FAQ

This Frequently Asked Questions web page will address questions and comments regarding the reopening of schools. This page is a work in progress, and will be updated regularly as new information becomes available and as new questions are asked.

Attendance

Student Attendance 2020-21

Attendance is critical and an indicator for student success in school. Just as important, we want students to be engaged and connected to the learning that is occurring in school. As always, the teacher, support staff and/or an administrator will reach out to students and/or parents/guardians if there is no constructive engagement in the learning process.

K-5 Student Attendance

Elementary Schools Attendance Phone Numbers:

Brooks Hill (585) 421-2175

Dudley (585) 421-8759

Northside (585) 421-2143

Jefferson Avenue (585) 388-7737


  1. Will attendance be taken each day?

    1. Yes. Schools are required to take daily attendance for all students, even those in the 100% Virtual model and on days when students are remote learning from home through live or independent instruction. Robo calls home will NOT be utilized this school year.

  2. Does the daily student health screen in Parent Square count as submitting attendance?

    1. No. This does not meet NYS requirements for tracking student attendance or engagement.

  3. How will teachers take attendance for 100% virtual students?

    1. On the days students join class live, teachers will mark students present based on seeing them in Google Meetings. On remote learning days, parents log into Google Classroom and complete the following questionnaire once per day via Google Classroom and answer one of the following two options:

“Yes, I have a plan of action to do school work today.”

“No, I am unable to engage. I need to be marked as "absent" today. I will have my parent/guardian call the school at 421-XXXX.”

This attendance check-in will function as attendance for the day and will be finalized by teachers and our attendance clerks.

  1. How will teachers take attendance for hybrid students?

    1. On the hybrid days, teachers will take attendance for students in-person. On remote days and virtual Wednesdays, parents log into their child(ren)’s Google Classroom and complete the following questionnaire at some point during the school day:


  1. What if my family forgets to complete the attendance check-in?

    1. Students and or families will have the chance to complete the attendance check-in for the duration of the school day. If you forget to submit attendance, please contact the classroom teacher via email as soon as possible.

  2. Do I still need to call the attendance office to report an absence on “remote” days (when virtual or in-person students are in asynchronous instruction or home)?

    1. Yes. If students are unable to participate in instruction or school work for the day due to illness, appointments, travel, or other circumstances, parents should call the attendance office to report this in order for the school to maintain accurate records.

  3. Do I still need to report late arrivals or early dismissals?

    1. Yes. If students will miss part of the school day, in-person or remote, this should be reported to the attendance office.

  4. When my child is sick or out of town, can he/she join class remotely via Google Meet?

    1. Students will not be allowed to join class remotely in this instance, but are expected to utilize Google Classroom in order to access the work missed that day. In the event that a student is mandated to quarantine due to potential or confirmed exposure to COVID-19, students will be allowed to join classes on virtual Wednesdays or Google Meets that have already been established for the remote learning days, for the duration of the quarantine. A doctor’s note and communication with the school’s health office is required. This is important for teachers’ planning.



6-12 Student Attendance

Middle & High Schools Attendance Phone Numbers:

Johanna Perrin (585) 421-2083

Martha Brown (585) 421-2070

Minerva DeLand (585) 421-2032

Fairport High School (585) 421-2105


  1. Will attendance be taken each day?

    1. Yes. Schools are required to take daily attendance for all students, even those in the virtual model and on days when students are remote learning from home through live or independent instruction. Robo calls home will NOT be utilized this school year.

  2. Does the daily student health screen in Parent Square count as submitting attendance?

    1. No. This does not meet NYS requirements for tracking student attendance or engagement.

  3. How will teachers take attendance for 100% virtual students?

    1. On the days students join classes live, teachers will mark students present based on seeing them in Google Meetings each period. On asynchronous days, students log into Google Classroom and complete the following questionnaire for PERIOD 2 only (even if it’s a study hall or lounge):

“Yes, I have a plan of action to do school work today.”

“No, I am unable to engage. I need to be marked as "absent" today. I will have my parent/guardian call the school at 421-XXXX.”

This attendance check-in will function as attendance for the day and will be finalized by teachers and our attendance clerks.

  1. How will teachers take attendance for hybrid students?

    1. On in-person days, teachers will take attendance per usual (Wednesday based on seeing students in Google Meetings each period). On remote days, students log into Google Classroom and complete the following questionnaire for PERIOD 2 only (even if it’s a study hall or lounge):

“Yes, I have a plan of action to do school work today.”

“No, I am unable to engage. I need to be marked as "absent" today. I will have my parent/guardian call the school at 421-XXXX.”

This attendance check-in will function as attendance for the day and will be finalized by teachers and our attendance clerks.

  1. What if my child forgets to complete the 2nd period attendance check-in?

    1. Students will have the chance to complete the period 2 check-in for the duration of the school day. If you forget to submit attendance, please contact the classroom teacher via email as soon as possible.

  2. Do I still need to call the attendance office to report an absence on “remote” days (when virtual or in-person students are in asynchronous instruction or home)?

    1. Yes. If students are unable to participate in instruction or school work for the day due to illness, appointments, travel, or other circumstances, parents should call the attendance office to report this in order for the school to maintain accurate records.

  3. Do I still need to report late arrivals or early dismissals?

    1. Yes. If students will miss part of the school day, in-person or remote, this should be reported to the attendance office.

  4. When my child is sick or out of town, can he/she join class remotely via Google Meet?

Students will not be allowed to join class remotely in this instance, but are expected to utilize Google Classroom in order to access the work missed that day. In the event that a student is mandated to quarantine due to potential or confirmed exposure to COVID-19, students will be allowed to join classes via Google Meet for the duration of the quarantine. A doctor’s note and communication with the school’s health office is required. This is important for teachers’ planning.

