May 13 COVID-19 Update

Dear Pelham Parents and Community Members,

Last night, the Board of Education approved the 2020-21 budget proposal after several months of hard work and many difficult decisions. From the beginning of the budget process to the present, our world changed in a significant way as the COVID-19 pandemic touched every facet of our lives -- our planning for next year and beyond is not immune to these harsh realities. We live in a time where costs continue to rise and the economic decline has caused our anticipated revenues to fall. That is reflected in the proposed 3.15% increase to the tax levy, which is compliant with the tax cap and below the maximum allowable limit of 3.48%. 

Knowing that this school year has been disrupted like none in recent memory, we sought to prioritize supports for our students for when we do eventually return to school. This includes providing dedicated intervention teachers for Siwanoy and Colonial to help with Math and ELA support (both Hutchinson and Prospect Hill already have these positions) and creating a K-5 technology teacher who will work across the four elementary schools to build skills for both students and staff, implement new learning technology, and teach digital citizenship. These positions are accomplished through a reallocation of existing staffing and I am grateful to the administrative team for their creative thinking that allowed this to happen. The budget also continues to keep class sizes within Board of Education guidelines and strives to continue building toward the goals of our Strategic Plan. 

More information about the budget is available on the District website and the Board of Education meeting video is also available for viewing. We look forward to sharing additional information in the weeks ahead as we prepare for the school budget vote and Board of Education member election on June 9, 2020. 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.