Covid-19
District Pandemic Updates
- Superintendent COVID Updates
- Isolation and Quarantine
- Health and Safety Guidelines
- 2021-22 Continuity of Education Plan
- SFCSD FAQ Regarding COVID Health and Safety Protocols
- 2020-21 COVID Communications
Superintendent COVID Updates
- June 2022
- May 2022
- April 2022
- March 2022
- February 2022
- January 2022
- December 2021
- November 2021
- October 2021
- September 2021
- August 2021
June 2022
Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 6/11-6/17
June 17, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district:
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of June 11th – June 17th
- FK- 0
- ECS- 0
- MS- 1
- MA- 1
Seneca County is designated as “yellow” or “medium” by the CDC based on the rate of infection for COVID cases. Masks indoors and using COVID home tests, even when asymptomatic, are recommended at this time. Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 6/4-6/10
June 10, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district:
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of June 4th – June 10th:
- FK- 2
- ECS- 3
- MS- 1
- MA- 0
Seneca County is designated as “yellow” or “medium” by the CDC based on the rate of infection for COVID cases. Masks indoors and using COVID home tests, even when asymptomatic, are recommended at this time. Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 5/27-6/3
June 3, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district:
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of May 27th – June 3rd:
- FK- 4
- ECS- 5
- MS- 2
- MA- 3
Seneca County is designated as “green” or “low” by the CDC based on the rate of infection for COVID cases. Using COVID home tests, even when asymptomatic, continue to be strongly recommended at this time. Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button - https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
May 2022
Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 5/21-5/26
May 26, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district:
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of May 21st – May 26th:
- FK- 0
- ECS- 2
- MS- 1
- MA- 2
Seneca County is designated as “red” or “high” by the CDC based on the rate of infection for COVID cases. Masks indoors and using COVID home tests, even when asymptomatic, are strongly recommended at this time. Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 5/14-5/20
May 20, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district:
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://senecacountyhealthdepartment.com/covid-form/
Positive Cases for the week of May 14th – May 20th:
- FK- 3
- ECS- 1
- MS- 0
- MA- 4
Seneca County is designated as “red” or “high” by the CDC based on the rate of infection for COVID cases. Masks indoors and using COVID home tests, even when asymptomatic, are strongly recommended at this time. Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.senecafallscsd.org/district/covid-19
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://senecacountyhealthdepartment.com/covid-19-vaccination-clinic/
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 5/7-5/13
May 13, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district:
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of May 7th – May 13th:
- FK- 4
- ECS- 1
- MS- 2
- MA- 2
Seneca County is designated as “yellow” or “medium” by the CDC based on the rate of infection for COVID cases. Masks indoors and using COVID home tests, even when asymptomatic, are strongly recommended at this time. Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 4/30-5/6
May 6, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district:
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of April 30th – May 6th:
- FK- 3
- ECS- 8
- MS- 2
- MA- 1
Unfortunately, Seneca County and the surrounding region is still designated as “red” or “high” by the CDC based on the rate of infection for COVID cases. Masks indoors and using COVID home tests, even when asymptomatic, are strongly recommended at this time. Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button - https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
April 2022
Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 4/23-4/29
April 29, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district.
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://senecacountyhealthdepartment.com/covid-form/
Positive Cases for the week of April 23rd – 29th:
- FK- 4
- ECS- 13
- MS- 3
- MA- 5
Unfortunately, we have seen an increase in positive cases this past week throughout the district, which is a reflection of an increase in cases regionally and throughout the country. Masks indoors and using COVID home tests, even when asymptomatic, are strongly recommended at this time. Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.senecafallscsd.org/district/covid-19
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://senecacountyhealthdepartment.com/covid-19-vaccination-clinic/
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 4/18-4/22
April 22, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district.
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website- https://
Positive Cases for the week of April 18th – 22nd:
- FK- 3
- ECS- 1
- MS- 1
- MA- 4
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 4/2-4/8
April 8, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district.
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website- https://
Positive Cases for the week of April 2nd – 8th:
- FK- 4
- ECS- 2
- MS- 10
- MA- 12
Unfortunately, we have seen an increase in positive cases this past week throughout the county as well as within the district. I would ask families to test students at home on Sunday, April 17th prior to returning to school following the break. Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times- https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding. I wish everyone a safe and healthy break.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 3/26-4/1
April 1, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district.
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of March 26th – April 1st:
- FK- 0
- ECS- 2
- MS- 4
- MA- 4
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button - https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
March 2022
Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 3/19-3/25
March 25, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of March 19th – 25th:
- FK- 3
- ECS- 0
- MS- 3
- MA- 0
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 3/12-3/18
March 18, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district:
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website- https://
Positive Cases for the week of March 12th – 18th
- FK- 6
- ECS- 1
- MS- 4
- MA- 1
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times- https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Updates/Reminders and Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 3/5-3/11
March 11, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
Here are the reminders that I sent out last week following the mask mandate being lifted:
- Staff and students who test positive must wear a well-fitting mask (surgical type) for days 6-10 while in public (including school, buses, and school activities).
- The following mitigation measures remain in effect: maintaining physical distance where feasible, hand hygiene and cough/sneeze etiquette, daily health screening, staying home when ill or symptomatic, and voluntary mask wearing for those who prefer the extra protection.
- If someone in a student's/staff’s household tests positive, the student/staff member who is defined as a close contact should: be asymptomatic, have a negative test and wear a mask for 10 days from the date of exposure in order to return to school/work.
- We will continue to distribute home COVID test kits to families and staff.
- Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted (no documentation of test results required). However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results for a symptomatic student/staff member will only be accepted if the student/staff member have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
- We will continue to notify parents of close contact (exposed to a positive) when there is a cluster or multiple cases within the same room, bus, lunch period, team, etc.
o In these cases, additional mitigating strategies may be implemented to keep staff/students in school, and we would work closely with the health department in these situations. Close contacts should not be excluded from school.
Notification for close contacts will be done as a mass notification to parents via a Parent Square message. We will not be making individual phone calls.
- Athletics/Extra-Curriculars
o Students identified as a close contact:
Not Fully Vaccinated - Can participate if testing on day 1 and 5 (tests provided by school)
Fully Vaccinated and not eligible for Booster - Can participate
Fully Vaccinated and Boosted - Can participate
Fully Vaccinated, eligible for booster, but not boosted - Can participate if testing on day 1 and 5 (tests provided by school)
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district:
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of March 5th – 11th:
- FK- 0
- ECS- 0
- MS- 8
- MA- 2
NOTE: While most of our cases are in the Middle School this week, we have no evidence that these cases are connected to each other and no reason to believe there was transmission within school. We have communicated with the health department all week and if we identify transmission within the school, we will work with the county to consider other mitigating strategies and communicate to parents and staff any changes.
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Updates/Reminders and Number of Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 2/28-3/4
March 4, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
Here are updates/reminders following the mask mandate being lifted this week:
- Staff and students who test positive must wear a well-fitting mask (surgical type) for days 6-10 while in public (including school, buses, and school activities).
- The following mitigation measures remain in effect: maintaining physical distance where feasible, hand hygiene and cough/sneeze etiquette, daily health screening, staying home when ill or symptomatic, and voluntary mask wearing for those who prefer the extra protection.
- If someone in a student's/staff’s household tests positive, the student/staff member who is defined as a close contact should: be asymptomatic, have a negative test and wear a mask for 10 days from the date of exposure in order to return to school/work.
- We will continue to distribute home COVID test kits to families and staff (next distribution will be next week).
- Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted (no documentation of test results required). However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results for a symptomatic student/staff member will only be accepted if the student/staff member have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
- We will continue to notify parents of close contact (exposed to a positive) when there is a cluster or multiple cases within the same room, bus, lunch period, team, etc.
o In these cases, additional mitigating strategies may be implemented to keep staff/students in school, and we would work closely with the health department in these situations. Close contacts should not be excluded from school.
Notification for close contacts will be done as a mass notification to parents via Parent Square message. We will not be making individual phone calls.
- Athletics/Extra-Curriculars
o Students identified as a close contact:
Not Fully Vaccinated - Can participate if testing on day 1 and 5 (test provided by school)
Fully Vaccinated and not eligible for Booster - Can participate
Fully Vaccinated and Boosted - Can participate
Fully Vaccinated, eligible for booster, but not boosted - Can participate if testing on day 1 and 5 (test provided by school)
Seneca County has gone from a high to medium designation per the CDC.
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district:
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of February 28th – March 4th:
- FK- 2
- ECS- 1
- MS- 0
- MA- 1
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse for next steps. Coming to school/work sick is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs.
Both positive and negative home test results are now accepted. However, based on the severity of the symptoms of someone who tests negative, the district may require an evaluation by the student’s/staff’s primary care physician to determine if further testing is needed or an alternative diagnosis to determine cause of symptoms. Negative home test results will only be accepted if the student/staff have NOT had recent contact with a COVID positive individual.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
February 2022
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 2/12-2/18
February 18, 2022
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause.
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of February 12th – February 18th:
- FK- 1
- ECS- 0
- MS- 1
- MA- 7
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Student, teacher or staff member with No Known Exposure) on our website under the COVID button from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined below.
- A negative home test for a student with symptoms does not automatically qualify them to attend school. Any child who has symptoms needs to be seen by a medical professional (primary physician’s office or Urgent Care) per health department. The medical professional will determine if the child needs another COVID test or if there is an alternative diagnosis. This may be done through an in-person office visit or through telemedicine. Documentation from the visit with the doctor’s office or an Urgent Care needs to be provided to the school nurse prior to the student returning to school.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 2/5-2/11
February 11, 2022
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause.
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of February 5th – February 11th:
- FK- 1
- ECS- 6
- MS- 1
- MA- 2
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Student, teacher or staff member with No Known Exposure) on our website under the COVID button from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined below.
- A negative home test for a student with symptoms does not automatically qualify them to attend school. Any child who has symptoms needs to be seen by a medical professional (primary physician’s office or Urgent Care) per health department. The medical professional will determine if the child needs another COVID test or if there is an alternative diagnosis. This may be done through an in-person office visit or through telemedicine. Documentation from the visit with the doctor’s office or an Urgent Care needs to be provided to the school nurse prior to the student returning to school.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 1/29-2/4
February 4, 2022
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause.
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website- https://
Positive Cases for the week of January 29th – February 4th:
- FK- 11
- ECS- 6
- MS- 3
- MA- 5
With the latest COVID variant spreading so quickly, and the county positivity rate above 16%, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene and physical distancing, and properly wear face coverings indoors in public places, to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Student, teacher or staff member with No Known Exposure) on our website under the COVID button from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined below.
- A negative home test for a student with symptoms does not automatically qualify them to attend school. Any child who has symptoms needs to be seen by a medical professional (primary physician’s office or Urgent Care) per health department. The medical professional will determine if the child needs another COVID test or if there is an alternative diagnosis. This may be done through an in-person office visit or through telemedicine. Documentation from the visit with the doctor’s office or an Urgent Care needs to be provided to the school nurse prior to the student returning to school.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button - https://www.senecafallscsd.org/district/
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
January 2022
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 1/22-1/28
January 28, 2022
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause.
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of January 22nd – January 28th:
- FK- 5
- ECS- 6
- MS- 10
- MA- 12
With the latest COVID variant spreading so quickly, and the county positivity rate above 19%, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene and physical distancing, and properly wear face coverings indoors in public places, to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Student, teacher or staff member with No Known Exposure) on our website under the COVID button from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined below.
- A negative home test for a student with symptoms does not automatically qualify them to attend school. Any child who has symptoms needs to be seen by a medical professional (primary physician’s office or Urgent Care) per health department. The medical professional will determine if the child needs another COVID test or if there is an alternative diagnosis. This may be done through an in-person office visit or through telemedicine. Documentation from the visit with the doctor’s office or an Urgent Care needs to be provided to the school nurse prior to the student returning to school.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times- https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls CSD Shifting to Cluster/Cohort Contact Tracing Instead of Individual Contact Tracing
January 24, 2022
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
The New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) has decided that they will no longer be contact tracing potential COVID exposures for individuals. In a communication from NYSDOH to school districts on Thursday, January 20th, they also stated that schools are no longer required to contact trace either. In consideration of this change by the state and based on the data, students who have been quarantined due to an exposure on the bus, in the classroom or during breakfast or lunch, have very rarely contracted COVID from that exposure.
Rather than conducting individual contact tracing, the district will work closely with the Seneca County Health Department (SCHD) to do cluster/cohort contact tracing when there appears to be multiple cases within a setting or cohort (team, classroom, lunch, bus, etc.). A cluster outbreak and subsequent investigation will be determined by SCHD based on multiple and proportionate cases within a setting or cohort.
Since contact tracing is no longer required by the state or county, families of children who are exposed to a positive case will no longer receive a phone call from the state or county. Families should communicate with their school nurse if they have questions or are looking for direction regarding their child’s potential exposure to a positive case outside (home/community) of the school setting.
Additionally, quarantine protocols are still required if there is a positive case in the home and the student(s)/staff member is
● unvaccinated;
● or vaccinated and experiencing symptoms;
● or cannot isolate from the positive case.
Also, please remember, if your student (or you as a staff member), tests positive for COVID, or placed in quarantine due to a contact outside (home/community) of the school setting, notify your school nurse (or supervisor for a staff member) and fill out the county attestation form, which can be accessed at the link below.
From Seneca County Health Department Website:
Please complete the form below ONLY if you tested positive for COVID-19 using a home test. If you received Positive test results from a Lab, Urgent Care, Doctors Office, Hospital or Negative test result, they do not need to be reported.
Please note: Positive home test results submitted through our website will be entered into the system on the next business day, at which time isolation orders will be issued to your email address. If you need isolation orders immediately, you can download and print them from our Isolation & Quarantine Information page.
https://senecacountyhealthdepartment.com/covid-form/
For those students/staff currently in quarantine, you must complete the quarantine period as this change does not shorten or end a quarantine order.
It is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene and physical distancing, and properly wear face coverings indoors in public places, to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Student, teacher, or staff member with No Known Exposure) on our website under the COVID button from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding as we react to the continuous and ongoing changes in requirements and protocols shared with us by our state.
Sincerely,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent of Schools
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 1/15-1/21
January 21, 2022
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause.
For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website - https://
Positive Cases for the week of January 15th – January 21st:
- FK- 5
- ECS- 7
- MS- 21
- MA- 19
With the latest COVID variant spreading so quickly, and the county positivity rate above 22%, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene and physical distancing, and properly wear face coverings indoors in public places, to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Student, teacher or staff member with No Known Exposure) on our website under the COVID button from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined below.
- A negative home test for a student with symptoms does not automatically qualify them to attend school. Any child who has symptoms needs to be seen by a medical professional (primary physician’s office or Urgent Care) per health department. The medical professional will determine if the child needs another COVID test or if there is an alternative diagnosis. This may be done through an in-person office visit or through telemedicine. Documentation from the visit with the doctor’s office or an Urgent Care needs to be provided to the school nurse prior to the student returning to school.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button - https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 1/8-1/14
January 14, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive, you need to notify Seneca County Health Department through their website- https://
Positive Cases for the week of January 8th – January 14th:
- FK- 16
- ECS- 11
- MS- 22
- MA- 20
With the latest COVID variant spreading so quickly, and the county positivity rate above 21%, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene and physical distancing, and properly wear face coverings indoors in public places, to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Student, teacher or staff member with No Known Exposure) on our website under the COVID button from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined below.
- A negative home test for a student with symptoms does not automatically qualify them to attend school. Any child who has symptoms needs to be seen by a medical professional (primary physician’s office or Urgent Care) per the health department. The medical professional will determine if the child needs another COVID test or if there is an alternative diagnosis. This may be done through an in-person office visit or through telemedicine. Documentation from the visit with the doctor’s office or an Urgent Care needs to be provided to the school nurse prior to the student returning to school.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
SFCSD Plan for Antigen Home Test Kit Distribution
January 14, 2022
Dear Parents,
The state has provided another supply of home COVID test kits that the district will distribute to families. The state sent less than half of what they sent last time. Our plan is to distribute these COVID antigen home test kits to families, for optional use, using a drive-through process on Sunday, January 16th. The kits come in packages of two for each student.
When and where can I pick up tests for my child(ren)?
We will hold a drive-through pick-up from 11:00 am - 2:00 pm (or until supplies last) on Sunday, January 16th, in the Mynderse Academy bus loop off Troy Street.
