January 11, 2021 Dear MUFSD Community,
As we welcomed our students back today for in-person/hybrid learning, I want to once again thank our parents and staff for your support and participation in the COVID testing program and making it possible to keep our schools open at this point in time. Approximately 98% of our 4,300 in-person learners and close to 96% of our MUFSD staff members were tested, with individuals testing positive notified over the weekend and mandated to isolate and quarantine immediately.
Although the number of students and staff who tested positive last week was relatively low (less than 1 percent -- about 30 students and three staff members), we believe that staying open would not have been an option without the testing that was conducted, combined with the shifting to full-remote after the holiday break. We simply could not have sustained the continued increase in positive cases, which our analysis shows is coming primarily from outside the schools and very likely occurred as a result of travel and/or holiday gatherings.
Admittedly, while we all feel a little safer knowing that those around us in our buildings have tested negative, we also recognize that this is just a "snapshot in time." We must continue to be diligent in helping to prevent the spread of the virus by wearing masks, washing hands frequently, maintaining our distance and avoiding large gatherings. Every classroom has been thoroughly cleaned, and classrooms are cleaned twice a day on an ongoing basis. We continue to follow all health department guidelines and protocols.
Finally, I am pleased to report that we were greeted this morning with some wonderful news that Covid-19 vaccinations are being made available through the NY State Department of Health for all school district faculty and staff. We are strongly encouraging all staff to receive the vaccine.
Thank you again for your cooperation, and we will keep you informed of any future plans regarding further testing and/or vaccinations.
With Regards,
Dr. Robert I. Shaps 1000 W. Boston Post Rd. • Mamaroneck, NY 10543 • (914) 220-3000 |