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In his capacity as President, conveying information regarding the reopening of schools.
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Official Text
To the Honorable City Council:
I am writing in response to Councilor Ballantyne’s policy order requesting information about the upcoming school year and DESE guidelines. I spoke with Superintendent Skipper at this Monday’s School Committee meeting.
The short answer, like the answer to many things during this crisis, is “we don’t know.” While the Somerville school system is preparing to reopen school in the fall, the Superintendent is not ready to update the community due to the uncertainty of the unprecedented situation we are facing. Any guidance the schools put out will be sent directly to parents when they are available. I also asked that the City Council be included in those announcements. Superintendent Skipper sends weekly updates on school status if people are interested in getting on that mailing list. There is currently no guidance available for summer and fall. It is highly likely summer classes will operate remotely, but that decision is not final yet. Child care is also closed until June 29 at the earliest.
The city is still waiting for guidance from the state on reopening of school buildings, as well as guidance on budget processes, store reopening and many matters important for reopening the city and Commonwealth. In lieu of state guidance, the Superintendent and school system are exploring local preventative measures for the upcoming school year, such as wearing masks, social distancing, increased sanitation and other preventative measures. Those decisions are also not final yet, but Superintendent Skipper wanted to assure the Council that they are thinking of these things regardless of state guidance. She does believe the state will eventually give guidance and she will update the community when that happens.