If you, as the parent/guardian, cannot pick up the test kits during these times on Sunday, you may send another adult to do so, but they will need to know your child’s full name and grade level.
Do I have to pick up a test for my child(ren)?
No. The free tests are optional opportunities for families to help ensure the Seneca Falls Central School District (SFCSD) continues to be a safe and healthy place for students and staff.
Can I pick up tests for my child(ren) if they attend a private school?
Yes
What if my child, as an SFCSD student, attends an out-of-district program through BOCES?
Parents of students attending a special education program or P-Tech through BOCES will be contacted by BOCES about receiving a test kit. This is how they were distributed by NYS DOH.
How do I administer the tests?
Instructions on how to administer the COVID tests are included in the test kit. Please follow all instructions as given. Results should be read after 15 minutes of administering the test.
When should I administer the tests?
One of the two tests should be administered Sunday or Monday evening (1/16-1/17). When to use the other test is determined by each parent.
What should I do if my child tests positive?
If your child tests positive, you need to:
- keep them home
- isolate them to the best of your ability within the home
- contact your physician
- notify the school nurse via email or by phone
- notify Seneca County Health Department through their website- https://
senecacountyhealthdepartment. com/covid-form/
Your physician and/or the Health Department will provide additional guidance/directives. The school nurse will inform the building principal, and someone will be in contact with you about your child’s schoolwork.
Is this part of a Test-to-Stay (TTS) program?
No. Test-to-Stay programs are designed for unvaccinated students/staff who have been identified as close contacts in the school setting. More details about this opportunity can be found on our website. https://www.senecafallscsd.
Testing children at home is just one more strategy to keeping all of us healthy, reducing the spread of COVID, and keeping schools open. As always, symptomatic students, regardless of test results, should never come to school until healthy.
Hopefully, we see you between 11:00 am - 2:00 pm (or until supplies last) on Sunday, January 16th, at Mynderse Academy in the bus loop off Troy Street when picking up a test kit for your child(ren).
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent of Schools
Superintendent Update Regarding Change From 10 day to 5 day Isolation/Quarantine Period
January 9, 2022
Recently, the NYS Department of Health (DOH) adopted guidance from the CDC that allowed essential workers to reduce the isolation and quarantine period from 10 days to 5. The NYS DOH left the decision to local health departments to determine whether or not they wanted to include school aged children in this change. Several counties in the region have recently adopted the change from 10 days to 5 days for school aged children, including Seneca County Health Department (SCHD).
5 day isolation period - Day zero is defined as either date of symptom onset if symptomatic, or date of collection of first positive test if asymptomatic.
5 day quarantine period - Day zero is defined as the last day on which the individual has close contact with a positive.
From this point forward, anyone who tests positive for COVID will be in isolation for 5 days and those who are considered a close contact of a positive case will be in quarantine for 5 days. After serving 5 full days in isolation/quarantine, and ASYMPTOMATIC (no symptoms), staff and students may return to school/work. Those who tested positive must wear a well-fitting mask for the full 10 day period when around others.
For those students who have been in isolation or quarantine for 5 days as of Sunday, January 9th, they may return to school on Monday, January 10th. The district will send a Parent Square message to these families notifying them of this return to school date. For those children whose 5 days of isolation/quarantine ends on Monday or thereafter, the school will contact you on Monday, January 10th about your return date.
Just to clarify, the school will contact families of those students who were originally placed in quarantine/isolation for 10 days, which has now been reduced to 5 days. Anyone who is placed in isolation/quarantine following the implementation of this recent change, will be notified of their end date for their 5 day isolation/quarantine period.
For those who experience symptoms during the 5 day quarantine period, due to close contact of a positive case, you should test negative before returning to school/work. For those who are still experiencing symptoms on day 5 of the isolation period, due to testing positive for COVID, you must remain in isolation for another 5 days. Anyone who is symptomatic should not return to work/school without first consulting their primary physician. This practice holds true for all of us regardless of being in isolation/quarantine.
Students/staff are not required to test negative prior to returning to school.
For those who are under quarantine and meet the requirements of Test To Stay (TTS), you may still participate in this program. which allows a student/staff member to attend school/work during the quarantine period. Again, you must meet the criteria, determined by NYS DOH, in order to participate in Test To Stay. For students who are identified as close contacts in the school setting, the school nurse or building principal will inform you if you qualify for TTS per the criteria defined by NYS DOH. Please visit our website for more details regarding TTS, which was previously shared with staff and families- https://www.senecafallscsd.org/district/covid-19
Again, the school will contact families (NOT Seneca County Health Department) of those students who were originally placed in quarantine/isolation for 10 days, which has now been reduced to 5 days. If your original 10 day isolation/quarantine ended as of today (Sunday 1/9), you will not be contacted as you have already met the requirements to return to school on Monday the 10th. If you have any questions, please contact the building nurse on Monday.
Also, reminder that Seneca County has shifted its method of collecting reports about residents testing positive at home. The Health Department is discontinuing the email method of reporting, and instead is asking residents to visit their website at www.senecacountyhealthdepartment.com to report their results.
Thank you for your continued support and working together to keep our schools safe and students learning in-person.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent of Schools
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 1/1-1/7
January 7, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Following each holiday break, we see a spike in positive COVID cases. We are seeing that spike across the state and specifically in our region already following holiday gatherings. With the latest COVID variant spreading so quickly, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene and physical distancing, and properly wear face coverings indoors in public places, to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website under the COVID button from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined below.
A negative home test for a student with symptoms does not automatically qualify them to attend school. Any child who has symptoms needs to be seen by a medical professional (primary physician’s office or Urgent Care) per Health Department. The medical professional will determine if the child needs another COVID test or if there is an alternative diagnosis. This may be done through an in-person office visit or through telemedicine. Documentation from the visit with the doctor’s office or an Urgent Care needs to be provided to the school nurse prior to the student returning to school.
Positive Cases for the week of January 1st – January 7th:
- FK- 4
- ECS- 6
- MS- 5
- MA- 4
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-192)0, or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times- https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
SFCSD Home Test Kit Distribution
January 4, 2022
This is a reminder that we will be distributing COVID home test kits to families for each student in the district. The free tests are an optional opportunity for families to help ensure the Seneca Falls Central School District (SFCSD) continues to be a safe and healthy place for students and staff.
We will hold a drive-through pick-up from 9:30 am-1:00 pm today, January 4th, in the back parking lot of Elizabeth Cady Stanton School, located off Chapin Street and from 4 pm- 6:30 pm at Mynderse Academy in the bus loop off Troy Street. Look for a school district van in both locations.
When should I administer the home COVID tests?
One of the two tests should be administered Tuesday evening. When to use the other test is determined by each parent.
A negative home test for a student with no symptoms allows them to attend school.
A negative home test for a student with symptoms does not automatically qualify them to attend school. Any child who has symptoms needs to be seen by a medical professional (primary physician’s office or Urgent Care) per the Health Department. The medical professional will determine if the child needs another COVID test or if there is an alternative diagnosis. This may be done through an in-person office visit or through telemedicine. Documentation from the visit with the doctor’s office or an Urgent Care needs to be provided to the school nurse prior to the student returning to school.
What should I do if my child tests positive?
If your child tests positive, you need to:
- keep them home
- isolate them to the best of your ability within the home
- contact your physician
- notify the school nurse via email or by phone
- notify Seneca County Department of Health (SCHD) 315-539-1920
Your physician and/or the Health Department will provide additional guidance/directives. The school nurse will inform the building principal, and someone will be in contact with you about your child's schoolwork.
Hopefully we will see you between 9:30 am-1:00 pm today, January 4th, in the back parking lot of Elizabeth Cady Stanton located off Chapin Street or from 4 pm- 6:30 pm at Mynderse Academy in the bus loop off Troy Street when picking up a test kit for your child(ren).
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent of Schools
SFCSD Plan for Antigen Home Test Kit Distribution
January 2, 2022
Dear Parents and Staff,
On Friday (12/31), I shared that New York State had asked BOCES and public schools to help distribute COVID antigen home test kits to families for optional use. The BOCES Superintendent informed us that the test kits have arrived at the BOCES main campus in Newark today and can be picked up by individual districts on Monday.
We anticipate getting the tests in-district some time Monday. Our plan is to distribute these COVID antigen home test kits to families, for optional use, using a drive-through process on Tuesday, January 4th. The kits come in packages of two for each student.
When and where can I pick up tests for my child(ren)?
We will hold a drive-through pick-up from 9:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 4, in the back parking lot of Elizabeth Cady Stanton intermediate school, located off Chapin Street and from 4 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. at Mynderse Academy in the bus loop off Troy St.
If you, as the parent/guardian, cannot pick up the test kits during these times on Tuesday, you may send another adult to do so, but they will need to know your child’s full name and grade level.
Do I have to pick up a test for my child(ren)?
No. The free tests are optional opportunities for families to help ensure the Seneca Falls Central School District (SFCSD) continues to be a safe and healthy place for students and staff.
Can I pick up tests for my child(ren) if they attend a private school?
No. Unfortunately, the State will only be providing us with enough tests for each student enrolled in our District.
What if my child, as an SFCSD student, attends an out-of-district program through BOCES
Parents of students attending a special education program or P-Tech through BOCES will be contacted by BOCES about receiving a test kit. This is how they were distributed by NYS DOH.
How do I administer the tests?
Instructions on how to administer the COVID tests are included in the test kit. Please follow all instructions as given. Results should be read after 15 minutes of administering the test.
When should I administer the tests?
One of the two tests should be administered Tuesday evening. When to use the other test is determined by each parent.
What should I do if my child tests positive?
If your child tests positive, you need to:
- keep them home
- isolate them to the best of your ability within the home
- contact your physician
- notify the school nurse via email or by phone
- notify Seneca County Department of Health (SCHD) 315-539-1920
Your physician and/or the Health Department will provide additional guidance/directives. The school nurse will inform the building principal, and someone will be in contact with you about your child’s schoolwork.
Is this part of a Test-to-Stay (TTS) program?
No. Test-to-Stay programs are designed for unvaccinated students/staff who have been identified as close contacts in the school setting. I will be sending further details, on Tuesday, about the TTS program.
Testing children at home is just one more strategy to keeping all of us healthy, reducing the spread of COVID, and keeping schools open. As always, symptomatic students, regardless of test results, should never come to school until healthy.
Hopefully, we will see you between 9:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 4, in the back parking lot of Elizabeth Cady Stanton located off Chapin Street or from 4 p.m.- 6:30 p.m. at Mynderse Academy in the bus loop off Troy St. when picking up a test kit for your child(ren).
Thank you and wishing all of you a Happy, Healthy, and Safe New Year!
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent of Schools
December 2021
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 12/23-12/31
December 31, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of December 23rd - December 31st:
- FK- 2
- ECS- 2
- MS- 0
- MA- 4
Following each holiday break, we see a spike in positive COVID cases. We are seeing that spike across the state and specifically in our region already following holiday gatherings and will continue to see it with people gathering for New Years. With the latest COVID variant spreading so quickly, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene and physical distancing, and properly wear face coverings indoors in public places, to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times- https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 12/18-12/22
December 22, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear form DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of December 18th- December 22nd:
- FK- 0
- ECS- 0
- MS- 2
- MA- 2
With the increase in positive cases across the state and specifically in our region, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times- https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 12/11-12/17
December 17, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of December 11th- December 17th:
- FK- 1
- ECS- 1
- MS- 2
- MA- 2
With the increase in positive cases across the state and specifically in our region, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times- https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 12/4-12/10
December 10, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of December 4th- December 10th:
- FK- 2
- ECS- 7
- MS- 1
- MA- 9
With the increase in positive cases across the state and specifically in our region, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times- https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 11/27-12/3
December 3, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of November 27th- December 3rd:
- FK- 2
- ECS- 6
- MS- 4
- MA- 5
With the increase in positive cases across the state and specifically in our region, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times- https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
November 2021
Superintendent Update - Being Prepared for a POTENTIAL Short-term School Closure
November 29, 2021
Dear Families,
I hope this message finds you well. I want to start by saying thank you for all that you do to support your child(ren) and the district. We are now 14 weeks into the school year and I could not be more proud of our faculty, staff, administrators, students and parents. It is a lot of work to support students in the learning process. As educators, we appreciate parents talking to their child(ren) daily about school, checking SchoolTool and other computer programs to see what students are working on or how they are performing. Students are never too old to have these conversations. We also appreciate parents contacting teachers, counselors and/or administrators when you have a concern about your child(ren)’s academic performance and/or social and emotional needs.
This message is also a reminder to be prepared for a possible short-term closure as we see a rise in positive cases in our region and across the state. As we have learned through this pandemic, there are many unknowns and the need to make quick decisions is based on unexpected circumstances or things changing quickly. With faculty/staff quarantines and absences due to common illness, we could be faced with a situation where we are forced to implement 1-2 days of remote instruction for a building or district-wide. For example:
- If we were short bus drivers and could not fulfill all routes, we would be forced into a district-wide distance learning model for the day.
- If a building does not have enough faculty/staff and substitutes to cover faculty absences, the building may be closed for the day and we would implement a remote learning model for all students in that building.
I’m sharing the above information because there have been days recently where covering all roles and responsibilities has been extremely difficult. I want to thank all of our faculty, staff and administrators for stepping up and going above and beyond to continue providing opportunities for our students. Thank you as well to our substitutes who are vital to our operation as we could not make it all happen without them.
A few reminders:
- Health and Safety
- When ill, don’t come to school or be around others outside of your household.
- Make sure you are completing the daily health screening (Parent Square) and following protocols when experiencing symptoms (Symptomatic Individual With No Known Exposure) https://www.senecafallscsd.
org/district/covid-19
- Social distance
- Wear a mask whenever inside
- Wash hands/sanitize regularly
- Avoid social gatherings
In the event of a closure:
- Please reference our Continuity Plan on our website - 2021-2022 Continuity of Education Plan
https://www.senecafallscsd.org/district/covid-19 - Be prepared for:
- A 1 day closure
- Short-term 2-5 day closure
- Extended Closure (more than 5 days)
- It is important for families to have a plan for those students who will need supervision during a building closure.
Let’s continue to work together to keep everyone healthy and safe.
Again, thank you for all that you do and for being partners in the growth of our children.
With Gratitude,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 11/20-11/26
November 26, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of November 20th - November 26th:
- FK- 3
- ECS- 4
- MS- 1
- MA- 3
With the increase in positive cases across the state and specifically in our region, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times- https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 11/13-11/19
November 19, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of November 13th - November 19th:
- FK- 2
- ECS- 3
- MS- 9
- MA- 5
With the increase in positive cases across the state and specifically in our region, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
This week I have attached the flow chart that we have been following since the beginning of the school year. (Click here to view flow chart.) Many parents have inquired about using home tests to test for COVID. The district cannot accept home test results for a symptomatic student/staff member to return to school per the County DOH protocols. Please see the flow chart for what is required to return to school if experiencing symptoms.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times- https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Important Update Related to SCDOH Quarantining Protocols
November 17, 2021
Good afternoon,
Today, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDOH) notified schools that they updated their quarantine policy related to school exposures to COVID-19. This change impacts some students currently in quarantine and outlines changes in quarantining protocols moving forward.
Previous to this change in quarantine protocols, the SCDOH was requiring an entire classroom to be quarantined if there were two or more positives within a 10-day period in the same classroom. The SCDOH is no longer enforcing that protocol. This change in practice was made by the SCDOH in consultation with epidemiologists from the NY State Department of Health (Finger Lakes and Western Regions) as well as local clinicians.
For Families Whose Children are Currently in Quarantine
If your Middle School student is in quarantine currently, due to the entire class being quarantined and is not considered a close contact, a school administrator or staff member will be calling you to inform you that your student is no longer required to quarantine and will be able to return to school tomorrow (11/18) if they are not experiencing any symptoms. If your student is experiencing symptoms, please inform the administrator or staff member when they call.
If your student is in quarantine and you do not receive a call, the student must remain in quarantine and should still follow the guidance of the NYS Contact Tracers.
The requirements for students and staff who have tested positive for COVID-19 and are in isolation have not changed. Please continue to follow the information provided to you by the Seneca County Department of Public Health.
Quarantines Moving Forward
1. No longer require entire classrooms or cohorts to quarantine if there are two or more positives in the class or cohort so long as proper masking and distancing is in place.
2. Parents of students in the classroom/cohort/team that have two or more positives must be notified by the school that there was a potential exposure and that they should monitor their child for symptoms for the next 14 days from the date of last exposure.
