positive case in their child’s classroom.

• Intermediate and high school families will be notified if there is a positive case at a specific grade level in their child’s school.

We are heartened to be able to take this next step.  The district will continue to monitor COVID conditions and consult with our local public health officials to keep our school community safe.  

Sincerely,

Dr. González

March 2, 2022

Dear Westfield Public Schools Families,  

Since my communication last week that mask wearing in Westfield Public Schools will be optional as of Monday, March 7, new guidance was issued making mask wearing on school buses optional as well.  Additionally, we received the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) update that accompanied the Governor’s lifting of the universal mask mandate in schools. In reviewing the document with our health professionals and administrators, the majority of the guidance remains unchanged regarding all other recommendations for social distancing, contact tracing, isolation of COVID-positive cases, quarantine of close contacts, etc.  Therefore, as of Monday, March 7, 2022, wearing masks inside schools and on school buses will be optional with limited exceptions outlined below.

MASKS MAY BE REQUIRED:

• During periods of elevated community transmission – when the COVID-19 Activity Level Index (CALI) is elevated, the NJDOH recommends universal masking in regions with: 

  • CALI score of High (Orange) – Schools should strongly consider universal masking for all students and staff, especially if there is difficulty incorporating other layered prevention strategies (e.g., adequate ventilation, adequate spacing of students).

  • CALI score of Very High (Red) – Schools should require universal masking for all students and staff.

• During an active outbreak – During an outbreak or a general increase in cases, universal masking or masking in affected classrooms may be required to control the outbreak/increase in cases.

MASKS WILL BE REQUIRED:

• When illness occurs in school – Students or staff who become ill with symptoms consistent with COVID-19 while in school will wear a mask until they leave the premises.

• After returning from isolation or quarantine – Students and staff who return to school during days 6-10 of isolation or quarantine will be required to mask. 

• During Test to Stay (TTS) –  This is new for our district and allows asymptomatic school-associated close contacts who meet the criteria for quarantine and do not test positive for COVID-19 to continue in-person learning. 

Home-based tests purchased by families, including self-tests, can be used for this purpose. All tests conducted according to this TTS protocol would fulfill the screening testing requirements. 

Testing frequency and attestation:

• Students should be tested immediately following the notification of being a close contact. 

• After the first negative home test result, the student may continue to attend in-person instruction if they remain asymptomatic. On Day 5, the student takes another test.

  • On Day 1 and Day 5, the parent must provide a letter or email attesting to the date/time the test was taken and the result of the test.

• If the final test result is negative, no further TTS testing is required; students would continue to follow additional precautions through Day 10. 

• Close contacts who return to school via the TTS protocol will be required to wear a well-fitting mask indoors for the duration of the 10 days following exposure.

• During the TTS period, if any student tests positive for COVID-19, the student should be immediately excluded from school for the recommended isolation period from the date of the positive test. 

• If close contacts develop any COVID-compatible symptoms during the TTS timeframe, they should remain home and contact the school for further guidance.

To facilitate a smooth transition, all other mitigation measures will remain in place while we closely monitor the COVID activity in our schools in the days and weeks ahead. We recognize that public health guidance changes often.  Based on our experience and any updated recommedations from the NJDOH, we will determine what other changes to our current practices and protocols may be warranted.

March 7 marks a major change in our overall mitigation strategy against the spread of COVID-19 since returning to school in September 2020. Given that the reactions and opinions may vary greatly about this decision, it is imperative that we continue to speak as families and as a learning community with our students about respecting personal choices.

As always, we appreciate our important partnership with the school community and look forward to navigating these next steps together to keep our schools open and our students learning in a safe and welcoming environment.

With sincerest gratitude,

Dr. González

Raymond A. González, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools

February 24, 2022

Dear Westfield Public Schools Community,

I want to provide a brief update since my last communication following Governor

Murphy’s announcement that he is lifting the universal mask mandate in schools,

effective March 7.

There continues to be positive news on the COVID-19 front. Local and state COVID

activity has decreased significantly, with the latest statewide COVID-19 Activity Level

Index (CALI) reporting all regions in New Jersey as Moderate (yellow) for the first time

since last summer. Therefore, as I stated at the Board of Education meeting on

February 22, masks will be optional in most cases in the Westfield Public School

District, effective March 7.

