This is the latest update from the Office of Immigrant Affairs:April 6, 2020 Letter From Mrs. Speroni
Dear Parents/Guardians,
We know that continued school closures are difficult for students , families, staff and the entire community. This
continues to be disappointing news for students, who miss their friends and teachers. Please know that we are
committed to the success of all our students and continue to provide timely updates to families . Please also know that
our commitments remain firm in these areas:
Refining and improving our Remote Learning plan with the new understanding that all of our students will be
successful learning at home with their teachers until such time as it is deemed permissible that they return to
P S 253.
Supporting academic success of all our students so that no one is left behind. This also includes our
graduating seniors as they make the transition to their next steps in life. We will find appropriate ways to
celebrate this milestone in their lives.
Providing continued critical support to families, including the areas of meals and technology. We want our
families to be nourished both nutritionally and educationally.
As you are aware, per the Governor’s mandate, schools will forfeit Spring recess in an effort to better support our
students and their families. To that end and in consultation with many of our families we do recognize that this is also
holiday time for many of our community members. We wish all of yo u a peaceful and safe holiday. We know that
although many of us will not be with one another we also know that we do hold them close in our hearts, and with
today’s technology we can celebrate the day apart but still remain together, virtually. In an effort to be respectful and
supportive of family obligations we will be revising the 4/9 4/20 instructional school day. As per the Chancellor’s
suggestions and in light of this time, we have been asked to provide students with activities that encourage and
sup port family time and exploration. To that end the school day will consist of opportunities for student review and
work on “catch up”, cultural trips / exploration and fun times at theme parks and exciting adventurous activities.
As this is a time of observance and rest for many of our families the expectation is that each child will begin their day
by answering an attendance question provided to them by their teacher. They will then be expected to complete the
activities as during the 4/9 --4/17 instructional window. The majority of activities will be project based and spiral in order to ensure deep understanding
of previously taught content as well application of learning in real life situations or virtual activity. On April 20, 2020 the instructional day
will resume in its original format with the mandated addition of live instructional lessons provided by our amazing staff.
Please be reminded that it is our expectation, to the greatest extent possible that all students are in attendance at the
beginning of the school day in order that they be marked present as well as to participate in the daily lessons
provided by their teachers, clusters and mandated service providers.
As always should you have any questions please do not hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher
Parent Coordinator, Cheryl Livaditis 347 563 4693 and our Community Coordinator Gina Dacchille 917 331 7821
who will best answer and or direct your questions or concerns.
“HELP US FLATTEN THE CURVE”
Staying home and limiting person t o person contact appears to be making a difference in slowing the spread of
COVID 19, but those measures need to continue in order have long term effectiveness. Please stay home as much
as possible and stay healthy. Additional resources can be found on our School website WWW.ps253.org .
With everyone’s help, we will continue to provide connection and support for our entire community and advance our
vision to affirm and inspire each and every student to learn and thrive a s creators of their future world.
Respectfully,
Lisa Speroni
