COVID-19

Wednesday, June 17, 2020 

Greetings, Braves Family,

What a beautiful week the meteorologists have dialed up for us! We certainly have earned it in my humble opinion. As the school year draws to a close I can’t help but think about how grateful we are.  We are grateful for your patience, your partnership, and your support.  As the saying goes, times of difficulty really have a way of bringing out the best in people. If there is a silver lining in all of what we are experiencing it is the fact that Canandaigua has some of the best people around.  We are grateful for you!

Today’s communication (and last regularly planned communication) will cover:
 

1. Budget Vote Results
2. Extended School Year Information
3. ThoughtExchange Feedback
4. Important Reminders/ Updates- Including Academy Yearbook Pick Up June 19

Budget Vote Results

A sincere thank you to the Canandaigua Community for supporting our students and our schools.  We find joy and comfort in knowing that we serve a community so committed to our profession, our youth, and our future. I am proud to serve this wonderful community and school district. 
 

2020 - 2021 Canandaigua City School Absentee Ballot Vote
	YES	NO
Proposition #1 Budget	4,325	1,511
Proposition #2 Capital Project	3,881	1,933
Proposition #3 Transportation	4,168	1,644
Proposition #4 Wood Library	4,143	1,792
Board of Education - 1 Seat, 5-year term
Julianne Miller*	3,057
Kevin Collea	2,128

ThoughtExchange Feedback

We received a great deal of feedback from our ThoughtExchange survey. While no survey tool is perfect, we received valuable information about what worked well during the closure, what challenges our students, staff, and families faced, and we also received many great ideas to move forward. We did receive many thoughts multiple times, which meant that many people were thinking the same thing and that the repeated thought was important. We have taken a preliminary look at the data and will dive deeper into the information with our administrative team and “Return to Learn” committee over the summer.

We had 608 participants, who shared 1,140 thoughts and provided 21,604 ratings (stars). Of those who participated, 48% were parents, 24% were employees, 14% were students, 10% were employees with students in the district, and 4% listed themselves as “other.”  Thank you to everyone who contributed their ideas to the ThoughtExchange. Once more information is available about the ThoughtExchange data, we will load it on our website.

The results can be viewed at the original exchange link: 
Canandaigua City School District ThoughtExchange


Extended School Year Information 

After much discussion and planning, we have made the difficult decision to continue with a remote program during Extended School Year (ESY) as are most districts across the state. This is largely due to the time needed to comply with all Department of Health safety regulations and guidelines. The health and safety of our students and staff were the most important factors in making this decision. Although the Governor did allow for some necessary in-person special education services, we believe that remaining remote during the summer months is in your child’s best interest. We understand that this may not be what some of you had been hoping for and we share in your disappointment. We miss seeing your children in our hallways and classrooms and are eagerly anticipating the day we may welcome them back. 

Click here: Extended School Year Letter
 
If your child is registered for the ESY program, you will receive this communication directly from Stephanie Knapp, Director of Special Programs through email.

Important Reminders

Canandaigua Academy News
 

• Class of 2020-  If you have not signed up for a graduation time at Bristol Mountain, please click here to sign up: Graduation Sign- Up Times

 

• Commencement for the Canandaigua Academy Class of 2020 will be streamed live at Bristol Mountain. The first graduates will board the chairlift at 8:50 a.m. and the last graduates will load the chairlift around 1:30 p.m. To access the stream from Bristol Mountain, check out our YouTube Channel- Canandaigua City School District YouTube 

 

• The Commencement Parade will start at 6 p.m. The parade will assemble at the CMAC parking lot and the route is Lakeshore Drive to Main Street to Chapel Street. The parade will end at Canandaigua Academy. 

 

• Academy Yearbook Distribution/ Senior Materials Drop Off- Friday, June 19, 12 pm -3 pm Seniors (and siblings) pick up their yearbooks & drop off Chromebooks, books, and concert attire. Underclassmen pick up their yearbooks from 3 pm-6 pm.
  • Yearbook Distribution will take place in the Academy Bus Loop:
  • Beginning of bus loop near the pool doors: Last names A through G
  • Middle of bus loop near the flag pole: Last names H through O
  • End of bus loop near the art room doors: Last names P through Z
  • Students on the waitlist will be contacted to let them know if there is a book available for them. Those books will be $65 cash.
• Senior Chromebooks & Loaned Graphic Calculators - If you do not plan on purchasing your Chromebook or if you have a graphic calculator from the school district, please return those at the yearbook pick up times above. If you would like to purchase your Chromebook for $30, click here: Chromebook Store. This is only an option for the Class of 2020.

Middle School News
 

• The Middle School hopes to have the 8th-grade walk to the Academy in conjunction with Link Crew. Once we have more information, it will be communicated. If you are interested in purchasing a middle school yearbook, please email MSYearbook@canandaiguaschools.org. 

Primary-Elementary School News 
 

• UPK registration materials are due on Friday, June 19, 2020. It is important that all registration materials are completed as we currently have a waiting list for UPK.
• We continue to register students for Kindergarten. More information about Kindergarten Registration and the parent forum video can be found here: Kindergarten Registration. We ask that families have the registration materials completed by Friday, June 19. 

Other

• If you have any questions about student registration, please email studentregistration@canandaiguaschools.org. 
• If you are moving away from the District or not attending Canandaigua City School District and need to return your Chromebook or Ipad (and charger), please call the main office of your child’s school or email portalhelp@canandaiguaschools.org.
• Our first day of school for students is scheduled for Wednesday, September 9 (grades 1-12), and for our kindergarten students, the first day is Thursday, September 10. We continue to work on plans for the 2020-2021 school year, and if something important arises during the summer, I will send out a communication. 
• Report cards will be distributed via BravesSquare on June 29. 

In Summary

Today marks the end of our scheduled communications for the 2019-2020 school year. While this school year presented many great challenges, I could not be more proud of our school community for the work they did throughout this unprecedented time. Last year we created a new vision statement, “One Community, Transforming Lives.” I truly believe this community transforms the lives of our students and I look forward to continuing our work together, hopefully in person.

Have an outstanding summer, Braves Family, you have certainly earned it!

Sincerely,


Jamie Farr
Superintendent of the Canandaigua City School District 

 

Monday, June 15, 2020 

 

Greetings and Happy Monday Braves Family,

I hope you enjoyed the weekend and found some fun. With so much hefty work being completed, seeking fun is necessary to remain sharp, energized, and focused. As we enter the last week of school for the 2019-2020 school year, let's be sure to finish strong!  

 

Today’s communication covers:

1. Commencement

2. Absentee Ballot Information 

3. Report Cards - Secure Docs in BravesSquare

4. 2020 - 2021 Calendar 

5. Community Summer Events

6. Other events 

 

Commencement 

Seniors and parents/guardians of seniors, please be on the lookout for a separate post at 4 p.m. today, just for the Class of 2020, specific to commencement logistics.  It is important that you engage with the communication and sign up for a time to partake in the ceremony.  Details in that communication will include: 

-Sign up for Bristol Mountain

-Link to FAQ (update FAQ)

-Parade Information

-Live Stream Information 

 

 

Absentee Ballot Information 

All ballots must be received through the mail by 5 p.m on Tuesday, June 16. The opening of ballots/ results will be live streamed on the District YouTube Channel starting at 5:15 p.m. on Tuesday. Due to social distancing concerns, we ask that everyone watch the live stream and check the website for the results. Please contact Deb Sundlov, District Clerk at sundlovd@canandaiguaschools.org or (585) 396-3710 for more information.

 

Report Cards

All reports cards (K - 12) will be sent as Secure Docs via BravesSquare the week of June 29th. ​BravesSquare will ask you to re-authenticate your login information when you click on the report card link to the secure document. Here are the directions to access secure documents through BravesSquare. 

• If you are looking at the report card on a mobile phone, the report card will be listed under “More and Student Notices” for each of your students.

• If you are looking at the report card on a laptop, Chromebook, or Desktop via the website, the report card will be listed under “Secure Docs” for each of your students. 

• The report cards will remain in those locations for you to reference in the future. 

• If you have problems accessing your child's report card, please contact: portalhelp@canandaiguaschools.org

2020-2021 Calendar

The District will set up the 2020-2021 schedule of events like we have in the past. Paper calendars will be delivered in mid August. If we need to monitor and adjust the calendar, we will. However, we will have all events scheduled as normal. Here is a link to the 2020-2021 one page calendar that includes all vacations/ days off. 

 

Community Summer Events

Canandaigua Community Summer Information 

This site includes information the community has shared about events this summer from camps (and virtual camps), FoodLink opportunities, and more. If you have more information to share and add to this page, please contact Caroline Chapman, Director of Communications, chapmanc@canandaiguaschools.org 

 

Other Events

Virtual Flag Day Recording 

4th Grade Awards Ceremony Recording

5th Grade Awards Ceremony Recording 

Tuesday, June 16- 8th Grade Awards Ceremony - 9 a.m. 

Tuesday, June 16- 7th Grade Egg Drop Challenge- Live Stream on YouTube

CMS Yearbook Pick-Up- See BravesSquare post from Mr. Arthur, yearbooks are still available

CA Yearbook - We are hoping for shipment of the yearbooks this week and once we have them, we will coordinate a distribution plan.

Don’t forget to order your CA Mask: https://camask.itemorder.com/sale- the online store closes at Midnight, tonight! 

 

In Summary

Wednesday of this week will be our last Emergency Closure planned communication for this school year.  We will, of course, continue to communicate as more information becomes available and there will be opportunities for staff and community forums as well, as new information is known.  Thank you so much for your continued support and involvement as we work through these challenging times together.  Be well, stay safe, and Go Braves!

 

Sincerely,

 

Jamie Farr

Superintendent of the Canandaigua City School District

 

Friday, June 12, 2020 

 

Good afternoon, this is Jamie Farr, superintendent of the Canandaigua City School District with your Friday robocall recap of the week and updates. 

 

Today will be the last scheduled Robocall for this school year. As important information comes up over the summer, I will communicate as needed. 

The District internet servers will be updated from 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 13 to 6 a.m. on Sunday, June 14. Most district services including Infinite Campus, BravesSquare, Schoology and Remote Access will be unavailable during this time.  The Google Suite will still work. 

We have two activities set up for commencement for Saturday, June 27. The rain date will be Sunday, June 28. First, students will receive their diplomas at Bristol Mountain. Today a two question survey went out to the class of 2020 about Bristol Mountain. Please complete that survey by Monday morning at 9 a.m.

 

That same night our graduates will participate in a vehicle parade through the community starting at 6 p.m. Seniors and families of seniors, be on the lookout for information on this through BravesSquare.

 

We continue to seek feedback regarding what went well, what challenges existed and what ideas you have to improve specific to our closure time period, through a tool called ThoughtExchange. Final thoughts and feedback can be shared until 5 p.m. tonight. Thank you to everyone who provided feedback. This information will be helpful as we evaluate remote learning should we find ourselves in this same situation again in the future. 

 

Absentee ballots are due by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 16. At this point, according to law, ballots must be received by mail and can no longer be dropped off. 

 

Final report cards will be delivered to families through BravesSquare after the conclusion of the school year. 

 

We continue to plan for next year. We seek guidance from the state. I hope we can return to school as much as normal in the fall and we will continue to communicate over the summer what the plans and requirements are. 

 

These words will never do it justice but “THANK YOU!” Thank you students, parents, community members and staff.  The true spirit of this wonderfully compassionate and giving community was on display and continues to be on display during such turbulent times. As ballerina, Misty Copeland stated “Be strong, be fearless, be beautiful. And believe that anything is possible when you have the right people there to support you.” Thanks to all of you for being the “right people” here to support one another.  Until we are together again, be well, stay safe, and Go Braves!

 

Wednesday, June 10, 2020 

 

Braves Family,

Greetings, I hope this communication finds you well, staying safe, and staying cool!  The school year is quickly winding down and we are so proud of the effort of our students, staff, parents, and this community.  There are no other people I’d rather navigate this challenging time with than all of you!

Today’s communication will cover the following items:

1. Absentee Ballot Vote

2. ThoughtExchange reminder

3. Graduation

4. Community Forum

5. Meal Sign Up - through June 26 

6. Pandemic 

7. Yearbooks

8. Other News

 

Absentee Ballot Vote

Governor Cuomo extended the deadline for collecting absentee ballots through the mail until Tuesday, June 16 at 5 p.m. Ballots cannot be dropped off at district office any longer by law. If you have any questions, please contact Deb Sundlov, District Clerk, at sundlovd@canandaiguaschools.org or (585) 396-3710. 

 

ThoughtExchange

Please continue to provide us feedback through ThoughtExchange. If you have already replied, please go back to the exchange and star more questions. The ThoughtExchange is open until 5 p.m. on Friday, June 12. So far we have received hundreds of valuable thoughts and thousands of ratings.

Question: During the COVID-19 Closure, what worked well, what was challenging, and what ideas do you have if this were to happen again in the future? 