3. Unvaccinated children/staff that are identified as close contacts (of school contacts) will still be required to quarantine.
4. Settings that the policy change does not go into effect for will be lunch (where the two or more positives are unmasked and eating) and the school bus.
The Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDOH) will continue to make decisions related to quarantining students and staff. With less quarantining, masking is essential. A properly fitting mask covers the nose and mouth (snug) without gaps. Fully vaccinated children that are identified as close contacts in school that do not have symptoms will still not be required to quarantine.
We continue to thank the Seneca County Department of Public Health for their close collaboration with the school district and all the schools in Seneca County.
I continue to thank you for your patience and collaboration. We view this change as progress in keeping our students in school and engaged while still making health and safety a priority.
Sincerely,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 11/6-11/12
November 12, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of November 6th - November 12th:
- FK- 3
- ECS- 2
- MS- 1
- MA- 3
With the increase in positive cases across the state and specifically in our region, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay home when sick, practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places to minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times- https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 10/30-11/5
November 5, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of October 30th - November 5th:
- FK- 1
- ECS- 2
- MS- 0
- MA- 0
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
October 2021
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 10/23-10/29
October 29, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of October 23rd-29th:
- FK- 0
- ECS- 2
- MS- 0
- MA- 0
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If you are looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 10/16-10/22
October 22, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear form DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of October 16th-22nd:
- FK- 2
- ECS- 0
- MS- 0
- MA- 1
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 10/9-10/15
October 15, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of October 9th-15th:
- FK- 0
- ECS- 0
- MS- 0
- MA- 0
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 10/2-10/8
October 8, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of October 2nd-8th:
- FK- 1
- ECS- 2
- MS- 1
- MA- 0
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 9/25-10/1
October 1, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of September 25th-October 1st:
- FK- 0
- ECS- 1
- MS- 1
- MA- 0
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
September 2021
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 9/18-9/24
September 24, 2021
Good afternoon, staff, and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of September 18th-24th:
- FK- 0
- ECS- 1
- MS- 1
- MA- 0
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater |
Cough | Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches | Headache | New loss of taste or smell | Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat | Nausea/Vomiting | Diarrhea |
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 9/11-9/17
September 17, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
This is the weekly report of positive cases in the district. The district will continue to report weekly unless we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause. If that is the case, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action.
For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to being a close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well. It may take 48 hours or more before you hear from DOH based on the current positivity rate in the county.
Positive Cases for the week of September 11th-17th:
- FK - 0
- ECS- 1
- MS - 3
- MA - 4
For many of the older students who had to quarantine because of close contact with a positive case, it had to do with not properly wearing their face covering. It’s important that we cover both our nose and mouth when wearing our face coverings.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and properly wearing face coverings indoors in public places, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough | Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing | Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches | Headache | New loss of taste or smell | Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat | Nausea/Vomiting | Diarrhea |
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If you are looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Positive COVID Cases During the Week of 9/7-9/10
September 10, 2021
Good afternoon, staff and families:
As I shared in my September 2, 2021 message to all families, I will provide a weekly report of positive cases in the district. This means I will not send a message each time we have a positive case. However, if we have a case(s) that leads to a grade level or building-wide shift to distance learning, or puts an entire program on pause, I will send a district-wide message at that time regarding such level of action. For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to close contact, you will hear from the Seneca County DOH as well.
Positive Cases for the week of September 7th-10th:
- FK- 3
- ECS- 1
- MS- 0
- MA- 0
None of the students who tested positive attended school this week, which means there were no additional quarantines.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and wearing face coverings indoors in public places, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 button https://www.senecafallscsd.org/district/covid-19.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat, Nasal Congestion, Runny Nose |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart (Symptomatic Individual with No Known Exposure) on our website from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms outlined above.
If you are looking for a vaccine clinic, please visit Seneca County’s website for locations, dates and times - https://senecacountyhealthdepartment.com/covid-19-vaccination-clinic/
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Message to Staff and Families on September 2, 2021 - Welcome Back Message and Updates for the 2021-2022 School Year
Dear Families,
It is almost time for students to return to the school buildings. Despite continuing to navigate a pandemic, the Board of Education and all employees of the SFCSD are excited for the start of a new school year. We are using multiple mitigating strategies and the health and safety guidance and mandates set forth by the health experts of the American Academy of Pediatrics, the CDC, NYS Department of Health, our local health department and our school physician. Everyone in the district is ready to welcome back our students and provide them with a caring environment where they can be supported and grow. We are all in this together and we are all committed to providing the best possible experience for our students and each other. We cannot wait to welcome students back on September 7th.
To create a safe and caring environment, it takes the effort of all of us regardless of our role. As a district, we have continued to broaden our knowledge and practices regarding social and emotional learning. We know that relationships and our mental well-being is most important and so we continue to expand our character education programs, knowledge/skills relative to mental health first-aid, trauma informed practices, restorative practices, suicide prevention and awareness, etc. Now more than ever, we must support each other.
Some Reminders/Updates:
Daily building start/end times:
- Frank Knight 8:45-2:55
- Elizabeth Cady Stanton 8:55 - 3:10
- SF Middle School 7:35-2:18 (After school assistance is available this year, ends at 2:55, this will start on September 20th.)
- Mynderse Academy 7:35-2:18 (After school assistance is available this year, ends at 2:55, this will start on September 20th.)
Capital Project:
Transportation/District Office- Part of the most recent capital project was the construction of a new transportation facility at 2 Butler Avenue (same location as old bus garage), which will now include the District Office and the Board/Training Room. Over the next few weeks, both the District Office staff and the Transportation Department will be transitioning to the Butler Avenue facility. All existing phone numbers will continue to operate regardless of location. There will be updates once the transition is complete, which will also include additional information about other offices impacted by the moves.
School Calendar:
The school calendar should be arriving in homes shortly if it has not already. You can also find the events calendar on our website - https://www.senecafallscsd.org/district-calendar
District Steering Committee:
This committee meets approximately four times per year. This committee has been helpful in the past in vetting different district plans such wellness, counseling, and the strategic plan. Meetings are usually about 45 minutes to an hour long in the evening. If you’re interested in being a part of this committee, please contact Mrs. Jacqueline Brown (Email) by September 9th. Dates, times, and location of meetings will be shared with the committee after the 9th.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity (DEI) Committee:
The district started an internal committee last year called the Socially Responsible Community Member Committee. The focus of this committee aligned with our strategic plan. With the release of the NYS DEI Frameworks by the State Education Department and their policies associated with DEI, the district shifted the committee name from the Socially Responsible Community Member Committee to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusivity (DEI) Committee. While the name of the committee changed, the purpose and goals did not shift. This committee is committed to acceptance of all and celebrating the differences among us. In the most basic terms, but the most profound meaning of our work, we are focused on kindness towards all and spreading kindness within our schools and community, and as far as we can reach.
There are multiple phases to the NYS DEI Frameworks and we are focusing on phase one this year and creating an awareness and building a better understanding of DEI and all terms associated with this work. Kindness, and the acceptance and celebration of differences starts with each of us as individuals. This committee will also meet 4 times per year this year and meet on the same dates as the District Steering Committee starting immediately after. If you’re interested in being a part of this committee, please contact Mrs. Jacqueline Brown (Email) by September 9th. Dates, times and location of meetings will be shared with the committee after the 9th.
Health and Safety Guidelines:
Please see the district website for updates to the Health and Safety Guidelines for the district (new information is in bold) as well as additional information to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document. Updates are dated 9/2. There are also updated flowcharts from the Seneca County DOH regarding vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals exposed to a positive case and steps to be followed for someone who is exhibiting new or unusual symptoms of COVID-19 (see below).
Daily Screener - Parents are expected to complete the daily health screening each day via Parent Square. (Principals recently sent home details about how to sign up for and use Parent Square for those who have not done so previously.) Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for the next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Please refer to the flowchart from the Seneca County Department of Health to follow appropriate procedures when experiencing symptoms.
Positive Cases: Communication and Quarantine- At the end of each week, we will provide an overview related to positive COVID-19 cases in the School District. For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to close contact, you will also hear from the Seneca County DOH.
Determining if someone is considered a close contact and must quarantine will be based on the Seneca County Flowchart (linked below). For those who are vaccinated or have tested positive for COVID in the past 90 days and are considered a close contact of a positive case, they will most likely not need to quarantine if asymptomatic (no symptoms). For those who are experiencing symptoms, regardless of vaccination or previously testing positive, they will need to quarantine and follow the protocols outlined in the Seneca County flow chart (linked below).
When the school and/or the DOH contact employees and/or parents of students who are considered a close contact, they will ask if you have been vaccinated. If you have been vaccinated and are willing to share this information with the school and/or DOH, it will most likely prevent a close contact from having to quarantine. The district/DOH will ask for the dates of your vaccine shots and your lot number, which are both located on your vaccine card that you received at the time of getting your shots. My suggestion would be to take a picture of your card so you always have the dates and lot numbers available on your phone in the event you are called due to your child being a close contact of a positive case.
Also, a reminder to have an alternative daycare plan in the event we have to shift to a remote learning model temporarily at any point in the school year. In the event there is a shift to remote instruction, we will follow the continuity plan, which can be found below.
Please see updated Guidelines, FAQ and Flowcharts below.
Welcome back and looking forward to an awesome school year!
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent of Schools
August 2021
Message to Staff and Families on August 16, 2021 - SFCSD COVID Related Safety Guidelines for 2021-22
Good afternoon colleagues and families. As I shared previously, following the announcement from the Governor and NYS Department of Health that they were not releasing guidance, we have been working with the Board of Education, Union Leadership, Leadership Team, local Department of Public Health, and our school physician on mitigating strategies and required protocols. On Thursday, August 12th, the NYS Department of Education (NYSED) released guidance for schools. The Seneca Falls CSD plan is reflective of this most recent guidance from NYSED, which is based on the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and American Academy of Pediatrics guidance.
Since March of 2020, we have been operating under constant change and it appears, at this time, the same will be true for the foreseeable future. The plan I am sharing today will continue to evolve as we respond to guidance updates, infection rates, etc. We will also continue to evaluate athletics and extra-curricular activities with the goal of offering as many as possible throughout the year. Regarding athletics, additional information is forthcoming.
Principals have and/or will be sending out schedules/classroom assignments and other important information soon for each of the buildings as we get closer to the start of the school year on September 7, 2021. We are very excited to welcome students and staff back for the 2021-22 school year as we anticipate all the great things that will happen this year. While there may be varying opinions over which protocols may be most appropriate, we all share the goal of wanting our students and employees to be safe and successful. The safety guidelines we have developed is based on the safety of everyone and keeping everyone in school and school-based activities, which may require us to adjust our plan at times based on the circumstances.
On August 17th in the Mynderse Academy Auditorium, starting at 5:30, there will be an opportunity to ask questions about the 2021-2022 plan. Since this event will be inside, you will need to wear a mask and socially distance. This Q & A session will take place prior to our Board meeting that evening. There will be additional written communication shared with all staff and families providing updates and additional details about our plans for 2021-22 following the meeting on the 17th.
Thank you for your continued patience, understanding, and flexibility as we navigate this next phase of the pandemic and remain committed to a safe K-12 return to in-person instruction for all students and staff this fall. I wish you the best as you enjoy the remaining weeks of summer.
Message to Staff and Families on August 5, 2021
Dear Families,
I hope everyone is well and enjoying the summer. As the weeks have gone by, since the end of the last school year, we have awaited guidance from the Governor and the NYS Department of Health (DOH). Last week we received a memo from the NYS Education Department (NYSED) informing districts to move forward with planning based on the most recent guidance from the CDC. Late last night, we were informed that the Governor and NYS DOH will not be issuing a guidance document.
With that said, the administrative team has been working on a plan based on the CDC guidance and the guidance from the state released in the spring. Our current plan is to follow the 3’ social distancing guideline . By using 3’, it not only provides safe distancing according to the latest research on school environments, but it also allows us to achieve the goal of bringing all students back. Per the CDC and previous state guidelines, they too have made it a priority to return all students to in-person instruction. Students with a diagnosis that may require accommodations can request the Medical Accommodation Request for 2021-22 due to COVID-19 Health & Safety Requirement form from the school nurse, which requires documentation from your family physician and a review and approval from our district physician.
While the goal and plan are for all staff and students to return to the school buildings for the 2021-22 school year, it also means certain mitigating strategies and requirements will be in effect:
- Masks will be required indoors (vaccinated and unvaccinated), but the amount of time they must be worn throughout the day is yet to be determined by our local DOH.
- Masks are always required on buses (may be more than 1 student/seat).
- 3’ social distancing to the extent possible in the buildings.
- Cohorting (grouping) K-8 to the extent possible. Minimal cohorting for grades 9-12.
- All students and staff are expected to use proper hand washing and sanitizing throughout the day.
- Ensure all ventilation units are properly working and bringing in outside air and filters are changed as recommended by the manufacturer and/or the BOCES health and safety inspector.
- A daily health screener (ParentSquare through web or mobile app) will continue to be used.
- SFCSD will adhere to hygiene, cleaning, and disinfection requirements from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
- Return to the daily schedule that we followed prior to March 2020. Start and End Times:
o Frank Knight 8:45-2:55
o Elizabeth Cady Stanton 9:05 - 3:10
o SF Middle School 7:35-2:18 (after school assistance available this year, end @2:55)
o Mynderse Academy 7:35-2:18 (after school assistance available this year, end @2:55)
It is our goal and hope to reinstate many, if not all, of our after-school opportunities. At this time, athletics are expected to occur as scheduled. The athletic director will continue to communicate information for the start of the Fall season as we fully anticipate detailed athletic guidance will be forthcoming from the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) in the coming days and we will comply with said guidance.
With no guidance from the State, we will be working more closely with our local Department of Health (DOH) over the next several days on mitigating strategies and required protocols.
On August 17th in the Mynderse Academy Auditorium starting at 5:30 there will be an opportunity to ask questions about the 2021-2022 plan. Since this event will be inside, you will need to wear a mask and socially distance. This Q & A session will take place prior to our Board meeting that evening. There will be additional written communication shared with all staff and families providing details about our plans for 2021-22 prior to the meeting, as well as after this meeting on the 17th.
Thank you for your continued patience, understanding, and flexibility as we navigate this next phase of the pandemic and remain committed to a safe K-12 return to in-person instruction for all students and staff this fall.
Isolation and Quarantine
.Click below to view the updated information from the NYS DOH - March 1, 2022
Isolation and Quarantine Tables
Health and Safety Guidelines
Seneca Falls CSD Layers of Mitigating Strategies for the 2021-22 School Year
The following plan was crafted using varying guiding principles from the latest CDC K-12 guidance and the most recent guidance from the NYS Education Department issued by the NYS Department of Health on March 1, 2022. Upon completion of the guidance below, these concepts were vetted by the district's Board of Education, Union Leadership, Leadership Team, local Department of Public Health, and our school physician prior to finalizing the plan. This plan incorporates layered prevention strategies to protect students, employees, and visitors. Everything below is subject to change pending changes in local health data and/or state or federal guidance adjustments. The district, in conjunction with these entities, will monitor community transmission, vaccination coverage and screening testing and adjust our plan as necessary.
The information in bold and italics contains updated information.
