Malverne, West Hempstead schools shares educational plans amid coronavirus outbreak

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All Nassau County schools will be closed for two weeks as of Monday, by order of Nassau County Executive Laura Curran.

Curran made the announcement Sunday morning as health and school officials look to contain the spread of the coronavirus, which has claimed the lives of two New Yorkers, both of whom had underlying health conditions, and infected more than 600 people statewide. Schools will be closed for students, but administrators and teachers may still enter buildings.

West Hempstead School District Superintendent Daniel Rehman said that the district leaders would use March 16 as a day for the administration to finalize plans for learning during next two weeks. The staff reviewed and finalize plans on March 17, and plan to share lessons and activities through Google Classroom. As the Herald went to press on Monday, Rehman said that the district intended to go “live” and provide activities and experiences to students on March 18.

“I guarantee this will be a bumpy journey. I am requesting your patience,” Rehman said in a letter to parents on March 16. “Teachers will take feedback from you and share it with me. This means of learning is an excellent opportunity to build the home-school connection and work together to ensure the success of your children. There is no better time to display your Ram Pride and support one another as we do in the Ram Fam.”

Malverne Schools Superintendent Dr. James Hunderfund said that administrators would meet on Tuesday to discuss ways in which the students can continue their coursework during the next two weeks. Principals will contact parents once the plans are finalized. Hunderfund also said that the district is also working with local officials to ensure that meals will be available for children who rely on the free and reduced lunch program. He added that the district continued its deep cleaning of schools and facilities on March 16.

“As you know, this continues to be an exceptionally trying time for all of us,” Hunderfund said in a letter to parents. “Thank you for your ongoing patience and support as we continue to adjust to ever-changing information regarding this health emergency and strive to protect the health and welfare of our Malverne students, staff and community.”

According to a memo to Nassau County superintendents from Curran, school districts are allowed to:

  • Ask 12-month employees to report to their buildings.
  • Provide professional development instruction to staff.
  • Provide distance learning if necessary.

A memorandum circulating in the Hewlett-Woodmere School District stated that transportation for non-public schools would not be provided during this period. It was unclear if that would be the case in all districts.