District Eases COVID Restrictions in Schools

COVID cases are clearly on the decline in Westchester. The Westchester County report says as of February 1, 2022 there were only 309 positive tests, or 4.9%, with a total of 146 active cases in Scarsdale. (Of course this does not include home tests that are not reported.) This week there are signs that COVID restrictions and mandates are easing in the Scarsdale Schools. Here is the latest information issued by Scarsdale Schools Suprintendent Thomas Hagerman:

Elementary school kids and parents will be pleased that snack is back. As of February 7, 2022 elementary school children will again be permitted a snack, with rules to be determined by administrators at each school. Parent Dianna Cohen who pushed for the change said, "I’m delighted by the change. It’s a win-win for the administration and community. Snack time will deliver the necessary nutrients to kids to help them grow while teachers will get kids with an improved energy level and ability to focus. This is a wonderful example of the district listening to the needs of the parents and kids and pivoting accordingly. I look forward to more examples like this from the district."

School trips will also be permitted, some with and some without parent chaperones. Here is the wording from Dr. Hagerman’s January 31 email. “Educational day trips will continue to be allowed as is current practice. Overnight trips that include flights will continue to require a one-to-one parent accompaniment. Overnight trips not requiring flights will no longer require a one-to-one parent accompaniment; however, families must be able to pick their students up if they become COVID positive while on the trip.”

Also beginning February 7, spectators will be permitted in the schools for sporting events and performances at 50% capacity. The note cautions, “There may still be a per performer/athlete limit on some events given the space restrictions of our various venues.”

Masking in schools is mandatory until February 21, 2022 when an executive order from NYS Governor Kathy Hochul is due to expire. The mandate is now in court, so a ruling could affect the order. Dr. Hagerman said, “We will follow any guidance from the New York State Department of Education and the New York Department of Health. In advance of any changes, note that we intend to support any individual’s decision to continue masking for those who feel more comfortable with this approach.”