Notre Dame Schools in Utica plan to reopen in September but officials say masks and social distancing must come first when that happens.

Staff members are trying to be productive by working on projects, and as that continues, they're also planning safely reopening.

What You Need To Know

  • Staff at Notre Dame Schools plan to reopen on September 9.
  • Work groups are coming up with safe ways to reopen.
  • Reopening will likely include social distancing, masks, and changes to bus seating.
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"Our promise to them has always been when you get off that school bus or when mom and dad drop you off that you're arriving at the end of the day home safely," said Notre Dame Schools Executive Principal Roy Kane.

Staff have formed work groups made up of school leaders, registered nurses, and doctors to come up with the safest ways to move forward.

"We are looking at requiring students and faculty and staff to wear masks. We're looking at different types of PPE, social distancing in classrooms, spacing of desks and things like that," said Notre Dame Schools Board of Trustees Member Carrie Putelo.

Safe methods of sports and clubs are being considered, too. The executive principal says there are discussions with other districts about bussing options.

"Some of them are gonna require multiple trips for each one because of the restrictions of only having the students they would normally carry," Kane said. "So certainly that's gonna equate to us having students arriving at different times. We'll adjust accordingly."

School leaders say they are and will continue to follow county, state, and Diocese guidelines. They're hoping to reopen on September 9.