West Orange Official Gives Update On ‘Safe Return To School’

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The push to “ensure a safe return to school in September” continues in West Orange, the district’s superintendent says.

Last week, Scott Cascone offered an update about ongoing coronavirus safety efforts in the district. He wrote:

“I hope this message finds you well and that you are enjoying the summer days. As promised, this correspondence provides an update as to the steps and measures the administration is taking to ensure a safe return to school in September.

“Our summer planning committees have begun engaging in meetings and discussions that will continue throughout the summer in order to establish protocols and procedures for a safe environment in each school facility. One of the many articles of information that is guiding our planning efforts is The Road Forward which has been provided to all New Jersey public schools by the Department of Education. Feel free to open the link and explore this publication.

“Additionally, as performed during the previous year, the CDC Guidelines are monitored with regularity and adhered to. Any and all changes or updates affecting our district including best practices for implementation now and moving forward are part of the conversations. We are addressing student and staff needs with projections obtained from the authorities as they become known in real time.

“Please note that the next Board of Education meeting is scheduled for Monday, July 26 with the public session beginning at 7:30 p.m. The meeting can be an additional source of information for you and we encourage you to attend or view it subsequently on the district YouTube channel.

“I am very pleased to report that many staff and administrators along with the local professional community have come together during what would normally be described as a vacationing period to instead join forces for the greater good of our school district. I am sure I speak for everyone when I express my gratitude and appreciation for their time, consideration, and expertise. I look forward to providing another update soon. Until then, be safe and have a good day.”

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