When the Stanley G. Falk School doors opened on Tuesday morning, the school was ready for its students and staff to return. Click here to see the full story as reported by WIVB-TV News 4.
Each classroom includes six students, one teacher, and one teacher aide. While this might be a different appearance for some schools, it was already the norm at the Falk School. “That’s always been the case, even pre-COVID. That’s our model and our learning plan,” said Laura Collins, Principal of the Roosevelt campus. “With six students in a room, we’re able to really connect with families and students, and meet everybody’s needs.”
That does not mean that students will not see differences, though. Students taking the bus have their temperatures scanned before they get on the bus itself. “We have students coming from 44 districts, and some are on the bus for an hour,” said Rachael Greene, Superintendent of the Falk School. “We knew it was essential to take temperatures even before getting on the bus.”
Students and teachers will be wearing masks while in the school itself. Everyone will also have their temperatures scanned as they enter the school.
“We have been trying to focus on what we can control, so in order to prepare for the upcoming school year we have invested a lot in cleaning supplies, comfort bands for masks, [and] mask lanyards,” said Principal Collins.
Most Falk students are returning to in-person learning all five days of the week, but other options are available. About 20-30% of students have opted for remote learning.
Whether learning in-person or remotely, students will receive the same quality of education and care thanks to the passion of the Falk staff.