Fall/Winter 2020 Express Newsletter

Fall/Winter 2020 Express Newsletter
Posted on 11/06/2020
Fall/Winter 2020 Express NewsletterDear Friends,

Who could have predicted a year ago that we would now be writing about education during a global pandemic? With regular conversations about health protocols, masks, testing, social distancing and more, it seems surreal that education has changed so much in such a short period of time. In the last nine months, we have adapted, persevered and gone on with the most important job we have - to educate students in an engaging, safe and healthy way. I couldn’t be prouder of the things we have been able to accomplish despite the complications of a global pandemic.

As we anticipate the remainder of this fall semester and school year, it is important for the District to share the things we are doing to continue the delivery of high quality education. We are grateful to our students, parents and community agencies for helping to guide and encourage us during this challenging time. It has been a true privilege to see first-hand what our community is capable of conquering.

Throughout the newsletter, you’ll read about things like ‘pandemic pods,’ virtual parent academies, technology advances across the entire district, and more. When the pandemic began in March, we reinvented education in a short 10 weeks that would have taken 10 years under normal circumstances.

Fall/Winter 2020 Newsletter








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This year continues to be the furthest thing from a typical year, yet we continue on with humility and grace. Our Elmira reputation is built upon an attitude of fortitude. For years, our faculty, staff and students have been honing a culture of courage in the face of adversity. Indeed, it is that
culture that has allowed us to move through this pandemic unwavering and sure.

Like you, we want our students in our buildings. However, the health and safety of our students, staff, families, and the entire community are the driving factors behind decisions to transition from in-person to virtual. We ask that everyone follow best practices and wear masks, maintain safe distancing, and wash hands well and often.

As a strong and proud Elmira community, we encourage you to join us in championing “An Attitude of Fortitude” through the days and weeks to come. Empowering our students with positivity, especially during these challenging times, is one of the best things we can provide for our youth. In the Elmira City School District, we believe in the power of fortitude -- inspired by the strength we gain when showing courage in the face of adversity.

Go Express!

Hillary J. Austin

Superintendent of Schools
Elmira City School District