Brookfield Central School District has begun testing for the Covid virus on unvaccinated staff and student athletes.
During last week’s 45-minute virtual BCS Board of Education meeting, Superintendent Jim Plows said unvaccinated staff are tested on Thursdays with results known on Saturdays. Winter student athletes will also be tested to be cleared to play each week.
“It’s another layer of protection,’’ Plows said.
Winter sports began a couple of weeks ago with modified teams playing. BCS is limiting fans to families of athletes for attendance.
Each family will be assigned a section of the gym, Plows said. Sections will be 6 feet apart.
“We’ll see how it goes,’’ Plows said. “If we have to make modifications we will.’’
The following coaches were appointed for winter sports: Ken Plows, girls varsity basketball; Brandon Cook, boys varsity basketball; Jamie Reilly, boys junior varsity basketball; Kiara Strough, junior varsity volleyball and Kevin Abrams, boys modified basketball.
Plows recognized three coaches who have stepped down from coaching after many years. He said Karen Howlett (volleyball), Doreen Rogers (girls basketball) and Kevin Fuess (boys basketball) always put student athletes first over concerns about a winning record.
During the resident participation portion, resident Mary Wratten asked a number of questions to get a better understanding on the regulations for facemasks for students when in the building and outside. Wratten also said it’s been frustrating as a parent to not be allowed in the building, such as during the recent virtual Open House, to see her child’s classroom.
Plows said the regulations change so much it has been difficult for teachers and staff to keep up. He said when students are outside on the playground or athletic fields, and are 6 feet apart, they can drop their facemasks.
However, if outside but playing closer together, the facemasks must be worn.
Students in a classroom have been divided with half eating lunch in the cafeteria and the others eating in their classroom. Wratten pointed out that under this method only half the kids get a chance to leave the classroom for a…