Hazlet Schools To Reopen Under Hybrid Plan: Superintendent

HAZLET, NJ – Despite districts such as Asbury Park, Freehold Township and South Brunswick recently announcing a remote-only start to fall classes, superintendent Dr. Scott Ridley remained adamant that Hazlet Township Schools will open the year by following a hybrid model.

“Nearly 80% of our families favor sending their children back to school in real-time,” said the superintendent in his latest reopening update. “As such, we have built out a plan based on this telling statistic, and will honor the overwhelming majority of our community’s wishes.”

Watch the superintendent’s latest announcement below:

Per the recent districtwide survey, Ridley also announced that 10% of Hazlet students have opted to complete strictly virtual instruction. For parents and students still interested in the all-remote option, the deadline to enroll is Aug. 23.

In the video message, Ridley detailed several procedures the school district is undertaking to ensure the safety of its students.

By early September, Hazlet school nurses will release an instructional video to outline safety protocol during in-person instruction.

Each school in the district will also be releasing its own set of protocols, which will be sent to district families within the next two weeks.

All school buildings will install plexiglass barriers, space desks apart from each other and hang signage to promote social distancing.

“Please be advised that, in accordance with CDC guidelines and Hazlet Township Public School policy, face coverings must protect the nose and mouth, be secured under the chin and fit snugly against the side of your face,” the superintendent said.

Gators and bandanas will not suffice in schools, according to the superintendent. The CDC also does not recommend masks with valves or the use of face shields as a substitute for masks.

“For the safety and good health of all, it is important to honor these guidelines,” said Ridley.

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