Dear SGI Families and Staff Members: 

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Springville-Griffith Institute Central School District has been committed to keeping our students, staff, and community healthy in a supportive and caring environment — a commitment we have all worked very hard to uphold. On behalf of our school staff, thank you all for doing your part to keep our community safe. 

At this time, we have reached a point where COVID-19 is endemic, meaning that the virus has become something we all must live with as we have with other respiratory illnesses in the past. As with the flu and other seasonal illnesses, there are solutions that can prevent the spread.

Through the experiences of the pandemic, we learned many strategies to keep ourselves and others safe. First, it is always good practice to cover your cough or sneeze in your elbow and wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. 

Second, know the symptoms and keep your child home if they are ill.  If your child has a fever, cough, runny/stuffy nose or digestional upset, you can request a free COVID-19 test from the school nurse. Your healthcare provider and the county also offer flu testing. 

If your child tests positive for COVID-19, please call the school nurse and keep them home for at least five days and until they do not have a fever for 24 hours. It is also recommended that they wear a mask until 10 days from symptom onset. Our schools have masks available upon request.  Masking continues to be optional for children and staff in our schools.

SGI is proud of and grateful for our inspiring students, dedicated staff, supportive families, and involved community as we enter a new phase of navigating this pandemic. We will continue to update our community on changes as they develop and appreciate your continued cooperation. 

Thank you, 

James Bialasik

Superintendent of Schools

The New York State Education Department and the New York State Department of Health have partnered to provide P-12 schools and families with guidance related to COVID-19. Select the links below to access the following:

• NYSED School Guidance Documents

• NYSED/NYSDOH Frequently Asked Questions related to COVID-19

• NYSED/NYSDOH Parents/Caregivers Mitigation Strategies

For health related concerns/questions pertaining to your child's educational program please contact their school nurse.