Dear Minisink Valley school community:

Today, March 27, Gov. Andrew Cuomo ordered all New York State schools to remain closed through April 15.  This is an update from his initial order which had a return date of April 1.

We support the governor’s order as it has been made in the best interest of public health and safety. Our school community’s wellbeing and protection is our first priority…always.

During this time, we will continue to follow guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the New York State Department of Health, New York State Department of Education (NYSED) and the Orange County Department of Health.

According to information presented at the governor’s media briefing this morning:

•      Schools are required to continue child care, meal and distance learning programs.
•     The 180 day wavier will extend to April 15.
•     The governor will reassess any extensions to this April 15 date at that point.

We are currently awaiting further guidance from the governor’s office on this order and the State Education Department regarding instructional expectations.  Specifically, school leaders continue to closely monitor guidance from NYSED about how these circumstances will impact the school calendar for the remainder of the academic year, including Regents examinations and graduation. We will share more information as soon as it is available.

As a reminder, sporting practices and events, rehearsals, shows, school events, activities and after-school programs will also continue to be canceled during this time.

Additionally, Minisink Valley will continue providing meals to identified families.  Details of food service program.

For families who may need childcare assistance through this extended closure, Minisink Valley has partnered with the Middletown YMCA for a site at the Intermediate School which opens Monday, March 30.  Details of childcare program for health care workers, emergency responders and essential workers

Our teachers have been staying in contact with students and their families to provide instructional materials. For now, we are confident that our students and families are continuing to utilize the academic resources our teachers have provided to students.

We have had some families reach out to let us know they now believe they can benefit from having loaner Chromebooks at home and are offering a new opportunity to get one. Details of new loaner Chromebook opportunity.  

Further, students who are still in need of materials/books from their lockers/classrooms can retrieve them on Friday, April 3.  Details of April 3 pickup opportunity.  

We know there are still some questions regarding the upcoming, planned spring recess and continuity of academic work. We will reach out during the beginning of next week with more information via email, phone calls and our website.

Thank you again for your ongoing support of our work during these challenging times. Minisink Valley faculty, administrators and staff are continuing to everything support our students, families, staff and entire Minisink Valley community.

Sincerely,

Brian C. Monahan
Superintendent