Letter from the Superintendent - August 19, 2021

Letter from the Superintendent - August 19, 2021
Posted on 08/19/2021
Letter from Dr. LockeAugust 19, 2021

Chester Academy Community,

The 2021-2022 Draft Return to School Plan was revised by the committee on August 17th in light of increased community COVID transmission and updated guidance from the NH DPHS. Given that Chester’s goal is to return students to in-person learning while also minimizing COVID risk, the committee decided to update our proposal to include requiring all students and staff to wear masks while indoors. Additionally, the plan now only permits one grade level at a time in the cafeteria on a rotating basis.

The NH DPHS suggests universal masking when community COVID transmission rates are considered substantial. According to the NH COVID Dashboard, our community is experiencing substantial COVID transmission. The NH DPHS also suggests increasing layers of prevention strategies given our low rate of vaccinations. The majority of our students at Chester Academy are not yet eligible for vaccinations.

The Chester School Board will consider the proposal from the Return to School Committee at its meeting on Wednesday August 25, 2021.

Thank you again for your understanding, adaptability, and partnership as we prepare to return to in-person learning on August 30th.

Dr. Locke