STRATEGY |
SCHOOL IMPLEMENTATION |
Vaccination |
Encouraged but not required. As such, the health and safety measures in this plan will apply to everyone regardless of their vaccination status. Vaccinated individuals are at a much lower risk of developing COVID symptoms or severe infection. For athletics and extra-curricular groups or other activities with elevated risk (singing, shouting, band, exercise), when the County has a “high” designation regarding infection rates per the CDC Tracker, the chances of being suspended/canceled is greatly reduced if every eligible student is fully vaccinated (including booster if eligible). |
Consistent and correct mask use |
Minimum Expectation for indoors: Masking is strongly recommended but not required at this time for K-12 schools, which includes outdoors, inside school buildings, on buses/vans and for extra-curriculars/athletics. However, Staff and students who test positive must wear a well-fitting mask (surgical type) for days 6-10 while in public (including school, buses, and school activities) after 5 days of isolation. |
Physical Distancing |
Based on infection/transmission rates, a 3’ minimum distancing requirement may be the standard, in all indoor areas to the extent possible. This includes during breakfast/lunch in the cafeterias and/or gymnasiums and/or classrooms (based on number of students in the lunch period). No distancing requirement outdoors. |
Occupancy Limits |
Outdoor occupancy limits for events are eliminated at this time. Indoor occupancy may include a minimum of 3’ of physical distancing. Depending on infection/transmission rates and other factors, visitors/spectators to indoor events may be modified or suspended. |
Transportation |
Masks are strongly recommended but not required on buses at this time. However, Staff and students who test positive must wear a well-fitting mask (surgical type) for days 6-10 while in public (including school, buses, and school activities) after 5 days of isolation. May be more than one student per seat based on number of riders. |
Handwashing Hand Sanitizing |
All students and staff are expected to use proper hand washing and sanitizing throughout the day. |
Ventilation |
The Director of Facilities shall ensure that all ventilation units are properly working and bringing in outside air and filters are changed as recommended by the manufacturer and/or the BOCES health and safety inspector. Windows will be opened in classrooms, at least partially, as much as possible. Use fans in the classroom whenever possible or beneficial and minimize directly blowing it on students to the extent possible. |
Screening/Health |
A daily screener for staff and students (Parent Square) may be used. Screening: In the last 14 days, has anyone in your household had close contact with someone who has COVID-19? Students and staff must stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms and call the school nurse and their physician for next steps. Coming to school/work sick without consulting your physician and/or being tested is the greatest risk to others and to disrupting in-person instruction and/or programs. Should a person become ill and exhibit symptoms at school, the following procedures may be followed: · wear a mask and · be in the nurse’s office, separated from others by at least 6’ · Picked up ASAP by parent guardian |
Contact tracing, in combination with isolation and quarantine* |
Seating charts may be created for cohorts/classes, buses and lunches to the extent possible. |
Cleaning and disinfection |
SFCSD will adhere to hygiene, cleaning, and disinfection requirements from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). |
Medical Accommodations |
Per the guidelines established by the New York State Department of Education (NYSED), the district priority is a return for all students to in-person instruction. Students with a diagnosis that may require accommodations can request the Medical Accommodation Request for 2021-22 due to COVID-19 Health & Safety Requirement form from the school nurse. Students placed under quarantine or isolation by the Seneca County DOH will have arrangements made to receive assignments and/or remote access to their classes. This may vary based on duration of quarantine/isolation, grade level, content area, etc. Principals, teachers and/or counselors will communicate these details in a quarantine/isolation situation. |
Guests |
Guests, for educational purposes, will be allowed on a case-by-case basis. The CDC transmission levels/designation will be referenced to determine if guests will be allowed into the buildings. If transmission levels require a cancellation of the visit, an alternative date and time may be rescheduled. Guests must follow all health and safety protocols in place by the district and will be screened upon entry. |
Testing for COVID-19 This is still being developed in partnership with Seneca County DOH |
COVID testing is available in schools. Individuals may be selected from a list of those students whose families voluntarily agree to allow a student to be tested and unvaccinated staff. |
Continuity Plan |
In the event there is a closure of a classroom, grade level, building and or the district K-12, due to a positive case(s) the district may shift to the continuity plan. https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rm7cYuQl8MAo5puCRKayISqCWqYkDHSi/edit |
Social/Emotional Student Support
Seneca Falls CSD is committed to educating and being responsive to the needs of the whole child. Measures continue to be used to be proactive and responsive to students’ social/emotional needs as well as their physical needs. Increasing support through classroom lessons, engaging K-12 students in social emotional learning surveys, providing increased social/emotional support through the addition of mental health staff are a few examples of ways in which the district continues to support the social/emotional needs of students as they return and progress through the upcoming school year.
2021-22 Continuity of Education Plan
As a district, we are anticipating that there will be potential closures throughout the year because of COVID-19. Closures could be determined by the Seneca County Health Department or New York State and it will be the district’s responsibility to follow the direction(s) of the Health Department. In order to ensure learning continues in the event of a closure, we are taking several measures.
PROACTIVE MEASURES:
We anticipate that the timing of an announced closure will not always be convenient for parents, staff, and students to prepare. We will be taking several proactive steps to facilitate distance (remote/online) learning.
Kindergarten
-
Teachers will utilize Seesaw to distribute materials for students’ access.
Grades 1-5
-
Teachers will utilize Google Classroom to distribute materials for students’ access.
Grades 6-12
- Teachers will utilize Google Classroom to distribute materials for students’ access.
Special Education
-
Teachers/ Related Service Providers will create contingency plans for all students as a means to outline the supports necessary during a potential closure.
Plans based on the duration of Closure - District communication will be shared with all families via our automated system.
One-Day Closure:
Kindergarten
-
Students have math and ELA review work in their Take Home folder in the case of an emergency closure. Teachers will communicate through Seesaw/email what work should be completed daily until chromebooks can be picked up.
Grades 1- 5
-
Students have math and ELA review work in their Take Home folder in the case of an emergency closure. Teachers will communicate through email what work should be completed daily until chromebooks can be picked up.
Grades 6-12
-
Students will follow their schedules online and attend each class for instruction.
-
Instruction will continue, following the 7:35-2:14 instructional schedule, without interruption.
-
Teachers will post Zoom links in Google Classrooms.
-
Teachers will post instructions and materials in Google Classroom.
-
Teachers will be able to communicate with students via GoGuardian
Special Education
-
K-5 teachers will work to incorporate specially designed instruction in take-home work provided. Special education teachers will check in daily with classroom teachers and follow-up on any concerns.
-
Grades 6-12 teachers will follow their typical schedule providing both push in consultant services, special class, and related services.
-
Related service providers will contact parents and provide Zoom links for their student’s remote session.
Short Term (Two-to-Five Days) Closure:
Kindergarten
-
Students have math and ELA review work in their Take Home folder in the case of an emergency closure. Teachers will communicate through email what work should be completed daily until chromebooks can be picked up.
-
Once chromebooks are distributed, instruction following the Distance Learning Handbook will begin. See below for the Distance Learning Handbook.
-
Teachers will post instructions for work in Seesaw and communicate with families using Seesaw/email.
-
Materials and activities (could be links to digital work) will be posted in Seesaw.
-
Students will be required to follow the schedule communicated by the teacher.
Grades 1-5
-
Students have math and ELA review work in their Take Home folder in the case of an emergency closure. Teachers will communicate through email what work should be completed daily until chromebooks can be picked up.
-
Once chromebooks are distributed, teachers will post instructions for work in Google Classroom and communicate with families using email.
-
Materials and activities (could be links to digital work) will be posted in Google Classroom.
-
Students will be required to follow the schedule communicated by the teacher.
Grades 6-12
-
Students will follow their schedules online and attend each class for instruction.
-
Instruction will continue, following the 7:35-2:14 instructional schedule, without interruption.
-
Teachers will post Zoom links in Google Classrooms.
-
Teachers will post instructions and materials in Google Classroom.
-
Students will be required to complete work as assigned and communicate via email with teachers if they need additional support.
Special Education
-
Special Education teachers will check-in daily with classroom teachers about students and follow-up on any concerns.
-
Special Education teachers will reach out to students (and/families depending on the students’ grade) to coordinate support during the closure. Support could be setting up Zooms for individual students, pushing into the classroom teachers’ Google Classroom and/or Zoom to monitor progress and support students, coordinating teleconferencing to support students and families.
-
Special Education teachers will continue to progress monitor students by consulting with classroom teachers and assessing student work.
-
OT/PT/Speech and Counseling services will be arranged by the providers.
Extended Closures (Longer than one week - Full Distance Learning):
The handbooks below outline the potential plan and schedules for each building in the district if we were to shift to a distance learning model for an extended period (more than one week). Please understand that there are a number of factors to be considered, beyond just the number of days we would be shifting to distance learning, in making the decision to implement these plans/schedules. Due to shared faculty and staff among multiple buildings, it may be difficult to follow these schedules if just one building shifted to a full distance learning model for one week or more.
If the need arises, to shift to a full distance learning model for a building, multiple buildings and/or district-wide, we will clearly communicate to all families whether we will continue to follow the current daily schedule or shift to the distance learning schedule outlined in handbooks linked below. If we are to make this shift to a full distance learning model, we realize there are advantages and disadvantages to implementing our current daily schedules as well as the distance learning schedules outlined in the handbooks. We will take into account the many factors and the resources available when determining the daily schedule for students if we need to make this shift to a full distance learning model.
We have tried to share as much information in advance of any potential shifts in our learning model so families can plan accordingly. We also acknowledge that things are very fluid and constantly changing during this pandemic.
Each Building would follow their Distance Learning Handbook:
Frank Knight (Grades K-2) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1P1l5Qn_plZsLLlXafMSNOnewbG21z3MJVxv1mfZI6ko/edit?usp=sharing
Cady Stanton (Grades 3-5) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lbKbvOZ1lH-jNVj5Nw4Vtt8Te5mztAXGodBRnG7x0DE/edit
Middle School (Grades 6-8) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1be-97aSdgu4egMSrlVI2CeDlu-85c2VEVVH95IXi2EI/edit
Mynderse Academy (Grades 9-12) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1LeCJzpJ2notjTXlVj_Du0rhNyDS6t0HFqyLVHw3x4d0/edit
SFCSD FAQ Regarding COVID Health and Safety Protocols
SFCSD Frequently Asked Questions Regarding COVID Health and Safety Protocols and Other Related Items
If a student or staff member is fully vaccinated, do they still need to wear a mask indoors?
Yes, proper mask wearing is expected for all staff and students when indoors. There are no masking requirements outdoors when physical distancing. The above measures do not discern between those who are and are not vaccinated and will apply to all.
Will there be daily health screening requirements?
Yes, we will follow the same procedures as we did in the 2020-21 school year. Parents and staff are expected to complete the daily health screening through Parent Square. If experiencing symptoms associated with COVID, parents should contact the nurse at the building their child attends to inform them of the symptoms and then contact their family physician for an evaluation and possible COVID test. We are awaiting further information from DOH on the required procedures for a student who has experienced symptoms associated with COVID.
Will there be a remote learning option?
Our commitment is to get all students back to in-person instruction five days per week.
Students with a diagnosis that may require accommodations can request the Medical Accommodation Request for 2021-22 due to COVID-19 Health & Safety Requirement form from the school nurse.
Students placed under quarantine or isolation by the Seneca County DOH will have arrangements made to receive assignments and/or remote access to their classes. This may vary based on duration of quarantine/isolation, grade level, content area, etc. Principals, teachers and/or counselors will communicate these details in a quarantine/isolation situation.
Will students be physically distanced?
3’ minimum distancing requirement in all indoor areas to the extent possible.
Where will students eat lunch?
Students will be eating in the cafeteria and possibly a portion of the gymnasium or in classrooms in some cases depending on the number of students in a lunch period and the need for additional space to physically distance students by 3’. Seating charts will be utilized. The goal is to offer hot lunches again this year k-12.
Will the district continue to offer free breakfast and lunch to all students this year?
Yes. All students are eligible for free breakfast and lunch again this year regardless of economic status.
To remain current with federal guidelines we do ask families to complete the free and reduced lunch form so that reimbursements may continue into the future. This form can be accessed by clicking this link to our website- https://www.senecafallscsd.org/departments/food-service
How will the District determine community designation transmission designation level?
The District will utilize the CDC Tracker in collaboration with the Seneca County DOH to determine if we are low, moderate, substantial, or high. As of August 16th, we are designated as substantial.
What are the plans for busing?
Students eligible for busing will be provided transportation to and from school. Students may have assigned seats and are required to wear masks at all times. There may be more than one student per seat based on the number of students riding a particular bus. Windows will be open as much as possible, weather permitting, for additional ventilation.
Will the district be mandating vaccination for staff or students?
No, vaccinations are not mandated at this time, but it is recommended eligible staff and students be vaccinated. Parents may contact Seneca County DOH for vaccination options. Masks, however, will be mandated for all students and staff at this time.
Will student assemblies be happening this year?
Yes, as permitted following all health and safety protocols.
Will students 6-12 have access to lockers?
Yes. Principals are working on plans to determine when or how often students will be able to access their locker throughout the day.
For students in grades 6-12, will they be required to bring their Chromebook to and from school daily?
Yes, students in grades 6-12 should bring their charged Chromebook to and from school daily. Students in grades k-5 will be issued a Chromebook, but it will remain in school.
What is the plan if a grade level, building, or district must close due to the impact of a positive COVID case, infection rate and/or government directive?
In the event there is a closure of a classroom, grade level, building and or the district K-12, due to a positive case(s) the district will shift to the continuity plan- https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rm7cYuQl8MAo5puCRKayISqCWqYkDHSi/edit
Who determines quarantine and isolation status?
Like last year, the district will work collaboratively with Seneca County DOH and state contact tracers who make final determinations with regards to quarantine and isolation based on positive COVID cases. The district is required to follow all rules associated with the contact tracing investigation and all outcomes of the investigation. Vaccinated individuals are much less likely to be quarantined when identified as a close contact to a positive case.
In common areas at the high school/middle school, how are you addressing physical distancing in common areas?
Using a multi-layered approach, which includes universal masking, allows students to be closer than 3’ for short periods of time and minimizes transmission and mass quarantining (especially during moderate, substantial and high designations).
Will athletics, including high-risk sports such as volleyball and football be offered this fall?
Currently, Fall sports are scheduled to start 8/23/21. We are awaiting guidance from NYSPHAA following the limited guidance on athletics and extra-curricular activities from the NYS Education Department. There will be more information shared regarding athletics by the end of the week. For athletics and extra-curricular groups or other activities with elevated risk (singing, shouting, band, exercise), when the County has a “high” designation regarding infection rates per the CDC Tracker, the chances of being suspended/cancelled is greatly reduced if every eligible student is fully vaccinated.
Added 9/2/21
Sports- Will they have to wear masks?
Indoors, masks are required by everyone- athletes, coaches, officials, spectators, etc.
Outdoors, masks are not required at this time for athletes or spectators when physically distanced from others outside their household. These current protocols may change as needed to respond accordingly to infection rates and other determining factors. As always, an athlete or spectator who prefers to wear a mask may do so at any time.
Student has COVID and has been vaccinated, will they be quarantined?
This will be a case-by-case basis. For those who are vaccinated or have tested positive for COVID in the past 90 days and are considered a close contact of a positive case, they will not need to quarantine if asymptomatic (no symptoms). For those who are experiencing symptoms, regardless of vaccination or previously testing positive, they will need to quarantine and follow the protocols outlined in the Seneca County algorithm/flow chart, which can be found on our website under the COVID button.
What is the percent of staff, faculty, students that have been vaccinated?
We do not know that information currently.
Where do walkers and students who are dropped off enter the building?
These details will be provided by each principal prior to school starting.
Will band and chorus be a part of the daily schedule?
Principals, to the best of their ability, are creating schedules that will allow for band, chorus, and individual lessons relative to grade level. Masks will still be required in band and chorus.
What will happen when a student does not wear masks appropriately?
Administrators will address this accordingly and in cases where students need support, support will be provided. In situations where students are being insubordinate, administrators will respond in accordance with the code of conduct.
Will students learn remotely when absent?
No. A normal absence from school will be treated the same as it was prior to COVID. Parents and/or students can contact the office to request work. Remote learning will only be provided if needed based on medical accommodations per doctor approval and possibly during a DOH quarantine/isolation order (this was also outlined above when the FAQ was first shared).
Are there guidelines regarding use of paper/books?
We will continue to use caution when sharing materials, but the CDC has shared in the past few months that sharing materials can be allowed in schools if cleaning/disinfecting of the shared materials happens daily. Again, we will take extra precautions with regards to books, paper materials and other shared classroom items.
How will I know if a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19?
At the end of each week, we will provide an overview related to positive COVID-19 cases in the School District. For students identified as a close contact of a positive case, we will notify parents as soon as possible. For those students who test positive and/or required to quarantine due to close contact, you will also hear from the Seneca County DOH.
Are there restrictions on the type of masks students and staff must wear this year?
According to Seneca County Department of Health, students, staff, and visitors must wear two-layer cloth-based or surgical masks that cover both the nose and mouth. Bandanas and clear face shields are not considered acceptable face coverings and gaiters/buffs must be a minimum of two layers. The District will provide face coverings for any student, staff member, or visitor who does not have or requests a mask.
