List of 12 frequently asked questions.

• 1. How long will schools be closed? 

   

  On Friday, March 27, Governor Cuomo extended his mandate for school closure through April 15, at which time he will reevaluate his decision on closures. Aquinas will continue to observe our campus closure until it is safe for us to all return to campus. Distance learning will continue during this closure period with the exception of Holy Week/Spring Break.
  
  

• 2. What if a parent has a question for a school administrator or staff member? 
  
  

  Aquinas employees, though off campus until at least April 1, will be monitoring emails.
  Click here for the school directory >> 
  
  

• 3. What about events and activities? 

   

  All Aquinas events and activities are cancelled until further notice.
  
  

• 4. What can I do to help my children continue learning at home?
  
  

  We understand that there are many pieces in navigating distance learning, especially for parents at home. Here are some ways to help navigate learning at home. 
  
  

  • Check the Principal Page first each day for specific updates or other information, including daily prayer. This is located under the Groups tab in the student online portal. 

  • Have a routine with a specific time for academics, helping around the house, doing other activities away from screens, exercising and taking advantage of the nice weather. 

  • Have a specific work space (if possible), working in bedrooms may not be the best for most children. 

  • Minimize distractions. 

  
  
  

• 5. What if I don’t have a home computer or internet access? 

   

  Aquinas distance learning is accessible on computer, tablet, or from a smartphone. If there is still an issue getting work, please contact Ms. Kilminster, Mr. Mooney, or Mr. Higgins. 
  
  

  Spectrum is currently offering free Wi-Fi for families with children who are engaged in distance learning during the COVID-19 closure. Here is a link with more information:  https://www.rochesterfirst.com/coronavirus/charter-to-offer-free-access-to-spectrum-broadband-wifi-during-virus-outbreak/ 
  
  

• 6. What if my child doesn’t remember how to login to his/her student portal or Office 365 account?
  
  

  Students must verify that they have the correct sign-in information for their student portals (AquinasInstitute.com/login). The student portal offers access to resources and materials needed to complete assignments, whereas the parent portal allows parents to monitor assignments. If you need to reset your student portal password, please click here for directions.  
  
  

  Students must also verify that they have the correct sign-in information for Office 365 (login.microsoftonline.com). Please email communications@aquinasinstitute.com if a student needs his/her login information. In the email, please include the student’s name and grade.
  
  

• 7. What if my child needs to contact the counseling center while schools are closed? 

   

  Please use the messaging feature of the online student portal to contact the counselors during office hours or at any time. 
  
  

  Office Hours for Counselors: 

  HS Students A-K: Clara Montalbano 8:00am-10:00am 

  HS Students L-Z: Ray Manioci  11:00am-1:00pm 

  MS Students: Tracy Migliore 9:00am-11:00am 
  *Please note that ANY counselor is happy to help you! We want to hear from you! 

  
  Mental Health Resources in Monroe County, if you have immediate concerns: 
  
  

  • Mobile Crisis/Lifeline: 585-275-5151 
  • 911 
  • Family Crisis Support Services: 585-256-7500 

   

  Scholarships and College Applications: Continue to be processed.  Email Mayra Arieno with any questions: 
  marieno@aquinasinstitute.com.
  
  

• 8. What is the distance learning protocol for a child who receives Academic Intervention Services (AIS)?
  
  

  Aquinas’ Academic Intervention Services team has developed a plan to service our Learning Center, AAP, IEP, and concussed students. The AIS team will be available to students during the traditional school day for individual assistance. Both the AIS team and the RSCD staff have posted the following office hours on their class page bulletin boards so that students are aware.
  
  

  Aquinas AIS  

  8-10 a.m. Brendan McDaniels  

  10- noon Ben Bostick  

  12-2 p.m. Katherine Loria  

  2-4 p.m. Adam Sutton 

   

  RCSD 

  8-10 a.m. Paula Linza 

  8-10 a.m. Debbie Whitehair 

  9-11 a.m. Cherie Karol 

   

  All families of students who receive services will be contacted by a member of the AIS team. If you have any questions about your child’s services, please contact Mr. McDaniels at
  bmcdaniels@aquinasinstitute.com.  
  
  

• 9. What is happening with upcoming ACT, SAT and AP Exams?
  
  

  All of those tests are administered independently. We will be sure to notify our families when we become aware of any changes to testing dates or format.
  
  

• 10. What steps are being taken to clean and disinfect the building?
  
  

  Cleaning and disinfection throughout the school buildings and buses is ongoing. The closure of the building provides the opportunity for additional deep cleaning and restocking of supplies.
  
  

• 11. What can I do to keep from getting sick?
  
  

  The same steps you take to reduce the spread of flu or other respiratory illnesses are key measures in reducing the spread of coronavirus.
   

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (the length of the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end, twice). If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. 

  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. 

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick. 

  • Stay home when you are sick. 

  • Cover your cough or sneeze with your sleeve or a tissue (then throw the tissue in the trash). 

  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

   

• 12. What if I have additional questions?
  
  

  Our school administration and teachers are here to help you. Please contact Mr. Mancini directly, at tmancini@aquinasinstitute.com, or your child’s teacher through the messaging feature of the online student portal.