SOMSD has confirmed its intention to reopen schools January 19th, 2021. As they plan to achieve this goal, SOMEA is still prioritizing the safety of students and staff members. To that end, SOMEA will again request to have walkthroughs in every building before we go to back to in-person instruction. Moreover, SOMEA believes that an inspection by an independent third-party specialist, given the special circumstances in which we are living, is in the best interest of all stakeholders.
Please know that SOMSD is planning to have a Q & A about the January 19, 2021 re-opening plan. SOMEA encourages your participation in this event and questions and/or concerns must be submitted by December 21st. It is important that the Board of Education and Central Office Administration hear our collective voices. Please click on the link below for submission information.
SOMEA is grateful in this holiday season that our Superintendent and BOE have prioritized the health and safety of our students, staff, all their families, and our entire community. We appreciate the collaborative work that has happened.
We also understand that we all want to be back in school right now, with our students and our colleagues. And of course, we are all frustrated that circumstances are such that a safe return is simply not possible at this time. However, this pandemic is out of control and getting worse (https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2020/us/new-jersey-coronavirus-cases.html), and with vaccines approved, it is still a matter of time until they are available to all of us.
SOMEA is focused on the health and safety of our members and keenly focused on what the walkthroughs will reveal. Once the walkthrough’s are complete, we will advise accordingly on the district’s efforts regarding ventilation and filtration.
For our members who are suffering from stress and need support, here is confidential, free assistance available from NJEA. Click on the following link for details.