2020-21 COVID Communications
District Communication
- May 2021
- April 2021
- March 2021
- February
- Jan-Feb 2021
- Nov-Dec 2020
- November 2021
- Sept-Oct 2020
- Summer 2020
May 2021
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
May 6, 2021
4:30 PM
Dear Families,
We learned from the Seneca County Department of Health (SCDOH) that one of our middle school students tested positive today. Through the contact tracing process, we have notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students who need to quarantine, they will be contacted directly by the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), which could take up to 48 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
May 4, 2021
7:40 PM
Dear Families,
We learned from the Seneca County Department of Health (SCDOH) that one of our middle school students tested positive today. Through the contact tracing process, we have notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students who need to quarantine, they will be contacted directly by the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), which could take up to 48 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
May 10, 2021
4:30 PM
Dear Families,
We learned from the Seneca County Department of Health (SCDOH) that one of our middle school students tested positive today. Through the contact tracing process, we have notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students who need to quarantine, they will be contacted directly by the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), which could take up to 48 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
May 3, 2021
Dear Families,
We learned that the following tested positive for COVID-19:
- MS student who last attended school today
- MA student who last attended school today
- Staff member who works out of an office in the MS and last attended school 4/30/21
Through the contact tracing process, we have notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students who need to quarantine, they will be contacted directly by the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), which could take up to 24 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings and wearing face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion/ Sore throat |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
April 30, 2021
3:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned that one of our SF Middle School students tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Thursday, April 29, 2021. Through the contact tracing process, we have notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students who need to quarantine, they will be contacted directly by the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), which could take up to 24 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
April 2021
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
April 29, 2021
11:00 AM
Seneca Falls Instructional Model for the Remainder of 2021 School Year
Good morning, parents:
As you are aware, we have revisited 6 feet versus 3 feet of physical distancing in the classroom setting based on the NYS Department of Health’s (DOH) most recent guidance, which was released on April 10, 2021. Since the release of that guidance, I have provided - a voice-over presentation, Q & A document, held zoom sessions for all faculty, building staff, and parents, in addition to a parent survey.
The most recent guidance allows districts to increase the number of students in a classroom, which allows districts the opportunity to bring more students back for in-person learning. Again, I will share that as a district, we have averaged between 68%-73% of our K-12 students learning in-person 5 days per week since September. We are currently at 72% K-12 and still have room for some distance learners to shift to the in-person learning model at most grade levels if they choose. Unfortunately, we currently have a waiting list at four of the six K-5 grade levels for families that want their children to return to in-person instruction. While we are seeing an increase in students shifting to in-person instruction across the district, we still have classroom/cohort space at most grade levels while maintaining 6 feet of physical distancing.
Six feet physical distancing is required, per NYS Guidance:
- when individuals cannot use a mask, including, but not limited to, mask breaks and when eating or drinking, which means that there can be no eating (breakfast, snack, lunch) in classrooms using 3 feet distancing
- when students are not cohorted at the 6-12 level if the district is in the red or high transmission zone based on the number of new positive COVID cases per 100,000 over a 7 day period. (Seneca County has shifted from orange to red and back to orange over the past 3 weeks per the CDC tracker. We are not fully cohorted at grades 9-12, which means we could not maintain 3 feet of physical distancing in grades 9-12 when designated a red zone)
To make a shift to 3 feet of physical distancing under our current model, there are a number of factors to consider:
- changing when, where and how students would eat breakfast, snack, and lunch K-5 and how/when mask breaks will occur
- busing - some students may need to sit two to a seat
- distance learners changing teachers if they switch to in-person K-5
- the social and emotional impact on students, both the distance learners coming into a new setting with new rules and expectations they are not used to as well as the current in-person learners who will now see a shift in their daily routines and classroom setting
- the additional strain on the building to make this sudden change as spaces may need to be reconfigured and either additional human resources will be needed and/or we will need to make major shifts to current staff assignments/responsibilities
- CDC designation for grades 9-12 per the CDC tracker for transmission rates (see explanation above)
- Quarantines- would most likely increase with any in-school positive cases as the county would still use the 6’ rule
While this year is far from perfect, I believe we have been successful overall as a district and that is due to the students and families, faculty, staff, administrators, community partners, and the Seneca Falls Board of Education doing their part in an ever-changing and challenging year. With space still available at most grade levels/cohorts, the district will stay with the 6 feet of physical distancing to finish out the approximately 8 weeks of school. The only exception to this will be to look at the grade levels where there is a wait list for families requesting to return to in-person instruction. We will look at the requests as of April 10, 2021, when the updated guidance was released. We will look at the overall impact at each of those 4 grade levels (1st, 3rd, 4th, and 5th) and whether we can successfully make a shift based on resources and the effect on all students. For those families with a student on the waitlist, the building principal will contact you.
The parent survey results (487 responses), overall, indicated that a majority of parents (77%) were accepting of a shift to 3 feet physical distancing.
- There were 9 parents of in-person learners who indicated they would shift to remote learning if there was a change to 3 feet of physical distancing.
- For those families who require transportation, a majority (79%) said they support more than one student per seat.
- Of the 487 responses, there was a relatively equal number of responses for each of the grade levels ranging between 7-10% of the overall number of responses.
This information is helpful as we look to planning for any summer programming and next Fall. If 3 feet of physical distancing is where we need to start the year in the Fall, we will build our schedule, protocols, and expectations around all requirements set by the State.
Again, I can’t thank every student, employee, parent, and Board member for your continued support and collaboration to make the past 30 plus weeks successful while navigating a pandemic. Let’s finish the year strong.
With great appreciation,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
April 27, 2021
4:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned that one of our Frank Knight students tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Friday, April 23, 2021. Through the contact tracing process, we have notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students who need to quarantine, they will be contacted directly by the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), which could take up to 24 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion/runny nose |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
April 13, 2021
5:00 PM
Dear Families and Staff,
Good afternoon. I am sending this message because the district was notified that one of our Elizabeth Cady Stanton students tested positive for COVID-19. Considering that the last date of attendance at school was Friday, April 9th and when the student became symptomatic, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) has determined that there is no health and safety concern to other students or staff members due to this specific case. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion, runny nose |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
April 12, 2021
7:00 PM
Good evening, faculty/staff and families:
By now, most of you have seen reports in the media that the New York State (NYS) Department of Health (DOH) has issued updated interim guidance on social distancing in schools (guidance document attached). NYS DOH has incorporated most of the directions/guidelines established by the CDC a few weeks ago.
The greatest change to the NYS DOH guidance is allowing for the reduction in social distancing from 6 feet to 3 feet in classroom settings and reducing social distancing from 12 feet to 6 feet in band, chorus, and physical education classes. Since this guidance was just released to the media on Friday afternoon (4/9) and sent to school districts Saturday morning (4/10), there are still many questions to be answered before moving forward with any changes. The updated guidance refers to the positivity rate of the community, the need to possibly test staff/students, and the ability to cohort students in order to make a shift to 3 feet in classroom settings. These are items we need to get further clarification on so we can determine what changes we can actually make.
One of the items that was very clear throughout the guidance is the requirement to wear face masks at all times, except for meals.
Per the most recent guidance, before making any possible changes, districts are required to provide opportunities for feedback from parents and teachers/staff. Districts must also get approval from the local departments of health and the Board of Education.
In the coming days, I will provide a voiceover presentation to all families and staff followed by a parent survey and meetings with faculty/staff. The feedback we receive will help shape any potential changes for the remainder of this school year.
As always, thank you for your patience and collaboration over the past 13 months, which have been extremely challenging. While there have been some challenges and adjustments along the way, I am proud of the instructional model we have offered to all of our students and the attention of everyone when it comes to the health and safety of students, faculty, and staff throughout the pandemic. The challenges are not over, but with each day we see improvements.
Further communication to follow as we get more answers and continue to plan accordingly.
With great appreciation,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central School District
Click here for the NYS Department of Health Document - INTERIM GUIDANCE FOR IN-PERSON INSTRUCTION AT PRE-K TO GRADE 12 (4-9-21)
March 2021
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
March 24, 2021
4:45 PM
Dear Families,
We learned that one of our Mynderse Academy students tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Wednesday, March 17, 2021. Considering the last date of attendance at school and when the student became symptomatic, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) has determined that there is no health and safety concern to the school and there are no student/staff quarantines as a result of this case. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
March 21, 2021
9:30 AM
COVID Updates
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Change in Social Distancing for Schools
On Friday, the CDC released updated guidance relative to Social Distancing in schools. This guidance allows a shift in distance between students from 6 feet to 3 feet. This most recent change by the CDC is partly based on the results from a Massachusetts-based study.
Even though the CDC has allowed for such a change in social distancing within schools, the NYS Department of Health (DOH) has not released any updated guidance. The updated guidance from NYS is necessary to allow our local Department of Health to issue additional guidance and approval for any changes. There are several school districts across the region currently making changes, but many of those changes could have occurred without this most recent guidance from the CDC. You will also see many reports from the media about school districts planning changes based on this most recent guidance. Many of these changes are not concrete without further guidance from NYS DOH, followed by the local DOH.
Based on what we know at this point, we are reflecting on our current plan and practices. We will continue to digest information as it is released and what it means for Seneca Falls Central School District specifically.
At this point, there are more questions than answers regarding this announcement by the CDC. Once we have specific updates from the NYS DOH and Seneca County DOH, we will share that information and what it means for SFCSD.
Seneca County Positivity Rates
I would also like to bring awareness to the most recent reports for positive COVID cases in the region. As you can see by the chart below, our county has by far the highest rate in our region and has for several weeks. This data was reported as of Friday (3/19).
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others. The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Travel Advisory
Governor Cuomo and the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) announced that as of April 1st, people are permitted to travel within the United States and not have to quarantine upon return to New York State.
This applies to people even if they have not had COVID or the vaccine. People are still recommended to exercise caution if they do travel and further, if they do travel, it is also recommended to quarantine upon return to New York but it is no longer required. The Governor’s office also stated that all travelers must continue to fill out the Traveler Health Form. Quarantines are required for all international travel.
While I share this information with all of you, the NYS Department of Health website does not yet reflect these changes- https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-travel-advisory. Hopefully, the website will be updated in the coming week, but please keep checking for the most updated requirements if you plan to travel during the spring break.
May you enjoy the sunny day ahead as the warmer weather is greatly appreciated.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent of Schools
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
March 18, 2021
5:00 PM
Dear Families,
This is a follow-up to the message I sent late on Wednesday night regarding the COVID case at Mynderse Academy. The district worked in collaboration with the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) through the contact tracing process. We have notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), which could take up to 24 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
In-person learners, in grades 9-12, will return to the building tomorrow, Friday, March 19th, unless under quarantine by the SCDPH.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
March 17, 2021
9:15 PM
Dear Families,
I just learned that a second Mynderse Academy student tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school today (3/17). Due to the timing of this notification and the complexity of the case, students in grades 9-12 will not report to school tomorrow, Thursday, March 18th, and will learn remotely.
We will work with the Seneca County Department of Health tomorrow (3/18) to complete the contact tracing process and will notify parents of students who will be required to quarantine.
Students will be expected to follow their normal D-day schedule. Teachers will post Zoom links in Google Classrooms along with all necessary materials and work. Please remember to have your cameras on and that participation in classroom discussion and activities is expected.
As the contact tracing process occurs, we ask that you avoid getting together and await further information from the school.
Faculty and staff, please report to the building.
As always if you have any questions or concerns please contact your teachers, counselors, Mrs. Mullen, or Mrs. Lewis. Thank you for your patience and flexibility as we work through this situation.
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
March 17, 2021
7:45 PM
Dear Families,
We learned late this afternoon that one of our Mynderse Academy student-athletes tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Monday, March 15, 2021. Through the contact tracing process, we have notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), which could take up to 24 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
March 14, 2021
4:30 PM
Dear Families,
Good afternoon. This message is a follow-up to the message I sent yesterday (Saturday 3/13) regarding the Mynderse Academy student who recently tested positive for COVID-19 and last attended school on Friday, March 12, 2021. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared. After working closely with the Seneca County Department of Health (SCDPH), we have been notifying all parents of students who must quarantine. Families received a call from SCDPH or a school official today. For those families who received a call from a school official, you will also be contacted by SCDPH within the next 24 hours.
If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
Our county currently has the highest positivity rate in the region. If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding as these are challenging times for all of us.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
March 13, 2021
8:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned today that one of our Mynderse Academy student-athletes tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Friday, March 12, 2021. Due to the timing and complexity of the case, we will continue the contact tracing process, in partnership with the Seneca County Department of Health (SDPH), tomorrow morning. Based on the situation currently, all practices and open gyms are cancelled for Sunday, March 14, 2021. Once the contact tracing process is complete tomorrow, we will notify all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
After all families of students who must quarantine are contacted on Sunday, I will send a follow-up message to make all families aware.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
March 5, 2021
9:30 AM
Dear Families,
We learned that one of our Seneca Falls Middle School students tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Thursday, March 4, 2021. Through the contact tracing process, the Seneca County Department of Health (SCDPH) has determined, at this time, that there will be no additional students or staff who must quarantine.
As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
Our county currently has the highest positivity rate in the region. If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
March 3, 2021
12:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned that one of our Frank Knight students tested positive for COVID. The student last attended school on Monday, March 1, 2021. Through the contact tracing process, we notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students and staff who need to quarantine, they will be contacted by the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), which could take up to 24 hours. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
Our county currently has the highest positivity rate in the region. If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
March 2, 2021
12:30 PM
Dear Families,
We learned that two of our Mynderse Academy students tested positive for COVID-19. One of the students has not been in school since Friday, February 12, 2021. The second student last attended school on Monday, March 1, 2021. Through the contact tracing process, we have been notifying all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students and staff who need to quarantine, they will also be notified directly by the SCDPH, which could take up to 48 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
Our county currently has the highest positivity rate in the region. If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
February 26, 2021
6:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned that one of our Mynderse Academy students tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Wednesday, February 24, 2021. Through the contact tracing process, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) determined that there were no additional staff or students who need to quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab- Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
February
Jan-Feb 2021
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
February 25, 2021
5:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned that one of our Frank Knight staff members tested positive for COVID-19. Through the contact tracing process, Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) determined that there were no additional staff or students who need to quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
February 25, 2021
11:45 AM
Dear Families,
We learned that one of our Mynderse Academy students tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Tuesday, February 23, 2021. Through the contact tracing process, we have notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students and staff who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the SCDPH, which could take up to 24 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT TRAVEL UPDATE
February 24, 2021
5:00 PM
Good Afternoon Families and Colleagues,
I know we just returned from February break, but it’s my understanding that people are inquiring about the status of the current travel advisory for NYS residents as they start to consider plans for the upcoming spring break. The Seneca County DOH issued a document that includes a link to the State’s webpage that outlines the travel advisory. I suggest continuing to check the State’s webpage for any updates as we do not create the travel guidelines.
Thank you and I hope you are well.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
February 22, 2021
4:30 PM
Dear Families,
We were informed of three positive COVID cases: a Mynderse Academy student, an Elizabeth Cady Stanton student, and an Elizabeth Cady Stanton staff member. Considering the last date of attendance at school and when these individuals became symptomatic, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) has determined that there is no health and safety concern to the schools. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students who need to quarantine due to contact outside of school, they have been or will be notified directly by the SCDPH.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us),
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Be safe!
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
February 16, 2021
4:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned that one of our Elizabeth Cady Stanton students and a Seneca Falls Middle School student tested positive for COVID-19. The students last attended school on Friday, February 12. Through the contact tracing process, we have notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students and staff who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the SCDPH, which could take up to 24 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab- Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
February 11, 2021
9:30 AM
Dear Families,
We learned that one of our Elizabeth Cady Stanton students tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Monday, February 8, 2021. Through the contact tracing process, we have notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the SCDPH, which could take up to 48 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the Elizabeth Cady Stanton health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
February 8, 2021
5:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned that one of our Elizabeth Cady Stanton students tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Friday, February 5, 2021. Through the contact tracing process, the Seneca County Department of Health has determined that no other quarantines are required at this time. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For students who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the SCDPH. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the Elizabeth Cady Stanton health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
February 4, 2021
5:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned that one of our Mynderse Academy students tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Friday, January 29. Through the contact tracing process, we have notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students and staff who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the SCDPH, which could take up to 48 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the Middle School health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
January 31, 2021
12:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned that one of our Seneca Falls Middle School students tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Friday, January 29. Once we learned of this case we contacted the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH). Through the contact tracing process, we are identifying and notifying all parents of students and staff who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students and staff who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the SCDPH, which could take up to 48 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the Middle School health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
January 28, 2021
6:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned this afternoon, from the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), that one of our Mynderse Academy students tested positive today for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Friday, January 22. Through the contact tracing process, we identified and notified all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the SCDPH, which could take up to 48 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the Mynderse Academy health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
January 15, 2021
3:45 PM
Dear Families and Employees,
We were informed by the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), over the course of this week, that three students tested positive for COVID-19. There was one student who attends Frank Knight Elementary and two students who attend Mynderse Academy. Two of these students were included in the data I provided in my message on Thursday (1/14). Considering that the last date of attendance at school was prior to recess and when the students became symptomatic, the SCDPH has determined that there is no health and safety concern to other students or staff members due to these specific cases. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
It is more important than ever that we all complete the daily health screening and that employees and students stay home when experiencing symptoms and see their primary care physician. If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
The health and safety of our students and employees is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
January 14, 2021
10:30 AM
Dear Families,
Last Thursday, after a lengthy discussion at the Board meeting, it was decided to remain in a distance learning model 6-12 until January 19th. We discussed monitoring the positive COVID cases in the district and determine if we would stay with the 19th or extend the date once again. After looking at the decreasing rates in both the district data and the county, it was decided to bring in-person learners in grades 6-12 back into the buildings. I did not make this decision solely on my own as I communicated with both the administrators and Board of Education on this decision.
