Onondaga Nation School to remain remote learning through January 2021

On Thursday, October 15, 2020, the Onondaga Nation Council of Chiefs, Clan Mothers, and Faithkeepers met with LaFayette School District Superintendent Jeremy Bellfield about the status of the Onondaga Nation School (ONS). It was decided that ONS will remain closed for in person instruction through the second marking period (January 29, 2021). All students and staff at ONS will continue to participate in virtual instruction.

The Onondaga Nation Council noted they are very appreciative of the continued efforts of Superintendent Bellfield, Principal Simone Gonyea, and the entire staff of the Onondaga Nation School in teaching the children on the Nation while attempting to keep everyone safe.

In a letter to the LaFayette Central School District community Bellfield stated, “The Council is very concerned about the continued impact COVID-19 is having on surrounding communities. The LaFayette Central School District will respect the wishes of the governing body for the Onondaga Nation and the Onondaga Nation School will remain closed for in person instruction through the second marking period.”

All other schools in the LaFayette School district will remain open for both in person instruction and digital instruction and students from the Onondaga Nation who attend Grimshaw Elementary, LaFayette Big Picture School, and LaFayette Jr/Sr High School will continue to have the option of attending school either digitally or in person. 

Bellfield also expressed his gratitude, “Thank you to the Onondaga Nation Council and the LaFayette Board of Education for their continued support of our students and school community.”