Manchester Prepping For Fall School Reopening

MANCHESTER, NJ — The Manchester Township School District is working on its plans for reopening schools in September amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, and the superintendent says they will be seeking input from parents and the staff as the planning moves forward.

"While we all are looking forward to having students back in our buildings and receiving in-person instruction by our staff, at this time we will need to plan for a variety of changes to ensure the safety of our students and staff and to meet the requirements put forth by Governor Murphy and the New Jersey Department of Education," Superintendent David Trethaway said in a letter to staff, parents and students.

Gov. Phil Murphy last week announced guidelines for schools across the state to reopen in the fall. Those guidelines are designed allow school districts the flexibility to create reopening plans that meet the needs of each particular district.

Trethaway said that among the recommendations is creating a Restart Committee to develop the district's plan. Manchester also will have various subcommittees to address specific areas and specific schools in the district, he said.

"As this situation continues to develop we will be looking for input from our parents, staff and students to help us develop procedures that will best meet the needs of our community," Trethaway said. "We also will be working with township officials as well as the Ocean County Board of Health to get guidance on a variety of topics."

The district will be posting information on the planning process on its website along with information on surveys and opportunities to participate on a committee.

"I know this is a stressful time for all of our families in Manchester, but be assured that you will be informed of the plans before they are implemented and you will be given an opportunity to express your concerns and suggestions," Trethaway said. "Your input is extremely important in developing the procedures that we need to have in place for a very different but successful opening of the school year."

Murphy's announcement of guidance also said school districts must notify parents and staff of the plan a minimum of 30 days before school is to start so families have adequate time to make child-care arrangements and address other issues affected by children being in school.

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