ThoughtExchange: https://my.thoughtexchange.com/#220470007/leader

 

Graduation

Our commencement concept has been overwhelmingly supported and positively received.  What a relief.  We truly want to make this special.  In fact, I just received an email from a high school graduate’s parents out of the Chicago area, who have a vacation home in Canandaigua, and they wish they could take part in our ceremony as it sounds so amazing and much better than what their large suburban district did. It feels good to know our seniors will be experiencing a commencement so special.  

The one concern we have heard from seniors and their families is the limit to three guests for each graduate is challenging. We hear you loud and clear but understand, all commencements in other districts are limiting guests as well due to the cap on the number of people we can allow in attendance.  I just hung up the phone with Bob Duffy and this morning a small team of us went to Bristol Mountain and planned the logistics.  We may have an answer to allowing a couple more guests.  It won’t be perfect but I hope everyone understands how hard we are working/advocating and how creative we are getting to try to make this happen in the best possible way. 

Stay tuned, communication on this topic will begin going out to senior families only over the coming days.

 

Forums

This week will mark the last scheduled forum. We may have some different events over the summer that we invite our school community to, however, tomorrow’s forums are the last for this school year. Thank you for tuning in.  Our attendance at these forums has been outstanding.  Tomorrow we plan to share some of the usual information but give a glimpse into the work we are planning over the summer and preparations we are taking into the fall.

Thursday, June 11- Staff Forum 3 p.m. 

Thursday, June 11- Community Forum 6 p.m. 

 

Meal Distribution

Thank you to everyone who volunteered at meal distribution. Each time we published the sign-up genius, it was instantly filled with volunteers. Our community continues to rally and support each other and thank you to all who helped. Our last day of serving meals will be Friday, June 26. We are still deciding whether or not this meal program will continue through the summer.  

Sign Up: Meal Distribution - June 15 - June 26 

The Families First Coronavirus Response Act of 2020 authorized the payment of Pandemic Electronic Transfer (P-EBT) benefits to households with children who have received free or reduced-priced School meals under the National School Lunch Act, if not for a school closure. These temporary food benefits are to help cover the costs of meals children otherwise would have received at school.

https://otda.ny.gov/SNAP-COVID-19/Frequently-Asked-Questions-Pandemic-EBT.asp

You do not need to apply for Pandemic Electronic Transfer (P-EBT) benefits. If your family receives Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and/or Temporary Assistance (TA) benefits and you have school-age children (ages 5-18), you will automatically receive P-EBT food benefits for each eligible school-age child in your household. The benefits will automatically be issued to your family’s current EBT card.

If you have children who receive free or reduced-price school lunch but your family does not receive SNAP or TA benefits, you still will automatically get P-EBT food benefits for each school-age child in your household. More information about how children who do not live in households that get SNAP or TA benefits will be mailed to you. Begin checking your mail for this P-EBT notice beginning in mid-June.

P-EBT benefits are not SNAP benefits. P-EBT food benefits are being issued by the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance. Email inquiries about P-EBTbenefits may be directed to: otda.sm.eisp.PEBT@otda.ny.gov.

Yearbooks

Academy- The Academy Yearbooks are being shipped from the printer on June 15. There is currently a waiting list for additional yearbook purchases. If you have any questions or if you are unsure if you ordered a yearbook, please contact Krista Coleman colemank@canandaiguaschools.org or Lisa Bellis bellisl@canandaiguaschools.org. 

Middle School- We anticipate the yearbooks being delivered to the middle school early next week. If you would still like to purchase a yearbook, please contact MSyearbook@canandaiguaschools.org. 

Elementary School- The yearbooks have arrived.  Fifth grade will be mailed since we already have a mailing going out to fifth graders and a pick up will occur for third and fourth grade. Contact Mr. Amesbury, amesburyb@canandaiguaschools.org, if you would like more information. 
 

Other News

What the World Needs Now Video  

11th Grade Awards 

Kindergarten Parent Information Recording (Learn more about entering Kindergarten)

In Summary

Thank you, for being you!  Have a great day!

 

Sincerely,

Jamie Farr

Superintendent of the Canandaigua City School District

Monday, June 8, 2020 Dear Braves Family,  Well to say there was a lot of news over the weekend is an understatement. In education, we are always taught to stay flexible and nimble.  The last few days are truly testing that sentiment. The Governor changed his stance on three substantial items (graduation, absentee ballots, and summer school) since Friday night and has sent all of us into overdrive trying to respond and figure out what all this means since these decisions lacked, and still lack, any explanation nor detail. There is a lot of important information in this communication so please read the details below carefully.  Letter on Equity & Inclusion  Commencement Announcement Absentee Ballot Information Update Extended School Year Summer School Information Seeking Feedback: ThoughtExchange Mask Order Events this Week Letter on Equity & Inclusion Over the weekend, Board of Education President Jeanie Grimm and I sent the linked letter to the Daily Messenger and distributed it on our social media platforms and website. The letter outlines the work we have started to meet the goal from our strategic plan to, “Cultivate an Equitable and Inclusive School Environment.”  While the district took steps to make changes in the 2019-2020 school year, we certainly have more learning and work to do. This goal will remain for the future as we seek to make our schools safe and inclusive learning environments for all students.  June 6, 2020 Letter on Equity & Inclusion  Commencement of 2020 Yesterday, Governor Cuomo announced that “outdoor, socially-distanced graduations of up to 150 people will be allowed. This is subject to any outbreaks or significant changes.” As we previously announced, we had many plans for graduation. With the Governor’s ruling, having a socially distanced graduation at CMAC is not possible due to the crowd limitations. Plus, we want to make a memorable event for the Class of 2020. Many shared that small group, socially distanced commencement concepts in a traditional format (at CMAC, in an auditorium, etc.) would only conjure up sad thoughts when they think back on their time specific to commencement so we set out to devise a plan that would be fun and memorable in a positive way. As you will see, a tremendous amount of planning and work has and will continue to go into the events below and we are confident that collectively, it will be a closure to a UPK-12 school experience unlike any other. The following events are scheduled for Saturday, June 27 with a rain date of Sunday, June 28 Specific logistics and detail will follow in the coming days.  Here is the start of a FAQ document about commencement- FAQ Commencement 2020  Bristol Mountain Chair Lift Diploma Ceremonies - During the morning and early afternoon, graduates and up to three guests (parents/siblings) will ride the chairlift to the top of Bristol Mountain. At the top, graduates, wearing their cap and gown, will receive their diploma from Superintendent Jamie Farr and Canandaigua Academy Principal Vernon Tenney and a photo of each graduate will be taken at the scenic overlook of the mountains and a bit of Canandaigua Lake. If you prefer not to ride the chair lift, there is access to the top of the mountain by car. A sign up for times will be distributed. During this event, social distancing will be maintained. Commencement Parade 6 p.m. - The same evening as the Bristol Mountain Ceremony, graduates will be asked to gather, in their vehicles, with their family, at the CMAC parking lot by 6 p.m. where there will be a Graduate Parade, led by City Police and Fire, from CMAC, along Lakeshore Drive, up Main Street and to the Academy where the parade and our senior’s time as a senior, will commence. This will replace the originally planned senior parade for June 10th. Commencement Viewing Party - At a date to be announced (mid-July), there will be a viewing party where graduates along with family and friends can watch a video which we will create from photos of these events as well as the speeches and musical performances as well. Senior Ball / Senior Sunset - Additionally, we still hope to host a Summer Senior Gala where we can bring all the seniors together at a fun outdoor venue to replace the Senior Ball and Senior Sunrise.  Draft planning has begun for this concept.  Essentially, we hope to host an event at Lincoln Hill Farms with music, food trucks, and outdoor games for our seniors. This is all dependent on what we are permitted and able to do.   Absentee Ballot Information The deadline for the District to receive the absentee ballots for the budget vote, capital project proposition, transportation proposition, Board of Education election, and Wood Library proposition has been extended to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 16. Ballots can only be accepted by mail after 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9. If you have questions or did not receive an absentee ballot and are a registered voter, please contact Deb Sundlov, District Clerk- sundlovd@canandaiguaschools.org or (585) 396-3710. Summer School (ESY) Another change that has been made by the Governor is related to summer school for students with IEP’s, otherwise known as our ESY (Extended School Year) program. The Governor signed an executive order to allow in-person special education services over the summer. There is no detail or guidance on this and we will be on the lookout for it and ready to do whatever we can to do what is both safe and best for students. Seeking Feedback: ThoughtExchange We need your input on remote learning. To gather your feedback, we're using a tool called Thoughtexchange. All of our voices matter, so your participation is crucial and valued. You'll be asked to respond to one open-ended question in each exchange linked below, consider and assign stars to some of the ideas shared by others (20 to 30 is ideal), and learn what's important to the group. You will also be asked a demographic question. The same demographic question is asked in each exchange. Question: During the COVID-19 Closure, what worked well, what was challenging, and what ideas do you have if this were to happen again in the future? Click here: https://my.thoughtexchange.com/220470007 Your thoughts and stars are confidential. You can come back as often as you'd like to participate and, in fact, we ask that you do come back to star some of the new ideas shared since you first participated. The ratings will help us understand the most important areas to focus on with remote learning. While we hope an extended closure like this is not in our future, it is important for us to reflect on the past eleven weeks and prepare for the next school year. Participation will be open until 5 p.m. on Friday, June 12. If you need technical help, please call Thoughtexchange at 1-800-361-9027 ext. 4 or email help@thoughtexchange.com or contact Caroline Chapman, Director of Communications or Advisement, chapmanc@canandaiguaschools.org Thank you in advance for your feedback on this important topic. Order a CA Mask Order a CA mask! Orders are due by 5 p.m. on Monday, June 15- https://camask.itemorder.com. Masks will be shipped to your home. Since these are a custom order, we need a minimum of 50 masks ordered and they will take 3-4 weeks for delivery. The price is $9.95. Events this Week - Zoom links have been sent to families via BravesSquare or Email Tuesday, June 9- 6:30 p.m. Kindergarten Forum for incoming Kindergarten parents Thursday, June 11- Staff Forum 3 p.m. Staff Thursday, June 11- Community Forum 6 p.m.  Friday, June 12- 9:30 a.m. Virtual Flag Day for the Primary School Friday, June 12- 7th grade Egg Drop Competition- 10 a.m. to 12 Noon- drop off designs at CMS Monday, June 15- 7th Grade Undercoffler Award Ceremony- 9 am- Info in Schoology Tuesday, June 16- 8th Grade Awards Ceremony- 9 a.m.- Info in Schoology  Tuesday, June 16- Live Stream of the 7th Grade Egg Drop Last Days of the 2020-2021 School Year Thursday, June 11 is the last day for new content across the District. Friday, June 12, Monday, June 15, and Tuesday, June 16 are makeup days. As this school year comes to an end, we all know it has been one we will never forget.  Thank you for all you are doing to make the very best of this challenging situation.  Let’s finish strong and have a great week. Stay safe, be well, and Go Braves! Sincerely,   Jamie Farr, Superintendent of Schools

Emergency Closure Update - 6/3/2020 at 3 p.m. Wednesday, June 3, 2020 Dear Braves Family, Good afternoon, friends.  I am not sure about all of you but I have enjoyed watching updates on social media specific to our visitor in the city last night and today, a black bear.  Growing up in the Adirondack region, black bear sightings were regular, if not daily for me in the spring and summer. I was always fascinated by their speed, power, and playful nature.   Perhaps, in a symbolic sort of way, our friendly little cub here in Canandaigua is bringing all of us strength and a reminder of the power of playful joy.  We are, collectively, navigating heavy topics and issues these days as a society and it is important to remain strong and not forget the importance of finding joy.   Today’s communication includes information on the following:  Community Forum Webinar Link - Thursday, June 4  Absentee Ballot Information  Community Forum Webinar Link On Thursday, June 4 at 3 p.m. I will host my weekly community forum. As usual, this webinar will be recorded and posted to our Coronavirus page on our website. This community forum will focus on events for the end of the year and our usual updates. I hope you can join me! Community Forum - Thursday, June 4 - 3 p.m.  Absentee Ballot Information Absentee ballots should have arrived at the homes of registered voters. If you have not received your absentee ballot and you are registered to vote, please contact Deb Sundlov, District Clerk, at sundlovd@canandaiguaschools.org or (585) 396-3714. When filling out the ballot, make an x or an ✓ in your choice. Ballots are due by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, June 9. Ballots cannot be accepted after this time.  I want to also provide clarification on signing the envelope/ the names on the return envelopes. Here is a brief clarification on this topic from the New York State School Board Association: Essentially, the Education Law provides that an envelope containing a returned absentee ballot is not to be opened until a determination is made that there is no reason for rejecting the ballot, which could happen if, for example, the voter fails to provide the signature required by law to appear on the envelope containing the ballot.  Once such a determination is made and the envelope opened, the ballot is withdrawn without unfolding and deposited into the proper ballot box.  As a result, at the time of counting, the ballots will not be linked to the envelope in which they were returned. Second, regarding the requirement that the ballot is withdrawn from the envelope without unfolding, NYSSBA also wants to correct a contrary suggestion found in the answer to question 17:32 in its School Law 37th Edition publication, and which some might be relying on.  That question asks "How are absentee ballots counted?  The answer states that "[a]bsent any grounds for rejecting such ballot, the election inspectors will open the envelope containing the absentee ballot, withdraw the ballot and deposit it unfolded in the proper ballot box…"  Pursuant to the express language of the Education Law, absentee ballots must remain folded until they are actually counted.  It certainly was not our intention to create any confusion. In Summary That is all for today. As we set forth each day, remember, our differences are what make us great, interesting, and healthy. Our collective care and tenderness for one another regardless of our differences have the ability to change the world. I hope everyone is safe, well, and cared for today and always. Sincerely, Jamie Farr Superintendent of the Canandaigua City School District

Monday, June 1, 2020 

Dear Braves Family, 

The 2020 calendar year has ushered in a tremendous amount of challenge. Whether it is the global pandemic, a budget which is more challenging than the last Great Recession, or most recently, the heartbreaking issues surrounding social justice and civil unrest which we continue to face as a society. Among each of these issues, one theme emerges. Those who have been marginalized are oftentimes those who are harmed the most. We are responsible to rise to the challenge and perform a significant lift. It is our duty.