What are occupancy guidelines for common areas?

The occupancy guidelines established for offices and classrooms are also required and applied to common areas. Occupants should wear a mask and maintain a minimum social distance of 6’ whenever possible. There will be directional arrows and social distance markers placed on floors to direct occupants on the proper traffic flow and spacing.


What will restroom procedures look like?

The occupancy guidelines for restrooms are that occupants must wear a face covering at all times and maintain a minimum social distance of 6’ whenever possible. Disinfection of frequently touched surfaces will occur frequently throughout the day. Signage that reinforces proper hand hygiene will be placed in restrooms.


What is the District’s protocol for cleaning facilities?

The District’s Enhanced Hygiene Disinfection Plan includes details that align with the CDC guidelines and ISSA (International Sanitary Supply Association) performance standards. Our updated plan identifies every classroom, office, restroom, gymnasium, kitchen, cafeteria, etc. in the District and spells out specific cleaning tasks that are appropriate for the identified spaces. This plan identifies the space, the task, frequency of the task, procedure of the task, the chemical to be used, and the concentration ratio of the chemical.


What cleaning products does the District use?

The cleaning products the District uses are manufactured by Hillyard and you can find specific information on these products at www.hillyard.com. We use ‘Super Shine-All’, ‘Top Clean’, and ‘Suprox Multi-Purpose’. Each of these chemicals is Green Seal Certified. We also use a hospital grade EPA registered disinfectant called ‘Vindicator’. To ensure that our cleaning chemicals are used in the proper concentrations we utilize an automated chemical dilution system, ensuring that we don't put any more product on surfaces, in solution, or in the air than absolutely necessary.


What are the District’s daily cleaning procedures?

Our custodial staff will be equipped with ‘job cards’ that simplify the plan into easy to follow checklists that specifically layout what to clean, how to clean it, and with what chemical. These job cards are specific to areas by category (classrooms, offices, hallways, restrooms, etc.). To increase the effectiveness and efficiency of our cleaning efforts we will be utilizing pump sprayers, and microfiber clothes rather than cotton rags or paper towels. We are purchasing handheld electric sprayers to further increase the efficiency and efficacy of our chemicals. We are looking to implement automated floor care technology to free up time for tasks that can only be done by hand (disinfection of frequently touched surfaces). We will be assigning daytime custodial staff to disinfect "hot spots" throughout the day between class periods. These identified frequently touched surfaces include but are not limited to door handles, drinking fountains, sink faucets, paper towel dispensers, etc.


Will students and staff be exposed to the cleaning products?

The only chemicals that are expected to be available for use by students is hand soap and hand sanitizer. We are encouraging staff to give considerable thought as to how they manage their space, making every effort possible to reduce the frequency of shared materials and equipment which in turn reduces the need for chemicals. Any frequently touched areas or shared equipment are to be cleaned by staff members. Any non-custodial staff members that wish to take responsibility for some of their own cleaning in their classrooms/offices will be asked to take the same chemical safety training that the custodial staff take annually.


How does the District’s HVAC support the health and safety recommendations?

The guidance from the CDC, DOH, and SED all recommend that we introduce as much fresh air and have as many air exchanges as possible without compromising other health and safety measures. They also recommend that we provide 2-3 air exchanges prior to re-entry every day.

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) recommends a minimum of 15 CFM per person in an occupied space. New York State Education Department's (SED) Office of Facilities Planning (OFP) has aligned their mandates with this recommendation. SED also mandates that we treat spaces as if they are at full capacity when occupied. That means if a classroom is designed for a maximum capacity of 30 then we need to provide a minimum of 450 CFM for that space. Our building management system (BMS) is currently programmed to meet those requirements with a mechanical opening of the outside air dampers at about 15 percent. This translates to a maximum possible exchange rate of 6-7 exchanges per hour.


What is the District doing to support air filtration in the schools?

Most of our equipment is already fitted with MERV 13 rated filters so we won't have to make any adjustments to our current operating model. However with the adaptation of some of our older equipment to the MERV 13 filtration standard we will need to adjust the minimum occupied outside air damper setting to about 25% to overcome the higher filtration rate. Keep in mind that these are the minimum performances. To add further complication to the answer to the questions, our building management system (BMS) is set to maximize outside air whenever possible. This equation/process is called ‘thermodynamic enthalpy differential’, more commonly called 'economizer mode' or 'efficiency mode'. This utilizes a series of data inputs (outside air and relative humidity) and uses that data to maximize the use of outside air to minimize energy consumption.

Will the District conduct COVID-19 testing?

“It is strongly recommended that schools comply with CDC guidance and not conduct COVID-19 testing or require testing or antibody testing of students or staff members. The decision of whether a test needs to be conducted should be determined by a healthcare provider or the local department of health.”

Page 41 of the New York State Education Department’s Recovering, Rebuilding, and Renewing the Spirit of New York’s Schools Reopening Guidance document

We do not currently believe the Fairport Central School District will be involved in performing COVID-19 tests on students or staff members. Such testing requires public health oversight, medical decision making and specifically trained staff. School nurses do not perform tests to confirm or rule out conditions but triage students to identify illness. School nurses will work closely with primary care physicians and the Monroe County Department of Public Health in a supportive role. Locally, most COVID-19 tests are done at health care centers or urgent care facilities. In order to reopen, school districts will have written protocols to ensure staff are trained to identify symptomatic individuals. In Fairport, we are also developing a triage process for school nurses who will inform families at the sign or illness. Ultimately, we believe parents are responsible for medical decisions regarding their children.


What is the expectation for students and staff to have daily health screenings?