Mask wearing will continue to be required on school buses per the CDC’s federal order

and may be required under other specific circumstances as well. As expected, we have

received additional guidance from the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH),

which I am reviewing with our administrative team and health care professionals to

determine the circumstances when masks may be required.

As we prepare for our families and staff to make personal decisions about mask

wearing in our schools beginning March 7, it is critical that we all work together to

ensure that those personal decisions are respected and supported. I will send another

communication next week with an update on our COVID mitigation protocols and

procedures as they relate to this important transition.

Sincerely,

Dr. González

Raymond A. González, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools

February 20, 2022

Dear Westfield Public Schools Community,

We appreciate public input and attendance at our Board meetings; however, following the Board of Education meeting on February 8, we feel it important to help attendees better understand the parliamentary procedures that govern a Board meeting and to reiterate a few of those procedures and policies in place to ensure that the important business of the Board proceeds smoothly and that members of the public are able to be heard.

• Bylaw 0167 (Public Participation in Board Meetings) sets forth the rules to allow for a fair and orderly public comment period. It allows for the Board president to:

• call for a recess or an adjournment to another time when the lack of public decorum interferes with the orderly conduct of the meeting;

• adjourn the meeting any time the public does not accept directions from the President of the meeting;

• request any person to leave the meeting when that person does not observe reasonable decorum; and

• request the assistance of law enforcement officers in the removal of a disorderly person when that person prevents or disrupts a meeting with an act that obstructs or interferes with a meeting.

• There are two public comment periods.

  • The first public comment period is for persons who wish to speak about only those items that are on the evening’s agenda listed under the section entitled Board Action Agenda. This public comment period takes place near the beginning of the meeting.

  • The second public comment period, which takes place near the end of the meeting, is open to members of the public on any topic related to the school district.

  • In each instance, the speaker will state his/her name and address, keep comments within a 3-minute time limit, and address comments to the Board president only. No public criticism directed at an audience member or a district staff member is permitted.

• Masks must be worn properly at all times while attending the Board meeting on February 22. We will be updating the school community soon on steps going forward following the governor’s recent announcement that masks will no longer be mandated in schools as of March 7.

  • We ask that members of the public do not bring food to the Board meeting. Attendees may lower their masks to take the occasional sip of water, however.

We expect that all attendees will be respectful and compliant, allowing the Board to conduct its business in a timely manner and allowing residents the opportunity to have their voices heard in an environment that is civil, safe, and considerate of differing opinions.

Thank you.

Dr. Raymond González, Superintendent

Mr. Brendan Galligan, Board President

February 8, 2022

Dear Westfield Public Schools Community,

As many of you know, Governor Murphy announced yesterday that masks and face coverings will no longer be state-mandated for students, staff or visitors in schools, effective March 7. The governor has left it to the discretion of individual school districts to decide what is best for their school communities. In the days ahead, the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) will provide additional guidance for schools to determine the impact, if any, on social distancing, contact tracing, and other mitigation factors. The specific information will help inform us of any possible changes to the instructional and operational structures of our schools.

While we await the NJDOH guidance, I will continue to maintain regular and open communication with our Westfield Regional Health Department and District Physician to monitor our local conditions over the next month. We all remain cautiously optimistic that the COVID activity in our schools will continue to decrease and our vaccination rate for eligible students will continue to rise, thus making masks optional a reality by March 7, barring any unforeseen setback. Please note that such a change may be adjusted in the future if conditions warrant at the classroom, grade, school or district levels.

We will continue to share information from our health professionals about upcoming events, including free pediatric COVID-19 vaccine clinics for 5-11 year olds this Thursday, February 10 from 4-6 p.m. at the Casano Community Center, 314 Chestnut Street in Roselle Park and on Saturday, February 26 from 1-3 p.m. at the Westfield Memorial Library. Residents can also visit the Westfield Regional Health Department website at www.westfieldnj.gov/health for a full listing of clinics or call (908) 789-4070 ext. 4075 to schedule an appointment.

