Based upon the recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (APA), and most recently, guidance issued by the State Education Department, the Herkimer Central School District will open for full-time in-person learning on Sept. 7, 2021, for students in grades Pre-K through 12.
While the COVID-19 situation continues to remain highly fluid, Herkimer is implementing a layered mitigation strategy to prevent the spread in its school buildings. Click here to see the district’s reopening plan for 2021-22.
When classes resume on Sept. 7, this is what families can expect:
- All classes will be in-person, five days a week.
- Indoor masking for all, regardless of vaccination status, with regular mask breaks. Students will be able to take mask breaks when seated and properly socially distanced.This policy went into effect on Aug. 23.
- Masks will not be required outside but are recommended for the unvaccinated in crowded situations.
- All passengers and staff on school buses must be masked at all times, according to a mandate by the New York State Department of Health.
- Social distancing of at least 3 feet in school buildings.
- The district will offer physical education and music classes inside, and masking will be required (except for instrumental music where social distancing will be used when possible).
- Herkimer will continue to provide school breakfast and lunch to students. While eating, students do not need to wear masks when seated and eating.
- Students who exhibit COVID-19 symptoms will be sent home and should not return until they are symptom-free for 24 hours or have a negative test or a specific alternative diagnosis from a licensed medical professional.
- Students and staff should stay home if they are showing signs and symptoms of COVID-19.
In an effort to support student and staff social-emotional well-being, the COVID-19 prevention protocols will be reviewed frequently throughout the school year. The district’s liability insurance carrier also recommends that the district follow state/local health department guidance and directives. In the absence of guidance from the state/local health departments, the carrier then recommends the district follow CDC guidance.
School Schedules
Students at Herkimer Elementary will attend school on a staggered schedule during the 2021-22 school year. Students in grades K-2 will attend from 8:30 a.m. to 3:20 p.m., and students in grades 3-5 will attend from 8 a.m. to 2:50 p.m. The pre-kindergarten program will run from 8 a.m. to 2:20 p.m. At the Jr./Sr. High School, classes will run from 7:40 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
The goal of the 2021-2022 school year at Herkimer CSD will be to maintain full-time, in-person learning for as many students as possible for as long as possible while maintaining a safe and healthy environment. District leaders will make all decisions based on the level of community spread, local vaccination rates, and directions from the local health department, as informed by guidance from the Centers for Disease Control.
News and updates will continue to be shared on the district website (www.herkimercsd.org) and via the Parent Square messaging system.
We’re looking forward to a safe and successful year at Herkimer, and we’re excited to see everyone on September 7. Enjoy the rest of your summer!