The Lynbrook Board of Education held a virtual board of education work session on Sept. 2, prior to the first day of the new school year. The community was invited to watch the livestream on YouTube as important updates were shared.

Board President William Belmont welcomed eight new staff members to the district – Linda Artusa, Mariano Delisi, Zachary Jennette, Malgorzata Los, Kathleen Owens, Noelle Santos, Kristen Scalice and Kelsey Occhino. During her report, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Melissa Burak reminded families that school begins on Sept. 8 and that both Sept. 8 and 9 would serve as half-days to get students familiarized with their new school routine. With remote learning starting up again, she also reminded students and their families of proper online etiquette. Dr. Burak shared that since some students will learn remotely while others learn in-person, the goal will be to bridge the relationship between the two during the school year. The schools and PTAs are doing their best to include all students in areas such as possible programs and assemblies during the school year.

In addition, Dr. Burak spoke about the fall sports season. The superintendents on the Section VIII athletic committee voted to delay the start of fall sports until January 2021. Their goal is to provide three, shortened sports seasons at the start of next year. The Lynbrook Public Schools has submitted an appeal asking them to reconsider their decision to delay the fall sports season.

Lastly, Dr. Burak encouraged the community to take care of one another to help keep the schools open. She stressed that it was important to be honest about student health and that if any symptoms come up, to keep children home from school.

The Lynbrook Board of Education will meet again on Sept. 9 for a regular board meeting. The meeting will take place in the Lynbrook High School auditorium but due to the governor’s executive order, there will be a limit of 30 attendees. Community members can also watch the meeting live at www.lynbrookschools.org/boe/virtual_meetings.