Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - After weeks of preparations by the Buffalo Schools to reopen Monday, Feb. 1, the Buffalo Teachers Federation late Thursday announced their intention to file suit to stop the reopening of Buffalo school buildings to in-person instruction.
Earlier this week, CDC officials said that schools should resume in-person learning as soon as possible if social distancing and masks are properly enforced.
"We are going to get there," Rumore told WBEN Friday morning. "The thing is we need more time to do it."
The statement from BTF President Phil Rumore says the legal action is being taken to ensure that students and teachers are provided with a "healthful and safe return" to school buildings. Rumore notes that some concerns have been addressed but there are outstanding safety issues that have led the union to file the legal action in an attempt to stop the planned opening.
Shortly after Rumore's statement hit news organizations' inboxes, Buffalo Schools Superintendent Dr. Kriner Cash issued a letter to the district on the Monday reopening plans.
"The health and safety of students, teachers, and staff is always our highest riority," said Cash. "It cannot be over-emphasized that reopening of schools must be controlled and deliberate, which is why we are at first bringing students back in limited numbers and prioritizing the return of those with the highest need. As educators, we must be tough, smart, disciplined, and caring."
Cash notes that CDC safety guidelines including masking and social distancing will be strictly adhered to by students, teachers and staff.
Pre-K throu grade 2 students will return to school Monday in addition to high school seniors. Students and families have the choice to remain in remote-learning if they prefer.
Buffalo Schools students have been away from the classroom since March 2020.