While the numbers in the county are not what we would like, they are starting to drop and that’s with a significant increase in the amount of testing that has taken place over the past three weeks. Again, we are not where we want to be, but we are heading in the right direction. Currently, as of January 19th (next Tuesday), we will have 2 students (k-12) and no staff (k-12) in isolation due to being positive for COVID-19. We will have 6 students as of the 19th (k-12) in quarantine due to being close contacts (4 will be released on the 20th). I know this can change within hours, but that is a significant decrease compared to the initial cases coming off of winter recess.
It is more important than ever that we all complete the daily health screening and that employees and students stay home when experiencing symptoms and see their primary care physician. If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
January 13, 2021
4:15 PM
Dear Families,
We learned this afternoon from the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) that a staff member at Elizabeth Cady Stanton Elementary tested positive for COVID-19. The staff member’s last date of attendance in the building was Wednesday, January 6, 2021. We have identified and notified all staff members and parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students and staff who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the SCDPH, which could take up to 48 hours. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
Please remember that just because someone is quarantined does not mean they are positive for COVID-19. The quarantines are for precautionary purposes and meant to control the spread of COVID-19.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the Elizabeth Cady Stanton health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
January 12, 2021
6:15 PM
Dear Families,
We learned this afternoon from the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) that a staff member at Frank Knight Elementary tested positive today for COVID-19. The staff member last attended school on Friday, January 8, 2021. We have identified and notified all staff members and parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students and staff who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the SCDPH, which could take up to 48 hours. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
Please remember that just because someone is quarantined does not mean they are positive for COVID-19. The quarantines are for precautionary purposes and meant to control the spread of COVID-19.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the Frank Knight health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
January 11, 2021
8:00 AM
Dear Families and Employees,
We were informed over the weekend by the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) that two staff members tested positive for COVID-19. One staff member works at Mynderse Academy and one works at Frank Knight Elementary. Both employees had already been in quarantine as close contacts of a positive case. Considering the last date of attendance at school and when these individuals became symptomatic, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) has determined that there is no health and safety concern to other students or staff members due to these specific cases. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
If we have positive cases that impact other staff and/or students, we will continue to report these situations as soon as possible as we have done in the past.
It is more important than ever that we all complete the daily health screening and that employees and students stay home when experiencing symptoms and see their primary care physician. If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Our ability to stay open for in-person instruction depends on everyone working together. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions so that we reduce the chance of infection to ourselves and others.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
The health and safety of our students and employees is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
January 8, 2021
9:30 AM
Good morning Faculty, Staff, and Families.
As I have shared in previous messages, this pandemic requires us to be fluid in our response to its many challenges. We continue to see the number of positive cases increase in our region and this increase in positive cases has continued to have an impact on the district.
There was a discussion among the Board of Education at last night’s Board meeting about COVID-19 cases in the district and whether or not to extend the current distance learning model for students in grades 6 - 12. Due to quarantines and absences of faculty and staff on a daily basis, it has become harder than ever to cover instructional classes when faculty/staff are absent. This is a problem K-12. With the current health and safety protocols/restrictions, we cannot shift students around as we have done in the past when we didn’t have enough substitute coverage… for example, spreading students from one classroom among multiple classrooms. An in-person instructional model at the 6 - 12 level, with all its moving parts, can lead to multiple students and/or staff being quarantined with just one positive case following the contact tracing process. As we have seen in the past, one case can force an entire grade level or building to go remote at the 6 - 12 level. Even for districts in a hybrid model, they experience this issue.
With the continued issue of covering absences, the numbers staying elevated in the County and District, and the impact one positive case can have at the 6-12 level, it was decided at last night’s Board meeting that Seneca Falls Middle School and Mynderse Academy will remain in a distance learning model through January 18th for all students in grades 6th - 12th. Students learning in-person in grades 6th - 12th will return to in-person instruction on Tuesday, January 19th (Monday the 18th is an observed Holiday - Martin Luther King Jr. Day). The hope is that the number of positive cases in the community will start declining, which will likely lead to less disruption in the educational setting and not cause us to go in and out of an in-person learning model for days/weeks at a time due to quarantines.
We realize that a positive case at the K-5 level is also disruptive, but with less movement among staff and students and the ability to create pure cohorts, the chance of an entire grade level or building having to go remote is significantly less compared to 6-12.
Again, the Seneca Falls school district will continue with a full distance learning model for all students in 6th -12th grades at the Seneca Falls Middle School and Mynderse Academy from January 11th through January 18th. For the dates of January 11th-18th, students in grades 6th-12th will NOT report to the school building. Students learning in-person in grades K-5 will report to school as normal.
Mynderse Academy students who attend BOCES (New Visions & FLTCC) will continue to do so and will arrive on campus in order to be transported by bus to and from BOCES. All students in grades 6th-12th should:
- Follow their regular daily schedule remotely
- Log into Google Classroom to access Zoom links for classes
- Check their emails for communication from their teachers
- Not log in for study halls or lunch
We all wish this pandemic was over and we were bringing all students back Monday as we know being in the school building is the best chance for growth, engagement and allows students to experience all of the opportunities normally offered to students, but until we beat this pandemic, we need to continue to work together and make adjustments as needed.
I want to thank every employee in this district, the Board of Education, and all of our families for continuing to support each other and most importantly our students. It is truly an amazing community doing amazing things for our children!
If you have questions, please contact your child’s teacher, counselor, or the main office.
With tremendous gratitude,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent of Schools
Seneca Falls Central Schools
A Few Reminders for All of us, Especially During this Time of Increased Positive Cases:
- Health and Safety
-
- When ill, don’t come to school or be around others outside of your household
-
-
- Make sure you are completing the daily healthy screening (Parent Square) and following protocols when experiencing symptoms even if your child is not reporting to a school building: Parent Square
-
-
- Social distance
- Wear a mask
- Wash hands/sanitize regularly
- Avoid social gatherings
Access to Free Meals:
With multiple grade levels shifting to distance learning from January 11th - January 15th, meals will be available for pickup for students learning remotely. Food Service will be providing free meals to all students and younger siblings who can pick them up from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm (Monday – Friday). Meals can be picked up behind Mynderse Academy, by the track (signs will be posted by the Academy entrance on Troy Street - see map below for directions). Please follow the signs and staff directions. When asked by an employee, please tell them how many meals you will need, we do not need to know names. Please stay in your car as meals will be brought to you. Once you receive your meals please exit safely as incoming traffic will also be using the roadway. If you are in need of several meals you may want to bring a bag(s) or box to transport them in.
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
January 6, 2021
2:45 PM
Dear Families and Employees,
We were recently informed that a Mynderse Academy student tested positive for COVID-19. This student was in the building last on January 5, 2021. Upon learning of this positive case, we immediately contacted the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH). Through the contact tracing process, we identified and notified all staff members and parents of students who must quarantine based on the contact here at school. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
It is more important than ever that we all complete the daily health screening and that employees and students stay home when experiencing symptoms and see their primary care physician. If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
The health and safety of our students and employees is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
January 5, 2021
4:00 PM
Dear Families and Employees,
We were recently informed that two Mynderse Academy students tested positive for COVID-19. Considering that the last date of attendance at school was prior to recess and when the students became symptomatic, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) has determined that there is no health and safety concern to other students or staff members due to these specific cases. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
It is more important than ever that we all complete the daily health screening and that employees and students stay home when experiencing symptoms and see their primary care physician. If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
The health and safety of our students and employees is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central School
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
January 4, 2021
4:30 PM
Dear Families and Employees,
We were recently informed of three students who tested positive for COVID-19. There was one student at each of the following buildings- Frank Knight, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, and Seneca Falls Middle School. Considering that the last date of attendance at school was prior to recess and when the students became symptomatic, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) has determined that there is no health and safety concern to other students or staff members due to these specific cases. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
It is more important than ever that we all complete the daily health screening and that employees and students stay home when experiencing symptoms and see their primary care physician. If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
The health and safety of our students and employees is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
January 3, 2021
5:45 PM
Seneca Falls Central School District: Covid-19 Return to Play Protocol
Dear Staff and Families:
The Covid-19 Pandemic has created a unique set of circumstances pertaining to student health and return to play. Covid-19 has been shown to affect the respiratory and cardiac systems. The health of these systems is vital to sport and exercise and should be fully assessed by a qualified medical professional following a Covid-19 diagnosis. The following flowchart has been created using guidance from the University of Rochester Golisano Children’s Hospital Covid Return to Play Workgroup, the AAP Updated Guidance on Returning to Sports Activities, and the Return to Sports and Exercise during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Guidance for High School and Collegiate Athletic Programs document.
The Seneca Falls School District, under the guidance of our District Medical Director, is requiring return to play clearance for all students (K-12). The protocols outlined in the Return to Play Related to COVID-19 Infection in Pediatric Patients (K-12) flowchart describes the best practice procedures for returning to sport and/or exercise following a period of COVID-19 illness or quarantine related to contact with a Covid-19 positive individual for students of the Seneca Falls Central School District. All students who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to see their primary care physician in order to get clearance to return to playing PE, Recess, and/or Sports. Once the student is cleared to return to play (PE/Recess/Sports), they will go through a gradual return to play schedule that will take a week or more to complete.
This flowchart is designed specifically for the return to play following a period of quarantine due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This flowchart and procedures will be in place until the administration of the Seneca Falls Central School District deems fit. This flowchart will be a living, working document that is continually reviewed and updated as the district and/or our community needs change and/or updated guidance is provided.
It is my understanding that all primary physicians in the region will have a Return to Play form to complete that parents can provide to the school nurse.
There will be a webinar lead by our School Medical Director (Dr. Grace Freier) and Director of Seneca County Department of Health (Vickie Swinehart) on January 7th at 7 PM. Waterloo CSD is hosting the webinar which can be accessed at the Zoom link below. This will be helpful to all parents to better understand the protocols associated with this flowchart.
Topic: Return to Play - Informational Meeting
Time: Jan 7, 2021, 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83029077504
Meeting ID: 830 2907 7504
One tap mobile
+16465588656,,83029077504# US (New York)
Please contact the building nurse if you have any questions.
Thank you,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent of Schools
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
January 3, 2021
3:35 PM
Dear Families and Employees,
We were recently informed of a Frank Knight staff member who tested positive for COVID-19. Considering the last date of attendance at school and when these individuals became symptomatic, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) has determined that there is no health and safety concern to other students or staff members due to these specific cases. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
It is more important than ever that we all complete the daily health screening and that employees and students stay home when experiencing symptoms and see their primary care physician. If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
The health and safety of our students and employees is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
Nov-Dec 2020
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
December 31, 2020
12:30 PM
Dear Families and Employees,
We were recently informed of three staff members who have tested positive. One of our Elizabeth Cady Stanton staff members tested positive for COVID-19. Considering the last date of attendance at school and when the staff member became symptomatic, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) has determined that there is no health and safety concern to students or other staff members due to this specific case. We have a staff member at the middle school and a district office staff member who have tested positive for COVID-19. The health department has not completed the contact tracing process for either of these cases, but impacted employees will be notified today if they are required to quarantine. None of these cases impacted students. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
This growing number of quarantines, either from testing positive or being a close contact of a positive, is creating strain on the district. We are all aware of the increase in the positivity rate in our region and community. This increase is impacting all families in the community and specifically the students and employees of the district. While positivity rates have remained low in schools due to all the health and safety protocols in place, the rates in the community are impacting the district.
At this time, all staff and students (learning in-person), who are not under a mandatory quarantine by the department of health, as of January 4, 2021, will return to school on the 4th. All students who have been learning remotely will join classes at their regular scheduled time starting on the 4th as well. With that said, I am asking parents of in-person learners to revisit your child care plans for your child(ren) in the event the district needs to shift to a distance learning model. This shift, as stated previously, could be for a classroom, grade level, building, or the entire district. A shift to distance learning could be for a few days or for a few weeks. Please visit the continuity plan in the event we need to make a shift.
If there is a decision to make a shift for any of our in-person learners to distance learning, I will communicate as soon as that decision is made. Along with that communication, there would be additional information from myself and/or principals providing details about instruction, devices, accessing free breakfast/lunch, BOCES, etc.
As we continue to evaluate the positivity rate and quarantines impacting the district, we will do our best to maintain the learning model we have implemented for all learners for the past 15 weeks. Knowing there is a possibility that we will need to make a shift in the coming days or weeks ahead due to positivity rates and quarantines, we will make it a priority to avoid this shift with our youngest learners, if possible. Again, we will do our best, but as we have seen with this pandemic, everything is fluid and changes rapidly and we need to respond accordingly. It’s a delicate balance in trying to meet as many academic, social, and emotional needs as possible with health and safety as our priority.
It is more important than ever that we all complete the daily health screening and that employees and students stay home when experiencing symptoms and see their primary care physician. If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
I regret that this is the message I am sending on New Year’s Eve, but I wanted to bring this information to the forefront as I continue to receive updates from the Department of health daily regarding positive cases and those being quarantined due to close contact with a positive case. We need to be prepared for change as we have experienced for most of 2020.
I wish all of you a happy, healthier and safe 2021. While we have challenges ahead of us with regards to the pandemic, I see hope and light at the end of the tunnel. It is going to take great strength, flexibility, and collaboration to stay positive and healthy (mind and body), but together we will get to a better place soon.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills | Cough | Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing | Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches | Headache | New loss of taste or smell | Sore throat |
Congestion | Nausea/Vomiting | Diarrhea |
The health and safety of our students and employees is our top priority.
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
December 29, 2020
7:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned today that one of our Elizabeth Cady Stanton staff members and three Mynderse Academy students tested positive for COVID-19. Considering the last date of attendance at school and when the staff member and students became symptomatic, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) has determined that there is no health and safety concern to other students or staff members due to these specific cases. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
All staff and students (learning in-person), who are not under a mandatory quarantine by the department of health, as of January 4, 2021, will return to school on the 4th. All school buildings, at this time, will be open for in-person learning for those who had been attending in-person prior to recess. For families whose child(ren) were attending in-person, but chose to keep your children home for the few days prior to break, your children may return to in-person instruction on the 4th. For those families whose children have been learning remotely during the weeks leading up to recess, you will continue in this distance learning model. For those families who are interested in switching from distance learning to in-person, please email the principal of the school your child(ren) attend to express interest if you have not done so previously.
If during this time, while school is not in session, we are notified of quarantines and/or positive cases that will impact our instructional model, I will follow up with additional information.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
December 28, 2020
4:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned today that one of our Frank Knight staff members tested positive for COVID-19. The staff member last attended school on Tuesday, December 22, 2020. Considering the last date of attendance at school and when the staff member became symptomatic, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) has determined that there is no health and safety concern to students or other staff members due to this specific case. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
All staff and students (learning in-person), who are not under a mandatory quarantine by the department of health, as of January 4, 2021, will return to school on the 4th. All school buildings will be open for in-person learning for those who had been attending in-person prior to recess. For families whose child(ren) were attending in-person, but chose to keep your children home for the few days prior to break, your children may return to in-person instruction on the 4th. For those families whose children have been learning remotely during the weeks leading up to recess, you will continue in this distance learning model. For those families who are interested in switching from distance learning to in-person, please email the principal of the school your child(ren) attend to express interest if you have not done so previously.