I am eager to return a sense of normalcy to our schools as soon and safely as possible; however, we’ve come too far to rush this. So, for the next four weeks, we will work diligently to ensure that any adjustments to our existing COVID protocols and mitigation strategies are appropriate to current conditions. Thank you for your continued patience, understanding, and support as we work together to emerge from this public health emergency stronger and safer.

Sincerely,

Dr. González

January 11, 2022

Dear Westfield Families and Staff,

I want to provide a brief update on the status of our schools. I am pleased to report that our

youngest learners at the early childhood and elementary levels began the week full-time,

in-person for the first time since the holiday break, with elementary principals reporting a smooth

transition and an unrelenting focus on keeping students and staff safe.

As communicated by our intermediate and high school principals to their school communities

earlier today, Edison and Roosevelt Intermediate School and Westfield High School will be

returning to full day, in-person instruction tomorrow (Wednesday), January 12, with lunch

schedules and procedures to maximize social distancing and prioritize health and safety.

Late yesterday, the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) updated their isolation and

quarantine timeline, based on a shortened time frame recommended by the CDC. We are

working with the local health department and our school nurses to review the details and adjust

our practices accordingly. Staff and students who are isolating/quarantining should confirm their

return dates with their school nurse, if the school has not already reached out. As for

mask-wearing in schools, the Governor has indicated that mask mandates in schools and

childcare settings will continue “for the foreseeable future.”

We are committed to keeping the school community informed as we adjust in constructive ways

to the changing nature of COVID-19 and the associated guidance.

With continued gratitude,

Dr. González

January 7, 2022

Dear Westfield Families and Staff,

Thank you to our principals, teachers, and all of our staff for calmly and expertly stepping up to meet the challenges of this past week. I also am very grateful to our students for their resilience and their families for their support and patience, even as they had to juggle their own schedules.

As previously mentioned, the administrative team has met every day with an eye toward what next week will look like at the elementary, intermediate, and high school level. As you know, the challenges and opportunities look very different at each level. In reviewing COVID activity with public health officials and administrators to return to full-day, in-person instruction, we are going to implement the following phased-in approach for next week in order to give our secondary schools sufficient time to adjust schedules and coordinate the coverage and supervision necessary for lunch periods.

Early Childhood and Elementary

• January 10-14: Full-day, in-person instruction, inclusive of lunch.

Intermediate and High School

• January 10 and 11: Early Dismissal Schedule. No lunch.

• January 12-14: Full-day, in-person instruction, inclusive of lunch.

Our principals will reach out to their school communities with additional information. Please know that our efforts to provide for the safety of our staff and students have always been, and will continue to be, based upon a layered approach to mitigate against the transmission of COVID. This includes measures such as masking indoors, social distancing, cleaning/disinfection protocols, contact tracing, and vaccination/testing mandates for staff. We are confident that this combined approach will continue to keep our schools safe places for learning and help us to navigate through the current surge of cases.

As always, we will keep you updated and informed as we strive to keep our schools open safely.

Sincerely,

Dr. González

January 5, 2022

Dear Families and Staff,

We continue to closely monitor COVID cases in our community and to consult with our public

health officials in order to make the most up-to-date, informed decisions possible. Based upon

our review of staffing, I am pleased to report that Westfield High School will return to an

in-person, early dismissal schedule tomorrow (Thursday), January 6. WHS families will receive additional information directly from Principal Asfendis. Elementary and intermediate schools remain on an early dismissal schedule through Friday as well. I have been meeting with school principals and other administrators daily as we strive to keep our schools open and safe. We will communicate our plans for next week on Friday morning.

Additionally, this is the time of year when Mother Nature doesn’t always cooperate. In light of

this morning’s inclement weather, I wanted to reshare our inclement weather procedures for

your reference, along with a few of the factors that go into the decision-making.

• In the event of a change in the operational status of schools, we strive to notify families and staff between 5:30 - 6:00 a.m.

• We are required by law to provide instruction for a minimum of four hours; therefore, the timing of the weather event and the current operational status of our schools must be considered.

• We are no longer permitted to have “virtual snow days”, thus options that existed last year are no longer available.

