Port Washington School District Delays First Day Of School

PORT WASHINGTON, NY — The Port Washington Union Free School District has pushed back the first day of school to give staff more time to prepare for new protocols and procedures.

In a letter to the school district community Wednesday afternoon, superintendent Michael Hynes said the district delayed the opening of schools for students to Tuesday, Sept. 8. The additional time will allow staff time to learn new safety protocols, schedules, roles, responsibilities, assignments and tech infrastructure, among other things.

"Thank you for your patience and understanding throughout this summer as we continue to refine our reopening plans to best ensure a robust educational program and the health and safety of your children and District personnel," Hynes wrote.

Once allowed back, students will have to wear masks and can expect to see smaller class sizes, Hynes said. They'll have to socially distance as well.

"It is critical that our District staff, from our administrators to teachers, to paraprofessionals, to facilities personnel, know exactly what will be expected of and from them in this 'new normal,'" Hynes said.

A virtual Board of Education meeting and town hall is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday where the community can hear more about the district's instructional plans.

Hynes also warned families to be aware of Gov. Andrew Cuomo's coronavirus travel advisory. Under the advisory, travelers coming from dozens of states must quarantine for two weeks upon arriving in New York.

"We realize this is an unsettling time for all in our community," Hynes said. "We thank you immensely for your continued patience, insight and partnership throughout the last several months to provide us with the framework for a sound and productive new school year."