March 27 COVID-19 Update

Dear Pelham Parents and Community Members,

Today, the Governor announced that schools should remain closed through April 15 as we continue to fight the spread of COVID-19. While this decision only extends the Pelham Public Schools' already announced closure by a few days, we continue to plan for distance learning with the possibility that we could remain out of school for several more weeks.

With that in mind, I am pleased to share that early next week we will roll out a new phase of our distance learning plan that will be effective starting on Wednesday. Please note that the learning activities that are currently in place will continue this coming Monday and Tuesday with the exception of K-5 specials Office Hours, which will not be offered on those two days. We anticipate working under the new schedule Wednesday-Friday before taking spring break April 6-10 as previously scheduled. This will provide time for students, parents and faculty to become acclimated with our new schedule for a few days so that we can hit the ground running upon our return. Please note that distance learning will resume on Monday, April 13, which had previously been part of spring break. 

I want to extend a tremendous thank you to our teachers and administrative team who have worked tirelessly to develop new curriculum, become acclimated with new technology, and willingly adapt to a shift in both educational practice and philosophy. The extra effort and time they've poured in to create this learning plan on top of dealing with the same family stresses that impact us all should be commended. To be sure, there will still be bumps in the road, but we will continue to work together to provide an educational experience that balances the needs of students, parents, faculty and staff. 

This new iteration of distance learning at the elementary level will include implementation of Google Classroom as well as additional real time interaction with teachers. Therefore families with multiple elementary students will need access to multiple devices so that students can participate simultaneously. Recognizing that some families may need additional devices, K-5 families with multiple elementary aged children who need additional devices may submit requests via email to their respective principal by noon on Monday, March 30. Students at the middle and high schools will also see increased contact time with teachers. More information will be forthcoming on Monday, including a new daily schedule, tutorials, and student expectations. 

As I close tonight, I want to acknowledge the herculean effort of those on the front lines fighting this virus and saving lives every day. Please know that child care is available to any Pelham resident who is a first responder or essential health care worker. Anyone interested in this program should contact Julia Chung, Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services. More information is available on the District website. Please enjoy a restful weekend.

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.

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.