Please know that the physical safety of our students and staff is as important as their academic and emotional well-being and is never taken lightly. In the end, we make the best decision we can with the information we have at the time and understand that our families and staff will also make the necessary decisions for their personal safety and well-being.

Thank you for your continued patience and flexibility.

Sincerely,

Dr. González

January 3, 2022

Dear Westfield Public Schools Community,

As promised, this is a quick update on the status of school operations since our return from the

break today. Unfortunately, the challenges of staffing shortages at the high school continue so,

to aid everyone in planning for the short term, Westfield High School will remain on all virtual

instruction tomorrow (Tuesday) and Wednesday. The high school will follow the regular 9 period bell schedule from 7:30 AM - 2:45 PM. Students should log on to Google classroom at the start of each period to participate in their virtual session.

While we hope to return high school students to an in-person, early dismissal schedule on Thursday, so many factors are in play during this pandemic and we’ve certainly learned over the past two years that best laid plans can go awry. We will be sure to communicate our plans once they are confirmed.

At this time, the intermediate and elementary schools will continue on an early dismissal

schedule; however, the staffing challenges are impacting all of our buildings and we are monitoring them closely. Please note that our ability to staff classrooms in-person may directly impact our ability to provide for remote instruction in the afternoons. Principals will notify you if there is any change to the afternoon remote session. We are doing our best to support all learners at this time.

We understand that there is no single perfect solution and that many opinions exist on what should be done. Please know that our administrators and staff are working tirelessly to adjust and re-adjust schedules and operations to provide meaningful instruction while adhering to public health and Department of Education guidelines and restrictions to keep our schools safe and open.

With gratitude during this trying time,

Dr. González

January 2, 2022

Dear Westfield Public Schools Community,

Please be advised that over the weekend we received another surge of reported COVID positive cases among staff and students across all district schools. We regret to inform you that, due to staffing shortages associated with reported COVID cases, we will transition Westfield High School to full virtual instruction tomorrow, January 3, 2022. WHS families will hear from Principal Asfendis with additional details shortly. A determination regarding athletics and afterschool programs will be communicated tomorrow.

At this time, all other schools will remain on an early dismissal schedule as previously announced. We will reassess the status of all of our schools tomorrow and update the community of any changes going forward.

Again, I know this is not ideal. However, this is an ever-changing situation that, even as we strive to safely keep our schools open, often requires up-to-the-minute decisions based on current conditions.

Sincerely,

Dr. González

Raymond A. González

Superintendent of Schools

December 31, 2021

Dear Families and Staff,

Since sending our latest update, we have received several inquiries regarding the details of the

decision in light of the recent announcements by the CDC and the New Jersey Department of Health.

Quarantine Timelines

While the CDC recently shortened the isolation/quarantine period to five days for the general

public, the NJDOH notified school districts that the CDC has not yet applied the shortened

timeframe to high-risk congregate care settings (e.g. corrections, shelters, group homes) and

other specialized settings (e.g. schools, institutions of higher education, childcare). The NJDOH advises that “these settings should continue to follow current posted CDC/NJDOH setting-specific guidance/recommendations accordingly. Once the CDC updates guidance for these settings, the NJDOH will update State guidance/recommendations accordingly.”

Therefore, this is a reminder that the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH)

isolation/quarantine timeframe of 10 days, or 7 days with a negative COVID test on Day 5-7, remains in place for New Jersey school districts. The NJDOH expects updated guidance from the CDC soon. The district will communicate any adjusted guidelines once the State has provided an update.

Operational Status of Schools

According to the most recent COVID-19 Activity Level Report, our region’s level (Central East) is

Red (Very High) for the first time since Spring 2020. Locally, Mayor Brindle reported an increase

in cases in the Town and our schools have received reports of over 115 COVID positive cases

among our staff and students in the last week. Although much has changed for the better since

the emergence of the coronavirus almost two years ago, we must still take the necessary

precautions to keep our schools open and safe. While the opinions on what is necessary vary

greatly, our decisions are informed and guided by the NJDOH and NJDOE, including the

restriction that a district may only move to full remote instruction in the case of a school-based

outbreak. Fortunately, no outbreak has been identified in any of our schools and we are working

diligently to ensure that it remains that way.