The CDC does not currently recommend universal symptom screenings (screening all students grades K-12) be conducted by schools. To learn more about this, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/symptom-screening.html.

Per Department of Health guidance, temperatures will be taken by parents prior to the time that students leave their home in the morning and parents will affirm that they will take care of this on a daily basis. Periodic health questionnaires must be completed for students, similar to what occurs on a daily basis for our staff. This process will be established through our ParentSquare platform.

If a student has a medical exemption to not wear a face covering for the bus, will that extend to the school building as well?

All medical notes from doctors that restrict students from wearing face coverings will be reviewed by our School Physician, who will also collaborate with the child’s pediatrician. Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act (HIPAA) release of information forms must accompany medical exemptions.

If someone has symptoms during the day, what will the plan be? Will there be an isolation space for people who develop symptoms during the day? How long before those individuals are allowed back to school?

The FCSD School Nurses will be trained on Department of Health protocols for guidance on symptomatic staff and students during the day and procedures for handling such instances. Staff will notify the school health office if there is a concern of a student or staff member who becomes ill at school. The School Nurse will evaluate any student or staff member with symptoms and isolate that person in a designated area away from others. The parent will be notified by the school nurse to pick up their child and follow-up as necessary with their Primary Care Physician(PCP)/Pediatrician. A staff member in this same situation will be sent home and asked to follow up with their PCP. Administration and School Nurse will follow up with parents and staff members to determine the prognosis and recommendations from the Primary Care Physician and discuss further protocols on the return to school.


What happens if a staff member or student is suspected of having COVID-19?

School nurses will have systems in place to screen students and staff who exhibit COVID-19 symptoms. Those individuals will be kept in a room separate from the nurse’s office that is designated for isolation. If their symptoms require further evaluation they will need to leave the building. If the District is notified that a staff member or student has tested positive for COVID-19, the District’s COVID-19 Coordinator, Deborah Miles, will work with the Monroe County Health Department to ensure all protocols relative to contact tracing and notification are followed.


Are students, faculty and staff required to wear a face covering? Will these be provided?

Yes. Per the NYSDOH guidance, acceptable face coverings include but are not limited to cloth-based face coverings (e.g. homemade sewn, quick cut, bandana) and surgical masks that cover both the mouth and nose. If staff or students need such face coverings, they are available at each school.


Can students remove their face covering once they are seated?

A BOE policy is being developed and will provide the necessary guidance for face coverings. Students will be required to wear a mask while at school. There will be opportunities built into the day to provide mask breaks for students that may coincide with movement breaks, lunch, outdoor physical education classes with appropriate social distancing. Further guidance will be provided.


How does the District plan to contact trace when the need arises?

The District will work collaboratively with the MCDOH (Monroe County Department of Health) contact tracers to identify any student or staff member who has come in contact with an infected individual. The District will provide any necessary information relative to student or staff schedules, bus routing and other information deemed necessary to reduce the risk of spreading the virus in the school community.


How will staff and students practice emergency drills?

These emergency drills are still required. We will have to maintain the proper social distancing and wear a face covering. Guidance has been provided and includes virtual drills, where once a lockdown is called, the teachers goes over drill procedures and models the behavior. With respect to fire drills, one class or grade as appropriate could conduct the drill in lieu of the whole building.

Will the District provide daily breakfast and lunch meals?

The District’s Food Service will continue to provide breakfast and lunch everyday for students enrolled through the District (both hybrid and virtual plans). Families are able to order grab-n-go meals that will be available for pick-up at a specified time from one or more designated school sites. The cost of meals will be $1.65 for breakfast and $2.85 for lunch unless the student is eligible for free/reduced meals.


What is the process to apply for free/reduced meals?

Fairport participates in the national Child Nutrition Programs. Students from households that meet federal income guidelines are eligible for free or reduced-price breakfasts and lunches. The application for meal benefits is available here, at each school, and the District’s Food Service Office. Completed applications must be mailed or delivered to the Food Service Office. Click here to learn more about this program, or to apply for it.

How will the District support students' social emotional health?

The District has a comprehensive mental health program with services and supports across a Multi-Tiered System. School counselors, school social workers, school psychologists and behavior specialists will consult with teachers and administrators, as well as provide direct support to students who need social emotional support. Within this comprehensive program we will assist students in the transition back to school and make a concerted effort on getting to know students, understanding any concerns they may have related to COVID-19, as well as other areas of concern. Our PBIS (Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports) programs at each building will be supporting students on having a healthy and supported return to school. Parents who feel their child may need individualized support can reach out to the School Counselor or School Social Worker at the start of school, by contacting the school building directly.


Who will check on students in the virtual model to know that they are ok and safe at home?

This is a focal point in Fairport and requires a partnership with families. Students will still have access to mental health staff and resources in a virtual model. Students who have been previously connected will maintain those relationships with mental health staff. Teachers and parents will work together to monitor the overall wellness of the students in a virtual (or any) setting and recommend support as necessary.

teaching & Learning: hybrid instruction

What are the hybrid plan hours for all schools?

The Fairport Central School District’s schedule (click here to view) for arrival and dismissals during the upcoming school year has been slightly adjusted to accommodate the increase of families transporting students to and from school on the in-school days for hybrid students (Monday/Thursday and Tuesday/Friday). Please see below for school-specific times for arrival and dismissal. For questions, please contact the school’s main office.


Why is the District not able to support a full five-day school week for students?

