From the Superintendent
West Irondequoit CSD update from Aaron Johnson
February 27, 2022
UPDATE: Based on further clarification, by order of the CDC, masking on school buses will NOT be required in low or medium transition zones. More details can be found at THIS LINK.
Dear Families,
Gov. Hochul announced Sunday that indoor masking will be optional for schools beginning this Wednesday, March 2nd. In this announcement, which aligns with CDC guidance released on Friday, Feb. 25, the governor indicated that counties may still require masking in schools, and that choice will continue to be an option for students, staff and families. Pending further guidance from Monroe County, we will ready ourselves over the next two days to comply with this change.
As the Governor indicated before Winter Recess, her decision considered recent trends and data with the following information being significant:
- 98% decrease in positive cases since the peak in January 2022
- 51 consecutive days of a downward trend of COVID cases
- 7-day average that is currently 1.7% compared to 23% in January
- Sharply declining hospitalization rates for 48 straight days
- High vaccination rates among NYS adults and children
We know people's readiness for optional masking will vary. Some will find the change hard; others will enthusiastically embrace the shift. I ask that we all be mindful of others and keep our eyes, ears and hearts open with mutual respect. Masking will be a personal choice, and like other choices, it must be free of shame or guilt. The warm and welcoming climate we've worked so hard to cultivate in our schools will be vital to ensure that everyone is comfortable in their learning environment. All students and staff must feel safe from ridicule.
We all bring a different story to the table. Some people may choose to eliminate masking completely, while others may choose to remain masked in certain situations, and still others may not feel comfortable unmasking at all. Please remember that all are appropriate.
We suggest taking a moment to discuss this change with your child(ren) and talking about what decision you will make as a family. Clear expectations from you and the reasons why will help make sure our students understand and are mindful of the choice others may make. That clarity will encourage your child(ren) to fulfill their commitment while appreciating the differences they may encounter.
Supporting our students through the shift will be critical. For some of our youngest learners, masking is all they've known for school. Regardless of age, we must be prepared to support all and foster a culture of appreciation. Please take a moment to encourage your child to seek out a safe adult at school if they experience difficulty or distress. Our folks are prepared to assist with helping your child to regain their sense of well-being and safety so they can focus on their success. Any type of mask-shaming or associated harassment will not be tolerated either in-person or online.
If your child(ren) prefers to wear a mask, our district will continue to make both KN95 and surgical masks available thanks to supplies from the Monroe County Department of Public Health. These masks are accessible to students, staff and visitors and will be available near main entrances.
We appreciate your cooperation and understanding. Over the next few days we will continue to keep you informed about any further clarification from Monroe County or other important details.
Sincerely,
Aaron R. Johnson, Ed. D
Superintendent of Schools
CONTACT INFORMATION
Email: public_info@westiron.monroe.edu
Website: westirondequoit.org
Location: 321 List Avenue, Irondequoit, NY, USA
Phone: 585-342-5500
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WestIrondequoitCSD
Twitter: @WestIrondequoit