Please note that this letter was emailed to all BCSD families on February 9, 2022
Dear Berlin Parents/Guardians,
Today, February 9th, Governor Hochul announced that, while the indoor mask mandate for businesses will end tomorrow, masks will still be required in certain settings, including schools.
The Governor also indicated that test kits will be sent to students prior to the winter break. We also have a supply of these Covid test kits in our buildings, and will be sending out a survey shortly for parents who want to obtain kits from us.
In early March, the state will make an assessment on mask protocols in schools based on the latest metrics. This includes cases per 100K, percent positivity, hospital admissions, pediatric hospitalizations, vaccinations, and global trends.
The state is currently drafting proposed guidelines (if the mask mandate were to end) based on feedback from state education groups. The Governor further stated during the Q&A session, that this month would give them time to provide a thoughtful plan to cover all nuances of schools without masks (again, if the mask mandate were to end); parents would know that all factors would be considered; and that all scenarios and variables are being processed.
Earlier this week, school superintendents throughout our BOCES region sent a letter to New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett advocating for the DOH to work with our school districts to chart a clear path forward. The full letter can be viewed here (it is also attached below).
As we receive updates, I will make sure to send them to you.
Thank you for your continued understanding and support.
Sincerely,
A. Joseph Dhara
Superintendent of Schools