An in-person everyday option was considered but ruled out because it is not feasible given a variety of reasons, such as social distancing requirements in classrooms and on school buses. We could not have accommodated those requests and remained within the reopening perimeters outlined by New York State if we were to open for five, full days. This had enormous staffing implications as well. For example, at the elementary level if we properly distanced students using any and all available space - including displacing students in grades 6-9 and taking over their additional buildings, we would need more than 90 additional teachers/adults to supervise and instruct. We also considered five day half-day sessions (AM/PM), however, half day child care poses challenges for families and cleanings in between sessions could not be guaranteed.


Is there any consideration for cohorts not only by last name but by neighborhoods?

This model was a consideration, but does not ensure even grade level placement or distribution of students to promote integration.


What is the difference between synchronous and asynchronous learning?

Synchronous learning features learning experiences that involve live, real-time interaction with the teacher. Synchronous learning may be used for large-group, small-group, and/or individualized, direct instruction, collaborative discussions, writing conferences, intervention services, student assistance, and community building/social-emotional learning experiences. Asynchronous learning features learning experiences that do not involve a live, real-time interaction with the teacher. Instead, asynchronous learning experiences may take the form of a pre-recorded video of the teacher providing direct instruction, a video of another teacher from an educational resource teaching a skill, a link to an article for a student to read and respond to, a math or science problem to be worked on and submitted for feedback, etc.


What will a typical day look like in the Hybrid model?

Elementary School:

In-Person Learning (opposite the remote and distance learning days) days will look like:

At the elementary level, students will arrive at school and report to their classroom. Students will follow a typical schedule while they are in school (ELA, Math, Social Studies/Science, Specials, Lunch and Recess). Students will remain with their classroom cohort throughout the day. Classroom teachers will continue to be responsible for planning and implementing instruction for all of their students. Students will most likely eat lunch in the cafeteria and gym. Frequent face covering breaks will be built into the day, including opportunities to take students outside for learning experiences, as well as for daily recess.

Desks in each classroom will be designated to allow for social distancing to take place. Visitors will not be allowed during the school day and parent meetings will be held virtually as much as possible. Field trips will not be considered until January of 2021. There will be no in-person extracurricular clubs or activities taking place after school; clubs will operate virtually when possible.

In the HYBRID model - we will have two types of virtual days:

Remote learning days (opposite their in-person days and Wednesdays, which are remote for ALL students).

At the elementary level, Remote Wednesdays may look like:

    • ALL Students: Wednesday: Google Classroom Distance Learning:

    • AM: Core (ELA, Math, SS/Science) instruction

PM: Special area and support services.

**This will be further developed once the cohort of students is known**

Distance Learning Days opposite their in person days may look like:

    • Cohort 1: M/TH In Person Schedule-- TU/F Google Classroom Distance Learning ( Developed by Fairport Educators)

    • Cohort 2: TU/F In Person Schedule--M/TH Google Classroom Distance Learning ( Developed by Fairport Educators)

Middle School:

In-Person Learning (opposite the remote and distance learning days) days will look like:

At the middle school level, on the days that students report to school, they will arrive at school and go directly to their designated first period. Students will follow their typical schedule with a traditional bell schedule. At the middle school level, there will be separate passing times for the different grade levels. Students will eat lunch in their assigned space. Seats at lunch will be distanced. Desks in each classroom will be designated to allow for social distancing to take place. Frequent face covering breaks will be built into the day. Desks in each classroom will be designated to allow for social distancing to take place. Visitors will not be allowed during the school day and parent meetings will be held virtually as much as possible. Field trips will not be considered until January of 2021. There will be no in-person extracurricular clubs or activities taking place after school; clubs will operate virtually when possible.

At the middle school level, Remote Wednesdays may look like:

    • ALL Students: Wednesday: Google Classroom Distance Learning:

    • Students follow a shortened schedule:

      • Periods 1-5: 7:55- 9:55

      • 9:55- 1:05

        • Break/Lunch

        • Additional assistance provided by teachers remotely

      • Periods 6-9: 1:05-2:40

    • Some students may be scheduled for in-person services

      • Families will be notified prior to students being scheduled on Wednesdays

Distance Learning Days opposite their in person days may look like:

    • Cohort 1: M/TH In Person Schedule-- TU/F Google Classroom Distance Learning ( Developed by Fairport Educators)

    • Cohort 2: TU/F In Person Schedule--M/TH Google Classroom Distance Learning ( Developed by Fairport Educators)

      • Examples may include: Flipped lessons, reading and written reflection, projects, videos with guided notes


High School:

In-Person Learning (opposite the remote and distance learning days) days will look like:

At the high school level, on the days that students report to school, they will arrive at school and go directly to their first period class. Students will follow their typical schedule with a traditional bell schedule. Desks in each classroom will be designated to allow for social distancing to take place. Visitors will not be allowed during the school day and parent meetings will be held virtually as much as possible. Field trips will not be considered until January of 2021. Frequent face covering breaks will be built into the day with teacher discretion. Extracurricular clubs will take place after school when permissible; clubs may operate virtually or in-person if the health and safety guidelines can be followed. Clubs will not participate in competitions or trips that are off campus. In an effort to reduce close contact, students will not use lockers. They will keep their belongings with them throughout the day. On Wednesdays, when ALL students are learning from home in the hybrid model, they will be expected to follow their typical schedule with abbreviated (20 minute) periods and will be required to check in with their teachers each period.

    • ALL Students: Wednesday: Google Classroom Distance Learning:

    • Students follow a shortened schedule:

      • Periods 1-5: 7:55- 9:55

      • 9:55- 1:05

        • Break/Lunch

        • Additional assistance provided by teachers remotely

      • Periods 6-9: 1:05-2:40

    • Some students may eventually be scheduled for in-person services based on need (Families will be notified prior to students being scheduled on Wednesdays)

Distance Learning Days opposite their in person days may look like:

    • Cohort 1: M/TH In Person Schedule-- TU/F Google Classroom Distance Learning ( Developed by Fairport Educators)

    • Cohort 2: TU/F In Person Schedule--M/TH Google Classroom Distance Learning ( Developed by Fairport Educators)

      • Examples may include: Flipped lessons, reading and written reflection, projects, videos with guided notes


What will lunch look like? Will students eat in the cafeteria or the classroom?

