A message from Superintendent Wiles:
Dear Guilderland CSD Families,
Last week the superintendents of the 24 districts that are part of the Capital Region BOCES met to discuss a shared commitment to equity. A result of that meeting was the adoption of a shared statement of commitment to equity work, which is posted on our website. Please take a moment to read it. This statement underscores the commitment GCSD has made, and the ongoing work we are doing, to provide a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students, particularly those who have been historically marginalized.
Appreciation for our school nurses
Every day in our seven school buildings, our GCSD school nurses do exceptional work to ensure the health and safety of our students. In addition to addressing the daily needs of students, they have provided exemplary service throughout this health crisis and deserve our utmost appreciation. Currently, our nurses have the responsibility of notifying families about COVID-19 quarantines, exclusions and other safety protocols. We understand receiving these messages can be frustrating and may cause disruptions to daily life, however please remember, our nurses are the messengers. They are following the guidelines established by local, state and national public health departments to protect the well-being of our students, which is also their primary concern. They are doing a difficult job during extraordinary times and deserve the same care and compassion they deliver to our students each and every day.
Pediatric COVID-19 vaccines
As we inch closer to what looks like FDA approval of COVID-19 vaccinations for children aged 5-11 years, I encourage parents and guardians to speak to your child’s pediatrician or your primary care provider if you have questions. A medical professional you trust should be able to address safety concerns and help you make this complex and personal decision.
COVID-19 cases for the week of October 25
The information below details the number of new COVID-19 positive cases for the week of October 25 and the resulting number of required quarantines.
Altamont Elementary School: 1 new case; 0 close contacts requiring quarantine
Guilderland Elementary School: 1 new case; 4 close contacts requiring quarantine
Lynnwood Elementary School: 1 new case; 0 close contacts requiring quarantine
Pine Bush Elementary School: 0 new cases; 0 close contacts requiring quarantine
Westmere Elementary School: 4 new cases; 16 close contacts requiring quarantine
Farnsworth Middle School: 2 new cases; 11 close contacts requiring quarantine
Guilderland High School: 3 new cases; 0 close contacts requiring quarantine
For those who participate in Halloween, please be safe, have fun and, fingers crossed, stay dry! As always, thank you for your continued patience and support. Have a wonderful weekend.
Sincerely,
Marie Wiles, Ph.D.
Superintendent