Back To School In-Person, Planned For Fall

ESSEX, CHESTER, DEEP RIVER, CT — A press release was issued today by Superintendent Brian White:

"Dear Parents, Guardians and School Staff of the Chester, Deep River, Essex and Regional No. 4 Schools:
As we enter into the final days of the 2020-2021 school year, I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for all of the support you have provided to our students this year. The pandemic brought with it a series of unprecedented challenges for public education, and for so many of our families, friends and neighbors. Time and time again, the community overcame those challenges by working together, and taking care of each other. As I reflect on the year, I am exceptionally proud of the efforts of our school staff and I am very appreciative of the partnership between our schools, our parents and the three towns we serve, including our local health districts and town government. Moving forward, I am optimistic about returning to better days, and I am encouraged by increasing vaccination rates as well as the reopening of our State.
Although in recent weeks, we have been focused on providing our students and community with a positive conclusion to the school year, the district has also been engaged in planning efforts for the opening of school next year. Our first day of school is Thursday, August 26th. Based on current State of Connecticut guidance and positive trends relative to the virus, we are looking forward to welcoming our students back to full in-person learning, five days a week.
We will remain in close communication with all of our community stakeholders throughout the summer months as new information and guidance is shared by the Department of Public Health and the State Department of Education. Our district administration team continues to work in close collaboration with the Connecticut River Area Health District, as well as the Town of Essex Health Department.
This spring, it has been truly wonderful to enjoy many of the end-of-year traditions and celebrations that were not possible a year ago. In each of our schools, students have been able to participate in field days and promotion ceremonies, and on June 9th, our Valley Regional High School seniors will experience an inperson graduation. I am excited to congratulate our graduates as they walk across the stage.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership. I wish you and your families a healthy, happy and restful summer.
Regards,
Brian J. White
Superintendent of Schools"