October 1 Parent Communication
Dear Big Green Parents:
As we turn our calendars from September to October, I wanted to reach out with a handful of updates from NCS. Most importantly, however, I wanted to say thank you for your partnership throughout the reopening process. Although there have been many changes, your patience and support have helped ensure that learning in Naples continues to value safety, a sense of connection, and learning.
October Calendar Change:
The switch from in-person to remote or hybrid instruction has involved a tremendous learning curve for us all. With this in mind, we will be adding a Staff Conference Day on Friday, October 23, so that we can continue to strengthen our online instructional practices. There will be no school for students that day, and we appreciate your flexibility as we move further into the school year.
Updated Guidance from the Department of Health:
During the month of September, students experiencing possible symptoms of COVID-19 needed to be symptom free and to obtain an evaluation document from a health care provider in addition to a lab-confirmed negative test result in order to return to school. However, the Department of Health just released an updated guidance document giving health care providers the ability to provide alternative diagnosis for certain chronic conditions or acute illnesses without requiring COVID-19 tests before clearing students for return. You can access the guidance by clicking this link, but I would also ask that you continue to contact Mrs. VandeSande (Elementary School Nurse) or Mrs. Finnan (High School Nurse) if your son or daughter has a new or worsening symptom that could be associated with COVID-19.
Spectators at Athletic Contests:
As we transition from athletic practices to competitions, I want to emphasize that we can only allow two spectators per participant. This decision has been made in accordance with guidance from the New York State Department of Health, and our Athletic Director (Mr. Greg Parzych) has put together additional information for anyone who is interested (click here). However, I did want to remind spectators that they will need to complete a brief health screening upon arrival, and that they will need to wear face coverings until they reach their designated viewing locations at competitions.
Optional Technology Training for Parents:
During our reopening conversations this summer, a number of parents commented on the technology related challenges that often come with supporting remote learning in their households. In the weeks ahead, we will be organizing trainings for parents, and we are asking that interested individuals take a brief survey (click here) to help us develop meaningful tech sessions.
Last Call for Recipes:
If you have not done so already, I would encourage you to pass along a best recipe (or two!) to help our Parent Teacher Partnership put together a cookbook fundraiser. If you would be willing to help out, we ask that you complete this brief Google Form survey (click here) as soon as possible.
Finally, I wanted to ask for your continued diligence as we work to stay open. While no single measure exists to prevent the spread of COVID-19, we know that masking, social distancing, hand washing, and disinfecting provide the layers of protection that help to keep us safe. As we move forward together, we ask that each member of our school family do all they can to help ensure the continued health of our community.
Thanks for everything—look forward to seeing you soon.
Matt
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