Thursday's COVID-19 Update

Dear Pelham Parents and Community Members,

Today, our teachers began meeting virtually amongst themselves to practice for live sessions with their classes. We expect that our K-5 classroom teachers will begin piloting this experience with their students tomorrow. If you have not already, parents will receive a communication directly from your child's teacher with details, times, instructions and student expectations for these interactions. Without question, this will be messy at first and like everything, it will be an adjustment for our teachers, parents, and students. As an administrative team, we feel that providing this connection between students and their teachers will be extremely valuable, not just for their educational needs, but for their social-emotional wellness. Tomorrow evening, all K-12 parents will receive a schedule for virtual office hours with your children's teachers that will begin next week. We appreciate your patience and look forward to growing together in this endeavor. 

As we continue the shift to distance learning, we anticipate that there is likely to be an increase in technical support questions. We ask that you work with your teachers to resolve issues before reaching out to your respective principal. 

During these uncertain and ever-changing times, we recognize that there has been a great deal of burden placed on our families, especially those with students with special needs. Our Pupil Personnel Office, including special education teachers and related support providers are here to support you to the best of their abilities. Please reach out to them via email for support. 

To the extent possible, CSE/CPSE/504 meetings are expected to continue as scheduled via phone conference. If we need to reschedule a meeting for any reason, the PPS staff will reach out to you to find a time that works for everyone. Please feel free to contact Julia Chung, Assistant Superintendent for Pupil Personnel Services if you have any questions or concerns.

In addition to the incredible efforts of our community organizations and leaders, please know that our school social workers and our student assistance counselor are ready and willing to provide support for those in need. If you are experiencing any type of hardship and need assistance during this challenging times, please contact any of the following district personnel:

• 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

While they aren't at school, they are able to access their voicemail. 

I continue to be impressed by the dedication and persistence of our faculty, staff and administrative team and am so thankful for the support of our community during this time. Together I am confident we come through this crisis better together.

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Social Distancing Guidelines

• Stay home as much as possible, even if you feel healthy
• Refrain from congregating in groups
• 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

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.