The new school year is quickly approaching—though many are still pushing for a delayed start—and Mayor Bill de Blasio is updating families on what to expect.
On Aug 17, he dedicated part of his press briefing to addressing the safety and cleaning procedures that will be in place. According to a minute-long video clip, here's what's in store for the NYC DOE:
- Over 4 million face masks
- Over 3.5 million bottles of hand sanitizer
- Over 80,000 canisters of disinfectant wipes
- 7,350 maintenance staff members cleaning buildings every afternoon
- Multiple daily cleanings for "high-touch" zones
- 3,750 electrostatic sprayers
Learn more below:
.@NYCSchools has worked tirelessly to make sure our schools are safe. And that’s just the beginning. We’re committed to keeping classrooms safe from COVID-19 all year long. pic.twitter.com/giXfgXDGEf
— Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) August 17, 2020
Chancellor Richard Carranza revealed that the deliveries have begun and will continue throughout the year. He also stated that principals will have a hotline they could call should they be in need of supplies.
Deliveries of initial stock have already begun & we will be proactively delivering supplies to all @NYCschools throughout year. Principals will also have a hotline so we can ensure schools have what they need to provide safe & healthy learning environments all year long.
— Chancellor Richard A. Carranza (@DOEChancellor) August 17, 2020
The debate around the start of the year and how to conduct it remains contentious. If you are curious what to make of this unusual back-to-school season, get more information at the NYC DOE's virtual information session on Aug 27 or visit NYC schools online. If you're thinking about alternatives, you can explore the possibility of learning pods.
Most popular on Time Out
- The Bronx Zoo will bring back free Wednesdays
- The best summertime cherry picking NY families love
- The NYC DOE is hosting a virtual information session about returning to school
- Sesame Place is reopening with new safety measures
- NYC to provide free daycare for children ages 3 and up