JDS announces safe reopening plan for the fall

The Jewish Day School of the Lehigh Valley announced their plans for the 2020-21 school year on Aug. 3. The JDS Safe Reopening Plan establishes a framework that will allow for full time, in-person instruction for all JDS students this coming year. The plan also provides for synchronous, remote instruction for any students who are unable to attend in person in a Learn Anywhere program.

The plan was developed by a task force composed of staff, board members and a medical advisory team based on the best available information gathered from experts in public health, workplace safety, mental health and government policy, as well as from academic accrediting organizations and networks and Jewish values. It consists of physical distancing, mask wearing, symptom monitoring and proper hygiene and disinfecting.

“For students who will be learning in-person in the fall, we are fortunate to have a beautiful and spacious facility, in which we can accommodate all of our students and faculty in a socially distant and responsible way, prioritizing safety within our school building and in our outdoor classrooms,” said Amy Golding, JDS head of school.

JDS is looking forward to having a productive school year through this blend of options for their students and their families. They are already nearing their capacity limits for a number of classes due to safety measures. For prospective families who have not yet submitted an application and are still interested in doing so, please reach out to Director of Admissions Sara Schonbach as soon as possible at sschonbach@jdslv.org.

“We are truly ‘all in this together.’ As a community we take care of each other. This value has always been part of JDS and it serves our school well as we show flexibility and patience in the months ahead,” said Golding.