The administrative decision to move to half-day, in-person instruction and eliminate unmasked

lunch periods for one week is a temporary and responsible approach to maintain the continuity

of education safely as we closely monitor COVID developments.

Sincerely,

Dr. González

December 29, 2021

Dear Westfield Public Schools Community,

I hope this message finds you and your family safe and healthy. Despite our schools not being in session this week, the COVID activity has not taken a holiday and is on the rise. We continue to receive reports from our school community of COVID positive cases among our students and staff. The stress on our health care system is further complicating the process.

In consultation with our healthcare professionals, keeping our schools open safely remains our highest priority. Therefore, for the first week of school upon our return on January 3 - 7, we will be implementing our early dismissal schedule to eliminate unmasked lunches while the COVID activity is high. This message is being sent in order to allow for our families and staff to make any necessary

arrangements to adjust to this change in our operational schedule.

What to expect upon returning for the week of January 3-7

The first half of the school day will provide in-person instruction before students head home for lunch. The afternoon session will consist of an hour of remote instructional supports. You will receive more information from your school principal within the next 24-48 hours.

Daily Symptom Check

Now more than ever, it is critical that we monitor our symptoms closely and take the necessary precautions to keep our schools safe. Anyone who is symptomatic should remain home and consult with the school to determine the next steps.

Guidance for Schools

Although the CDC recently released new recommendations regarding quarantine/isolation timelines, the New Jersey Department of Health guidance has not changed at this time and is still in effect for our schools. If/when the NJDOH is updated,

we will adjust our practices accordingly.

Masks

Mask-wearing is required indoors at our schools. Please continue to send your child to school with a clean, well-fitted mask as outlined by the NJDOH.

Criteria for Reentry

Please confer with your child's school if you have any questions about reentry to school.

NJDOE Guidance

Per the latest guidance from the New Jersey Department of Education, school closure is not an option unless there is an outbreak in our schools. The health department has not identified an outbreak in any of our schools thus making a full school closure unnecessary at this time. Our goal is to keep our schools open while safeguarding the health of our students and staff. We hope that the transition to the early dismissal days for the first week in January will help us to keep our schools open. Furthermore, remote learning remains only available to those who are required to quarantine because they are COVID positive or direct contacts.

In closing, I recognize this is not ideal for anyone. This one-week measure is our effort to keep our schools open to maintain the continuity of education in an environment that is safe for our students and staff. Our schools are closely and regularly monitoring the situation. Next week, we will reassess our needs and communicate all updates as quickly as possible as we know that changes in the school schedule impact overall family schedules.

Please be on the lookout for more information from your school principal within the next 24-48 hours. As always, I appreciate your patience and understanding.

Be well and stay safe,

Dr. González

December 22, 2021

Dear Westfield Public Schools Community,

As we approach the start of our holiday break, I hope this message finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. Despite the greatest efforts in our schools, the COVID activity continues to rise throughout the region and state with a significant increase in the number of cases reported to our

schools since the weekend.

WHAT IS THE CURRENT STATUS OF OUR SCHOOLS?

Since the school year began, I have been in regular contact with our public health officials to monitor the COVID activity in our schools. In light of the recent spike, our most recent discussion confirmed that the transmission is not happening in schools; thus our staff and students are safe as long as they strictly adhere to the same mitigation measures that have kept the virus from spreading in our schools since the start of the school year. I cannot speak to the variables that exist in other school districts but there is no emergent need that would require a change in the operational status of the Westfield Public School District.

IS REMOTE INSTRUCTION AN OPTION?

At this point, as we have done since we returned to full-time in-person learning in September, remote instruction will continue to be reserved only for those students who are quarantining due to a positive COVID test or as a close contact. Currently, there are no plans to transition district-wide to remote learning after the winter break.

Nevertheless, we will continue to monitor our COVID activity closely and if conditions require a change to our learning environment, we will review and make adjustments as needed. We also will notify our school community of any change as early as possible, as we recognize that families may need to make childcare and other arrangements.

In closing, it has been amazing to see our schools filled with students and staff and we want these in-person experiences to continue. To do so safely, it is imperative that we remain committed to our layered mitigation approach in our schools as outlined in the latest guidance from the NJ Department of Health for K-12 Schools. In the meantime, please enjoy your holiday traditions safely by considering the latest guidance from the CDC.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we work together to keep our schools open and safe for our students and staff.

