October 30, 2020
Dear Parents and Guardians:
There are several holidays, celebrations, observances, and days off coming in the weeks ahead, including Halloween and Thanksgiving. We are writing to ask for your help in making sure everyone celebrates and observes these events in a safe way that prevents the spread of COVID-19 in our school community and homes.
The New York State Department of Health is recommending that families celebrate Halloween this year only with the people who live in your household. Traditional events - such as receiving or providing treats at the door, trick-or-treating in large groups, or attending indoor parties - are considered higher risk activities that can increase the risk of getting or spreading COVID-19. Moreover, it is difficult for the county to contact trace if you have direct contact with those you do not know, or those who you may know but cannot identify due to masks, costumes or the dark.
For those who do choose to provide treats, the Department of Health recommends providing an outdoor station where children can pick up individually wrapped bags at the end of a driveway or yard. The state also recommends that you and your family remain socially distanced from those outside of your household, wear masks and wash your hands with soap and water (or hand sanitizer) before, during and after any activities.
Please see the attachment for more guidance from the State Department of Health, including creative ways to celebrate more safely this year.
Thank you for your continued support with the safety protocols, both in and outside of school. We are so proud of our students, staff and families' continuing cooperation and the sacrifices you have made. Please have a healthy and safe Halloween on Saturday.
Sincerely,
The Brunswick Central School District
