Thousands of students head back to in-person learning across Rochester area

Rochester, New York — The schools are prepared as thousands of students head back to in-person learning this year.

Churchville Elementary and The Norman Howard School in Henrietta welcomed back students Wednesday.

For the first time, this year, Churchville-Chili is offering a pre-kindergarten program at each elementary school.

Every morning before school, parents are asked to take their child’s temperature, and if they have any of the symptoms listed on the health form, they should stay home.

In order to make sure all students have access to whatever they need for mental health, the district has also established a wellness advisory council that is made up of parents, students, teachers, counselors, school board members, and district leaders. Some of that support could include one-on-one counseling, small-group counseling, social work support, or a referral to a University of Rochester specialist since UR has partnered with the district.

Construction crews spent the summer finishing up several projects at both high schools in Webster. At Webster Schroeder, the new sports complex includes an upgraded softball and baseball field with turf, where athletes can also practice field hockey, lacrosse, and soccer. There are also bigger and brighter lights, new stands, and a new track – finished just in time for students to return. At Webster Thomas, labs for automotive class have gotten a facelift as well.

“Huge upgrade,” said Brian Freeman, assistant superintendent for business. “Before we were in a much smaller classroom, we had a limited area to work in: couldn’t put as many students in it. And the best thing about this space is it’s attached to a classroom. So you can have a classroom of kids walk into the lab right here.”

More work is still underway at both schools. Construction will continue throughout the school year.