Warm regards,

Dr. González

P.S. Please also enjoy the December issue of The NEWS Letter.

December 16, 2021

Dear Westfield Public Schools Community,

We are aware of a post circulating on social media concerning threats of school violence tomorrow (Friday), December 17.  The New Jersey Office of School Preparedness and Emergency Planning and New Jersey Regional Operations & Intelligence Center have informed us that there is no viable intelligence to support this as a legitimate threat to any school in New Jersey. Nevertheless, we will remain vigilant.

We are in close contact with the Westfield Police Department and police officers will continue to maintain a conspicuous presence at all of our schools throughout the day.

Sincerely,

Dr. González 

December 9, 2021

STATEMENT FROM WESTFIELD MAYOR SHELLEY BRINDLE AND THE TOWN COUNCIL,

WESTFIELD SUPERINTENDENT DR. RAYMOND GONZÁLEZ AND BOARD OF EDUCATION,

WESTFIELD CLERGY ASSOCIATION, WESTFIELD HUMAN RELATIONS ADVISORY

COMMISSION, THE DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR, ASSOCIATION, AND THE WESTFIELD

AREA CHINESE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION

We stand united in our strong condemnation of all acts of hate, bias, and prejudice of any kind,

and reaffirm our commitment to working together to ensure Westfield is an inclusive anti-hate,

anti-racist community.

Yesterday, another ugly act of hate was discovered at Westfield High School when two

swastikas and a racial slur were found carved into a bathroom stall. This follows an incident

discovered at WHS last week, and several others that have occurred throughout our community

over the past few years. The Westfield Police Department continues to investigate the most

recent two incidents at WHS in order to identify the perpetrator(s) and the school district is

prepared to impose the most severe level of consequences in accordance with the student code

of conduct. Even as we write this, another swastika was discovered in a high school bathroom,

although it appears to have been there for quite some time, which reminds us that this is,

unfortunately, a longstanding problem. We recognize that bringing these incidents to light will

uncover the pervasiveness of the problem and thus, the urgency to address it.

As leaders in education, faith, governance, and community, we continually strive to engage,

educate, and support the Westfield community, imparting a message of respect and inclusivity in

our words and deeds. This is clearly not enough. The increasing number and frequency of these

bias crimes is wholly unacceptable, and we are asking every member of this community to join

us in solidarity to play a role in eradicating hate, beginning with conversations at home.

As leaders in education, the Superintendent and Board of Education are angered and frustrated

by the continued acts of hate in our schools. These despicable acts do not reflect who we are as

a district. In each of our ten schools, on any given day, there are countless examples of how our

students show kindness, character, and strength. As evidenced in our district goals this year,

we’ve renewed our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion with a focus on

student-centered programming, culturally responsive curriculum and professional development,

and community engagement. The partnership with our families remains critical as we speak as

one voice to create a school environment that is safe, nurturing, and respectful for all students.

The Mayor and Town Council are outraged and saddened by these reprehensible acts, and will

not be deterred from our steadfast commitment to engage community partners from a wide

range of cultural and religious perspectives to facilitate a culture of inclusivity in Westfield -- an

effort that continues in collaboration with the Human Relations Advisory Commission (HRAC)

that was established by ordinance in 2020. We are also prepared to take any necessary legal

action to deter and prosecute hate crimes to the fullest extent of the law, following our recent

adoption of the American Jewish Committee’s (AJC) definition of antisemitism

(www.ajc.org/the-working-definition-of-antisemitism) and raising civil penalties tenfold on graffiti

bias crimes.

The Human Relations Advisory Commission reaffirms our priority to galvanize the community to

not only extinguish flames of hate, but to cultivate a radically imagined community of

love-minded people. This is a long journey, but together we can take the steps necessary to

hold each other accountable to do our parts and to protect and care for our community

members who are targeted.

