Apologies for Confusion...update! WPS 3-1-22
There has been some confusion around the mask expectations this week with the recent changes from the CDC. Last night, during the School Committee meeting, the change in the federal mandate to wear masks on school buses was discussed. That change took place on the federal level at the end of last week during vacation and was in conflict with what the School Committee had previously stated prior to vacation as the bus requirement was not expected to change until the middle of this month. I did not receive any reports of confusion yesterday and honestly thought that a new announcement would create more confusion. I was wrong and I apologize for that error.
Masks are now optional on school buses. They are still required in school buildings through this Friday, March 4.
Additionally, during the meeting, we continued to discuss the restorative practices and process that we are developing in response to the recent acts of racism and bias that have taken place within our community. This Thursday evening at 7:00pm we will be holding a special virtual event to update the community and provide information about future opportunities to engage in this incredibly important conversation. Please see the information below for information about how to access the event.
The Westford Public Schools invites the Westford community to a special webinar this Thursday, March 3rd, at 7:00pm. Superintendent Christopher Chew—along with School Committee chair Chris Sanders and consultants Dr. Michele Shannon-Mingo and Pathways to Restorative Communities—will provide an introductory look at how the Westford community can respond to incidents of racism in our community with restorative practices.
Attendees will hear an explanation of what restorative justice is, and how restorative practices can be used to not only respond when harm has occurred, but also to strengthen understanding, trust, and tolerance in a community in an ongoing way. An update will also be given on the district’s response to recent events.
This webinar will be informational in nature, but community members will have an opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings at one of the upcoming restorative community “circles” that are being planned.
To register for this event, please go to https://tinyurl.com/WestfordRJWebinar. The webinar will be recorded and available for the community to view later.