  • Elementary School level: We are working closely with the Director of Food Service, but we anticipate offering lunch in the cafeteria and (possibly) gymnasiums (properly distanced). Recess will be offered by the classroom teachers, however, it may not necessarily be attached to lunch. Teachers will designate a convenient time of day for their class. Various outdoor locations are currently being identified to allow for proper distancing and play.

  • Middle School level: Students will still use the cafeteria space, but will be seated in designated spaces. Additional spaces to eat will be available in other indoor locations as well as outside (weather permitting).

  • High School level: Students will still use the cafeteria space, but will be seated in designated spaces. Seniors will still be allowed to leave campus during lunch and lounge periods. Additional spaces to eat will be available, either indoors or outdoors, are being considered as well.


Will students be allowed to use lockers or cubbies?

  • Elementary level: Cubbies may still be used, but will be properly spaced by alternating by cohort so that students (and belongings) will be properly distanced from each other.

  • Middle School level: Students will be asked to carry their backpacks to and from classes. Students will go to their lockers before and after school and before and after lunch.

  • High School: Students will keep their belongings with them throughout the day to alleviate students gathering in close proximity for lengthier periods of time. They will be allowed to carry backpacks to classes.


Will parents be able to change the days students attend school?

If there are extenuating circumstances, families should reach out to the building administrators for consideration as changes could have an impact on the balance of students in session each day. For this reason, requests will be considered but can’t be guaranteed.


How will cohorts be selected? Will efforts be made to have siblings with the same (or different) last name on a similar schedule?

Our goal is to align siblings throughout the District to attend on the same days. We began by alpha split, however, cohorts required balancing based upon student numbers, student need (ex., special education), male/female ratios and siblings (and their needs) at other buildings. Siblings with different last names have been accounted for with scheduling.


Will my student be able to attend EMCC? Will busing be available?

Yes, EMCC also is operating on a hybrid schedule and is working with school districts on how best to fit student schedules for their in-person days, with asynchronous learning assigned for their virtual days. Busing will be provided on in-person days.

Does a hybrid learning plan reduce educational expenses or lower taxpayer costs?

No. The District will continue to provide instruction to all students five days a week, although some students have opted to learn remotely every day. Our facilities and staffing needs have not changed. In some instances, the COVID-19 pandemic has created added expenses. Schools are now required to transport fewer students on each bus, provide new safeguards, purchase technology and offer professional development on safety protocols and online learning platforms.

What are the Science Department's COVID Sanitizing Procedures?

Students and staff must adhere to the district policy on masking when in the laboratory setting.

When using shared equipment students should:

  1. Wash hands thoroughly following CDC recommendations both prior to and after handling equipment

  2. Use hand sanitizer if a sink is not readily available both prior to and after handling equipment

Disinfectants provided by the district should be used to spray and allow to air dry all equipment that can’t be washed in hot, soapy water after being handled in the lab. Additional protocols apply to the following:

  • Goggles- After each use, goggles should be sprayed with the disinfectant, allowed to fully air dry and then placed in the UV cabinet to complete the sanitation process.

The district will provide safety goggles when necessary in the laboratory setting and they will be disinfected in between each use. Parents may choose to purchase their own for students if they do not want them using school issued goggles. Goggles must meet ANSI Z87+D3 standards and examples can be found here.

  • Microscopes- While in use in the classroom, the teacher will wear safety goggles when looking through student microscopes and will sanitize hands prior to and after touching a student microscope. After each use, microscopes will be disinfected using a cloth and the disinfectant issued by the district. The eyepiece, lens, and other areas may also be cleaned with 70% isopropanol or 70% ethanol disinfectants, particularly to reduce the potential damage caused to the lens.

References: NSTA https://www.nsta.org/blog/covid-19-sanitizing-lab-ppe-and-more

teaching & Learning: Special Education

How will special education be provided to students? Will they attend five days a week?

Special Education students are being scheduled on a continuum based on their individual needs, while also adhering to health and safety guidelines from New York State. The Fairport Continuum of Special Education Services will be available on the District website. Students in our full day 8:1+3, 12:1+1 and 15:1 programs are slated to come into school four days per week, while other students with less restrictive programming will receive a combination of in-person and remote supports and services. Fairport students with special education services who are placed in programs outside of the District will attend according to the schedules determined by those organizations.


Will students still participate in BOCES programs?

Yes, students will participate in BOCES programs in accordance with the days they attend school. Students who attend 4 days a week will attend BOCES based on their ability to mitigate with several other districts in participation; they are working to assess this. Work study placements are the least likely to run given the risk involved with on-site participation throughout the community.

teaching & Learning: Virtual instruction by family choice


What is the Virtual Instruction Plan by Family Choice?

The District is committed to providing a rich virtual experience taught by Fairport teachers. We will not know the specifics of what our all virtual cohort looks like until after the survey closes on August 5. This includes final decision making around offering a single grade level experience or if grade levels will be banded (K-2 for example). Once the cohorts are known, thoughtful curricular experiences will be planned accordingly. Students can expect to meet with their instructors across the day. Consideration will be given to individual, small group and whole group within each instructional block (ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies). Exactly how much time would be determined by grade level and student need. Students will also have access to instruction in the special areas as well as support and related services (Reading, Math, Speech, Occupational Therapy). Please note, while we are committed to creating rich experiences, for our youngest learners, this model requires the greatest amount of adult support at home.


