Westwood Regional School District will Transition to full Remote Instruction for the Next Two Weeks

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

 

Twp. of Washington NJ, health officials are  actively investigating close to 20 new COVID-19 cases in the Township of Washington, and close to 30 new cases in the Borough of Westwood, since 9/30/20. Currently, health officials are monitoring a total of 8 cases identified in the school community. Health officials  have multiple cohorts in quarantine  and investigations are still underway, which could potentially expand the list of quarantined individuals.

In an emergency meeting with our partners at the Northwest Bergen Regional Health Consortium, it was decided that all schools in the Westwood Regional School District* would transition to full remote instruction for the next two weeks. Principals will send school-specific details regarding the daily scheduling expectations shortly. The schedule for the return to in person learning would be as follows:

Monday, November 2 for Group 1 in person

Tuesday, November 3 Full Remote for Election Day

Wednesday, November 4 for Group 2 in person

(*Any Westwood Regional students who attend out of district schools, will continue to follow their school’s schedule.)

We understand the inconvenience that this decision places on many of our families; however, the move to remote instruction was made in order to lower the transmission potential in our school community. This decision was precipitated by a number of factors including, but not limited to:

the diversity of positive cases across our district,

the increased cases documented throughout the State and region, and

the NJ Department of Health’s most recent COVID-19 Recent Activity report that elevated the activity level from Low to Moderate and aligns our response with the K-12 COVID-19 Recommendations for Local Health Departments.

Please note that during this two week period, there will be no in person instruction, athletics, extracurricular activities, or Champions childcare, yet meal distribution will continue per the usual schedule.

While our school buildings are closed, our facilities department will take additional time and measures to implement deep cleaning protocols in our classrooms, common areas, and high touch surfaces.

We certainly understand the level of concern regarding COVID-19 and encourage parents and students to continue following the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention promoted safeguards, such as:

Continuing to monitor your health for symptoms and checking with your physician if you are ill;

Getting tested for COVID-19 if you suspect you may have it (Click HERE to find a location near you.);

Washing hands often with soap for at least 20 seconds;

Covering coughs and sneezes and properly disposing of tissues;

Limiting close contact with people who are sick and not sharing food, drinks and utensils;

Practicing social distancing (staying at least 6 feet apart);

Wearing a face covering while in public; and

Reminding your friends, family, and neighbors of ALL THE ABOVE.

The move to remote instruction is just one step to lower the transmission potential in our community. For this to be effective, it is imperative that everyone do their part by remaining vigilant and sensible in their approach to dealing with this public health concern. PLEASE adhere to mask wearing, handwashing, and social distancing protocols in all your personal, social, and recreational activities.

The status of this situation is extremely fluid, and we are monitoring it closely. As always, we appreciate our community’s support and cooperation. Should you have any questions about this situation, please feel free to contact the school directly. Below are some resources that might be helpful.