Update from our Acting Superintendent: April break

Dear Parents & Guardians,

We have been working around the clock since last Friday when Governor Cuomo announced the extension of our school closure through April 15, 2020 to better understand and clarify what that means for our students and our scheduled April Break. 
 
Through inquiry with the Governor’s Office and the New York State Education Department, the Deputy Secretary for Education to Governor Cuomo, has advised that school districts are expected to provide continuity of learning (i.e., continued instruction) and distribution of meals during the closure through April 15, 2020, including during what was previously designated as our Board of Education approved April Break (April 2, 2020 to April 13, 2020) as outlined in the 2019-2020 school calendar.
 
Therefore, our staff will continue to provide and support students with remote instruction during our scheduled "April Break" given this new guidance -- Students and staff will continue with instruction. 
 
While this change may not be popular for students who were hoping to take advantage of a scheduled break from learning, the Governor’s Office believes consistency for our school children with regard to instruction and food is a priority and should continue unabated.
 
We know everyone has been working diligently for the continued care of our students.  We also know that you may be dealing with collective anxiety and fear and, in most cases, were looking forward to some uninterrupted time together, even if unable to get away due to the state of emergency. 
 
We are in uncharted territory trying to do what is best during this health crisis.  We will all continue to work together to find our way forward.  Thank you again for supporting us during this challenging time. 
 
#BvilleStrong  #GoBees
 
Sincerely,
 
Joseph M. DeBarbieri
Acting Superintendent of Schools