To begin the 2019-2020 school year, we, as a full staff, convened and spent time on one of our district priorities; Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Environment. That day and the sessions which followed each month brought attention to implicit bias. To some, these conversations were uncomfortable and we began to embrace the notion of getting comfortable with the uncomfortable. 

The recent events around the nation are a stark reminder that our work has only begun. If nothing else, we can lead the change in our own community.  We do have a wonderful and nurturing community but like with everything, opportunity for improvement is present.  We can ensure that a kinder, gentler, and more inclusive and equitable society exists right here in our home of Canandaigua. It starts with each one of us. After all, we are One Community, Transforming Lives. 

Today’s communication includes a few reminders: 

1. Events this Week

2. Graduation Decision- announced next Monday, June 8

3. Vote!

4. New system for emergency calls 

5. UPK/ Kindergarten Registration

Check out BravesSquare for specific details about these events: 

Wednesday, June 3 - Class of 2020 CAps & CArs - Between 3 p.m. & 6 p.m. at the Academy

Thursday, June 4 - Senior Music Recognition/ Awards Presentation - Live Stream 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, June 4 - 7 - 8 p.m. Pajama Story Time with Mrs. Keyes via Zoom 

Friday, June 5 - PES Virtual Field Day including virtual 5th-grade cross country race

All Week: CMS & Academy Student Locker Clean Out based on distributed schedule

Commencement

We will decide on graduation next Monday, June 8, 2020. During the Community Forum on Thursday, we shared five concepts that are now being considered for Commencement. A traditional commencement at CMAC, a restricted traditional commencement at CMAC, a small group commencement at the Academy, a senior parade commencement, and lastly, a commencement at Bristol Mountain are the five concepts we are considering.  

Absentee Ballots

Absentee ballots should be arriving or have arrived in mailboxes. The ballot includes the district budget vote, board of education election, our proposed capital project, our transportation proposition, and the Wood Library proposition. These ballots are due back by June 9 at 5 p.m. The ballot comes with a return postage-paid envelope. Please be sure to place an ‘x’ or a check in the box as that is, by statute, the only way a vote can be accepted. Your vote counts, your voice matters. Be sure to vote and place the ballot back in the mail immediately. If you have questions, please contact Deb Sundlov, District Clerk at sundlovd@canandaiguaschools.org, or call (585) 396-3710.

BravesSquare Call

On Friday, we'll use our BravesSquare system to make our robocall. Since we are changing this system, if you do not receive a call on Friday, please contact portalhelp@canandaiguaschools.org. We are consolidating systems, and we will use BravesSquare for our emergency alert system, including winter snow day calls. You do not need to have the app on your phone to receive the call. Again, this will start Friday, June 5. 

UPK/ Kindergarten Registration

Materials to complete the registration process for UPK are being distributed by email today, and Kindergarten registration materials went out last week by email. On Tuesday, June 9, at 6:30 p.m., Interim Principal Heidi Robb will host a Kindergarten Information Zoom for parents/ guardians of incoming Kindergarten students. If you need more information about UPK or Kindergarten, please visit our website https://www.canandaiguaschools.org/district/student-registration or email studentregistration@canandaiguaschools.org. 

 

While we continue in phase 2, please remember that our facilities remain closed. This includes our athletic facilities. Also, check out the new community banners designed by our students, working with our visual arts department. The banners are now displayed on Lakeshore Drive and feature the work of students of all ages! 

We have made it to June! While this June feels very different from other Junes, many things remain the same. June is a time to enjoy beautiful weather, wrap up the school year, honor our retirees, and send our graduates to the world beyond Canandaigua. Our country continues to face many challenges, and I am proud of our community's work, supporting each other and supporting our students!

Have a great week, Braves!

Sincerely,

Jamie Farr

Superintendent of the Canandaigua City School District

 

 

Robocall Script 

Friday, May 29, 2020 

Good afternoon, This is Jamie Farr, Superintendent of the Canandaigua City School District with your Friday robocall highlighting weekly updates and any new information we’ve learned. 

The student locker clean out process starts next week at the Academy and Middle School. Check BravesSquare for the schedule and important information about locker cleanout.

Wednesday, June 3rd, will be the Caps and Cars event for seniors. This event will be between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Please approach the Academy from Chapel Street and enter at the South Lot. Follow the directions to the different stops and also pick up your caps and gowns from Jostens. Information can be found in BravesSquare. 

We will make a decision about graduation on June 8, 2020. During the Forum on Thursday, we shared five concepts that are now being considered for Commencement. A traditional commencement at CMAC, a restricted traditional commencement at CMAC, a small group commencement at the Academy, a senior parade commencement, and lastly a commencement at Bristol Mountain are the five concepts we are considering.  

Absentee ballots should be arriving in the mail today or any day now. The ballot includes the district budget vote, board of education election, our proposed capital project, our transportation proposition, and the Wood Library proposition. These ballots are due back by June 9 at 5 p.m. The ballot comes with a return postage-paid envelope. Please be sure to place an ‘x’ or a check in the box as that is, by statute, the only way a vote can be accepted. Your vote counts, your voice matters.  Be sure to vote and place the ballot back in the mail immediately.

Phase 2 of the Governor’s reopening plan is going into effect in the Finger Lakes Region today.  Governor Cuomo, during his press conference this afternoon made this announcement.  Phase 2 includes the careful and cautious re-opening of items such as office-based work, real estate services, in-store retail, barbershops, hair salons, vehicle sales, leases, and rentals, etc. Continue to proceed with caution and do a great job, Braves!  

Next Friday we'll use our BravesSquare system to make this phone call. Since we are changing this system, if you do not receive a call next Friday, please contact portalhelp@canandaiguaschools.org. We are consolidating systems and we will use BravesSquare for our emergency alert system, including winter snow day calls. You do not need to have the app on your phone to receive the call. Again, this will start next Friday, June 5th. 

I hope you have a safe and wonderful weekend! Thanks for your continued support and expressed pride in our incredible community.  Be well and Go Braves!

Also, check out the pages below about the future plans for our spring senior CA athletes! 

Girls Lacrosse

Boys’ Tennis

Softball

Boys’ Lacrosse 

Baseball

Track & Field 

Unified Basketball 

Golf

 

Wednesday, May 27, 2020 

 

1. Last Days of School June 2020 

2. Weekly Forum -  Budget Forum at 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. Thursday, May 28

3. Meal Distribution Sign Up 

4. Virtual Memorial Day Video from CA Music

5. Information about Senior celebrations, awaiting information from the Governor about commencement

 

Greetings Braves,

I trust this email finds you well, having enjoyed the beautiful weather this past weekend as well as having an opportunity to pay respect and honor those who sacrificed it all for our freedoms.  Our fallen veterans are truly heroes worthy of appreciation and celebration not only on Memorial Day but every day.  

In today’s communication we are including several important pieces of information so please read it carefully. 

 

The Last Day of School June 2020

This is tentative, pending the Governor should he make any unforeseen executive orders. For our students, the last day of school is Tuesday, June 16th. The last day of new instruction will be Thursday, June 11th.  This means June 12, 15, and 16 are scheduled as makeup workdays for students who need it. The last day for staff is Thursday, June 18th.  Again, please note these dates remain tentative. 

 

Weekly Forum (Budget Edition)

This week’s community forum will focus on the budget vote. As you will learn, this year’s budget is incredibly challenging for all schools. With the struggling economy and the state government pulling back funding from an already underfunded budget has caused all districts to get creative, find savings, and brace for what is being projected as the most difficult budgeting stretch we have ever faced.  All registered voters will receive an absentee ballot which was mailed on Tuesday, May 26th. The ballot is due back by 5 p.m. on June 9. The first forum will be at 3 p.m. on Thursday, May 28, and will be for staff. The second forum will be at 6 p.m. on May 28 and is open for the community to join. 

Thursday, May 28 - 3 p.m. Staff Forum: Budget Presentation

 

Thursday, May 28 - 6 p.m. Community Forum: Budget Presentation

 

Meal Distribution Volunteers Needed

The District continues to serve grab and go meals on weekdays from 11 a.m . to  1 p.m. at the Primary-Elementary School. These meals are open to all Canandaigua City School District students. We are seeking volunteers to distribute these meals. The sign up is linked here: 

June 1 - June 12, 2020 Meal Distribution Sign Up

Virtual Memorial Day Tribut

Living in this new virtual world has certainly changed the way we operate but I am amazed at the creativity and level of involvement that still remains.  Please enjoy this short video put together by our music department to honor our fallen soldiers on Memorial Day. 

CA Music Virtual Memorial Day 2020 

Senior Celebrations

We continue to work on concepts for our commencement and recently we have learned that the Department of Health, State Education Department, and the Governor’s office are working collectively on guidance information specific to commencement exercises and will share that guidance with us “soon.”  We continue to work on various concepts for commencement and will have a final decision on June 8th. 

Cap and gown pick up will be on Wednesday, June 3 between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. at Canandaigua Academy. The event, called CA CAps & CArs. We ask that on Wednesday, you approach the Academy from Chapel Street and enter at the South Lot (near the athletic wing of the Academy). During the entire event, you will remain in your vehicle. In addition to cap and gown pick up, there will be some exciting surprises and stay tuned for more details.

 

The June 10th Senior Parade remains tentative pending approval to convene in such a manner. In the meantime, we continue to honor our seniors and show them how incredible they are. Below is a link to a brief video about yard sign delivery. Enjoy the smiles! 

All Seniors Received a Free, Personalized Yard Sign

Senior Sign Delivery 
 

 

 

That is all for today. Please stay safe, well, and cool!  Go Braves!

Sincerely,

 

Jamie Farr

Superintendent of the Canandaigua City School District

Emergency Closure Update (Robocall Script) - 5/22/2020 at 3 p.m.

 

Robocall Script
Friday, May 22, 2020

Good afternoon,

This is Jamie Farr, superintendent of the Canandaigua City School District with updates from the week. Today, progress reports were delivered through BravesSquare to parents and guardians with students in grades 6 - 12. This progress report will simply be a comment associated with an approximated, associated grade range based on the level of consistency a student is completing work thus far during the fourth quarter for each course.

Yesterday, Governor Cuomo announced that in-person summer school would not be taking place this summer. We continue to seek guidance on virtual summer school, driver’s education, what this means, and when more information is available, we will let you know as soon as we know more.

For parents of incoming Kindergarten students and UPK students, information will be sent out next Tuesday about the remainder of the registration process.

I’d like to share information about the last days of school. All of this is tentative, pending the Governor should he make any unforeseen executive orders. For our students, the last day of school is Tuesday, June 16th. The last day of new instruction will be Thursday, June 11th. This means, June 12, 15, and 16 are scheduled as make up work days for students who need it. The last day for staff is Thursday, June 18th. Again, please note these dates remain tentative.

We continue to celebrate the Class of 2020 and while our virtual activities cannot replicate the events our students are missing out on, we continue to be proud of their accomplishments. Senior yard signs were delivered this week by Canandaigua Academy staff members and we continue to work on graduation plans. We will have a final decision on graduation on Monday, June 8 and we are hearing guidance will be coming soon from the Governor’s office regarding what is allowed for commencement activities therefore we are extremely interested in seeing this information.

The District continues to serve grab and go meals at the Primary-Elementary School on weekdays. There will be no meal service on Monday, May 25th as we observe Memorial Day. Also, a reminder that our facilities remain closed and we must continue to practice social distancing.

Lastly, I hope you and your family enjoy this Memorial Day Weekend. We remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.  During these challenging times, let’s not lose sight of our great nation and those who serve and defend our country. Be well, stay safe, and Go Braves!

 

May 20, 2020 

Good afternoon, Braves Family, 

I hope you are finding time to enjoy this beautiful weather. This weather reminds me of the spring events we are missing out on, collectively. Everyone might have a different favorite springtime tradition, but it is challenging and heartbreaking to know that these will not happen in their traditional fashion. I know many great things are being planned, and while they cannot replace the live events, we do have the opportunity to celebrate our successes and look forward to a bright future. Today’s communication focuses on a few brief updates. On Friday, I will do the weekly robocall and there is no planned communication from me on Monday, May 25, as we honor Memorial Day. 

