Update, as of November 4, 2020 - 4:00 p.m.
Dear Elmira City School District Families,
We are writing to provide you with a mid-week update on our planning efforts regarding our County’s designation as an ‘orange zone’ and how this affects our District moving forward.
As many of you may have heard, the NYS Governor released new information for schools that fall in “orange” zones. The new guidelines require testing for 100% of staff and students in order to re-open our schools to in-person instruction. Districts then are required to test 25% of staff and students on a weekly basis moving forward. As you can imagine, the volume of people that will require testing is significant and will require creativity in order to meet the requirements set forth by the state.
In partnership with our County leadership and neighboring school districts, we have formally applied for testing kits for the Elmira City School District. We are currently waiting to hear back from the state regarding this request. A return to school plan is dependent upon this feedback from the state. As soon as we hear back from the state and formulate a plan, we will update you with this important information.
In the spirit of consistent and timely communication, we wanted to update you with this information so you know exactly what to expect and where we are in our planning. As we’ve said many times, our goal will always be to have your children in our classrooms, learning alongside their peers with their teachers in a safe and healthy environment.
We have received countless letters and messages of support from our families. We appreciate your valuable input and the fortitude you are showcasing on behalf of our strong Elmira Express community!
Thank you and be well,
Hillary J. Austin
Superintendent of Schools
Elmira City School District