On Friday, March 19, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) revised its guidance on social distancing in schools, suggesting that most students can now sit three feet apart in the clasroom instead of six feet if they are wearing masks. (Read more: Operational Strategy for K-12 Schools through Phased Prevention)
Currently, the Arkport Central School District has no intention to change its health and safety procedures.
The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) still calls for six feet social distancing minimum within New York state (NYS) schools. Without clearance from the state, social distancing policies in NYS schools cannot stray from the current six-foot regulation. Should NYS adopt the CDC’s suggestion and allow a three-foot social distancing practice, we would take it into consideration.
We believe that the health and safety of our school community can only be safeguarded with regard for data-based guidance and requirements from federal, state and county officials. The district will continue to weigh its safe options for keeping teachers teaching, and students learning.
Please know that we remain committed to and engaged in the implementation of a safe transition to more in-person instruction for all our students and will keep you updated.