OCSD extends fully remote model to Feb. 1

Jan. 13, 2021

Dear Oswego City School District Community,

I am writing to share information about our school district’s remote – virtual learning emergency plan. As you are all aware, due to a higher-than-normal number of COVID-19 exposures within our schools and high numbers of students and staff who needed to be quarantined as a result, the district recently enacted its emergency plan and provided all instruction remotely – virtually.  This plan was originally enacted in early December and was later extended until Jan. 18, 2021. While doing so, I shared with all of you that this plan could be extended if needed.

After careful consideration of:

· County and City COVID-19 data that demonstrates a continued rapid and higher than normal growth in cases;

· District data that includes approximately 30 additional COVID cases within the past week; and 

· Consultation with local health officials, including our school’s physician

I have decided that out of additional caution and concern for our students and staff, the district will be extending our remote – virtual only learning plan once again for an additional two weeks — through Jan. 29, 2021.  Accordingly, we are planning for our students to return for in-person instruction on Feb. 1, 2021. Should another extension be required, I will be in touch with all of you prior to Feb. 1, 2021.

The following is also important information that all parents and guardians should know:

1. All CiTi programs - CiTi BOCES has not made a decision as of today on whether they are going to be extending their remote learning for all of their programs. Our district will be communicating directly with all parents and/or guardians of students who attend CiTi BOCES programs (i.e., Career and Technical Education, Special Education, Alternative Education, etc.) by week’s end to share when their programs will be returning to in person instruction; and

2. All district athletics will not begin until Feb. 1 – All Oswego City School District athletic programs (varsity bowling and swimming) will not begin until Feb. 1, 2021. The district is now working collaboratively with Section 3 Athletic Directors to ensure that students are able to begin their season on Feb. 1. Please note, this start date is subject to how things develop regarding this pandemic.

Please know, the district does understand the challenges that this decision may cause for some of our families. Accordingly, this decision was made taking into account various concerns that our parents and guardians might encounter. 

As we move forward, I am encouraging all students and staff to be vigilant with ensuring all safety precautions. We are requesting that all our students and staff continue to maintain COVID-19 safety precautions that include:

1. Maintaining social distancing (at least 6 feet) whenever possible;
2. Wearing a mask when in the presence of other individuals;
3. Washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 second and using hand sanitizer where needed; and
4. Staying home when you are sick or exhibiting COVID-19 related symptoms.

Should any of our parents and/or guardians have any questions about their student’s learning program, we ask that you reach out directly to your school principal. Anyone with questions or concerns about COVID-19 exposure can contact the Oswego County Health Department COVID-19 Hotline at 315-349-3330.

Thank you,

Mathis Calvin III, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools