School reopening task force work is underway

A Reopening Task Force with representation from all stakeholder groups is working on a plan for the reopening of schools in fall 2020. This work is based on all available guidance from the state and public health agencies as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

The task force began its work mid-June. The task force includes a 25-member steering committee and nine subcommittees that meet weekly or biweekly.

How are decisions being made?

The steering committee will make recommendations related to how schools reopen, as well as practices and protocols designed to mitigate risk, provide for the safety and health of all and ensure the best possible academic experience for students. Final decision making on many matters rests with the Board of Education.

The task force’s subcommittees are focused on all aspects of the reopening process, from transportation and disinfecting procedures to student scheduling, instructional planning and classroom setup.

Reopening Subcommittees
  • Scheduling
  • Remote Learning
  • Mental Health/Special Education/English Language Learners
  • Communication
  • Transportation
  • Cafeteria/Nutrition
  • Classroom and Transition
  • Health and Safety
  • Athletics/Extracurricular Activities

What will reopening look like?

While state guidance around reopening is not yet available, the district is preparing for multiple scenarios for how school will take place in September.

Given the nature of the COVID-19 situation, this will be a fluid process. It is expected that all reopening considerations through the summer will be shaped by state and federal guidance, consultation with local health departments and the effort to have the greatest possible coordination among the region’s schools.

No decisions about how school will reopen in the fall have been made. At this time, there has been no change to the school calendar for 2020-21. Instruction will begin on Sept. 8.

The district developed the following  scenarios as a way to help everyone understand potential operating conditions for the 2020-21 school year.

  • Full virtual learning: Buildings are closed and all learning occurs remotely from home.
  • Blended approach: Certain student groups/grades/levels are in classrooms (e.g. social distancing, cleaning, masks) while others are fully virtual.
  • Full opening: Buildings are open. All students are in buildings full-time with restrictions (e.g. social distancing, cleaning, masks) or no restrictions due to vaccine/CDC guarantees.

Communications: How Can You Stay Updated?

This website is the best source of information about the FFCS reopening plan.

FFCS will additionally use the School Messenger system to send updates via e-mail and/or phone as needed through the summer. If you do not receive updates from the district, please contact the main office of your child’s school to make sure we have the correct contact information on file.

  • Main number 518-853-4415
  • Elementary school office ext. 5001
  • Middle school office ext. 4246
  • High school office ext. 4239