Today’s Information: 

1. UPK / Kindergarten Registration Information

2. Community Forum Link

3. Senior Activities Update 

UPK/ Kindergarten Registration Information 

Families who completed the Kindergarten registration form and families who received a spot in UPK for the 2020-2021 school year will receive an email on Tuesday, May 26 with instructions on how to complete the remainder of the registration process. We are excited to welcome our youngest Braves! If you still need to start the Kindergarten registration process, follow the directions here: https://www.canandaiguaschools.org/district/student-registration.

Community Forum 

Hosted by the Canandaigua Chamber of Commerce with Dr. Robert Nye & Jamie Farr Thursday, May 21, 3 p.m. 

Due to popular demand, we had to change our link to allow in more participants. There is no need to register in advance. 

Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86272712747?pwd=b1Q2cmZ5Q2ZIVC9vNnF5NGFIUDFXQT09

Senior Activities Update: 

As a District, we continue to celebrate the Class of 2020. A few more events have been added to the calendar and they are listed in the graphics below. Today, the personalized senior yard signs were delivered across the District. Over 65 Academy staff members, divided into teams and given strict social distancing guidance, drove across our community, with their cars decorated and delivered the signs to almost 300 seniors! Additionally, across our social media platforms, we are celebrating our senior athletes and spotlighting our seniors future plans. We continue to prepare for the different graduation options and will make the final decision on graduation on Monday, June 8.  

In Summary

This is all for today.  Please stay safe and be well.  I continue to try to share a decision about the end of the school year and am waiting on a piece of information from the state level which I am told is coming this week, so lets hope Friday’s robocall will include that information.

Sincerely,
 

Jamie Farr

Superintendent of the Canandaigua City School District

 

MMonday, May 18, 2020 

Dear Braves Family, 

I trust you enjoyed the nice weekend, soaked in a bit of sunshine amidst the warmer weather, and found peace. We remain in Phase 1 of the Governor’s Reopening Plan overseen by Bob Duffy here in the Finger Lakes. Yesterday, Bob Duffy held a meeting intended to check in on how things were progressing here in the Finger Lakes and noted that already there are signs of people not wearing face coverings and not maintaining social distancing in public.

In my opinion, it is probably the result of warmer temperatures and so many people outside in addition to a bit of a false sense of security being that we have begun reopening. Please remain vigilant and cautious as the last thing any of us want is a setback and implementation of greater restrictions.

Today’s communication includes:

1. Memorial Day Weekend
2. Thursday’s Forum 
3. Progress Reports

Friday, May 22- Make-Up Day
Monday, May 25 - Memorial Day- Federal Holiday

Our original school schedule called for Friday, May 22nd to be an additional day off for Memorial Day weekend. That day will now be an academic day but it will be a makeup day for students who need a little more time to catch up on back work. No new academic work will be assigned for Friday, May 22nd and if students need to complete assignments, they can use Friday to make up that work. We will not have scheduled work on Monday, May 25th as it is a federal holiday.

Thursday’s Forum - Slightly Different Format 

On Thursday, May 21, at 3 p.m. I will be a panelist as part of a conversation facilitated by the Canandaigua Area Chamber of Commerce. The forum is titled “In Session, At Home,” and is a dialog about the changing landscape of education in light of the evolving COVID-19 pandemic. I will be joined by Finger Lakes Community College President, Dr. Robert Nye and the forum will be hosted by the Chamber of Commerce Director, Ethan Fogg. To receive the Zoom link and to reserve your free spot, visit: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_MuckHkpiSMmLVzXrIvqMQg


Progress Reports - Grades 6-12

Fourth-quarter progress reports will be sent to students and families this Friday, 5/22/2020 through BravesSquare.  As a reminder, this progress report will simply be a comment associated with an approximated, associated grade range based on the level of consistency a student is completing work thus far during the fourth quarter.

 

 

In Conclusion

There have been a lot of questions from students, staff, parents, and community members about when the last day of school will be this year.  I hope to share that specific information with you this week once the details are finalized.  Keep in mind, since we lost our spring break, we will have to gain those days back at the end of the school year, therefore, the end of the school year will be earlier than originally planned.  

 

Stay safe and have a great week!

Sincerely,

Jamie Farr

Superintendent - The Canandaigua City School District

Good afternoon, 

This is Superintendent Jamie Farr from the Canandaigua City School District with your Friday robocall recapping communications from the week and sharing new information. 

Governor Cuomo has started to re-open our region using his Phase 1 plans.  Construction, manufacturing, and select curbside retail are opening as well as safe recreational activities such as tennis, pickleball, the skate park, and the dog park are spaces reopening in our community. Our school facilities remain closed at this time. 

This week, I communicated a series of graphics related to the end of the year events at each of our buildings. Check those out on our website or in BravesSquare. There is a tremendous amount of detail and it answers many of your frequently asked questions.

I also shared in Monday’s BravesSquare communication information related to how we will issue grades for the progress report, final report card, and overall course average in all classes in grades UPK-12.  In UPK-5, students will be rated on standards taught over the closure, and teachers will note what standards they were unable to cover.  This information will be helpful for next school year so that those standards can still be taught.  In grades 6-12, students will receive a numeric grade for the 4th quarter using a rubric based on how consistently effort is demonstrated.  Overall, course grades will consider the grade for the 1st, 2nd, and 4th quarter and students will receive benefit from a score of “credit” for the 3rd quarter as well.  Please see the specifics about grading which has been emailed through BravesSquare both last Friday and this past Monday.  

Our original school schedule called for Friday, May 22nd to be an additional day off for Memorial Day weekend. That day will now be an academic day but it will be a makeup day for students who need a little more time to catch up on back work. No new academic work will be assigned for Friday, May 22nd and if students need to complete assignments, they can use Friday to make up that work. We will not have scheduled work on Monday, May 25th as it is a federal holiday.

Today we posted a video on social media and our youtube channel highlighting the seniors with their yearbook photos. Throughout the coming weeks, we will celebrate the success and accomplishments of the Class of 2020. Please see our plans for our seniors on our website, social media outlets, and in BravesSquare.

Next week is Transportation Appreciation Week. Our bus drivers and transportation staff go above and beyond for our students each and every day. I know they are missing our students during the closure and I thank them for their dedication to transporting our students safely.

As we look towards the weekend, the warmer temperatures, and our Phase 1 reopening, please remain safe and vigilant. What we do now will determine what happens in the future and we do not want any setbacks. We are all eager to return to normal as soon as possible. Be well!

Emergency Closure Update - 5/13/2020 at 3 p.m.   Wednesday, May 13, 2020  Good afternoon, Braves Family,  I trust this communication finds you feeling a sense of peace and calm as we begin to rise from these uncertain times and slowly begin to return to a sense of normalcy. The news that the Finger Lakes Region will soon begin the re-opening process is both exciting and unnerving.  I’d ask that everyone proceeds with caution and follows the phased re-opening closely so that we can safely return to business as usual.   Today’s communication addresses: Governor Cuomo’s Phased Re-Opening Activities for the Class of 2020  Building Events for the End of the School Year Meal Distribution Sign Up - May 18 - May 29  Thursday’s Forum Link Information about the Phased Re-Opening On May 11, Governor Andrew Cuomo announced that the Finger Lakes Region met the seven criteria to begin re-opening. This means that as of this Friday, aspects in our region will begin to re-open.  During the re-opening phase, should the infection or hospitalization rates trend upward, restrictions would return.  Pacing out the Governor’s phased plan for re-opening, if everything went well, the final phase would be sometime near the end of June or beginning of July.  Educational systems are in the last phase of his plan. End of the Year Activities As you will see, there is a tremendous amount of detail below. Please read it carefully. All dates are tentative and dependent on what we are allowed to do.  Specific times for events will be shared by each building principal and/or director as the event nears.  Other events are in the works as well, therefore this is not a comprehensive list.       Seniors       Athletics C.A.C.C.   Middle School     Elementary School   Primary School Meal Distribution Sign Up - May 18 - May 29 Thank you to all who have volunteered for meal distribution. We are looking for more volunteers (see the link below). Please note, the District will not be serving meals on Memorial Day, which will be observed on Monday, May 25.  Sign Up Genius: Meal Distribution  Thursday’s Forum Link Our weekly Community Forum will be on Thursday, May 14 at 3 p.m. The link to join in is below. Community Forum Link: Thursday, May 14 In Summary: As you can see, a great deal of time and coordination has gone into outlining the details and plans.  Watching the news, you may have also noticed events occurring in surrounding communities to recognize seniors for example.  I have called the superintendents from those communities so my thinking could be confirmed.  Many of the items were community created and community-driven.  Our community has been and continues to be amazing.  Should you have ideas beyond what has been listed above, please email me and the relevant building principal to share your idea and we can let you know how we might be able to support your efforts.   In the meantime, I wish everyone a safe and productive week and I cannot wait until we are all back together soon.   Sincerely, Jamie Farr Superintendent - The Canandaigua City School District

Monday, May 11 

Good afternoon, Braves Family,

I hope this communication finds you well. I also hope that the weather will start feeling like May, rather than March. As we continue to work through the different logistics of being closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year, we will follow the same communication schedule that we have been using throughout the closure. As we operate remotely, communication is crucial. Information will be shared via BravesSquare, on our website, and through social media.

Today’s communication includes the following:

1. Grading Updates- Grades UPK - 5
2. Grading Updates- Grades 6-12
3. Academy student schedules for 2020-2021 distribution

 

Grading Update

Since we closed, I have written and discussed grading many times, and we continue to focus on what is most supportive of students while acknowledging their hard work during these challenging times. For the third quarter, students in grades 6-12 received credit/ no credit marks. Since school buildings are closed for the rest of the academic year, we are shifting to the information below to assess our students and calculate their grades. Please know we did many analyses on the model we adopted, using grades of many of our actual students, and our analysis proved that this structure was not punitive and benefited students. I encourage each student to continue to work hard, try their best, and engage with the content as much as possible. 

UPK-5 Grading

The instructional period will conclude in June per the direction of the Governor. Teachers have prioritized specific learning standards at each grade level during the closure period and will provide families with information regarding this learning. Teachers will continue to monitor student progress and will provide narrative comments.

Standards covered during the closure period will be noted on the report card. Standards not covered for the year will be prioritized for additional practice and review in the fall of 2020 for all students. In the event that a student is not engaging in instruction or meeting standard(s), classroom teachers will work with building counselors and/or administrators to use this information to support instruction for the 20-21 school year.

Grading 6-12

Mr. Tenney, Academy Principal, and Mr. Arthur, Middle School Principal, sent BravesSquare messages to students today about the 4th quarter grading rubric and how to calculate a student’s overall grade for a course. These slides below outline our grading procedures for the rest of the 2019-2020 school year. 

Canandaigua City School District- Grading Grades 6-12

These slides include information on the following topics: 

1. The Grading Rubric
2. Progress Report Information
3. 4th Quarter Grade Calculation
4. 2nd Semester (Half Year) Course Calculations
5. Overall Course Calculations for the 2020-2021 school year

Please contact your child’s teacher about specific assignments and grades. If you have further questions, please reach out to the principal.

Academy Student Schedules 

The Academy will distribute 2020-2021 course schedules to students in 8th, 9th, 10th, and 11th grade on Tuesday (5/12) morning. These schedules will be delivered the same as report cards, through Secure Documents in BravesSquare. Please review the list of classes when you receive it. These are courses for which your child was recommended by their current teachers as well as any electives they selected while meeting with their counselor. Students have until May 22 to make any changes.

In Summary

As stated, the grading process we have adopted is both fair and equitable. Through our analytics, students were not harmed, only benefited by these calculations, and we were careful to place safeguards that would demonstrate care and compassion for this unusual circumstance. All we ask is that students try their best, and if they do that, they will be well served. Of course, if at the conclusion of the academic year, you believe your grades were negatively impacted by our closure status, please reach out to your principal and explain the situation. We are prepared to evaluate individual circumstances if there is a need. 

In Wednesday’s communication, we will share a detailed outline of both senior and building specific events for the remainder of this school year. A special thanks to the so many of you who are helping to coordinate these events. As you likely see, every community is doing a variety of things to recognize seniors. Some of those items are coordinated by the school and some are coordinated by parents and businesses in the community who have a desire to assist. We certainly can’t do it alone, and we thank the many of you who are willing to take the lead with making the end of this school year special. 

Until Wednesday, be well, have a great week, and stay safe.  

 

Sincerely,

Jamie Farr

Superintendent of the Canandaigua City School District

May 8, 2020
Emergency Closure Update (Robocall)

In today’s communication:

1. Teacher and Nurse Appreciation Week
2. Memorial Day weekend and the end of the school year
3. Budget / Board Elections / Capital Project Vote
4. Commencement / Senior Recognition
5. Grading

Community Forum Webinar on YouTube

Slides from last night’s Community Forum

Good afternoon, this is Jamie Farr, Superintendent of the Canandaigua City School District, calling with your Friday recap and update.  

This week was both teacher and nurse appreciation week. While both of these groups of people deserve recognition throughout the year, during these challenging times we would like to thank them for all they do for our school community. So thank you to our teachers, those who teach students no matter what unimaginable circumstances are thrown their way. And thank you to our dedicated school nurses who provide compassionate care to our students (and occasionally to our adults) each day. 

