Leveraging the practices that many schools regularly implement in a typical academic year, the Department has created a guidance document (attached) with specific strategies and supports that schools should have in place to support graduating high school seniors during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The guidance addresses the following topics: 

  • Quality instruction during remote or hybrid/blended learning 
  • Meeting students’ social-emotional needs  
  • Educational progress and career plans for all students 
  • College financial aid 
  • Virtual office hours for school counselors and other school staff  
  • Engaging parents as partners 
  • End-of -year traditions and ceremonies 
  • A copy of the field memorandum will be made available on the Reopening Schools Guidance webpage.  
  • Please contact the Office of Curriculum and Instruction at edtech@nysed.gov with questions about instruction during remote or hybrid/blended learning.  
  • Please contact the Office of Student Support Services at studentsupportservices@nysed.gov with any questions pertaining to school counseling and meeting students’ social-emotional needs.