The week of September 7th, Molloy commenced its 2020-21 school year with a hybrid reopening plan in place. The plan groups students into A and B cohorts that will physically attend classes and participate virtually on alternating days. A portion of Molloy’s students have opted for full-time virtual learning.
On September 8th, Molloy welcomed its faculty and staff back to Manton Street for the first time since March 12th. The following day, the Class of 2024 got acclimated with their new surroundings during Freshman orientation. Sophomores returned for their orientation on September 10th, while Juniors returned on the 11th and Seniors on the 14th. Molloy’s first full day of classes is Tuesday, September 15th.
This year’s opening has been different than any other. Upon arrival, each person has their temperature checked before they are permitted to enter the building. Once inside, ample signage promoting one-way hallway traffic, clean hands, and social distancing is visible throughout the campus. Disinfecting stations are accessible in all corridors, and all classrooms have cleaning and disinfecting supplies. Desks are spaced six feet apart in classrooms, while larger spaces such as the theater, cafeteria, and gymnasiums are serving as additional classrooms. All faculty, staff, and students must wear personal protection equipment (PPE) while inside the building. Masks may be removed only if outside and social distancing is being observed.
“Meeting the guidelines and requirements outlined by New York State, the NYC Department of Health, and the CDC was an extraordinary effort that required the coordination of every aspect of student life,” said President Richard Karsten ’81. “Early in July we assembled a Reopening Task Force led by administrators, faculty, and staff. We met regularly to develop a compliant and successful Reopening Plan that would prioritize the health and safety of our Molloy family. I would like to thank our Registered Nurse Ms. Maria Gallagher, our Task Force, and everyone who has made our reopening possible.”
“We worked very hard over the summer to create a synchronous schedule for our A and B cohorts as well as the approximately 20% of students who opted for full distance learning,” said Principal Dr. Darius Penikas. “The cohorts alternate physically attending school two to three times per week and following a synchronous schedule on the days they are learning from home. This has been made possible with the installation of a camera in each classroom that allows students to follow along with their teachers in real time if at home. I would like to thank our newly appointed Vice President of Technology and Innovation, Mr. CJ Mallia, and our IT staff for their tremendous efforts in quickly implementing this complex yet effective solution. I would also like to thank our faculty and staff for the hard work and extensive preparation they put in to get ready for this unique school year.”
In case you missed it, visit www.molloyhs.org/reopeningplan/ to read Molloy’s Reopening Plan.