On Friday, July 31, Broadalbin-Perth published its state-mandated school reopening plan and submitted the plan to the New York State Education Department. The plan features in-person, remote, and hybrid learning models for students, and details the health and safety protocols that will be in place if Gov. Andrew Cuomo allows schools to reopen in the fall.
“On behalf of the Board of Education and the entire leadership team, I want to thank all the parents, employees, and community members who provided feedback throughout the process of developing this plan,” said Superintendent of Schools Stephen Tomlinson. “Our community is always stronger when we work together, and I appreciate how the B-P community continues to work with us as we navigate these unprecedented times.”
Tomlinson emphasized that the plan is designed to be a living document that is likely to change as the district receives updated guidance from state and federal agencies. District leaders are still exploring the feasibility of some learning models and finalizing other details of the plan, so they are inviting members of the community to ask questions and provide feedback through an online form.
The district will be asking all parents to commit their children to one of the available learning models for the start of the school year by Friday, Aug. 14. Tomlinson will provide additional information about the learning models and school reopening during virtual presentations on Tuesday, Aug. 11. A presentation for elementary families will begin at 6 p.m., and a presentation for secondary families will begin at 7:15 p.m.
“Between now and Aug. 11, I strongly encourage all parents to review our reopening plan, submit questions, and start thinking about what learning model will best meet the needs of their family,” Tomlinson said. “We believe that there’s no substitute for in-person learning, but we also understand that families are facing different circumstances that might make it impossible for their children to return to school in the fall. But please know that we are committed to providing our students with an outstanding educational experience, whether they’re in our classrooms every day or learning remotely.”