As faith leaders that comprise the Westfield Clergy Association we are deeply troubled about

the recent anti-Semitic and hate filled incidents at Westfield High School. Our faith traditions

teach us that everyone is created in God’s image and as people of faith we must stand up,

speak out, and create a world that is more peaceful. We commit ourselves to doing this work in

each of our houses of worship and we will partner with members of different traditions to share a

unified voice that hate has no place in our homes, in our schools, and in our town.

The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Association of Westfield yet again condemns another public

display of anti-Semitism and hate in town. As an organization that works toward racial and

social justice in our community, we continue to be disheartened, disgusted, and outraged at

these messages of hate directed at our neighbors and friends. With broken hearts we watched

the security stanchions being erected around Temple Emanu-El over the last week and we

encourage all residents to take time to reflect on what that really means . . . that this was

necessary for the safety of the congregation in their worship. That should give us all pause. We

pledge to stand with the Jewish community and all minorities and others in Westfield who are

targeted by hate. We will seek new and different ways to teach and foster inclusion, tolerance,

and how to be an upstander rather than a bystander against hatred.

The Westfield Area Chinese American Association (WACAA) condemns all forms of

anti-Semitism and hate toward all groups. These behaviors are despicable, unconscionable and

un-American. They must stop.

We share the frustration and sadness within the community from these ongoing acts, and stand

with the many residents who seek to be part of the solution. Now is the time for all members of

our community to come together as allies to support our friends and neighbors from the Jewish

and minority communities who have been targeted and feel unsafe. We each have an active

role to play by speaking out against any hateful graffiti, speech, and actions. Concurrently, we

are collectively discussing opportunities to educate, inform, and engage the public to reaffirm

our solidarity with those community members who have been targeted. The public is

encouraged to offer suggestions, comments, or share personal experiences at

hrac@westieldnj.gov.

To further the conversations that need to begin at home about fostering inclusion and standing

against hate, the HRAC and the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Association will host a Community

Discussion on Accountability and Action Against Hate after the holidays to discuss how we can

do better, with additional details to follow.

As community leaders, we strongly condemn all acts of racism, anti-Semitism, bigotry, and

expressions of hatred targeting any group or individual. An attack on one of us is an attack on

us all. In the spirit of the holiday season, we ask that each of us reflect on what role we can play

in eradicating hate, and recommit ourselves to ensuring we are a community where every

member feels safe, included, and valued.

December 3, 2021

Dear Westfield Public Schools Community,

Yesterday, Principal Asfendis notified Westfield High School students and families that the school was working closely with the Westfield Police Department to investigate an anti-Semitic incident involving a swastika that was discovered in a bathroom at the school. It is particularly troubling that the swastika appeared as our Jewish families are celebrating Hanukkah. Although this occurred at the high school, anti-Semitism, bias, and hate are matters that affect the entire school community. 

Since joining the Westfield Public School District four months ago, I have been impressed with the efforts by administrators, educators, students, and families to unite, educate, and speak out against acts of bias and hate. This despicable symbol is not who we are as a district or a community.  

The Westfield Public Schools District is committed to working towards making our schools a place where all students can feel safe, respected, and supported. This can be seen in our “No Place for Hate” committees in our intermediate schools and high school, our district-wide character education activities that take place year round, our Holocaust/Genocide curriculum which emphasizes “the personal responsibility that each citizen bears to fight racism and hatred whenever and wherever it happens,” and our renewed focus on diversity, equity and inclusion as a district goal this year. However, even with all of that in place, we are witness to sobering reminders that there is still more we must do as a school community. 

I am grateful for the partnership we have with our families and I encourage you to speak to your children about anti-Semitic and other hate-motivated incidents. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) launched its national initiative, “Shine a Light on Antisemitism”, this week during Hanukkah.  Additional resources from the ADL and other organizations on conducting these difficult family conversations are posted on the district and school websites under “Mental Health and Wellness” on the “Family Resources” tab. And as always, please reach out to your schools, if you have any questions or concerns.  

With sincere wishes for a peaceful holiday season,

Dr. González 

Raymond A. González, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools

September 8, 2021

Dear Families and Staff,

We are excited and ready to welcome our students back to school tomorrow, September 9.  As I reiterate in this video Welcome Message, I greatly look forward to the new school year and to a continued and consistent outreach to the school community.

