February 14, 2022
Dear East Granby School Staff and Families,
Throughout the pandemic, we have maintained a strong commitment to keeping our school community safe while maintaining in-person learning. One of the mitigation strategies that has been a key factor has been universal masking. As I am sure you have heard, Governor Lamont’s Executive Order regarding masks in school settings expires on February 15, 2022. The State of Connecticut Legislative Officials are currently discussing this Order and are considering allowing the Department of Public Health (DPH) and the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) to maintain masking in schools through February 28, 2022. It is expected that mandatory masking in Connecticut’s public schools will end February 28, 2022. Local health districts and the DPH will continue to assess disease transmission and, if needed, will have authority to revise requirements. Of note, transportation is covered under different federal guidance, and students and adults will still be required to wear masks on our school buses.
The East Granby Public School Safe Return to In-Person Learning and Continuity of Services Plan 2021-2022 was shared at the June 14, 2021 Board of Education Meeting and states, “The district will follow guidelines from our local health authority and the state of Connecticut, in regards to masks and other COVID-19 precautions, and amend mask requirements as guidelines change.” We expect to receive additional guidance later this week from DPH and CSDE regarding other mitigation measures. Once I know more, I will pass the information along.
As with many situations during the few years that I have served as Superintendent, but particularly with decisions regarding the pandemic, the East Granby community of staff, students, and families have been very supportive of each other in recognizing varying perspectives and personal thoughts. I respectfully request that we maintain a level of respect and understanding for neighbors with differing opinions and experiences. The only way to get past challenging situations is to go through, one step at a time. We are working our way through the COVID-19 pandemic together.
Best,
Missy Bavaro-Grande