![two stick figures are shown communicating via videoconference]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1588023686/pelhamschoolsorg/z5g2lmzcuiyaqborwwyz/learntogether.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1588023686/pelhamschoolsorg/z5g2lmzcuiyaqborwwyz/learntogether.png","width":300}])
Dear Pelham Parents and Community Members,
Without question, the coming spring will have a different feel from what we are accustomed to, but I am encouraged by the collective commitment of our faculty, staff, and students to make the best of this new normal and grow in ways we never would have thought possible. Over these past several weeks, we have learned to reinvent our way of life. Our students, faculty and community alike have bolstered their technological acumen, learned to communicate with each other without being in the same room, and showed a compassion for others that marks the best of who we are. In time, this health crisis will abate and it is my hope that we will emerge stronger, smarter, and ready to take on the next challenge.
In the coming weeks we are hoping to finalize the 2020-21 budget proposal, with the goal of striking a balance between providing our students a solid educational foundation and being mindful of our residents and taxpayers. It is difficult not to acknowledge the uncertainty that has resulted from the pandemic's impact on the state and local economy. It is with that in mind that the Board's Community Engagement and Advocacy Committee launched an email campaign urging our federal elected officials to provide aid to New York and other states as part of future stimulus legislation. We hope that as many residents as possible will join us in this effort and I encourage you to visit the District website to learn more and get involved.
In closing, I ask that you join me in keeping the many families who have lost loved ones to COVID-19 in your thoughts and prayers. As the data show that the worst is behind us, it is easy to lose sight of the pain that so many are still experiencing. We must continue to work together to prevent the spread of this disease as much as we can. Please enjoy a pleasant evening.
Sincerely,
Cheryl H. Champ
Superintendent of Schools
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Social Distancing Guidelines
- Stay home as much as possible, even if you feel healthy
- Refrain from congregating in groups and maintain a distance of at least 6 feet between yourself and others
- Refrain from social gatherings, playdates and sleepovers with friends
- Do not visit public playgrounds
- Use caution when visiting grocery stores/pharmacies and consider delivery services for food and groceries.
- When maintaining social distancing is not possible, cover your nose and mouth with a cloth or mask when you leave home.
- Wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your face, especially your mouth, nose, or eyes.
Contact Information for Social Workers and Student Assistance Counselor
Our social workers and student assistance counselor continue to be available to support those who are experiencing hardships and need assistance. Please feel free to contact:
- Kristin Quintano, Social Worker, 914-738-3434 x1295
- Sharon Charles, Social Worker, 914-738-8190 x1218
- Kelley-Anne Lonergan, Student Assistance Counselor, 914-738-8182
Information on Community Organizations Offering Assistance
Additionally, organizations such as Pelham Together, the Junior League of Pelham and our faith community have offered their assistance with those families with a variety of needs, including food, child care, and other demands of day-to-day life. The Pelham Civic Association is also available for families that have fallen on hard times due to this pandemic. Please feel free to reach out in confidentiality for potential assistance to Richard Davidian, Vice President, Community programs at Richard.Davidian1@gmail.com (914-552-0872) or Dr. Stan Trocchia, Chairman, Good Neighbors program Goodneighbors@pelhamcivics.org.
- #health
