Dear Girard Families,
As we have been reflecting on a full year of the coronavirus pandemic, it's both overwhelming and inspiring to think back on how much we have overcome. I am so proud of our faculty and staff for their courage and dedication, and I am so grateful for your partnership and understanding as we work together to educate our students while keeping our community safe. The Girard community is stronger than ever because of you.
Thanks to our efforts, the reduction in virus transmission rates and the increase in vaccinations,
I am happy to announce that Girard College is ready to move forward with Phase 3 of our school Re-Opening Plan.
Moving to Phase 3
Beginning on Sunday, April 11, all students who opted for in-person instruction will be welcome to return to campus, about 64% of our student body. Students in grades 1-8 will continue on their weekly four-day schedule, and students in grades 9-12 will take part in two-week rotations throughout Quarter 4 (see schedule below).
To allow time for all staff and students to be tested for COVID-19 after Spring Break, instruction will be virtual for all students the week of April 5 (Tues-Thurs).
Staff will be tested on Friday, April 9, and returning students will be tested on Sunday, April 11 and will continue to be tested every two weeks.
Your cooperation is key in keeping everyone safe as we welcome more students back to campus. Please do not send your students to school if they are sick, and if someone in your household tests positive for COVID-19, you must notify the school immediately.
Because we are following proper health and safety protocols, we have not seen community spread of the virus on campus. If a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19, we will continue to follow our campus health and safety plan and coordinate with the Philadelphia Department of Health. Close contact tracing and quarantine will be implemented as required.
All students will continue to be instructed on our health policies and protocols, with special attention for those students who are returning in-person for the first time.
If your student has not been on campus yet this year, please contact our Health Services team (
HealthServices@girardcollege.edu) to make sure your records are up to date, including the required proof of a flu vaccine.