If during this time, while school is not in session, we are notified of quarantines and/or positive cases that will impact our instructional model, I will follow up with additional information.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab -Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
December 17, 2020
6:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned a little while ago that one of our Seneca Falls Middle School staff members tested positive for COVID-19. Upon learning of this positive case, we contacted the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH). Through the contact tracing process, we are currently identifying and notifying all parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students and staff members who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the SCDPH. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. At this time, classes will resume tomorrow as scheduled.
Please remember that just because someone is quarantined does not mean they are positive for COVID-19. The quarantines are for precautionary purposes and meant to control the spread of COVID-19.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the middle school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
Mynderse Academy Positive COVID-19 Case (Grades 9-12 Go Remote Until the Holiday Recess)
December 13, 2020
5:30 PM
Dear Families,
We learned this afternoon that one of our Mynderse Academy students tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Thursday, December 10, 2020. Upon learning of this positive case, from the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), we immediately started the contact tracing process. We are currently identifying and notifying all staff members and parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students and staff who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the SCDPH. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19.
Due to the number of staff members impacted by this case and additional circumstances, all students attending classes in-person in grades 9-12 will be transitioning to distance learning starting tomorrow, Monday, December 14th through Tuesday, December 22nd.
This means students in grades 9-12 will not report to Mynderse Academy from Monday the 14th through Tuesday the 22nd and will be learning remotely. At this time, Mynderse Academy students learning in-person will not report to the school building until after the holiday recess.
Mrs. Lewis will be sending a message to all families of students in grades 9-12 within the hour containing details about remoting in for classes, daily schedule, and students who attend BOCES. (See Mrs. Lewis’ message below.)
Please remember that just because someone is quarantined does not mean they are positive for COVID-19. The quarantines are for precautionary purposes and meant to control the spread of COVID-19.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the Mynderse Academy health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
Message from Mrs. Lewis, Mynderse Academy Principal
December 13, 2020
Mynderse Academy will be learning remotely starting Monday, December 14th through Tuesday, December 22nd. All students are expected to follow their normal schedule from the start of the school year. All classes will be occurring in a remote model. Students who attend the Finger Lakes Technical and Career Center and are not under quarantine will report to the Mynderse Academy bus loop to get on the bus to go to the Tech Center at the normal departure times. A separate message will be going out to all BOCES students with further details.
All students should check their Google Classrooms for the Zoom links to connect to each class. Again, as a reminder, classes will begin at 7:35 as normal and students will follow the 5-period schedule as we have been since the beginning of the year. Students are expected to attend and participate virtually in all classes. Students do not have to log on for study halls or lunch. Tomorrow, Monday, December 14th is a D-Day.
Please contact the Mynderse Academy office with any questions.
Thank you.
Faith Lewis
Principal
Mynderse Academy
Seneca Falls Central School District
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
December 12, 2020
2:00 PM
Dear Families,
We learned this morning, from the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), that one of our Frank Knight students tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Wednesday, December 9, 2020. Through the contact tracing process, we identified and notified all staff members and parents of students who must quarantine. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students and staff who need to quarantine, they will be contacted directly by the SCDPH, which could take up to 48 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
Please remember that just because someone is quarantined does not mean they are positive for COVID-19. The quarantines are for precautionary purposes and meant to control the spread of COVID-19.
The SCDPH has advised us that classes should continue as scheduled.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the Frank Knight health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19:
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
December 9, 2020
8:30 AM
Dear Families,
I hope this message finds you well. I want to start by saying thank you for all that you do to support your child(ren) and the district. We are now 14 weeks into the school year and I could not be more proud of our faculty, staff, administrators, students, and parents. Regardless of learning remotely or in-person, it is a lot of work to support students in the learning process. As educators, we appreciate parents talking to their child(ren) daily about school, checking SchoolTool, and other computer programs to see what students are working on or how they are performing. Students are never too old to have these conversations. We also appreciate parents contacting teachers, counselors, and/or administrators when you have a concern about your child(ren)’s academic performance and/or social and emotional needs.
I had this message prepared to go to all of you yesterday morning (December 8th), but as you know, I had to share a different message about a positive case in the Middle School.
This message is also a reminder to be prepared for a possible short-term closure as we see a rise in positive cases in our region and across the state. With faculty/staff quarantines and absences due to common illness, we could be faced with a situation where we are forced to implement 1-2 days of remote instruction for a building or district-wide. For example:
- If we were short bus drivers and could not fulfill all routes, we would be forced into a district-wide distance learning model for the day.
- If a building does not have enough faculty/staff and substitutes to cover faculty absences, the building may be closed for the day and we would implement a remote learning model for all students in that building.
I’m sharing the above information because there have been days recently where covering all roles and responsibilities has been extremely difficult. I want to thank all of our faculty, staff, and administrators for stepping up and going above and beyond to continue providing opportunities for our students. Thank you as well to our substitutes who are vital to our operation as we could not make it all happen without them.
A few reminders:
- Health and Safety
- When ill, don’t come to school or be around others outside of your household
- Make sure you are completing the daily healthy screening (Parent Square) and following protocols when experiencing symptoms even if your child is not reporting to a school building: Parent Square
- Social distance
- Wear a mask
- Wash hands/sanitize regularly
- Avoid social gatherings
- When ill, don’t come to school or be around others outside of your household
- In the event of a closure
- Please reference our Continuity Plan on our website:
- Be prepared for:
- A 1 day closure
- Short-term 2-5 day closure
- Extended Closure (more than 5 days)
- It is important for families with students attending in-person to have a plan for those students who will need supervision during a building closure
- Be prepared for:
- Please reference our Continuity Plan on our website:
Let’s continue to work together to keep everyone healthy and safe.
Again, thank you for all that you do and for being partners in the growth of our children.
With Gratitude,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
December 8, 2020
10:30 AM
Dear Families,
We learned this morning that one of our Seneca Falls Middle School seventh grade students tested positive for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Thursday, December 3, 2020. Upon learning of this positive case, we immediately contacted the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH). Through the contact tracing process, we are currently identifying and notifying all staff members and parents of students who must quarantine. The staff members and students who have been ordered to quarantine are currently leaving the school building under the directive of SCDPH. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students and staff who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the SCDPH. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
Due to the number of staff members impacted by this case and additional circumstances, all 6th and 7th grade students will be transitioning to distance learning starting tomorrow, Wednesday, December 9th through Wednesday, December 16th. This means 6th and 7th grade students will not report to the Middle School from Wednesday the 9th through Wednesday the 16th. These 6th and 7th grade students will remote into classes each day following their normal schedule. Teachers are communicating to students, through email or Google Classroom the directions they will need to remote into their classes.
Please remember that just because someone is quarantined does not mean they are positive for COVID-19. The quarantines are for precautionary purposes and meant to control the spread of COVID-19.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the middle school health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
December 3, 2020
7:05 AM
Dear Families,
We learned late yesterday afternoon/early evening that one of our Mynderse Academy students tested positive for COVID-19. The student is a distance learner who comes to Mynderse Academy midday where they are transported by bus to programming at FLTCC. Upon learning of this positive case, we were in immediate contact with the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH). After completing the contact tracing process, the Seneca County Department of Public Health has determined that there is no health concern for others and no need for anyone to be quarantined based on this student’s past dates of attendance and infectious period. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the Mynderse Academy health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician.
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
November 30, 2020
2:25 PM
Dear Families,
We learned this afternoon that one of our Frank Knight Elementary students tested positive today for COVID-19. The student last attended school on Tuesday, November 24, 2020. Upon learning of this positive case, we immediately contacted the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH). Through the contact tracing process, we are currently identifying and notifying all staff members and parents of students who must quarantine. The staff members and students who have been ordered to quarantine are currently leaving the school building under the directive of SCDPH. As all of you know, per privacy guidelines, no additional identifying information can be shared.
For those select students and staff who need to quarantine, they will be notified directly by the SCDPH, which could take up to 48 hours. If you are not contacted, no further action is required on your part. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 as they can occur up to seven days after exposure.
Please remember that just because someone is quarantined does not mean they are positive for COVID-19. The quarantines are for precautionary purposes and meant to control the spread of COVID-19. The SCDPH has advised us that classes and any extracurricular activities should continue as scheduled.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, avoid social gatherings, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact the Frank Knight or Cady Stanton health office or main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (315-539-1920 or covid19@co.seneca.ny.us), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab - Covid 19 Resources
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
November 23, 2020
5:00 PM
Yellow Zone Designation and Required COVID-19 Testing
Dear SFCSD Families,
If at any point, our district is designated a yellow zone designation by Governor Cuomo, we will work with the state and local health departments to provide free diagnostic COVID-19 testing to 20% of our employees and students at Seneca Falls CSD.
Effective the week of November 16, 2020, schools in yellow zones are required to test 20% of in-person students, faculty and staff over the two-week period immediately following the announcement of a yellow zone designation that encompasses our school district. (At this time, we are NOT in a yellow zone.) If the results of the testing for our district reveals that the positivity rate among the 20% of those tested is lower than the yellow zone’s current 7-day positivity rate, testing at that school will no longer be required to continue. A positivity rate in a school, that is lower than the entire area of the yellow zone, is a sufficient demonstration that in-person instruction is not a significant driver of local viral spread. The current positivity rate for zones can be found at https://forward.ny.gov/percentage-positive-results-county-dashboard.
Twenty percent of the students and employees at SFCSD will be randomly selected for testing in the first two-week period immediately following the announcement of a yellow zone designation. If the results of the testing reveal that the positivity rate among the 20% of those tested is lower than the yellow zone’s current 7-day positivity rate, testing at that school will no longer be required to continue. However, if the results of the testing over the first two weeks reveal that the positivity rate among in-person student, staff, and faculty is higher than the Yellow Zone’s current 7-day positivity rate, the school will be required to continue to test 20% of the in-person population on a bi-weekly basis.
Tests will be performed mainly by our school's nurses with support from a few administrators and staff from Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES. Anyone administering the test must be trained. WFL BOCES will provide the training through an RN. These tests are free and are non-invasive. A rapid COVID -19 test will be used, which will involve inserting a small swab, similar to a Q-Tip, into the front of the nose. If your child has a specimen collected for testing at school, we will send information home to let you know. COVID-19 test results will generally be provided within 24 hours. Please contact your child’s doctor immediately to review the test results should your child test positive for COVID-19. Any students who test positive must be kept at home until meeting Seneca County Health Department criteria to return to school. Schools can accept written test results from healthcare providers.
- If an employee or parent chooses a healthcare provider instead of the school, they must cover any costs associated with testing to meet the yellow zone mandated testing.
- Demonstration of the testing process can be viewed at https://www.democratandchronicle.com/videos/news/2020/11/13/michael-mendoza-demonstrates-rapid-testing-kits-used-schools/6282716002/
- If a student/employee tests positive through the rapid test (BinaxNow) administered at school, they can get a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test if they are asymptomatic and choose to get the test done. If the PCR test comes back negative then that individual will most likely be released from quarantine by the County DOH.
Students who are selected for testing must have a completed consent form on file in order to be tested. Please complete the consent form at this Parent Square link: https://www.parentsquare.com/feeds/5464928. If you have multiple children, you will need to submit a separate form for each child. If you cannot complete the form electronically you may request a paper copy if you do not have the capability to do it on-line. Please contact the main office of the school in which your child(ren) attend. If you complete a paper copy, please have your child in grades K-5 return it to their teacher and for grades 6-12 to the main office. If you do not agree to consent, you can indicate that on the form. (The consent form can also be printed out at https://www.senecafallscsd.org/cms/lib/NY02205491/Centricity/Domain/1595/Yellow Zone Consent Form.pdf.
*While testing applies to those reporting to the school buildings, we are requesting that our families of students learning remotely, also complete the consent form. This will address any future changes if the student participates in any extra-curricular activities and/or moves to in-person instruction.
If a student who is randomly selected for testing does not have a consent form on file, we will contact a parent or guardian to confirm whether the parent grants permission to test the child. If at some point, the district does not have enough participating in-person students and/or employees to test 20%, the district will be forced to go to full remote instruction until no longer in a yellow zone.
Thank you for your continued flexibility and cooperation as we continue to strive to provide a safe learning environment for our entire school community.
I will be providing a Zoom Webinar on Tuesday, November 24, 2020, from 6-6:30 PM to review the attached FAQ and answer any remaining questions parents may have prior to completing the consent form. Link: https://senecafallscsd-org.zoom.us/j/96110492598
Respectfully,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
November 9, 2020
1:00 PM
Good morning. I hope all of you have had the chance to enjoy the stretch of beautiful weather we are having. The additional sunshine has done all of us some good.
I write today to share some reminders. With the increase in positive COVID cases, we need to make sure we are following the necessary protocols:
- Wear a mask
- Social distance
- Wash/disinfect hands regularly
- Complete the daily health screening and do not come to school when experiencing symptoms
- For any parents who are in need of a thermometer to complete the daily health screening, please contact Jacqueline Brown at jbrown1@senecafallscsd.org
With the upcoming Holiday Season, it will be important to be extra mindful of these protocols and be aware of the current travel restrictions (Click here to view: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-cuomo-announces-new-guidelines-allowing-out-state-travelers-test-out-mandatory-14-day)
With many schools impacted by positive cases, we need to follow these safety protocols (in school and at home) to keep our school buildings open. What we are learning from surrounding schools, when they experience a positive case, is that the contact tracing process may take a couple of days. This means that school buildings or possibly the entire district will shift to full remote learning during the contact tracing process before determining which employees and/or students need to quarantine. We also know that it could be late in the evening or the middle of the school day when we learn of a positive case. With this unpredictability, it is important that parents of students learning in-person have daycare pre-arranged. Having to make these decisions, with short notice, is a challenge for both the district and for families. I encourage you to have a plan in place for daycare in the event we have to shift to remote learning for all students/staff in a building or districtwide.
In the event we have to shift to full remote learning, we will implement our contingency plan as follows: Continuity of Education Plans.
As always, thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding. Together, we will navigate our way through these challenging times.
Respectfully,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
November 2021
Sept-Oct 2020
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
October 30, 2020
1:00 PM
Dear Colleagues, Parents, and Students:
I want to start by saying thank you to each of you for working together to make this a safe 8 weeks. Following the protocols we have in place is critical to our health and safety and providing the opportunity for in-person learning. Taking the daily health screening and not coming to school when sick is one of the most important actions we can take. Wearing masks, washing/sanitizing our hands regularly and social distancing are also critical to us remaining “open” as a school.
We have been, and will continue to be, following the guidelines set forth by the NYS Department of Public Health and the NYS Education Department. With that said, the protocols associated with wearing masks will be adjusted starting Monday, November 2, 2020. I am making this adjustment at this time based on the following:
- We are not getting outside as much
- Windows are not open as often
- We are entering the common flu season
- We are seeing an increase in positive COVID-19 cases impacting schools
- We are seeing an increase in positive COVID-19 cases in the State and County
- The contact tracing process looks at the amount of time someone was not wearing a mask when in the presence of an individual who tests positive, even if 6 feet apart. Our goal is to not only reduce the chances of being infected but also minimize the number of people who would have to quarantine
The requirement for wearing masks for all students and employees from this point forward will be to wear them at all times, with the following exceptions:
- While eating snack (teacher-directed for students)
- While eating breakfast/lunch
- Mask breaks- directed by the faculty/staff member supervising the class
- No more than two 5 minute mask breaks per hour (recommendation by the County Health Dept.). Must be 6 feet apart.
- Being outside, at least 6 feet apart and directed by the faculty/staff member supervising the class
This change does not impact current protocols for buses and athletics.
This change will not take away any opportunities for our students. If anything, it helps to ensure that they continue to maintain the current opportunities. I want to give credit to all of our students, as they have been great about wearing their masks. Thank you!
Ultimately, it is my responsibility to make sure we take all necessary actions to keep our employees and students healthy and safe and I believe this is the right thing to do so that we can continue to offer in-person instruction and other opportunities moving forward.
As always, thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding.
Respectfully,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
October 28, 2020
3:00 PM
Dear Families,
I was informed this afternoon that one of our Mynderse Academy faculty members was a direct contact of someone outside of the district (Ontario County) who tested positive for COVID-19. This faculty member left the building as soon as they received this information. As a direct contact, this faculty member has been quarantined for 14 days under the direction of the Ontario County Department of Public Health.
I immediately communicated with the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH) about the situation. At this time, there is no further action required by the District. As this is an ongoing and fluid situation, we will continue to work with the SCDPH to monitor and adjust our response as needed. As always, please be aware of any signs or symptoms of COVID-19 that your children may experience.
