A message from Superintendent Wiles:
Dear Guilderland CSD Families,
I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge that this school year, while only about six weeks old, has definitely presented us with some challenges. Yet, despite the obstacles, I’m thrilled to see our classrooms filled with students learning to read, creating artwork, conducting experiments, expressing themselves through writing, and so much more. Knowing that our students are safe and engaged in learning, makes the effort to overcome the challenges so worthwhile.
Transportation staffing shortages
If you’ve watched the local news recently, you may have seen reports on the bus driver shortage that’s affecting not just the capital region but the nation. GCSD is not immune to this shortage, as some families experienced today. I can assure you, we are doing everything we can to resolve this issue and will always communicate delays as soon as we are made aware of them so that you can make necessary arrangements.
Optional student diagnostic testing starting soon
As part of our tiered mitigation plan, GCSD will soon begin offering COVID-19 diagnostic testing for students whose parents or guardians provide consent. Diagnostic testing will be free of charge and optional but can be utilized if a student is experiencing symptoms. Parents or guardians will be required to create a secure profile with Quadrant Biosciences, who will be providing the tests and analyzing the results; more detailed information will be sent to families in the coming days.
COVID-19 cases for the week of October 18
The information below details the number of new COVID-19 positive cases for the week of October 18 and the resulting number of required quarantines.
Altamont Elementary School: 1 new case; 5 close contacts requiring quarantine
Guilderland Elementary School: 3 new cases; 37 close contacts requiring quarantine
Lynnwood Elementary School: 2 new cases; 29 close contacts requiring quarantine
Pine Bush Elementary School: 4 new cases; 14 close contacts requiring quarantine
Westmere Elementary School: 1 new cases; 35 close contacts requiring quarantine
Farnsworth Middle School: 2 new cases; 17 close contacts requiring quarantine
Guilderland High School: 0 new cases; 0 close contacts requiring quarantine
Dr. Demian Singleton
This week has been a difficult one for the Guilderland community as we mourn the loss of a member of our leadership team. Dr. Demian Singleton had a long, exemplary career with GCSD as a teacher, Instructional Administrator and as the Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction. His vision, commitment and unparalleled work ethic helped shape the district into the learning institution it is today and his impact will be felt for years to come. Please join me in offering Dr. Singleton’s family our heartfelt condolences.
As always, thank you for your continued patience and support. Have a wonderful weekend.
Sincerely,
Marie Wiles, Ph.D.
Superintendent