May 21 COVID-19 Update

Dear Pelham Parents and Community Members,

Today, Governor Cuomo provided updates with regard to a variety of school related issues. Though we are still in the process of analyzing guidance with regard to when this school year will close, the governor offered a timeline for developing plans for next school year.  

Specifically, he shared that guidance about the opening of school in the fall will be coming next month and reopening plans must be submitted to the state in July. These discussions are in the beginning stages and will be held in conjunction with community stakeholders and neighboring school districts in the hopes of identifying common best practices that will provide flexibility should we need to pivot between live and virtual teaching. It is difficult to predict what the COVID-19 situation will look like in September so we will be preparing for a variety of different scenarios to physically reopen school safely for students and staff and/or operate under a more interactive distance learning approach if it becomes necessary at any point.  

In closing, I want to remind parents that school will be in session for distance learning tomorrow, May 22 under the regular elementary and middle/high school schedules. Schools however will be closed on Monday, May 25 in observance of Memorial Day.

Sincerely,

Dr. Champ

--

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.