In addition to all Fayetteville-Manlius schools being closed to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, the district is also closing to the public all outdoor physical education, interscholastic athletics, and recreational facilities, including the district’s track, turf field, tennis courts, school playgrounds and athletic fields.
“We are asking our community to partner with us during this critical time,” said Scott Sugar, F-M’s Director of Athletics and Physical Education. “We know some community members have been continuing to use our facilities, such as the track and turf field, and we apologize for this inconvenience. As health officials have advised us to limit the number of people on our campuses, this is one more step we can take to protect the health of our community.”
All outdoor athletic facilities will be closed as of Wednesday, March 18, and will remain closed for the duration of the emergency school closure, which is expected to last at least until April 14.
Childcare
As part of the district’s plan in responding to the emergency closure order from Onondaga County and New York state, the district is partnering with the Hal Welsh East Area YMCA in Fayetteville to offer childcare for those parents and guardians affected by the closures.
Healthcare workers and first responders will have priority placement for the slots, which will serve children ages 2.5 to 12 from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Care will cost $20 per day, and scholarships are available for those in need.
Contact the YMCA at 315-637-2025, extension 0, for more information.
Student registration
Due to Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s recent executive order directing all New York state schools to close, the district is suspending registration through April 14.
The district will also not be processing change of addresses during this time. For urgent matters, such as a new student enrolling for the current school year, families should contact Debbie McGann at dmcgann@fmschools.org.
Chromebook distribution
Chromebooks will be distributed to families in need who reserved them during two pick-up sessions on Thursday, March 19.
A drive-thru pick-up station will be set up at F-M High School’s in the House I front circle. All students, parents and guardians picking up Chromebooks should remain inside their vehicles at all times and wait for a staff member for assistance.
To borrow a Chromebook, students must complete the Technology Acceptable Use Policy. Forms will be available during the pick-up times, and the completed form must be given to a staff member.
Chromebook pick-up times:
- 9-11 a.m.: Families with the last name beginning A – K
- 4-6 p.m.: Families with the last name beginning L through Z
Students should plan to arrive during their specified time slot; however, if a student has a conflict, it is permissible for students to attend the time that is most convenient.