Dear Parents/Guardians and Staff,

Today, Wednesday, June 7, 2023, East Ramapo Central School District canceled all outdoor recess, field trips held outdoors, and all after-school activities. We understand the frustration and disappointment in having to cancel and reschedule end-of-the-year activities and appreciate your continued patience and understanding. Student and staff safety remains our top priority. We continue to monitor the air quality conditions. Our buildings will continue to keep windows closed, in addition, our ventilation systems are equipped with filtration.  

New York State Education and Health Departments have provided guidance on actions schools should take on poor air quality. As such, tomorrow, Thursday, June 8, 2023, all outdoor recess and field trips held outdoors are canceled. If your child walks or bikes to school please consider alternate transportation. 

We are cognizant that anyone with existing respiratory and cardiovascular disease, especially those with asthma, is more sensitive to unhealthy air. They may begin experiencing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and chest tightness when air quality is “moderate” or worse. Those with sensitive conditions should follow their asthma action plans and keep medication close. If individuals show adverse signs of smoke exposure, appropriate medical attention should be sought. Teachers, school nurses, and other adult staff will pay especially close attention to sensitive students during wildfire events. Please also note that masks have been provided to all schools and are available upon request. You may also elect to send your student to school with their own mask.

Additional information and updates can be found on the website of the NYS Center for School Health and by reading this document on Wildfire Smoke Guidance or Schools.

Thank you for your continued partnership with the wildfire air quality challenges.

Yours truly,

Clarence G. Ellis, EdD
Superintendent of Schools

ESPANOL  KREOLE