If we continue to practice proper hand hygiene, physical distancing, and wear face coverings, we will minimize the risk of spread and exposure. Safeguarding the health and safety of our schools and their programs starts with each of us individually. Please continue to practice these safety precautions and take our daily health screenings and respond accordingly so that we reduce the chance of infection to others.
If you have any questions regarding this or other COVID-19 related concerns, please contact your child’s school health office, main office, district office, the Seneca County Department of Public Health (SCDPH), or your family physician. You will also find helpful resources posted on our district website under the COVID-19 tab.
The health and safety of our students and staff is our top priority.
Signs and Symptoms of COVID-19
Fever of 100.0 or greater or chills |
Cough |
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing |
Fatigue |
Muscle/Body aches |
Headache |
New loss of taste or smell |
Sore throat |
Congestion |
Nausea/Vomiting |
Diarrhea |
|
Thank you for your continued cooperation, support, and understanding,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
September 3, 2020
3:45 PM
The start of the 2020-21 school year is upon us. Even with the many changes and the physical appearances that make school look different this year, it is still the same great place, remotely or in-person, with the same amazing people. A new school year still brings excitement and opportunities. Collectively, whether we are learning remotely or in-person, we will make this a healthy, safe, and positive environment like every other year.
Our vision, strategic plan, building improvement plans, etc. will still drive our goals and outcomes.
We are still here to support our students socially and emotionally.
We are still committed to safely transporting and feeding hundreds of students each day.
We are still focused on supporting our students as they continue to grow their knowledge and skills.
As educators, we are still growing ourselves so we can prepare our students for college and/or careers in the 21st century.
While there is no denying things will look different, whether learning remotely or in-person, it is still the same caring and committed Seneca Falls community supporting each other.
We have never worked harder to prepare for the opening of school. This preparation has been physically, mentally, and emotionally draining, but our students deserve all that we have to give. There is no doubt this year will present greater challenges than any other, but our commitment to work together as a community, will allow us to overcome these challenges and celebrate the many positives along the way.
Knowing how much we all care and want the best for our students, needs to remain at the forefront of our thinking and actions. Let’s all continue to be Seneca Falls CSD PROUD and together make this an amazing school year.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Day Care
For all of our families whose children are attending in-person, please plan for daycare in the event we need to make a quick change to a remote/distance learning model where students would not be reporting to the school buildings for a period of time. A sudden change to a full remote/distance learning for all students could be a district decision, county decision, or mandated by the state.
Daily Health Screenings PARENT ACTION REQUIRED
Parent Square - https://www.parentsquare.com/signin
In order to comply with the NYSDOH, NYSED, and CDC guidelines for the opening of schools, all staff and students will complete a daily health screening.
Whether a child is learning in-person or remotely, all families need to download the ParentSquare app. to successfully complete the daily health screening. Students must complete the health screening prior to entering a bus or school building/grounds. Students learning remotely may need to come to the buildings at times so we are asking that families of remote learners also complete the health screening daily.
If you have any issues with accessing ParentSquare or activating an account, please contact sftechhelp@senecafallscsd.org
It is highly recommended that you set your calendar as a daily reminder M-F to complete the survey each morning.
For any parents who are in need of a thermometer to complete the daily health screening, please contact Jacqueline Brown at jbrown1@senecafallscsd.org
School Hours & Drop-off/Pick-up
Please be flexible when it comes to student drop-off and pick-up, especially the first few weeks as we all adapt to the changes.
Busing will most likely not be on schedule to start the year as we work through some of the adjustments and we welcome our new riders still learning the process for the first time. Buses may be early or late the first few weeks, but please be patient as we work through the process. Remember, our transportation department is temporarily located on Oak St. for the 2020-21 school year.
K-5 students will have half days on September 8th and 9th. FK Dismissal will be 11:00 for Kindergarten and 1st grade pick ups, 11:10 for 2nd grade pick ups, and 11:15 for bussers. ECS will be at 11:30.
Frank Knight Elementary School
Frank Knight hours will be 9:15-3:00 with staggered arrival and dismissal times.
Bus students will begin entering the building at 9:15.
Kindergarten and 2nd grade students being dropped off will enter the building at the playground doors beginning at 9:20.
1st grade students being dropped off will enter the building at the Porter St. (District Office) doors beginning at 9:20.
Kindergarten students will be dismissed at 2:40.
1st grade students will be dismissed at 2:40
2nd grade students will be dismissed at 2:50.
Bus riders will begin boarding buses at 3:00.
If there are siblings in the building, please drop-off and pick-up at the time/location for the student in the lower grade.
Parents/guardians will need to park and walk their children to the doors for both drop-off and pick-up. All are asked to bring identification, wear masks, and social distance during drop-off and pick-up.
Students will need to wear masks and follow all safety social/ distancing guidelines.
Elizabeth Cady Stanton Elementary School
Cady Stanton hours are from 9:30 - 3:15
Students riding the bus will begin a staggered unloading at 9:30 am and enter through the front of the building.
Students walking to school will use the front or back entrance and be permitted to enter at 9:20.
Student drop off will be in the back of the school only, starting at 9:20 am. Please look for the 3 marked "drop off" areas to unload your student(s). Students can enter through the back door until 9:40.
In the afternoon, students walking and being picked up will dismiss at 3:05 and bus students will dismiss at 3:15. All families picking up students must park in the back lot and wait at the assigned door to meet their student(s). Please refer to the building communications for all details.
Students will need to wear masks and follow all safety social/ distancing guidelines.
Middle School
Middle School hours are from 7:35 am - 2:14 pm
Students riding the bus will begin unloading at 7:25 am and enter through the front main entrance.
Students walking to school will use the front entrance near the MS Library and enter the building between 7:30- 7:35 am
Students that get dropped off will use the back entrance of the MS (off Mynderse St.) and enter the building between 7:30-7:35 am. If you have children who attend both SF Middle School (MS) and Mynderse Academy (MA), please drop students off at the MA student drop off and the middle school student will walk down the sidewalk in front of the building and enter with walkers at the MS Library entrance.
All students will report directly to their first period classroom upon entering the building.
Students will need to wear masks and follow all safety social/ distancing guidelines.
Mynderse Academy
Mynderse Academy hours are from 7:35 am - 2:14 pm
Students riding the bus will begin unloading at 7:25 am and enter through the main lobby entrance.
Students who drive will use the main lobby doors and enter the building beginning at 7:25.
Students walking to school will use the front gym lobby doors and enter the building between 7:30- 7:35 am
Students that get dropped off will use the front gym lobby doors and enter the building between 7:30-7:35 am. If you have children who attend both SF Middle School (MS) and Mynderse Academy (MA), please drop students off at the MA student drop off and the middle school student will walk down the sidewalk in front of the building and enter with walkers at the MS Library entrance.
All students will report directly to their first-period classroom upon entering the building. Students will need to wear masks and follow all safety social/ distancing guidelines.
Lunch and Breakfast
Once the school year begins, Seneca Falls Food Services will offer FREE MEALS to ALL enrolled Students until the USDA Waiver ends on December 31, 2020. This includes in-person and remote learners. Starting in January, full pay students will need to pay for meals at their regular rate (there MUST be money on their account to pay for meals that are pre-ordered) Lunch prices are $2.80 for all grade levels. Breakfast prices are $1.80 for all grade levels.
For the 2020-2021 School Year, we are asking that all meal accounts be replenished using checks, made out to “Seneca Falls Lunch Program” OR set-up an account with our online Meal Payment System (Myschoolbucks.com). This will be important for students wanting to purchase ala carte items at the beginning of the year. For additional important information, please visit the Food Service web page.
Donations
Thank you to United Way of Seneca County and BonaDent for their most recent and generous donations in providing the district with resources to supply personal protective equipment, cleaning and disinfecting supplies, and other important materials to support our staff and students. We are so fortunate to have a supportive community.
Symptoms Flow Chart
The county and our school physician, in partnership with other medical experts in the region, has created a COVID-19 School Symptom Flow Chart to identify the symptoms associated with COVID-19 and the process for each student who may be showing symptoms and/or tests positive.
To access this flow chart, please look for the flow chart listed in the column on the left of the COVID-19 page of our district website- "Seneca County COVID19 School Symptom FlowChart"
Summer 2020
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE - ATHLETICS
Fall 2020 Update (8/24/2020)
5:00 PM
The Governor announced this afternoon that school sports may start September 21, 2020. Low-risk sports may start practicing and competing on the 21st under the NYS Department of Health guidelines. High-risk sports may start practicing on the 21st, but cannot compete until further notice from the Governor.
The following statement came from the NYS High School Athletic Association Executive Director, Robert Zayas:
"Interscholastic athletic guidance released by Governor Cuomo today. Low risk sports will be played starting September 21, 2020. High Risk sports can practice, but cannot compete at this time. Dr. Zayas will meet with Section Executive Directors and the COVID Task Force Tuesday, August 25, 2020 to review the specific guidance and provide further guidance and clarification."
As we better understand what this latest decision and guidance means for school districts, we will provide updates.
We ask that if your child is planning on playing a fall sport, that you please register them on the Family ID link which is required for them to participate in any sport this year. If you have any questions regarding Family ID, please contact the Athletic Director’s office.
Thank you for your patience and understanding during this difficult time and we are looking forward to the start of the new school year.
Click HERE to register for Family ID
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
August 20, 2020
5:00 PM
Good afternoon. I hope this message finds you and your family well. I also hope you get an opportunity to enjoy a portion, if not all, of this beautiful day.
I want to thank all of the parents who joined our many Zoom sessions over the course of the past few weeks. Your engagement allows us to answer the many questions and concerns you have and we appreciate the gratitude you have expressed in our continued partnership and willingness to collaborate.
Donations
During one of the last Zoom sessions, a parent asked about being able to donate supplies to the classrooms and hand sanitizer specifically. Hand sanitizer will be available to students in the classroom, but if you would like to donate more, please make sure it’s purchased at a store and contains at least a 60% alcohol concentrate. Hand sanitizer needs to be dropped off at the main office, as students should not be carrying it in their possession per NYS Education Department. Youth size face masks are always needed. If you want to wait until school starts to ask your child’s teacher what they could use, that may be most effective. Again, these are just suggestions based on some parents asking how they could help and what they could possibly donate. Do not feel obligated to make a donation and thank you to those who do.
Technology Resources For Families
You can find several videos on our website that will provide families with support when it comes to using technology. This support will be helpful whether your child is attending in-person or learning remotely. Please take a minute to check out this list of resources and thank you to the administrators, faculty, and staff involved in putting this together.
https://www.smore.com/xkc7t
NYS Travel Advisory
The travel advisory was effective at 12:01 am on Thursday, June 25, 2020. If you have traveled from within one of the designated states (https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/covid-19-travel-advisory ) with significant community spread, you must quarantine when you enter New York for 14 days from the last travel within such designated state, provided on the date you enter into New York State that such state met the criteria for requiring such quarantine. The requirements of the travel advisory do not apply to any individual passing through designated states for a limited duration (i.e., less than 24 hours) through the course of travel.
Examples of such brief passage include but are not limited to: stopping at rest stops for vehicles, buses, and/or trains; or lay-overs for air travel, bus travel, or train travel.
The travel advisory requires all New Yorkers, as well as those visiting from out of state, to take personal responsibility for complying with the advisory in the best interest of public health and safety. If you travel to one of the states on the list within 14 days of school starting, please do not report to school until you have completed your 14-day quarantine and are symptom free. If your child cannot start school on September 8th, please contact the nurse to let her know.
Facebook Posts
There is a Facebook post that states- if children get sick with COVID, the state is going to take them out of their homes for a 10-14 day period to quarantine them. This is not true. I have never heard the State say anything of this nature and the Health Department stated in one of our parent Zoom sessions that it is not true. We will continue our past practice of contacting parents if a child is sick and needs to be picked up.
Athletics
Athletics are slated to start September 21st, but the Governor is supposed to provide an update early next week on the status of athletics for public schools. Once we receive information, we will provide an update to families. If there are athletics this fall, the State did clarify that those students learning remotely can participate.
Building Level Information
You have or will, start receiving information from building principals over the course of the next week about orientations, class assignments/schedules, supply lists, forms/paperwork to be completed annually, etc. We are behind schedule, not because of a lack of effort, but due to the extensive process and planning required to open schools this fall.
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
August 13, 2020
12:30 PM
Good afternoon. I hope this message finds you well. Last night, the administrative team and I made a recommendation to the Board of Education to start the 20-21 school year by bringing most of our students back to the school buildings for instruction. The Board approved a resolution declaring the in-person model as the means of instruction for most students to start the 2020-21 school year. Districtwide, we will be bringing back approximately 72% of our students while the rest of the student body will be learning remotely (family choice). Those families who preferred remote/distance learning have made this commitment to start the year, which allows the district flexibility in regards to bus and building capacity. If you are considering a change in your preference, please email your child’s principal to inquire about the possibility, but know that capacity on a bus and/or in classrooms is the driving force behind our decision, as we need to meet the health and safety protocol of social distancing. Details on the in-person model can be accessed within our comprehensive reopening plan - https://drive.google.com/file/d/1UUcl6vFGtshIPtdP6M8Sz4LVTxBN-kvO/view (page 6). For those learning remotely, further details will be forthcoming as to what that model will look like by building as it is dependent upon the number of students and teacher availability.
Not only can you access the learning models at the link above, but you will also find guidelines for health and safety measures. Within the SFCSD comprehensive plan, you will find a health management plan link that will provide you with greater details regarding health and safety measures. We continue to update this plan and will do so as we continue to collaborate with our school physician and the County Health Department.
While we are planning, at this time, to start the year in an in-person model for approximately 72% of our students and remote learning for approximately 28% (family choice), we know that things change rather quickly these days. Throughout this pandemic, we have continuously made shifts and looked for answers to the many questions we all have. We realize that we must be flexible and ready to shift at any time based on health concerns. Knowing that things could change overnight, like they did in March, we are asking families to please have a plan for daycare in case it is needed at any point this coming school year.
There will be more details forthcoming from principals as they continue to work on schedules, annual documents sent home to families, and other important information for the start of a new school year. Please be patient, as student scheduling will take some time to work out all of the specific details.
We are offering the following Zoom sessions for parents to ask questions about the in-person model or about remote learning for those that preferred that instructional model for their child(ren). These are the same dates and times I shared yesterday (8/12)
Parent Q & A- Instructional Learning Model Zoom Webinar:
August 13th 4:30-5:15
5:30-6:15
August 17th 4:30-5:15
Please click the link below to join the Zoom webinar:
https://zoom.us/j/92870438058
Thank you,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent of Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
August 10, 2020
2:30 PM
Reopening Plan Submission to the NYS Department of Health
Today, Monday, August 10, the Seneca Falls Central School District was notified that it failed to submit a COVID-19 School Reopening Plan to the NYS Department of Health.
However, the district did submit its plan in a timely manner with submission formally taking place on Friday, July 31. This is the same date we uploaded our plan to our district website.
At this time, the district is working with the State to address the issue.
The safety of students and staff, throughout the planning process for reopening school, has been the top priority and will continue to be.
Sorry for this confusion and I will be sure to notify all families when our plan has been approved.
Thank you,
Jeramy Clingerman
Superintendent of Schools
Seneca Falls Central Schools
SUPERINTENDENT UPDATE
August 7, 2020
2:30 PM
Today, Governor Cuomo announced, based on the state’s Covid-19 infection rates, schools may open this fall. The governor stated that every region is below the threshold established by the state. Thus, schools in every area of the state may reopen. Cuomo reiterated that if there’s a spike in the infection rate, the state will revisit school reopenings. I will be reviewing, in greater depth, the details he outlined in his news conference today and communicate that information with all families in the next couple of days.
Now that we know the Governor’s decision at this time, we will need to review parent responses on Tuesday and Wednesday from the Parent Choice Form submissions following calls to all parents on Monday who did not respond. It is critical to our final plans that we hear from as many parents as possible when it comes to parent choice in regards to your child(ren) returning to the school building or choosing to have your child(ren) learn remotely.
Again parents, if you have not already done so, please go to the Parent Instructional Preference page under our COVID tab and complete the Parent Choice Form by the end of the day Saturday (bottom of page).
As I stated in my message on Thursday, a final decision will be made on Wednesday (8/12) and communicated to families no later than Thursday afternoon (8/13).
Thank you and we look forward to moving forward with our plans for opening school for the 2020-21 school year.
Be safe and enjoy your weekend!
Jeramy Clingerman,
Superintendent of Schools
Seneca Falls Central School District