Friday, February 11, 2022
Dear Watertown Public Schools Faculty and Families,
On Monday we celebrated our 100th day of school! Our youngest students had a day filled with fun activities and costumes that quickly transported them decades beyond their years. In addition, this week’s favorable weather has provided our athletic teams some respite with a week of uninterrupted games and practices.
Update on Masks/Face Coverings
Earlier this week, the Governor recommended that the state-wide mask mandate be lifted in schools by February 28, 2022. In addition, both the Commissioner of Education and Department of Health (DPH) provided added context in terms of the Governor’s recommendation and how it will impact CT schools. Here is a link to the press release that took place on Sunday Click here.
To summarize, based on Governor Lamont’s recommendation to make mask wearing optional, the transition to optional masking would begin on February 28, 2022 and not any earlier. At this point, school districts are waiting to hear whether this recommendation will be accepted or rejected.
I anticipate that we will receive more definitive information after February 14, 2022 since Bill 5047 will be voted on that same evening. At the very least, it does seem that there is every intent to lift the mandate as recommended by the Governor.
In addition, the State Department of Education and DPH are working to provide school districts updated information on mitigating measures to accompany any changes to the operational steps schools can take to make the transition as smooth as possible for all stakeholders.
As we continue to work with our local health department, CSDE and DPH, I will make sure to notify all families of any new information once it is received.
Sincerely,
Dr. V
Happenings and Useful InformationDates to Remember
February 14 - Valentine’s Day and regularly scheduled BOE meeting 7PM (Superintendent’s Proposed Budget)
February 18 - Early Release Day for Students, PD for Faculty
February 21-22 - President’s Day Weekend
Health and Safety
- DISTRICT: As we did last year, the Daily Covid 19 Tracker will be updated on the main district website. Click here.
- LOCAL: Our local Torrington Area Health Department continues to provide weekly reports on: Covid-19 positivity and vaccination rates within the Torrington area health district (TAHD) jurisdiction Click here for all weekly updates
- REGIONAL: 2.7.2022 Covid Report | 2.7.2022 Vaccine Rates by Town
*Clipart retrieved from: https://www.google.com/search?...