Is the Virtual Instructional Plan through BOCES or will it be taught by Fairport educators?

Fairport educators will teach students who have opted for exclusively remote learning. The format will be developed once a needs assessment has been completed by each school.


What is the attendance process if children are in daycare on their virtual days?

Tracking student attendance is mandatory every day. The District is currently developing a procedure for taking daily attendance. Once we have finalized the attendance process, it will be communicated to families.


What is the difference between the virtual plan by family choice and virtual instruction in the event of a closure?

Students opting into the virtual plan would remain in the same classes with the same teachers in the event of closure. Students who attend the hybrid, in-person instruction will shift moving to an all virtual model.


Will there be an orientation for families who choose the virtual plan?

Students and parents will have opportunities to learn about the use of our virtual platform Google Classroom.


If my child is in the virtual plan, will the District provide chromebooks and resources?

Yes, students will have access to technology and other resources provided by Fairport teachers.


Will the Virtual Instruction Plan be synchronous or asynchronous for students? Will synchronous sessions be recorded and available to view at a later time?

Virtual Instruction will be live instruction with teachers with a combination of distance Google Classroom learning.


Will curriculum be comparable to the curriculum being taught in the hybrid model?

Yes, teachers will maintain the curricular standard experiences as is in the Hybrid schedule (in-person and virtual).


If you choose the Virtual Instruction Plan, can students return to in-person instruction at some point?

Families have the option of choosing the virtual instruction plan for their children. However, once a model of instruction is chosen, parents will need to commit to that model for one full semester. By choosing this option, you are agreeing that your children will remain in the 100% virtual instructional model through January 2021, at which point you will be able to choose whether you wish to continue.


How will specials (art, music, physical education) be offered through the virtual plan?

The details of the plan are still being developed. At the high school level, this will be established based on need and feasibility. The priority is to provide those opportunities when tied to immediate graduation needs. Plans are being developed related to potential for music lessons to be provided if and when applicable.


Will Honors and AP classes be offered in the virtual plan?

The virtual plan will be developed based on the cohort of students enrolling. Once the student is enrolled, the schedule is reviewed and factored into the larger group. Decisions around offerings will be made once the survey has closed. Core courses and graduation requirements will be the priority offerings. If you have specific questions, please contact school administration.

Fairport High School Virtual FAQs:

  1. Which days will students join their classes synchronously (joining their scheduled class at FHS via Google Meet) at FHS?
    Using the schedule mailed home, students should follow the weekly schedule: Fully remote/Remote instruction Cohort D: Monday/Thursday joining the in-class instruction remotely, Wednesday whole-group (cohorts A-D) remote instruction shortened periods, Tuesday/Friday remote or independent instruction (depending on teacher/course).

2. How will students connect with teachers without meeting in-person?

Students and teachers are encouraged to schedule individual or small group Google Meets throughout the week; this is preferable to exchanging emails as it promotes connectivity; it is also the most effective way to ask and answer questions.

3. How will students participate in Science labs?

Students will still work in lab groups alongside those in the classroom and participate as much as is practicable. Lab roles may be assigned as appropriate to those who are in person vs. at home (ex. A student at home records the data, narrates the steps to take in the lab). Students will still be expected to complete labs given NYS requirements connected to Regents Exams.

4. How will students participate in Physical Education?

PE will occur outside as much as possible. Teachers will use a combination of synchronous and asynchronous (independent) instruction as appropriate.

5. How will Music ensembles run?

Students will not participate in ensembles listed on their schedule as the full ensemble will never be in full attendance; fewer than half the students will be in attendance at any given time (in-person). Virtual students will still have lessons provided through Google Meet. We continue to explore ways to provide ensembles authentic experiences while adhering to CDC and DOH guidelines.

6. How will support services be provided (Counseling, Related Services, Response to Intervention, ENL and SPED)?

Students will still receive support services as required and scheduled through Google Meet. Modifications outlined in 504 plans and IEPS (ex. copy of class notes, breaking down of assignments) will be provided. Though testing scenarios will be more challenging in a virtual setting, SPED teachers will work with classroom teachers to ensure testing accommodations are in place.

7. How can students effectively communicate with the teacher and class during synchronous instruction?

Students will be able to use tools in Google Classroom including reactions (thumbs-up, head nod--the head not Google Extension can be installed with this link), hand raise tool, and the chat feature. Teachers have also brainstormed a variety of ways to ensure students are heard and can see the instruction as much as possible. This won’t be perfect, but will improve with time. The best way to ensure students remain engaged is for them to keep their cameras turned on during instruction. Please reference the Virtual Instruction Expectations document on our website for more information on how students, parents and teachers can best engage in this model.

8. When can students pick up technology and/or hard copies of materials prior to school starting?

Students can pick up technology and other materials on September 8 between the hours of 8am and 3pm. A schedule will be posted to ensure a staggered arrival time. The technology survey will be out to families this week.

9. If needed, how will students pick up new materials throughout the semester?

Teachers will utilize the “Homework Request” system through the guidance office. If students need new hard copies or materials for classes, they will be gathered and held in the main office for pick-up after 2:30pm.

10. Will students have any opportunities to get support in the building?

Students’ progress will be monitored through pre-existing structures at FHS. When appropriate, students will be offered opportunities for in-person support (guided study halls) on Wednesdays. This will be scheduled in partnership with parents based on their comfort level and would occur in blocks of approximately 2 hours. This is intended to be a short-term intervention in which paraprofessionals support students with independent work; there will be a limited number of spaces in each block.