For Memorial Day Weekend we are scheduled to have both Friday, May 22nd, and Monday, May 26th off for Memorial Day. We continue to seek guidance on this topic and likely will have school Friday and will have Monday, the 26th off as it is a Federal Holiday. We will let you know when we learn this officially. Additionally, we still do not have information about when the last day of school will be this year.  Please stay tuned on this and overall information about what the last day of school is. 

Our budget vote, capital project, and board of education election will be conducted completely through absentee ballots. The ballots, with a postage-paid return envelope, are due back by 5 p.m. on June 9th. We will be distributing more information about these topics in the next few weeks. 

Many questions have come up about Commencement for the Class of 2020. We have three plans, all taking place on June 28, so listen closely.

Plan 1- Commencement as scheduled with some limitations at CMAC

Plan 2- Commencement at CMAC with many significant restrictions in place. This ceremony would be for graduates and their immediate families only. 

Plan 3- Completely virtual graduation. We would work on recording parts of the traditional ceremony in advance and piece it together for a complete and final product. 

On June 8th, a decision will be made based on what is allowed by New York State and our public health department at the time. We are also considering input from seniors as they complete a survey at this time. 

The last topic, grading. Please check out our website and recent BravesSquare posts regarding information related to grading. For students in grades UPK-5, we will focus on standards-based grading and it won’t look much different than it typically looks other than not all standards will be measured during the closure. For students in grades 6-12, we have developed a rubric for the 4th quarter. The rubric is out of 12 points and based on the student's effort, work productivity, and participation during the 4th quarter, their grade on the rubric will give them a numeric score. The details for our entire grading plan, including how final grades will be calculated for students in grades 6-12 are available on our website and on BravesSquare. Please familiarize yourself with this but also please understand we have put a lot of safeguards in place and are certainly erring on the side of students.

That is plenty for this week.  Please stay safe and be well and to all the mothers out there, Happy Mother’s Day!  

Click Here: Community Forum Slides

Grading, Commencement, & More

 

Wednesday, May 6, 2020 

Good afternoon, Braves Family,

I hope you are well and safe. Our leadership team has been working incredibly hard, trying to formalize and finalize plans to close out the school year. What we are learning is the intensity to the level of detail which is required in order to get it right is significant. Kudos to the leadership team for their thoughtful, persistent, and continual efforts. In the coming days, we will share details related to safety, grading, commencement and senior activities, events/traditions/recognitions, and other considerations. We will begin releasing this information this Thursday during our staff and community forums. Please tune in if you can. If you can’t, you will be able to view a recording of the forum, which we will also share.

Today’s communication will address a couple of items:
 

1. National Nurses Appreciation Day
2. Forums links for Thursday, May 7 

National Nurses Appreciation Day

During a time when we celebrate and honor our health care workers for all their selfless acts during this global pandemic, it also seems very important to celebrate and recognize our school nurses, some of whom are also helping with this health care crisis during our school closure.  

School nurses continually provide care and attention to our students in need of medical assistance. Whether it is responding to an injury, providing comfort during times of illness, maintaining and distributing necessary medications, performing health-related services, or any of the wide array of duties which they so skillfully perform, we thank them for their professionalism and treatment for all of us, as though we are their own. Concisely stated, school nurses keep us safe and for that, we commend, and thank you!  

Forums

This week we will return to our prior format and break the forums up into two separate presentations. One will be for staff and the other for parents and students. Forums take place on Thursdays of each week and will be at the following times (click the link to join the forum):

Thursday, May 7
Staff- 3 p.m. 
Community- Parents & Student- 6 p.m. 

During the forum this week, I will be joined by our Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Matt Schrage, as a panelist and we will begin to share some of the details behind our logistics to close out the school year. Specifically, on Thursday, we plan to share information regarding grading, commencement, senior events, and students and staff retrieving items from their classrooms and lockers.

I do hope you can join us, but remember, we will record the forums and share the link to watch the recording if the timeframe doesn’t work for you as is. 

In Conclusion

Just like anything a person sets out to do, it is typically easy to start strong with focus and determination. A true test of a person’s resilience and drive is an ability to persist throughout. Take this closure, for example, it was easiest to rise to the challenge in the first week or two but as time goes on, and frustration, anxiety and other feelings begin to mount, will we continue to put forth our best effort? And how about the end, will we finish strong? I challenge all of our staff, students, and parents to continue to do your very best until the very end of the school year. You’ve all come this far, so demonstrate your drive and resilience and finish the year in a manner that will make you proud when one day you look back at this time in your life.  

Sincerely,


Jamie Farr
Superintendent - The Canandaigua City School District

Monday, May 4, 2020 

Greetings, Braves Family,

I trust this email finds you well, having enjoyed a beautiful weekend that ushered in warmth and sunshine, both of which were a welcome diversion from the cloudy, cool temperatures, and our quarantine lifestyles.  

Today’s communication addresses some of the most commonly asked questions over the last few days. We do not have all the answers to these questions, but for the sake of transparency, we are sharing what we do know. 

Today’s Communication Covers:

1. Teacher Appreciation Week
2. Budget Vote / Board of Education Election / Capital Project Vote
3. Memorial Day Weekend / End of the School Year

Teacher Appreciation Week

This week is Teacher Appreciation Week, and I have long asserted that all staff members who work for a school system are teachers in their own rights. Some teach directly and explicitly in front of classrooms full of students, while some teach through leading by example, performing their duties with pluck and integrity so that our young, impressionable learners have even more positive role models.

This year, we anoint more “teachers” - parents/guardians/grandparents/etc. have all assumed a teacher style role, helping their loved ones with their educational progress. Thank you to all of you for the role you are playing in helping children learn. I’ve long felt that teachers walk on water. They do incredible, selfless work for the benefit of others, for the benefit of our community, for the benefit of society. Teachers are heroes, and when I think about Teacher Appreciation Week, I immediately think of this cartoon: 


To you, the teachers, my heroes, THANK YOU for making a difference! I am eternally grateful.
 
Budget vote/ Board Election/ Capital Project Vote

On Friday, May 1, Governor Andrew Cuomo issued an Executive Order related to the School Board Election, the Budget Vote, and our Capital Project Vote. The vote that was originally scheduled for May 19, 2020, will now take place on June 9, 2020, remotely. Qualified voters will vote by absentee ballot, and the district will send an absentee ballot to all qualified voters, with a postage-paid return envelope. We plan to mail these out around May 26, 2020 (still trying to confirm this date), and your ballot needs to be filled out and returned to district office and received by June 9th of 2020 at 5 p.m. to be counted. We will share this information as soon as we know it.

Memorial Day Weekend and End of the School Year 2020

Our calendar this year had Friday, May 22, and Monday, May 25 scheduled for the observation of Memorial Day. Monday the 25th is a Federal Holiday. We have asked for clarification from the Governor’s office about these days recognizing that he did require us to work over April Break; we just want to be sure we are sharing accurate information.  

Additionally, since we did not have a Spring Break, we are aware that the end of the school year may be earlier than what was previously on the calendar. Based on contractual agreements, we believe the end of the school year should be on or around June 15. Again, similar to the Memorial Day weekend situation, we have asked for clarification from the Governor’s office. At this point, we do not have an answer on either of these items, but as soon as we do, we will be sure to let you know.

In Conclusion

Since the news of our distance learning remaining in place for the rest of this school year and buildings remaining closed, I have been amazed by our community. So many tears have been shed, from students, parents/guardians, and staff. We would do almost anything to just return to normal and finish the school year, just like we do every single year. There is real sadness, which is further evidence of the care for one another, which exists among our One Braves Family.  

Students, especially the seniors, handling the news with amazing perspective and maturity, have demonstrated their disappointment while sharing hope and appreciation for all the great memories they will always have. This is a perspective all of us can learn from. Please know, our administrative team is working hard, even as I type this, planning activities and events to celebrate and recognize our seniors and our students, our retirees, and finding avenues to support students and families at all grade levels, especially grades where students are transitioning to another building. We plan to share these details later this week.  

Thank you for your time and please, have a great week.  

Sincerely,


Jamie Farr

 

Dear Braves Family,

Difficult times do not define a person; however, how an individual responds to difficult times can define a person. We received disappointing news today, and now, we must continue to showcase our Canandaigua resiliency and compassion. Today Governor Cuomo announced that New York State Schools are closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year, and academic instruction will continue remotely until the end of the school year. The specific end date has not yet been identified. As a District, we are saddened by this announcement and want our students, staff, and this community to know we had hoped for better news. 

We miss you and want to make certain we appropriately honor and uphold our traditions as best as possible, given this new reality. As a team, we are solidifying our plans for academics, honoring seniors and retirees, maintaining traditions, and supporting students as they transition to new grade levels and buildings, and much more. Please stay tuned for detailed information on these topics next week but understand, we cannot do it alone. To do this properly, it will take all hands on deck and a community-wide effort. And in true Canandaigua fashion, when we set out to do something, we do it with a focus on excellence.   

As a result of the Governor’s Executive Order, we believe that also means that spring sport seasons and other school-sponsored events will not take place in person this spring. As of now, significant events such as the senior ball are postponed as we explore alternative options. We may also have to postpone commencement and look at a later date and/or alternative options, and we are preparing for that as well. The District continues to work through plans for hosting (in person, live, or virtual) events, and more information will be coming related to these important, postponed events next week. 

The District facilities, including athletic fields, remain closed. As part of our planning, we are determining when and how students and staff can retrieve personal items, fundraising purchases, and yearbooks. We will continue to serve grab and go breakfast and lunch on weekdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Primary-Elementary School. Meal distribution is open to all students in the Canandaigua City School District. 

 

The District mental health staff continues to work, and if there are any mental health needs, please contact John LaFave at (585) 396-3739. If technical support is needed, please email portalhelp@canandaiguaschools.org. 

The administration team has been planning for the challenges ahead and will continue to provide clarity for our school community in response to this public health crisis. We know that there are a variety of questions and issues to resolve in the days and weeks ahead, and we ask that everyone remain patient, be kind to one another, and focused on the health of our Braves Family. 

Sincerely, 

Jamie Farr, Superintendent of Schools

 

Although previously communicated that April 6 to April 10 would serve as our typical spring break, Governor Cuomo has clarified that his executive order mandates instruction to continue during the entire closure period through April 15th. This means that we must proceed with our remote learning during April 6 - April 10.

For the period of April 6 to April 10, staff will continue to provide instruction and a focus on preparing for the transition to delivery of new content (as previously communicated) by Monday, April 13, 2020. Instruction during this time period (previously spring break) can still look like a blend of practice/review.  

We will send additional information later in the week to staff regarding guidelines for grading and new instruction that is scheduled to begin April 13, 2020. We are working to share information as we learn of it; however, this poses a challenge as information changes frequently. We continue to face unprecedented challenges, and I thank you for your patience during this time.

March 30, 2020

I hope everyone was able to enjoy a safe weekend. For the most part, we had favorable weather, which hopefully provided an opportunity to open your windows or perhaps even spend some time outside while keeping in mind the need for social distancing. Each day we are learning more and more about the spread of COVID-19 and our government’s response to it. Most predictions indicate that the peak is still approximately 2-3 weeks away. I share this because Governor Cuomo stated last week, when he extended the closure by two weeks, until April 15th of 2020, that he would re-evaluate a need to extend closures every two weeks. Additionally, during President Trump’s press conference on Sunday evening (3/29/2020), he extended his order for social distancing nationwide until April 30th of 2020. We do not believe that means we have to remain closed until then at this point, but it is further evidence that the return to “normal” may be further down the road than we had hoped. 

Knowing that we are at least closed until April 15th and perhaps likely longer, we want staff and students preparing themselves to engage in a shift in our approach to remote learning. Coming out of April break, starting on Monday, April 13th, all teachers will begin to present new content. As we prepare for this shift, it is important that new content is chunked into small, manageable, organized segments. Given the current circumstances, lessons with new content should not exceed 15 minutes of “direct instruction” per content area followed by independent practice. “Direct instruction” may be via Zoom sessions and/or the use of Schoology to deliver these learnings, determined by the teacher, department, and/or grade level.  

Once we make this shift, there will also be an increase in accountability. Your health is still of primary importance. However, with not knowing how long we will actually be closed, we need to place a value on academic learning as well. We need all students to engage in the work to the best of their ability given their own individual circumstances, and the good news is, most students already are engaging in online content. As we make this shift, students will, at first, be graded on a pass/fail concept. Engaging and giving effort to accomplish what is being asked will result in a pass. Submitting or completing work, attending virtual sessions if your teacher offers them and you have connectivity, and/ or responding to feedback or prompts from your teacher is evidence of engagement and effort. This accountability structure may change over time and evolve a bit more, but this is where we are starting. The Continuity of Learning Plan may be updated or revised during this extended emergency closing based on guidance or mandates from the New York State Education Department as well.

