Moorestown Set To Push Back 1st Day Of School Due To Coronavirus

MOORESTOWN, NJ — The 2020-21 school year in Moorestown looks as if it may start a little later than previously planned amid the coronavirus pandemic. Students were originally slated to return to Moorestown public schools Sept. 2, but that start date may be pushed back by six days, according to district officials.

“With the extensive changes expected to our operation, I am recommending changes to the school calendar that will provide additional time for our staff to prepare for the start of the school year,” Moorestown Superintendent of Schools Scott McCartney said. “Given the safety training, classroom-building setup needs, and curriculum changes, we will need additional time for professional development in early September.”

The district previously planned to hold a professional development day for staff Sept. 1, with students returning Sept. 2. However, staff will now be informed about in-person hybrid instructional models, reviewing the remote learning plan in the event of another state shutdown, addressing anti-racism, and simply the “normal” opening and curricular.

McCartney is asking the school board to expand that professional development day to include Sept. 1-3 and begin the 2020-21 school year Sept. 8. If approved, a modified calendar will be posted on the district website.

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In June, the Moorestown Public School District established a task force to explore multiple options for reopening the district's schools this fall as the coronavirus pandemic continues. That task force has been expanded, and it is now involved in conversations with numerous county, state and national/international groups to discuss the next steps, according to district officials.

The expanded task force is also participating in webinars and committees to begin the process to develop a safe and manageable plan. The larger committee has met several ,times and subcommittees have formed around curriculum and instruction, personnel health and wellness, student health and wellness, athletics/extracurricular and co-curricular activities, finance and operations, and general health and safety.

Those committees are tasked with developing a draft plan to submit to McCartney by July 20, according to the district. There is also a parent focus group and student focus group being incorporated into the process on July 16.

The final plans will be presented to the school board at the end of July or early August. Those plans will be shared with the community throughout August leading to the start of school, according to officials.

See more stories about New Jersey's coronavirus recovery.