11. What about students who attend BOCES programming (Multi-OCC, FOCUS, or EMCC)?

Please participate in the parent forums:

Multi-Occupational/FOCUS Parent Forum Information:

Date: Monday, August 17, 2020

Time: 6:30 – 7:30 PM

EMCC Parent Forum:

Date: Thursday, August 20, 2020

Time: 6:30 – 7:30 PM

12.Can students in the virtual model still participate in clubs?

Clubs will still run at FHS and, depending on the number of students participating, will run in-person or virtually. Students will still be able to sign-up and should communicate directly with the club advisor. This list can be found on the FHS website.

13. When can students participate in school pictures?

September 23 and September 30 between 10:00 and 1:00 in Cafeteria A. There are no students in the building on those dates; there is no sign-up required. Students should keep their school IDS for touchless student ID entry should they need it in the spring.

14. How will parents participate in Meet the Teacher Night?

This will be a different format for all teachers and parents this school year. Rather than hosting this even in-person, teachers will be providing information about their classes, videos introductions and office hours to answer questions.

15. How can parents learn more about Google Classroom and Google Meet?

On September 8th (technology and materials pick-up day) we will be hosting parent informational sessions at FHS to learn more about navigating Google Classroom and Google Meet. Specific times and location TBD.

16. How can families support one another in this model?

If you are interested in connecting with other families to form independent study groups or to promote social-emotional support among peers, please click FHS Virtual Family Directory and Volunteer Opportunities to subscribe.

What do I do if I need virtual learning technical support?

If your child needs help accessing their Fairport email or you need assistance when accessing school platforms from home, you can get help from the Instructional Technology Department via email at helpdesk@fairport.org or via phone at (585) 421-2043.


What can families without Internet access do to support their at home learning days?

Families have had success utilizing the Spectrum Internet Assist program for providing internet services at $5/month. Learn more here: https://www.spectrum.com/browse/content/spectrum-internet-assist

Please, contact your building principal if the Spectrum Internet Assist program does not work for you and we need to find other options for your household.


Will Fairport provide a device to students? What is the process to request a device?

Yes, Fairport has ordered devices for students and we plan to provide students with a device. Globally, device shipments are delayed so we are looking at ways to provide devices to those in need until our orders arrive.


If a parent purchases their own device for their child, what software/programs are needed?

Students will only need access to the Internet. Once a student logs in to their personally owned chromebook with their @fairport.org school account, they will have full access to all the district resources. At any time on any device students can also goto http://launchzone.fairport.org to access our programs as well.

If I choose to drive my child(ren) to and from school, what are the school procedures, and what are the drop-off/pick-up times?

All schools are working on their drop-off and pick-up procedures. More details will be available once ridership numbers are determined and ways that we can expedite these procedures.


Parents who choose to drop-off or pick-up their children at our schools need to be aware that we are expecting an increase in traffic around our schools. Please be patient and exercise extreme caution for students who may be walking or riding their bicycles to/from school. If your child attends: Jefferson Avenue School, Brooks Hill School, Martha Brown School, or Johanna Perrin School, please make a right-hand turn when leaving the properties. This simple action will greatly increase the traffic flow in and out of the schools.


What will the drop-off and pick-up look like for students who ride the buses this year?

Buses will be unloaded and loaded in coordination with our schools to minimize large groups of students congregating at common areas within our schools.


I have noticed that Fairport and other school districts are looking for school bus drivers. Will we have enough school bus drivers for the start of the school year?

There is a national shortage of school bus drivers and Fairport is affected as well. We are hiring school bus drivers and offer paid training, attractive healthcare insurance options, participation in the New York State Retirement System, and flexible hours. We expect to be able to cover our routes with the help of parents who have offered to transport their children while we operate with reduced capacities on our school buses this year. We encourage community members to apply to become a school bus driver. We are conducting virtual interviews and are happy to answer any of your questions about driving a school bus. Applications can be submitted at: applitrack.com/fairportcsd/onlineapp/default.aspx?Category=Transportation+-+Bus+Driver%2fBus+Attendant


What safety precautions are being taken to make sure transportation employees are medically fit?

Transportation staff is responsible for conducting a self-assessment prior to entering the facility. This can be accomplished from a home computer or mobile device.


What procedures are being followed to improve air circulation on school buses?

The New York State Education Department is requiring school districts to have windows and roof hatches slightly opened to increase air flow when temperatures are above 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Students should be encouraged to dress properly to maintain comfort on our school buses as the temperatures drop.


What should happen when students wait at the bus stop?

Families are encouraged to have a conversation with their children to make sure they are practicing social distancing while at the bus stop, waiting for their bus.


What will the school bus routes look like this year compared to previous years?

We have reworked the bus routes to allow the majority of students to have the same bus driver in the morning and afternoon.


Will students be required to wear face coverings on school buses?

Face coverings are mandated on school buses by the New York State Education Department. These face coverings must be worn properly to cover both the nose and mouth.


What happens if my child’s face covering breaks or they forget to bring it with them to the bus?

Our buses will have some spare masks on them for students who need one. The District will also supply masks to any children who need them at the building, should they break, tear or get lost during their school day.


What provisions are being made for students who cannot tolerate wearing a face cover? Will they be refused busing?

Students who have a medical condition that precludes them from wearing a face covering will need to provide written documentation from their primary care physician along with a Health Insurance Portability Accountability Act (HIPAA) release form. Once approved by the District’s lead nurse in collaboration with the School Physician, we will make accommodations by increasing spacing on our buses by reducing seating capacity on that route.Please be aware though, we have reduced capacities by approximately 66%, so please only request this for your child if this is medically necessary.