We understand that it is hard to recreate what happens in school, and that is why we will continue to err on the side of the students. If students and/or parents are struggling to engage, please email the classroom teacher first. If the struggle persists, email your child’s school counselor or building principal. Conversely, staff, if you have reason to believe a student is not engaging, please connect with the family to see what barriers may exist so we can work with them to remove the barriers. If your concern over the student’s engagement continues, please notify your principal who will call home or assign a counselor to connect with the family. We will not issue a score of failing unless we know with certainty that all barriers were removed, and we did everything we could, as educators, to cause engagement. Being isolated/separated and working remotely is indeed challenging for collaboration between the school and home, but this communication process should help and the intent is for ultimate collaboration between the school and the home.  

As we enter our last full week before spring break, let's use this time to assess where we are (staff and students), and seek assistance if we need any support. Perhaps that support is in the form of professional development for staff. We understand this is a monumental shift in how we do things given our current pandemic situation, and in all likelihood, we all, as a staff, could use professional development to sharpen our remote learning skills. Possibly the need to remove barriers for students/families such as connectivity or clarifying points of confusion will be the focal point this week. As always, work with your building administration to be guided to the correct place. More information directly related to moving forward with content and pass/ fail grading will be distributed to our instructional staff by the Office of Instruction on Wednesday.         

Lastly, I also want to share with you a piece of information we are trying to get clarity around. Currently, there is conflicting information coming out of Albany about spring break next week. Some indications state that spring break is indeed a break, and access to learning can take a one-week hiatus. In contrast, other information states the opposite, indicating that learning and teaching still must occur over spring break. There are many implications and considerations which need to be sorted out if spring break is not actually a break, but I suspect we will have an official ruling from state officials on that in the next day or two, so please stay tuned.  

I continue to be so impressed with the work I see our students and staff engaging in online each day. It certainly does not replicate the value of traditional instructional practices and in-person learning. Still, we are making the best of our current situation, and I am proud of your efforts. Let’s not lose sight of the fact that this is still all very new, and we are only two weeks in, but we are two weeks in, together. Stay safe, and be well!  

 

Sincerely,

Jamie Farr

Superintendent 

 

 

March 27, 2020

Greetings, Braves Family,

I wanted to thank so many of you who were able to join our Community and Staff Forums yesterday. The feedback was that it was beneficial, so for that reason, we plan to do more forums to provide a status check and field questions from all of you. And I will be honest, and the forum was kind of therapeutic for me as well. During a time of such isolation, it truly felt like I was able to gather with hundreds of friends. Thank you for that. For those of you who missed the forum but wanted to catch it, we did record it and you can watch the evening forum here:

Recording: Community Forum- March 26, 2020

One of the things we talked about last night during the forum was the Governor overruling local decisions in that he closed schools back on March 18th through April 1st (14 days) and that up until yesterday, he had not updated that order which actually superseded our closure until April 13th. Today, Friday, March 27, 2020, during his press conference, Governor Cuomo did extend the school closure statewide until April 15th. This extension includes us. I truly believe this was the right decision, even though I sincerely wish to return to normal as soon as possible. The Governor also stated that school closures will be reassessed every two weeks, and if the trajectories continue as they are, he will likely extend another two weeks. 

Today’s communication is brought to you by our Board of Education president, Jeanie Grimm. In a recent email exchange that I had with one of you, our community members, an idea was pitched, which had a great deal of promise. I shared this idea at our most recent board meeting this past Monday, and Jeanie felt inspired to help this idea come to fruition. From Board President, Jeanie Grimm:

“In the last two weeks, since we closed our schools in response to COVID-19, community members have been asking how they can help our students. Our response has always been that a donation to The Spot helps many - and that is still true! 

Now, with the closure of small businesses, may we humbly suggest that, if your finances allow and you are so inclined, please purchase a gift card from a local eatery. Drop it off during our meal distribution (M-F, Primary Link entrance, ​11AM - 1PM) and we will distribute them. You can just drive up, state you are here to drop off a card, and leave. Additionally, a local Facebook group focused on bringing our community together and other community organizations are  also collecting gift cards for this same purpose. We will help distribute these cards.  

Our local businesses have always been faithful and enthusiastic supporters of our schools and families. By placing ads in our programs, donating goods and services, volunteering time, and showing up, the people who own, operate, and work for our local businesses have been valuable members of this Braves family. Over 200 meals were given away on our first day of operation. Your contribution will make a difference. 

If this is not for you, please simply do not participate! There is a role every single person can play in fighting this pandemic, and every effort counts. Wash your hands, stay home, practice social distancing, maintain compassion for yourself and for others. We can do this!

We are all in this together. Thank you for being the best partners any school district could possibly have.”

​​We plan to begin collecting these cards on Monday, 3/30/2020 through Friday, 4/3/2020. The suggested amount for each card is $25. Donate as many or as few as you see fit. This is one more piece of evidence that we are a remarkable community, and some might even suggest we are One Community, Transforming Lives during a time of incredible hardship. We thank you for all you are doing to help fight this pandemic. 

 

Today, I leave you with this. I find a great amount of joy in listening to music (yet have zero musical talents of my own, sadly). I have a very eclectic taste and readily listen to many various genres. As I returned home yesterday, Jimmy Buffett was singing the song Breathe In, Breathe Out, Move On. Jimmy went on to explain that during times of difficulty, it is important to remember the most basic of things; to breathe and keep moving forward because sometimes that is all we can do. I felt that it was particularly poignant in relation to our current reality. Don’t forget to be mindful, find your inner peace, and continue to move forward. 

Additionally, last night, as I prepared for the Community Forum, I was playing music for participants to hear as they entered the room. The very first song that came on was Bob Marley’s One Love. The lyrics hit me. I am a fan of Bob Marley’s music, and I decided to google and read what the song meant to him. One Love is a song of unity, equality, and peace, regardless of who a person is, among other things. How relevant, as I see that very much reflected in our community, especially right now. Yes, there still remains many inequalities and injustices, but I see so many of you working to erase them. I am so thankful for that. 

So, breathe, keep moving forward, and know we are here for one another. One Community, Transforming Lives. Be well, Be Brave, Be Kind.

 

Sincerely,

 

Jamie Farr

Superintendent

 

---

 

This communication was sent to the families and entire staff of the Canandaigua City School District. Additionally, all of our communications related to the extended closure and COVID-19 can be found at: https://www.canandaiguaschools.org/district/coronavirus-info

 

March 25, 2020 

 

Dear Braves Family,

At the midpoint of week two, I can’t help but feel like it has been so much longer than that. If I could return us to normal, I would do it instantly, yet sadly, that isn’t our reality. It can be said that in times of crisis, we truly test our merits. Each of us has likely felt that sentiment over the last week. Can we maintain a sense of calm when it feels like so much is out of our control? Can we continue to be kind to one another, even to those who live within our own homes, when the stress levels mount? Do we continue to provide and care for others in need? And most importantly, are we doing our part by socially distancing and staying home? We must continue to do all of these things, even with such uncertainty. I know this is challenging. 

Equally challenging is the fact that parents are doing their very best to support their child’s education at home, many of whom have no formal training to do so. On the flip side of that, our instructional staff is working hard learning new technologies to best serve our students and this community, and many are learning it as they go, also with little to no formal training with these new tools. For me, I have had very little training on the product Zoom. Zoom is one of a variety of virtual meeting platforms being used commonly around the globe. My new reality consists of 4-5 Zoom meetings per day, sometimes more. I’m so thankful for this product as it allows us to keep in touch and work collaboratively even when we can’t be together. Many teachers have begun using this product here in Canandaigua as well to connect with their students. 

We are working incredibly hard, trying to communicate regularly, and be accessible to meet your needs. To that point, I will yet again, venture into something brand new by hosting a virtual “Community Forum” meeting for students, families, staff, and community members. The way it will work is I will begin the session by providing Canandaigua City School District’s State of the State, and then I will open it up to questions. You, as attendees, can type questions, and I will see them and be able to respond to as many as I possibly can. Attendees will be able to see me, but I won’t be able to see attendees. The time and date for the forums are below as well as the links. You can join and listen by phone, or you can use your smartphone, tablet, or computer to join the meeting. The community forum will be recorded and linked to our website for anyone who cannot join live. 

Zoom can be accessed through a phone app in either the Google Play/ Apple App Store or on a computer/ Chromebook/ laptop. 

 

Thursday, March 26 - 7 - 8 p.m. 

Parents/ Students/ Staff/ Community members- Join our Community Forum

Click on the link here: Community Forum Zoom- Thursday, March 26 - 7 - 8 p.m.

 

Thursday, March 26 - 1 - 2 p.m.

Canandaigua City School District Employees- Join our Staff Update

Click on the link here: Staff Update Zoom- Thursday, March 26 - 1 p.m. - 2 p.m.

 

Computer (Chromebook/ Laptop/ Desktop) Instructions: If you have never used Zoom before, you will need to click download and run Zoom. Your computer will ask if you want to Open Zoom? Choose Open Zoom. Enter your email and name when prompted and click join webinar. 

Mobile App Instructions: After you have downloaded the free app from your app store, go to the app, and choose to join a meeting. Enter this Meeting ID for 7 p.m. chat: 339 898 326; Enter this meeting ID for the 1 p.m. staff chat: 429 120 518. Click Join Meeting. After you join the meeting, you will be asked to input your name and email address, then press OK. Or if you already have the app, you can click on the links in this email to join. 

If you log in before 7 p.m., it will direct you to please wait for the host to start this meeting. A webinar is different from a Zoom meeting, as your video feature will not be utilized. I will appear on your screen/ phone and lead the community forum. I will start with the current state of what the District knows related to the extended closure. I will utilize the Q and A feature in Zoom. This feature is at the bottom of your screen. 

You can try accessing this in advance. The forum is already set up, no information will be there, but you are able to do a test run on the technology in advance. Please direct any additional questions related to technology to portalhelp@canandaiguaschools.org. 

Thank you all for your continued support. Please stay safe and well.  

 

Sincerely,

 

Jamie Farr

Superintendent

Monday, March 23, 2020

2 p.m.

Greetings Braves Family,

I really hope this email finds you well and putting first things first.Your and your family’s health and well-being are of the utmost importance at this time. As I am certain you have heard, Governor Cuomo has issued more restrictions, calling for all non-essential employees across New York State to stay home. This will, now, limit the workforce of the Canandaigua City School District employees significantly. Everyone will work from home when and where possible with a few exceptions to that rule.

All staff are expected to work from home during regular business hours or are on call to come in should an emergency need exist. There may be urgent needs of the district, which may cause us to have to pull staff in, in a systematic way to help control the exposure risks. This means the best way to contact anyone at our school is through email.

As we enter week two of our closure, I have two items I hope this communication addresses. Mental health and academic expectations appear to be the two most prominent themes we are hearing from the staff and community right now.

Mental Health:

As social isolation continues, coupled with the anxiety and fear of the unknown about what is next, it can be very difficult to manage alone. Please know that for students, we do have a call center. If a parent feels their child would benefit from or a student feels he/she would like to connect with one of our mental health staff members, please call Mr. John LaFave, Director of Pupil Support Services and the CACC at 585-396-3739. He will be sure to coordinate either a phone session or a Zoom session with your school counselor, psychologist, social worker, or prevention specialist.

Additionally, this time can be stressful for adults. There are several services available for your benefit as well (these services are for students as well). Please do not hesitate to reach out and request assistance:>

Ontario County Mental Health - 585-396-4363 ext. 3019 http://co.ontario.ny.us/99/Mental-Health

County Complex Drive Walk-In Times: Monday 8-10:30 a.m., Tuesday 8-10:30 a.m. and 1-3:30 p.m.

Clifton Springs Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP) - Mobile Crisis Option 1-877-354-9211 / Emergency Department 315-462-1926

Suicide Prevention Hotline - Lifeline: 1-800-310-1160 / Text Helpline: 741-741

For more information about resources available in our region, call 211 or visit https://211lifeline.org

For any staff member in need of assistance, you have available to you a free Employee Assistance Program (EAP): 1-800-225-2527 or 1-800-252-4555 where a professional counselor can be reached 24/7 or visit EducatorsEAP.com

Ultimately, we want everyone to know, students, staff, and community members; there are resources readily available during this unusual and unprecedented time. Please don’t hesitate to use any of them.

Academic Expectations:

From the beginning of this closure, guidance coming from the State Education Department outlined a need, should districts close and move to more of a virtual learning protocol, for access to learning. Access, during a shorter closure, meant for us to focus on academic review and preparation around content previously taught this year. However, as we continue to remain closed with a projected return date of April 13th, it is time to begin to shift our thinking around our new reality with remote learning and perhaps even plan as though we are not sure when we will actually be returning.

With that in mind, our instructional staff should begin to think about how they will use our available technology to progress learning and move the content forward with students in the near future. Many staff already are, but all staff should begin to consider what it will look like to offer virtual mini-lessons loaded into Schoology or Zoom classes as well as offer “office hours” via Zoom and/or email.

This also means that we will need to accurately gauge which students are and are not engaging in the learning. We will reach out to our families and determine what barriers exist for engagement for those who are not engaging. If it is internet access, for example, we will endeavor to help solve that problem or whatever other barrier exists. Principals will begin to create the process which we will use to determine who to reach out to with their staff in the coming days.

