May 31 COVID-19 Update

Dear Pelham Parents and Community Members,

Any day now, we expect registered voters to begin receiving ballots for the annual budget vote and school board member election in the mail. Once you receive your ballots, please be sure to complete them following all of the directions which are printed on the ballot. The ballot instructions, as well as a sample ballot have been posted on the District website, which also includes a variety of information about the budget proposal and the cost reallocation proposition, which seeks authorization for the District to transfer unspent funds between the projects in the 2018 Capital Improvement Bond. Additionally, we encourage anyone interested in learning more about the budget to view this video presentation.

As we prepare for the vote and election, we are also continuing discussions with regard to moving-up ceremonies and graduation. We remain committed to doing everything that we can to honor our students in a way that is safe and within the bounds of state and local regulations. Additionally, we are planning for next school year and are considering a number of different scenarios given the uncertainty of the pandemic and what our situation will be in the fall. We look forward to engaging with stakeholders in the coming weeks and months as we solidify these plans.

In closing, I want to acknowledge the tragic events of the past few days stemming from the killing of George Floyd in Minnesota. What transpired once again exposed the deep racial divides that are far too real in our country and the ensuing protests are showing just how fragile peace is. As citizens, we must commit to actively working to dismantle systemic racism in all its forms peacefully and without violence. This work is not easy, but it is incumbent upon all of us, as educators, leaders, neighbors, parents and students to make the effort so that everyone can know true equality and freedom.

Please enjoy a productive and enjoyable week ahead.  

Sincerely,

Dr. Champ

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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.