Children of healthcare workers and first responders started arriving at Hutchinson School today as the Pelham School District launched the childcare program required by Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s executive order closing schools.

The district collected data Friday and Saturday to measure demand.

In her daily Covid-19 update Sunday night, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Cheryl Champ said, “I want to extend a sincere thank you to the Pelham Teachers Association, the Pelham CSEA Non-instructional and Building Services Units, the Pelham Administrators Association and our hourly support staff for their partnership in providing childcare for first responders and essential health care workers, a program that will begin this week.”

“It is an honor for all of us to support those on the front lines of this battle.”

She didn’t disclose the location in the email. A school district spokesman confirmed it was Hutchinson this morning. The service will operate from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Champ said in an earlier email.

According to Westchester County, parents dropping off children at the buildings in the program must provide proof of employment. County residents and healthcare workers and first responders who work in Westchester but live elsewhere can use the program.

Children will be separated into groups of 10 to 12 children, and social distancing will be practiced, said the county in a press release. Students will have their temperatures taken at drop off, and no children with any flu-like symptoms may attend. Each room will have an aid and/or teacher as well as a nurse.

First responders include paramedics, emergency medical technicians, firefighters. police officers and other public safety personnel, said Champ.