This shift to remote learning, and specifically, progressing the content, is not a slight nor easy one, and we know it won’t be immediate, but it is something we should indeed begin to prepare for. For some teachers, this shift will occur sooner, while for others, they will need more support. This is why we are also planning and coordinating virtual professional development to help staff make this shift.

Again, keep in mind, this is unprecedented, and we are all doing our very best to maintain a continuity of instruction while given very little time to prepare. In the meantime, students and staff should continue to progress with the plans already in place.

Things are changing daily due to state and federal announcements. Here are a few things we have learned since Friday. The following assessments will not happen this year:

• New York State Grades 3-8 English Language Arts Test;
• New York State Grades 3-8 Mathematics Test;
• New York State Grade 4 Elementary-Level Science Test;
• New York State Grade 8 Intermediate-Level Science Test;
• New York State English as a Second Language Achievement Test (NYSESLAT) in Grades K-12;
• New York State Alternate Assessment (NYSAA) for students with significant cognitive impairments in Grades 3-8 and high school;
• IB examinations (IB diploma or course certificate will be awarded based solely on the student’s coursework and what they registered for)

At this point, there has been no word on Regents exams. We will let you know if any of that changes. Additionally, Gemini courses are moving forward as planned, only in a virtual environment. Gemini teachers were just informed of this over the weekend and will be connecting with their students any time now if they haven’t already. All AP examinations have modified their testing protocol. For the 2019-20 exam administration only, students can take a 45-minute online exam at home. The exam will only include topics and skills most AP teachers and students have already covered in class by early March. Students will be able to take these streamlined exams on any device they have access to (computer, tablet, or smartphone). Taking a photo of handwritten work will also be an option. More information to follow.

If students (and parents/guardians), should have any questions about your (your child’s) academics, please send your teacher a message through Schoology or email your teacher: https://www.canandaiguaschools.org/staff-directory

If you still have questions after emailing your teacher, please email your building principal

• Primary School: Heidi Robb - robbh@canandaiguaschools.org
• Elementary School: Brian Amesbury - amesburyb@canandaiguaschools.org
• Middle School: John Arthur - arthurj@canandaiguaschools.org
• Academy: Vern Tenney - tenneyv@canandaiguaschools.org
• CACC: John LaFave - lafavej@canandaiguaschools.org

After that, academic questions should go to our Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, Matt Schrage at schragem@canandaiguaschools.org, and then me, at farrj@canandaiguaschools.org. Staff, should you have questions, please direct them to your supervisor first, then Matt and then me. We are trying to remind everyone of the order of communication specific to instruction for the sake of managing the volume coming in.

I want to again thank everyone for your continued support, selflessness, and unity. It is said, a crisis can bring out the best or worst in people, and I am so proud to see the best of Canandaigua on display each and every day. I am grateful for you. Please stay safe and be well.

Sincerely,

Jamie Farr
Superintendent - Canandaigua City School District

From the Ontario County Department of Public Health

(District's response below)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: March 19, 2020
Contact: Mary Beer, Public Health Director
Telephone: 585-396-4343
Covid-19 Update

Ontario County Reports a Total of Three COVID-19 Positive Cases

Hopewell- Ontario County Public Health announces a total of three confirmed COVID-19 cases in Ontario County. The first case was travel acquired. The second and third cases were community acquired.
One positive COVID-19 case is a student at the Canandaigua Middle School. Canandaigua School officials are aware. The student and family are currently under quarantine and being monitored by Ontario County Public Health. The teen is recovering and feeling better at this time. Ontario County Public Health is in the processes of completing contact investigations of both community-acquired cases.

Due to the sheer number of people gathered in school settings, a case of COVID-19 in an Ontario County School district was expected at some point. All community members and families of the Canandaigua School district should be alert to COVID-19 symptoms such as cough, fever and shortness of breath.

Our recommendations remain the same. Please continue social distancing. Staying home will help slow down the spread of COVID-19. Please remember, most people do NOT need to be tested. Only sick people who have severe symptoms or certain risk factors should be being tested. COVID-19 testing must be ordered by a healthcare provider.

If you are sick, please STAY HOME. Most cases of COVID-19 are mild and can be managed at home. Call your health care provider if you think you are too sick to stay home or if you have questions. Do not go to the hospital, urgent care center or doctor’s office without calling first. If you are very sick and need medical care, call your health care provider or emergency room before leaving your house if possible. If help is needed immediately, call 9-1-1 and tell the dispatcher that you have COVID-19 symptoms.

For more information on COVID-19 visit:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/index.html
New York State Department of Health:
https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/coronavirus/
Ontario County Public Health: https://www.co.ontario.ny.us/101/Public-Health

Canandaigua City School District

Statement in response To The Ontario County Department of Public Health

Press Release on 3/19/2020

Re. Confirmed COVID-19 of Canandaigua Middle School Student

First and foremost, our thoughts are with the family impacted by the information released by the Department of Health this evening confirming one of our middle school students has tested positive for COVID-19. It is believed, but not confirmed, that the case was contracted when the student traveled to another part of the state a couple of weeks ago and was then in attendance at schoolfor two days after traveling. I am happy to report that I did spend a little time on the phone with the family this afternoon and they all remain in great spirits and the student with the confirmed case is feeling much better and is nearly fully returned to good health.

It seems as though today’s communication which I sent a few hours ago to students, parents, and staff was timely and pertinent. That was not by coincidence. As you might guess, rumors are circulating of various members of our community being ill. Most of these are rumors and until just a short time ago, none of them were confirmed. The point we are trying to express now and from the earlier communication is that none of us should find this news surprising. It is likely that every community, as well as everyone in our own beloved community, might have or will have, at some point, an exposure to COVID-19. We will continue to be diligent and communicate as we realize this kind of news can create concerns and anxiety during a time of such uncertainty.

I am unable to go into specifics out of a matter of confidentiality and privacy. The statement from the health department shared all the information we can share at this time. What I can share is that it is important to follow preventative guidelines (getting plenty of sleep, eating healthy, washing your hands, avoiding touching your face, etc.). If you are feeling ill, seek the attention and care of a medical professional. Most importantly, please, practice social distancing. The virus has now entered our community and we each need to do our part to, “flatten the curve.”

Flattening A Pandemic’s Curve: Why Staying Home Now Can Save Lives

Since the district closed, our custodial and maintenance crews have disinfected our entire district and all of our facilities. At this time, any questions should be directed to the Ontario County Department of Public Health or your personal physician. We continue to share resources on our website. Please be safe and care for one another.

Sincerely,

Jamie Farr
Superintendent

March 19, 2020- 1:12 p.m.

Good Afternoon, Braves Family,

While there have been bumps along the way, it is so heartening to see everyone making lemonade out of lemons. I’d like to first address something which seems to be a recurring theme from staff, students, and parents/guardians. I’ve stated from early on in our preparations, this will not be perfect. A lot is happening in a short period of time and it is a very heavy lift. But, it will be good and we will continue to improve and learn as we go.

We understand that there are nationwide issues with connectivity, bandwidth, and internet access. We knew something like this was a possibility as the world is transitioning into a virtual reality. The message we want all staff, students, and parents/guardians to hear with clarity is that our expectation is that everyone tries their best academically but their top priority is their and their family’s health, and their well-being.

Please do not stress nor become overly anxious when things don’t go as planned because you know what? It is bound to happen. This is all new. Please do know that it will be okay. We will not allow our current reality to negatively impact students and their grades regardless of individual situations. We will figure this out together and make it work one way or another. All we are asking is that you try your best, allot an appropriate amount of time to academics per day and accomplish what you can in that amount of time but then spend the rest of the day remaining or getting healthy and taking care of your mental and emotional well-being.

Another question which is out there and is natural given our current reality is “do we have any students or staff who have been diagnosed with COVID-19?” This is a complex situation as we must be cautious to follow and adhere to FERPA and HIPAA guidelines. In other words, for the sake of confidentiality and privacy, the school district is unable to confirm or deny this information. We continue to follow the guidelines and recommendations from the Ontario County Department of Public Health.

If a case is confirmed, linked to our school district, the Department of Public Health would be the entity which deploys staff to investigate the case, determines and communicates with those who may have been exposed, and releases pertinent information to the community via press releases and/or press conferences. We will assist the Department of Public Health in whatever way we can.

It is not a matter of ‘if’ but a matter of ‘when’ someone associated with our school gets COVID-19. What I can share is that it is important to follow preventative guidelines (getting plenty of sleep, eating healthy, washing your hands, avoiding touching your face, etc.). If you are feeling ill, seek the attention and care of a medical professional. Most importantly, please, practice social distancing. We need to do our part to, “flatten the curve.”

Click here to learn more: Flattening A Pandemic’s Curve: Why Staying Home Now Can Save Lives

Meal Information

The Canandaigua City School Nutrition Program is participating in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s School Closure Meal Program, which provides free meals to students during the school closure.

All Canandaigua City School District students can participate (Grades UPK - 12);Questions please call: 585-396-3989.

What: Free meals to go

When: Weekday breakfast and lunch beginning March 23rd, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Main Entrance of the Primary-Elementary School (Gibson Street Parking Lot). This is curb-side pickup, you will not need to get out of your car.

Meal services during the school closure could change. Please pay attention to your email or the District website for updates on this program. Limited meal delivery is available for individuals who cannot pick up the meal. Call 585-396-3989 and leave a message with the student’s name, address, and phone number.

We are touched by the number of staff and community members who have reached out to offer to volunteer. We are looking for volunteers to assist with handing out bagged meals. You can click the appropriate link below (one for staff and one for community) to sign up.Obviously, you need to be healthy and not have a compromised immune system to do so, as we want to be safe.

Volunteer: CCSD Staff- Week of March 23-March 27

Volunteer: Community Members: Week of March 30 - April 3

Once you sign up, more information will be sent to you with details.

Technology Support

Our technology integrators will be available on Zoom sessions for students/families on Monday, March 23 to answer questions you have about remote learning. Zoom is a video conferencing tool accessible on a computer or smartphone. The document below includes links to each session.

Parents & Students: Click here for Technology Help Sessions 

If you have any questions related to technology, please direct them to portalhelp@canandaiguaschools.org. Academic questions should be directed to your child’s teacher(s).

For our staff, we are working on creating online office hours to connect with technology integrators to answer questions. Our staff will receive more information about online professional learning opportunities in an email from the Office of Instruction on Friday, March 20.

At this time, we remain under closure until April 13th and we truly hope to return at that time. We miss our staff and students tremendously, already. We want to also express our sincere thanks to all of you for your continued support, understanding, nimbleness, calm, and patience. These traits are essential for us to act as a community in the most responsible and logical manner.

You should be aware that we are in the early stages of trying to coordinate a virtual Question and Answer segment for our community, hosted by me. Once we figure out the best format to do so, we will communicate how you can join the chat. Until then, stay safe and be well folks.

Sincerely,

Jamie Farr
Superintendent

 

March 17, 2020

4:00 p.m.

 

Good afternoon,

We continue to thank you for your patience as we navigate the extended closure. The most current and updated information is on our website- https://www.canandaiguaschools.org/district/coronavirus-info. Included in today’s communication is information about social distancing, expectations for academic work, and Chromebook information. 

 

Social Distancing

To stop the spread of the Coronavirus, you have probably heard the term social distancing being used. The federal government has advised people to avoid gathering in groups larger than ten people. With COVID-19, the goal of social distancing is to slow down the outbreak to reduce the chance of infection among high-risk populations and to reduce the burden on the health care systems and workers. Do everything possible to avoid congregating in settings, avoid mass gatherings, and maintain six feet distance between people. This includes avoiding hugs and handshakes. It is also important to continue practicing preventative steps, especially hand-washing. 

 

General Guidelines for Students and Families for Academic Work

The nature of the work provided to students will primarily focus on additional practice and review, as opposed to an emphasis on new content. We realize that this will not take the place of regular classroom instruction. Rather, these learning experiences are intended to supplement student learning at home. Assignments will not be graded during the prolonged closure of schools. 

Parents and students can expect that teachers are logging into Schoology daily (Mon-Fri.). In addition, all instructions and learning materials have been posted to Schoology or have been picked up by families in paper form. Teachers will continue to provide updates to families via email or Schoology. Staff will check email and will do their best to respond to email within 24 hours.

Given the shift in teaching and learning, we have asked staff to focus on the use of feedback and virtual interaction/discussion (via Schoology) to monitor student learning, as opposed to traditional grading practices. This switch to remote learning obviously happened very quickly, so there will be some challenges. We appreciate your flexibility and welcome your questions.

 

Chromebook Information

All students in grades 1-12 have a Chromebook, and the easiest way to access information and resources is through BravesLink. BravesLink is located on the banner of the website, and students are able to access many apps with a single sign-on. Class-specific resources have been added to Schoology, our learning management system, and Schoology is located in BravesLink. 

Here are some resources to help guide you through the use of a Chromebook, BravesLink, and some navigation tips for Schoology:

Instructions: Logging into a Chromebook & setting up wi-fi

Video: Directions on Logging into BravesLink & Schoology

 

iPad Information

We understand that families are not able to connect iPads to their home network. We are looking into a solution to this and will provide instructions once a solution is determined. We understand that Schoology does not work without an internet connection on the iPad. Please follow the guidance and materials sent home by your child’s Kindergarten teacher. 

