As June approaches, we are receiving more frequent questions from our families and staff about when the school year will officially end. After reviewing our school calendar and counting days to make sure we meet the State Education Department’s 180 instructional days requirement and fulfill the district’s contractual obligations, we have determined that the last day of school for Watervliet students and staff will be Wednesday, June 17, barring further guidance from the state.

Our calculation of the school year includes the instructional days on Good Friday (April 10) through the end of spring recess (April 17), as mandated under executive order. It also includes previously scheduled days off in May that now will be instructional days, as follows:

• Friday, May 22 – instructional day – school in session (remotely) 
• Monday, May 25 – Memorial Day holiday – no school 
• Tuesday, May 26 – instructional day – school in session (remotely) 

End-of-Year Celebrations

Planning is underway for the special events and celebrations that take place for our students and families at the end of the school year. Building leaders, students, and faculty advisors are working together to come up with creative plans for moving up celebrations and graduation activities.

In planning these events, we must be mindful about public health and social distancing measures that are necessary due to the ongoing concerns relative to COVID-19. We appreciate your patience and assure you that we are working to make the best decisions we can with our students in mind.

Although these events may look different this year, our goal remains the same: to commemorate the milestones and achievements of students in special and memorable ways. Information about specific events will be shared as the details are finalized.

Student Belongings

We are currently developing a plan for returning student belongings that will adhere to social distancing guidelines. Building principals will communicate with students and families as details become available.

Budget Vote and Board Elections

Previously, the Governor announced that the school budget vote and board of education election will take place on Tuesday, June 9, by absentee ballot only due to ongoing concerns about COVID-19.

We are working to finalize the school district’s 2020-21 budget, with plans for the Board of Education to adopt the budget proposal during the regular meeting on Tuesday, May 19.

More information about the budget vote  〉 View list of upcoming meetings

When our schools first shut down in March, none of us imagined that we would not return for the remainder of the school year. We recognize the challenges at-home learning presents for families, and thank you for your continued patience and understanding as our teachers and staff work to ensure students remain engaged in learning though the end of the year. Please know that as a school district, we will continue to do all we can to make sure our students, families and staff are supported as much as possible.

Please stay healthy and safe!

(This message was sent to families & staff via One call Now email, 5.14.20)