Article by: Jennifer Korn

On Tuesday, Superintendent of Schools, Martin D. Cox, released a statement announcing the district’s decision to postpone in person classes.

The full statement can be found here.

“I do not agree with a hybrid or stay at home virtual learning,” said Tara Handsman, a Clarkstown parent.

Handsman said it is damaging for children to sit in front of a screen for hours a day. “It’s bad for their eyes and more eye glasses are being prescribed. Migraine headaches are increasing from these warranted hours of screen time,” said Handsman.

Handsman said her daughter, a high school senior, struggles with migraines because of prolonged screen time.

“We will not be ready to fully implement the required actions by September 3rd,” Cox wrote in his statement.

Cox’s statement also features a list of challenges the district would face if in person classes were held.

“I do feel my district had plenty of time to prepare for children, teachers, and staff to return to school in a safe manner,” said Handsman. “With the obscene amount of money we pay for taxes, our children are suffering for it.”

The district’s hybrid schedule will go into effect on Tuesday, Sept. 29.

When asked about her thoughts on the coronavirus, Handsman said, “I do not fear it. I believe it will be gone in time! I don’t underestimate it but I don’t think we should stop living because of it!”

Handsman said her husband, who has a terminal illness, survived the virus.

“Kids need socialization to feel normalcy,” said Handsman