After losing a number of days due to Superstorm Sandy, Bellmore and Merrick Schools are contemplating how to make up the time lost.
“We are still discussing this,” North Bellmore Superintendent Arnold Goldstein said. “No decision has been made.”
Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District and North Merrick School District representatives also confirmed to Patch that no specific plans have been made to address the issue as of yet.
“The State Education Department is currently reviewing requirements for make-up days for students,” Bellmore Schools Superintendent Dr. Joseph Famularo said. “As soon as we receive updated information, the District will forward this information to parents.”
According to Merrick School District Superintendent Dr. Dominick Palma, schools are required to have 180 days of school to receive full state aid, so they must make up four days of school. There are several options being considered by the district, and they are also awaiting possible legislative action pertaining to the 180-day rule.
These are the options:
Option 1:
- Feb. 20, 21, and 22 become school days.
- March 22 which is currently a conference day becomes a half-day of school.
- April 1 and 2 remain on the calendar as Emergency Make Up Days in case of further school closings.
Option 2:
- February 21, and 22 become school days.
- March 22 which is currently a conference day becomes a half-day of school.
- March 25 becomes a school day.
- April 1 and 2 remain on the calendar as Emergency Make Up Days in case of further school closings.
Palma added that a decision will be made at the Dec. 4 Board of Education Meeting.
How do you think local districts should make up the missed days of school? Tell us in the comments below.
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