Technology Related Questions

If you have an academic question, please directly contact your child’s teacher via email. Here is our staff directory: CCSD Staff Directory

If you require technical support, please contact portalhelp@canandaiguaschools.org

We will continue to communicate with you using email, and updated information is available on our website. All school facilities are closed, and again, please follow guidelines related to social distancing. 

Although this situation will likely cause some angst and concern, there can also be a silver lining. First and foremost, take care of yourself and your family’s health and well-being. Whatever bumps we encounter along the way, we will tackle it together. Another positive is that during times such as these, the true character of the human spirit is revealed. Time and again, I have been in awe at the way our staff, our students, and this community has come together and went way above and beyond to support one another in a time of need. It is strange while undergoing a strategy of social distancing and quarantines, I believe it has also, in many ways, drawn our nation closer. Out of difficulty and crisis, we can emerge stronger and more equipped for the future. There is no other place I’d rather navigate these unchartered waters than right here alongside our #OneBravesFamily. Stay safe and be well. 

 

Sincerely,

Jamie M. Farr

Superintendent of Schools

 

March 16, 2020

12:30 p.m.

 

Dear Braves Family,

Plans continue to change and for this, I am incredibly sorry.  I really have no option at this point, due to the recent developments in our county and orders released today (within the last hour) by Governor Cuomo related to COVID-19. The District has decided to cancel the half-day scheduled for March 17, 2020. There is no school scheduled in the Canandaigua City School District until Monday, April 13, 2020 for students or staff (unless you are part of our critical essential staff team). Between now and then, the District will continue to monitor the situation and we will share important information on our website, via email, and with robocalls. 

 

Materials and medicines can be picked up by parents/caregivers at each building during the following times: 

Canandaigua Primary-Elementary School

Monday, March 16 - 3-7 p.m.

Pick up locations:

Kindergarten = Primary Cafeteria (closest to Link Entrance)

Grade 1 = Primary Main Gym 

Grade 2 = Primary Cafeteria (closest to Primary Auditorium)

Grade 3 = Elementary LGI 

Grade 4 = Elementary Cafeteria 

Grade 5 = Elementary Link Gym 

 

Tuesday, March 17 - 9 a.m -12 p.m.

Pick up locations:

Kindergarten = Primary Cafeteria (closest to Link Entrance)

Grade 1 = Primary Main Gym 

Grade 2 = Primary Cafeteria (closest to Primary Auditorium)

Grade 3 = Elementary LGI 

Grade 4 = Elementary Cafeteria 

Grade 5 = Elementary Link Gym 

 

Canandaigua Middle School 

Pick up location: CMS Cafeteria

 

Tuesday, March 17 - 9 a.m. -12 p.m.

9 a.m. - 10 a.m. A-H

10 a.m. - 11 a.m. I-P

11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Q-Z

 

Tuesday, March 17 - 5 p.m. - 6 p.m. 

For Middle School families unable to pick up in the morning

 

Canandaigua Academy 

Pick up location: Atrium 

 

Tuesday, March 17 - 9 a.m. -12 p.m.

9 a.m. - 10 a.m. A-H

10 a.m. - 11 a.m. I-P

11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Q-Z

 

Tuesday, March 17 - 5 p.m. - 6 p.m. 

For Academy families unable to pick up in the morning

 

Canandaigua Academic & Career Center

Pick up location: Canandaigua Academic & Career Center 

Tuesday, March 17 - 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.

 

All District communications and updates will be posted at: https://www.canandaiguaschools.org/district/coronavirus-info. We understand there is a lot of uncertainty and will be communicating more in the future.  We have worked out plans to serve meals during the extended closure.  

The Canandaigua City School Nutrition Program is participating in the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s School Closure Meal Program, which provides free meals to students during the school closure. All Canandaigua City School District students can participate; you do not need to be a Canandaigua City School District resident.  Questions please call: 585-396-3732.

What:   Free meals to go

When:  Monday-Friday: Breakfast and lunch beginning March 23rd 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where:  Main Entrance of the Primary-Elementary School (Gibson Street Parking Lot). This is curb-side pickup, you will not need to get out of your car. Meal services during the school closure could change. Please pay attention to your email or the District website for updates on this program. 

 

This is indeed an unprecedented time and I know this news is incredibly disappointing.  I share in your disappointment as well. We are going to learn so much in the next few weeks.  Please understand, this won’t be perfect but we are going to do our very best. More academic information will be forthcoming.  Our first priority is your health and your safety. No matter what happens, we will be here for you via phone or email during this closure.  Until we are together again, be well, be kind, and be BRAVE! 

 

Sincerely,

Jamie Farr

Superintendent of Schools

 

March 14, 2020

 

Dear Braves Family, 

We have been following the guidance of the Ontario County Public Health Department and implementing preventative and responsive strategies related to COVID-19. Today, March 14, 2020, Ontario County declared a state of emergency. To stop the spread of COVID-19, the Canandaigua City School District, along with other districts in Ontario County, have determined the following schedule:

• Monday, March 16 - Instructional staff, clerical staff, buildings and grounds staff, paraprofessional and aides report to prepare for an extended closure - There is no school for students as well as monitors, food service, and transportation staff on Monday.

• Tuesday, March 17- Half-day of school for all students and staff for material distribution and instructions. The Middle School dismisses at 10:40 a.m.; Dismissal at the Academy is at 10:45 a.m.; Dismissal at the Primary-Elementary School begins at 11:40 a.m. There is no UPK.

• Wednesday, March 18 - Sunday, April 12 - Canandaigua City School District is closed. 

As of right now, classes resume Monday, April 13. While no Ontario County resident has been diagnosed with COVID-19 at this time, it is with an abundance of caution, that we close our schools to prevent the potential spread of the virus. This is an unprecedented situation, and we truly appreciate your patience and understanding during this challenging time.

All athletic and extra-curricular activities are postponed starting immediately. It is our hope that these activities can proceed once we return to school. The district facilities may not be used by any outside organization starting Sunday, March 15, 2020. All district field trips scheduled during the closure are canceled/postponed. Decisions related to future events are still being determined.

Our staff worked tirelessly to prepare plans for instruction to continue remotely during our Superintendent’s Conference Day on Friday, March 13. This work will continue on Monday, March 16.  On Tuesday, our goal is to distribute materials and instructions to students before the extended closure. 

On Tuesday, March 17, 2020, you will receive further communication related to how to access academic resources and continue instruction as much as possible at home. All updates from the District will be posted at https://www.canandaiguaschools.org/district/coronavirus-info.

The decision to close the Canandaigua City School District for an extended period of time was extremely difficult. We know that closing our schools will impact our families, and we recognize that families depend on the consistency and predictability of the supports and services our schools offer. We are working with community partners to determine how to best mitigate the impact of closing schools. 

Our district offers so many opportunities for our students, and it pains me to pause these great experiences. My hope is that this closure and similar efforts around the county, state, and nation will lead to a return to quick return to school. I know there are a lot of questions and uncertainty. Our administrative team is meeting tomorrow, Sunday, March 15, to try to answer more of these questions.

I have always been proud to work with our students and staff; however, during this past week, I have seen so many of them go above and beyond to make the best of this situation. We are truly blessed to be in a community that values education and supports our students in so many ways. 

Sincerely,

Jamie M. Farr

Superintendent of Schools

Canandaigua City School District

The Canandaigua City School District continues to monitor the COVID-19 situation closely. We are fully aware of decisions being made in neighboring counties.  A meeting is scheduled between district leadership and Ontario County Public Health related to COVID-19, tonight, March 14, 2020. This is an unprecedented situation, and we truly appreciate your patience and understanding as we respond to this situation in a thoughtful and thorough manner. Should we have further information tomorrow, we will update our website and if needed, send a robocall.

Important Update- March 13, 2020 - 9:30 a.m. - Mamma Mia!

For precautionary reasons, the Canandaigua City School District has made the decision to postpone the musical, Mamma Mia! If you have purchased tickets, please hold on to them as we hope to hold the shows in the future. For those of you who might seek refunds, further information will also be communicated in the future. 

There will be one additional dress rehearsal open to families and relatives, tonight, Friday, March 13, 2020, at 6:30 p.m. in the Canandaigua Academy Auditorium. No tickets are required to attend the dress rehearsal, and donations are appreciated. The Governor’s order regarding crowd size will be followed.

Should further changes take place, we encourage you to continue to visit www.canandaiguaschools.org and our social media feeds. Thank you for your support!

March 11, 2020

 

Dear Canandaigua City School District Community, 

Since our last communication, the number of Coronavirus cases around the nation continues to rise. Rest assured, we are working closely with the Ontario County Department of Public Health and following guidance from the New York State Department of Education. The District continues to closely monitor COVID-19 Novel Coronavirus and I write to share with you some of the proactive steps we are taking. 

The Canandaigua City School District has: 

• Disinfected each of our buses and school vehicles

• Increased our regularity of cleaning protocol district wide 

• Resupplied the disinfectant hand soap in bathrooms district wide multiple times a day and deployed hand sanitizer stations across the District 

• Organized tiered emergency education plans in the event of the disruption of instruction

• Set up a central communication location for important information and resources on the District’s website- https://www.canandaiguaschools.org/district/coronavirus-info

• Facilitated collaborative conversations with community partners

As of now, we plan to continue with events as scheduled. Our students were excited to get outside during the warm weather, varsity and jv spring sports started this week, our robotics team is about to start competition, and we are busy celebrating Music in our Schools Month. This weekend the Academy musical, Mamma Mia, has three shows! We are constantly monitoring the many activities our students are involved in, particularly off campus. Some events have been cancelled such as the 6th-grade RPO trip because of guidelines from the University of Rochester and I am certain we haven’t seen the last of cancelled trips. 

Additionally, the Ontario County Department of Public Health is hosting a community forum at Canandaigua Middle School on Thursday, March 12 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the auditorium. This event is open to our students, staff, families, and the community to discuss preparations from the County and answer any questions from the public.

Please continue to follow the preventative steps for limiting the spread of the Coronavirus, or any communicable illness for that matter, by having students stay home if they are exhibiting symptoms, practicing thorough hand washing, avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, and avoid close contact with people who are sick. 

On Friday, as part of the Superintendents’ Conference Day, our teachers will meet to discuss contingency plans to deal most effectively with the situation. The District will continue to actively monitor the progression of the Coronavirus and follow the guidance of the Ontario County Department of Public Health. The health and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff continue to be our focus. I thank you for your support and patience as we continue to navigate this evolving situation.

Sincerely,

Jamie M. Farr

Superintendent of Schools, Canandaigua City School District 

 

Dear Canandaigua City Schools Community,

As I am sure you are seeing in various media outlets, there is a new Coronavirus called 2019 Novel (new) Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) first found in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China. This virus had not been found in humans before. This Coronavirus can lead to fever, cough and trouble breathing or shortness of breath. There are thousands of diagnosed cases in China and new cases being diagnosed in a number of countries including the United States. 

The Canandaigua City School District has been in contact with the Ontario County Health Department for regular updates around the Coronavirus. The District will continue to share updates when new information or guidelines need to be communicated and we will follow the lead of the Health Department should the need exist. 

What do we know? 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is working hard to learn as much as possible about this new virus, so that we can better understand how it spreads and causes illness. The CDC considers this virus to be a serious public health concern. Based on current information the CDC recommends avoiding travel to some areas of the world. Updated travel information related to 2019‐nCoV can be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/index.html.

Prevention 

Health experts believe the virus probably spreads from animals to humans and from person to person. It’s not clear yet how easily the virus spreads from person-to-person.There are currently no vaccines available to protect against this virus. The New York State Department of Health (DOH) recommends the following ways to minimize the spread of all respiratory viruses, including 2019-nCoV: 

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands. 

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick. 

• Stay home when you are sick. 

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing. If you use a tissue, throw it in the trash. 

• Routinely clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. 

• CDC recommends that travelers avoid all travel to China. 

Symptoms 

Information to date suggests that 2019-nCoV causes mild-to-moderate illness and symptoms like the flu, including fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. 

This is an emerging, rapidly changing situation. For questions please contact your local department of health or the NYS DOH Novel Coronavirus hotline at 1-888-364-3065. 

We encourage you to keep up to date about 2019-nCoV, its treatment and prevention by visiting the following websites: 

Additional Resources 

CDC’s dedicated 2019-nCoV website at https://www.cdc.gov/nCoV. and https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/index.html

NYSDOH’s dedicated 2019-nCoV website at https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/coronavirus/ 

NYSDOH directory of local health departments https://www.health.ny.gov/contact/contact_information/ 

New York State Center for School Health website at www.schoolhealthny.com.

The Canandaigua City School District will continue to be advised by the Department of Health. As we receive more information and guidance from the New York State Health Department, we will pass it along to our school community and share it on the District website, www.canandaiguaschools.org. We thank you for your involvement and attention to the growing global health concern. 

Sincerely, 

Jamie M. Farr

Superintendent of Schools

Canandaigua City School District