Board Message 1.25.22

Dear Warwick Valley CSD Community,

This afternoon, Justice Robert J. Miller of the Second Judicial Department of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of the State of New York granted a motion to temporarily block a lower-court ruling that had struck down the state’s mask mandate. On Friday, January 28th – when another decision or update is anticipated – we will update the community once more.

Please keep in mind that if the lower court’s ruling is upheld, it will only apply to school buildings. Everyone riding on buses would continue to be required to wear masks in compliance with the Federal public transportation requirement.

We continue to advocate for change regarding mitigation strategies based on current conditions. Since our last communication with the Governor’s office, we have safely held our end-of-year celebrations, such as proms and commencement ceremonies, because New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) restrictions were eased. We ran camps and summer school with an optional mask policy this summer, thanks to the relaxation of more restrictions. And, we resumed five days a week of in-person instruction for all students because the NYSDOH reduced the 6-foot social distance rule. 

Please expect additional communication from the District regarding potential modifications to our mitigation plans. We will continue to advocate for what’s best for our students and staff.

Sincerely,
Warwick Valley Board of Education