From the Superintendent
West Irondequoit CSD update from Aaron Johnson
January 14, 2022
Greeting Families:
We wanted to provide another update on COVID-19 guidance that the Monroe County Department of Public Health issued to schools this week. Please look at the new flowcharts at THIS LINK and review the scenarios presented, as needed. Just as before, they ask you to consider:
- If you’re feeling ill
- If you think you have been exposed (close contact) to COVID
- Your vaccination/booster shot status
We know it is a lot to process. We feel that way, too. The flowcharts may look daunting or confusing. However, if you follow carefully from box to box, I think they thoroughly explain and present the various options. The key change from a couple of weeks ago is the reduction of quarantine time from 10 to 5 days, in certain scenarios. Ultimately, we still know the best advice for students and staff is this: If you feel sick or ill, please stay home and consult these flowcharts on how to begin the process to return to school.
Whether you test positive or think you may have been exposed, those Isolation and Quarantine forms that register you with the MCDPH and generate your release date remain crucial. I can’t emphasize enough to file those as soon as you can, when appropriate.
We have updated the flowcharts on our COVID-19 Reopening page. The NYS Department of Health (NYSDOH) also made a change this week regarding quarantine for anyone who is exposed to COVID-19. If you’re fully vaccinated, you may continue to attend school/work, regardless of booster status. However, those 12 and older who are exposed cannot participate in extracurricular or after-school activities and athletics unless they have received a COVID-19 booster shot. You can find that official guidance here. It is also referenced on our Athletics website.
Remember, for unvaccinated children who may have been exposed (in school only), the Test-To-Stay program is still a viable way to make sure they can continue in-person instruction. Click this link to learn all about Test-To-Stay.
Finally, as more people get COVID and recover from it, this is key to remember: For three months following your positive test date (and regardless of age or vaccination status), you do NOT have to quarantine or stay home from school/work following possible exposure if you are symptom-free. That is from a NYSDOH chart.
If you have questions after reviewing the flowcharts and need help, please reach out to our COVID-19 Administrator on Special Assignment, Mr. Chuck Miller (chuck_miller@westiron.monroe.edu) or myself.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we continue to do whatever it takes to provide your children with a comprehensive educational program in a welcoming environment. Enjoy the long weekend as we pause on Monday to remember the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King. He was a rousing leader and champion for justice. As we remain focused on carrying his message forward, remember his advice, we can all "find a voice in a whisper."
In partnership,
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