Dear Families,
The Berlin Central School District continues to monitor the situation regarding the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and I would like to share some updates with you.
Our administrative team continues to meet regularly to assess the fluid situation surrounding the spread of COVID-19 and its impact to BCSD and our students. We are continuing to monitor the latest guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), Rensselaer County Department of Health, and the New York State Education Department (NYSED).
As of today, March 13, there are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Berlin Central School District. However, we have decided to cancel or reschedule several upcoming events out of an abundance of caution:
- After consulting with other participating districts, the Masterminds competition scheduled for this afternoon has been cancelled.
- All sports practices for Friday (3/13) and Monday (3/16) are cancelled.
- The sneak peak of “Mamma Mia!” at the Stephentown Library tonight has been cancelled.
- Set-building for “Mamma Mia!” on Saturday will still take place. However, please note that our custodial staff will be in the building Saturday to clean and disinfect classrooms as a precautionary measure to protect our students’ health and well-being. To assist in their work, we ask students working on sets to remain in the auditorium, art room, gym and restrooms in that wing. The rest of the building will be closed for cleaning.
- The MSHS semi-formal will be rescheduled (date TBD). Students who are unable to attend the rescheduled date will have their tickets refunded.
- Questar III BOCES has cancelled the Region 4 Odyssey of the Mind Tournament scheduled for March 21. Our teams will be able to present their solution to their problem for the school community at a later date as a way to recognize their months of hard work and preparation.
As a reminder, please continue to follow good hygiene habits, including frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and staying home if you believe you or your child is sick.
In the event a student or staff member is diagnosed with COVID-19, we will notify the BCSD community as soon as possible. The district is also actively working on education plans and other school-related details should they face an extended closure.
It is important to keep in mind that while the number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 are increasing, and that is expected to continue, the majority of cases include mild symptoms. Additionally, children appear to be at less risk than other populations. Less than 3% of cases worldwide are children.
Please know student health and wellbeing is our highest priority and we are doing all we can to help our community stay healthy.
Sincerely,
Dr. Stephen Young
Superintendent of Schools