11/25/2020
I write to inform the community of an important decision that will impact how school will reopen following the Thanksgiving holiday.
Like all school districts, we are responsible for making a decision regarding the safety of students, educators, and families. It is not a decision we take lightly. To date we have:
- Communicated with families regarding their travel and hosting plans
- Analyzed our staffing data to get a sense of educators’ travel and hosting plans
- Coordinated with available substitutes
- Sought the advice of the Belmont Health Department
- Networked with other Superintendents in the Middlesex League
- Discussed this topic publicly at our 11/24/2020 School Committee meeting
The decision for any school district cannot hinge on a single factor, but rather on a consideration of all factors taken together.
After thorough consideration of the elements involved, it is our conclusion that the appropriate course of action is to transition all students to a remote schedule for the entire week following Thanksgiving, 11/30 - 12/4/2020.
Please note the following:
- All K-12 students and educators will move to remote learning for the week.
- Pre-K and LABBB will remain in-person for the week.
- Transportation for those programs will continue as regularly scheduled.
- Your child’s school principal will communicate scheduling logistics for how the week will flow.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic we have sought to make all decisions in a logical and organized way, beginning always with safety. This decision is no different. It is our hope that by being proactive and strategic in the short-term we will avoid difficulty in the long-term. We also believe this measure is in line with the public health guidance we are receiving from the Health Department. While we wish we did not have to make a decision, we are confident it is the safest choice during this time of increasing transmission rates, nationally, state-wide, and locally.
My best to all Belmont families and educators for a safe and peaceful holiday.
Respectfully,
John P. Phelan
Belmont Public Schools Superintendent
CC: A. Prestwich (School Committee), W. Chin (Department of Health)