What will happen to students without a medical condition who refuse to properly wear a face covering on the school bus?

Riding the school bus is a privilege and student safety is of utmost importance. Students who refuse to properly wear a face covering will be addressed and options for violating this New York State Education Department mandate include requiring the family to provide their own transportation or enroll in the District’s virtual instruction option. This is a health and safety issue, as school buses are smaller areas that require face coverings.


Will transportation staff be provided Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?

PPE will be provided for all staff. Face coverings and gloves will be provided to school bus drivers and attendants. Staff will be required to wear gloves if they need to assist a student by making direct contact with them (i.e. securing a student in a STAR safety seat, etc.).


What is the procedure for cleaning the school buses?

Buses will be cleaned after morning and afternoon routes. Drivers and attendants will clean the handrails and tops of the seat backs as these are high touch areas. Additionally, buses will be disinfected at the end of each day by an electrostatic fogging machine.


What safety precautions are being followed to increase student safety?

Students will be required to load the buses with the first student on the bus going to the back of the bus and loading from back to front and once at the school, students will unload from front to back.


What will bus procedures (seating) look like?

We are maintaining social distancing on school buses. By utilizing seating design (high back seats), and mandatory face coverings, we are routing one student per seat*. On a large bus this equates to 22 students and on a small bus equates to 10 students per small bus. In the case of a student with special needs (medically verified) who cannot tolerate face coverings, we will route six students to a small bus to accommodate for this condition. *Students in the same family will ride in the same seats and capacities may be higher on some buses.


Will students have assigned seats on the buses?

Students in grades K-12 will be assigned seats to help with contact tracing should a student contract COVID-19.


Will students be allowed to use hand sanitizer on the bus?

Students on the bus will be authorized to carry personal-size bottles of sanitizer. The contents should not exceed 8 ounces in volume.


Will transportation be provided to families who change their student(s) placement from a Fairport Central School District placement to a private, parochial, or charter school?

The New York State Education Department requires that applications for transportation be submitted to school districts no later than April 1 of each year for the upcoming school year. This year, as an exception due to COVID-19, this deadline is now September 4, 2020 for families who may have decided to place their child(ren) in an outside placement.


If I need to contact the transportation department, can I go in person to the Transportation Center without an appointment?

The District has adjusted its visitation policy to limit employee and student exposure to COVID-19. If you need assistance regarding transportation, please call 421-2025. If you would like to meet with a person, please contact us by phone to make an appointment.

If a parent/guardian did not take the survey, what will happen with the student?

Parents/guardians who do not take the survey indicating the instructional model they would like their child(ren) to participate in by August 5, 2020, the District will have their child(ren) placed into the hybrid model and the District will plan to provide round trip bus transportation.


What if we opted for one instructional model and then we change our mind?

Please contact your child’s school administration as soon as possible. While programmatic changes are challenging, we understand that extenuating circumstances may occur. Consideration will be given on a case by case basis.


If we choose not to send our child, do we need to un-enroll?

  • Families who wish to homeschool their child(ren) will need to contact District Office

    • See question and answer below

  • Families who wish to choose 100% virtual will need to fill out the District survey and indicate their wishes. There will be follow-up from the school to coordinate with families.

  • Families who have chosen to enroll their child(ren) in another school (private, parochial) will need to contact the District Registrar Traci Hall at thall@fairport.org or via phone at 421-2009.


What is the difference between virtual learning and homeschooling?

Families wishing to homeschool their children are required by New York State Education Department to adhere to the NYS Part 100.10 Regulations. Families are required to submit a yearly plan after receiving acknowledgement of their Letter of Intent to homeschool. Families are also required to submit quarterly progress reports documenting the student’s progress over the quarter. If a child returns to the District after homeschooling, it is up to the principal's discretion what, if any, credit will be granted for coursework completed in homeschooling. Students who are homeschooled do not receive a diploma. A Letter of Completion would be awarded if all NYS Part 100.10 requirements are met. Under the virtual instruction model at Fairport CSD, students would still be enrolled at and follow the District’s curriculum.


If my family is interested in homeschooling as an alternative to the Hybrid & Virtual models, what is the process?

Parents retain the right to choose to homeschool their child(ren). Parents will need to submit a letter of intent to homeschool their child(ren) for the 2020-21 school year. Please address the letter to the Superintendent of Schools, Brett Provenzano, 38 W. Church Street. This letter can also be emailed to Christine Roth at croth@fairport.org. Families are to follow the Commissioner’s Regulations for grades 1-12, and kindergarten subject areas are at the parent/guardian’s discretion. For more information, contact the Superintendent’s Office at (585) 421-2004 or via email to Christine Roth at croth@fairport.org.


Will kindergarten students be screened prior to the start of the school or in the first few weeks of school?

Kindergarten screening will not take place prior to the return to school. Parents did have the opportunity to complete the Pediatric Symptoms Checklist for preschool which helped administrators to understand the behavioral and social emotional needs of incoming kindergarteners from the parent perspective. Additionally, building administrators sent out parent input (google) forms electronically to assist in the placement of all incoming kindergarten students. Teachers will also use the first 6-8 weeks of school to get to know students academically, behaviorally and socially while informally assessing their areas of strength and need. All collected data will be used to meet each child where they are and guide them toward reaching their full potential.


Will there be any athletics and extracurricular activities?

  • Athletics: Fall sports have been moved back to September 21, 2020.

  • Extracurricular Activities: Decisions about extracurricular experiences have not yet been made. If they occur, at the High School level, they will occur within NYSED/ CDC guidelines and may include video conferencing. At the elementary and middle school levels it has been decided that there will be no in-person extracurricular clubs or activities taking place after school; clubs will operate virtually when possible.