West Orange School Superintendent Gives Coronavirus Update

WEST ORANGE, NJ — They’re extraordinary times. And “maintaining the day-to-day” operations of the West Orange Public School District isn’t easy, officials say.

On April 3, West Orange Superintendent Scott Cascone offered an update on how COVID-19 is affecting the district’s schools.

CALENDAR

According to Cascone:

“Our district calendar has been revised to allow us to offer a modified spring break next week. Please be advised that Wednesday, April 8th is an Early Dismissal/Half Day. In our virtual learning platform, this will mean a light academic day. Spring break continues for the remainder of the week and the school district is closed April 9 and April 10. Classes resume April 13.

“To help clarify this revision: our emergency “spring break” began March 17 and was halted as a result of the Governor’s Orders to close schools. We are now able to take advantage of the remaining spring break days and offer this modified spring break during the original week in April. The revised calendar can be found on the district website https://www.woboe.org/Page/5477.

“Further, relative to the district calendar, we are in the process of changing our parent/teacher conferences as well as the marking periods. In lieu of the traditional parent-teacher conference, our Pre-K – 5 principals have asked teachers to touch base with parents and guardians to discuss your child’s progress in a manner that is convenient for all parties. You may make note that the marking period date for Grades 6-12 has been changed from April 15 to April 27.”

GOOGLE MEETS

According to Cascone:

“Information regarding Google Meets along with an Opt-Out form has been communicated from Assistant Superintendent, Mrs. Eveny de Mendez. Google Meets will enhance the instruction and communication on our e-learning platform.

“Do know that the district respects the right for privacy as parents/guardians can exercise the option for their child to not participate in a Google Meet session. Exact details have been sent home via email and are found on the website.”

KEEPING A CONSTANT

According to Cascone:

“We take great pride that the school district continues to remain a constant for you and your family during these extraordinary times, but we do recognize that as some of us contract the virus, it will become difficult for some to maintain their day-to-day. We are here to help and provide support in areas of food provisions, mental health, crisis management, and touchpoints for overall well-being. To this extent, we encourage you to contact our hotline and learn of the resources that can be made available: 973-435-9637.

“As always, teachers, principals, guidance counselors, and all support staff can be reached via email as they continue to work towards the success of your child.”

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