August 18, 2021
Dear FCS Parents,
Yesterday, Governor DeWine held a press conference which provided an update on the COVID-19/Delta variant numbers in Ohio and the possibility of a “Perfect Storm” with the start of school right around the corner for most districts in Ohio. The spread of the delta variant has dramatically increased in the last two weeks. We are at the highest number of new cases since February. Governor DeWine sent a strong message to parents, teachers and school district leadership-mask up to protect students and staff members. The best way to keep students safe and in school is to be vaccinated and when they cannot be vaccinated, they should wear a mask. Dr. Vanderhoff, Ohio Department of Health Director, added evidence and data to support the Governor’s plea to wear a mask.
We believe that the best place for our students to learn is in the classroom. We want to provide the social-emotional and academic supports that each student needs to be successful. The pandemic and the past year has required the district to look at data and the safety of students and staff to make the best possible decisions-to keep students and all staff members safe-while providing an educational environment that our students need.
For the safety of all, FCS will require all students and staff to wear masks while indoors. FCS will follow the same guidelines for mask exemptions as we did last year. Students are required to wear masks on the bus. Requiring students and staff to wear masks will eliminate quarantine when exposed to a positive COVID-19 person, keeping students safe and in the classroom. The wearing of masks also protects those students who are not yet eligible to receive the vaccine.
As always, we truly appreciate your patience and understanding. Navigating all of the changes and requirements during a pandemic is tough on families and schools. We will continue to provide informational updates and will update our school guidance with the latest information. Our goal is to provide the best education possible and to keep students safe and in school. Thank you for your support.
Respectfully,
Gene Lolli