Update: COVID-19 cases for Jan. 25-28

Since our last update, we have learned of the following positive cases of COVID-19 in our school community:

  • 5 from Watervliet Elementary School, and
  • 12 from Watervliet Jr.-Sr. High School.

We will continue to send out updates twice each week. For daily positive COVID-19 cases affecting our district, please visit the NYS COVID-19 Report Card.

Jan. 28 Update: Mask mandate still in effect as court proceedings continue

Although it had been reported by several media outlets that an appellate state court decision on the state’s universal mask mandate was expected today – Friday, Jan. 28 – we have since learned from New York State that today marked  a court submission deadline and no decision on the case is expected at this time. As we had communicated before, the mask mandate remains in effect while court proceedings continue.

The issue became news earlier this week after a Supreme Court judge in Nassau County ruled that the way in which the state created its mask mandate was unconstitutional. The decision was promptly appealed by the state, and the appellate court hearing the case issued a “stay” on the lower court’s ruling while it considers the case. Again, because there is no timeline for that decision, the mandate will remain in effect at least until a ruling is made.

All staff, students and school visitors continue to be required to wear a mask or face covering while in our schools. There is no change to the health and safety protocols we have been following in recent months related to masks.

Important reminders

Please remember that symptomatic students and staff members should NOT come to school. Similarly, it is important for families to keep child(ren) home from school if they are exhibiting COVID symptoms: Fever or chills; cough; shortness of breath or difficulty breathing; fatigue; muscle or body aches; headaches; new loss of taste or smell; sore throat; congestion or runny nose; nausea or vomiting; or diarrhea.

We continue to encourage eligible students and staff members to get fully vaccinated (and a booster, if eligible) to protect themselves, their families and their communities. COVID-19 vaccination appointments are available for students who are 5 years and older through our Whitney Young School-Based Health Clinic at WJSHS. Call 518-629-3270 to make an appointment.

Your cooperation and support of our schools is appreciated as we continue to work together to make this a safe, healthy and successful school year for our students, staff and families. Thank you.

(This message was shared with WCSD families and staff via One Call Now email on Jan. 28.)