With that in mind, the Westfield Education Fund is hosting an outdoor Meet the Superintendent event this Friday, September 10 from 5-6p behind Edison Intermediate School. All are welcome; registration is required.  Hope to see you there!

Additionally, the Town of Westfield has posted crossing guard information at www.westfieldnj.gov/crossingguardposts. 

Wishing all of you a healthy, safe, and productive new school year.

Warm regards,

Raymond A. González, Ed.D.

Superintendent of Schools

August 20, 2021

Dear Westfield Public Schools families,

We are just a few weeks away from welcoming our students back on Thursday, September 9 and we are excited.  District administrators and staff have been working hard over the summer to prepare a safe return to full-time, in-person instruction that looks as normal as possible.  It remains a journey to be taken step-by-step, but we have learned a lot over the past year and I am confident that, together, we can provide a safe and enriching new school year for our students.

Today, I am sharing with you key highlights of the district’s plan for the 2021-2022 school year which includes a link to a more detailed district plan, A Safe Return to School.  A lot of thoughtful consideration has gone into creating this blueprint for September. Thank you to all who reviewed the plan and provided valuable feedback, including the district’s administrative team and the Restart Committee which includes parents, local health officials, administrators, teachers, and Board of Education members. As always, we will be prepared to adjust our protocols and procedures throughout the year as conditions, guidance, and requirements change.

On August 27, principals will send out a follow up communication with any additional information specific to their schools.  Each school will also host an online webinar where principals will be able to answer questions regarding aspects of the plan. Stay tuned for details.

Additionally, please enjoy this 30 second video clip outlining important dates for the start of the school year.  Be on the lookout as well for an email towards the end of next week with instructions on how to access the electronic Back-to-School packet which all parents/guardians are required to complete for each student.

We look forward to a healthy and safe return and to our continued partnership with you.

Enjoy these remaining days of summer!

Best wishes,

Raymond A. González, Ed. D.

Superintendent of Schools

August 4, 2021

Dear Westfield staff and families,

I hope this message finds you well-rested and as excited for the upcoming school year as I am.

As I enter my first week as Superintendent of the Westfield Public School District, I wanted to take a quick moment to say hello and introduce myself.

First and foremost, I am a dedicated husband and proud father of three children (ages 12, 15, and 18). My motivation and drive as an educator stems from my commitment to my family and striving to make them proud. I am also committed to my life’s work as an educator, a career that began more than 22 years ago. Most recently, I was Superintendent of the Westwood Regional School District for the last seven years; however, my diverse educational experience also includes time spent in large urban and suburban districts where I’ve served communities in a variety of instructional and administrative capacities.

Since my arrival a few days ago, I’ve begun my listening and learning tour of the district and

have had a wonderful chance to hear all the amazing things about Westfield Public Schools as

well as the concerns and questions about what is in store for the 2021-2022 school year.

On the topic of reopening our schools, I can confidently say that our current safe return to

school plan provides for five days of full-day, in-person instruction with lunch and a continued

focus on health and safety. I have received several communications from concerned parents

expressing their desires and I assure you that I am listening to everyone carefully. In the coming

days I will be consulting with the administration and local health professionals to finalize our

path forward for September.

To be clear, as Superintendent, while I work closely with the Board of Education, I understand

that the decisions regarding masks and other aspects of reopening our schools is an

administrative function. I am ultimately responsible for making these decisions which I take very

seriously. However, I will continue to rely on our public health officials to provide guidance and

we will follow their lead to keep our schools safe. Once decisions are made, we will continue to

consult and to monitor the situation and make any necessary changes when the time comes. I

appreciate your patience and understanding. I look forward to providing you with more definitive

details by August 20.

In the meantime, administrators, supervisors, secretaries, our technology team, and buildings

and ground staff have been working hard to prepare for the start of the new school year, as we

eagerly await the return of our students on Thursday, September 9.

In closing, I want to reiterate how thrilled I am to join a school district that shares my passion for

making a difference in the lives of all children. I look forward to establishing an open and

engaged partnership with our school community. I wish you a restful and restorative time spent

with family and friends during these final weeks of summer.

Warm regards,

Raymond A. González, Ed.D.

Superintendent

Westfield Public Schools