Schools prepared for the Oct. 1st in-person opening day

High School Principal Matthew Strianse provided a sneak peek with information and photos at a Town Hall Informational Virtual Meeting held earlier this month.

“All expectations for student conduct will remain in place,” Strianse said. “Our core values drive our code of conduct. All students should: Be Here, Be Safe, Be Honest, Be Respectful, Set Goals, and Let Go and Move On.”

In order to comply with State mandates, and reduce the risk of spreading Covid-19, here are the new rules of the road:

● All students and staff in the building must wear a face covering at all times, except when eating or when outside for Physical Education.

○ Students who fail to wear their face coverings will be subject to disciplinary actions. This includes bus transportation to and from school as well.

● Students should wash their hands often and use hand sanitizer stations that have been installed throughout the building, outside classrooms.

● Hallways are designated with One Way signage that must be adhered to throughout the day.

○ Some Hallways will have “one way” traffic

● Additional reusable water bottle filling stations are located throughout the building for use. Water fountains have been turned off and will not be used as per state guidelines.

● A COVID-19 daily screening form for all staff and parents and students to follow each day at home prior to attending school has been provided by the district via email for guidance. It is recommended that parents keep the form in a convenient location to use for reference each morning starting Oct. 1st. The form does not need to be submitted to the school.

○ All parents must “screen” their child each morning. This screening tool allows for parents to ensure they have met all the criteria for attendance at school.

○ It is critical that parents/caregivers monitor their children for signs of illness every day, as parents are the front line for assessing illness in their children.

● Students who are sick should NOT attend school in-person.

○ If a student has a fever (100.4 or higher), they should NOT attend school in-person and must remain out of school until 24 hours have passed fever free - without the use of fever reducing medication (i.e. Tylenol).

● Class sizes will be reduced.

○ Classroom desks have been arranged according to state guidelines for social distancing compliance.

○ All Classrooms will have windows to allow fresh air exchange. Windowless classrooms will not be used for classes at this time.

● Students will eat at desks positioned in the school cafeteria spaced for social distancing.

○ Lunches will be served in brown bags for quick “pick up and go.”

○ Outdoor eating areas may be utilized if possible.

● Classroom and cafeteria desks will be cleaned and sanitized by staff members between periods and use by different students.

● “High-touch” surfaces will be cleaned and sanitized throughout the day (restrooms, door handles, etc.).

● Lockers will not be issued, so students will be permitted to carry bags throughout the day.

● Locker rooms will not be utilized.

○ Students will not be changing clothing for Physical Education classes at this time. Alternate movement and physical activities will be utilized.

○ PE classes will be held outdoors to the greatest extent possible (weather permitting).

● The nurse’s office has been reconfigured to allow for the separation of students with various symptoms.

● Divider panels have been installed in office/service areas such as the Main Office, Media Center, etc.

● Social distancing signage had been placed throughout the school as a reminder for staff and students.

Parents may visit the district website to view the plans, and are encouraged to reach out to their building Principals, or the Board of Education Central Office with any questions or concerns.

- Patricia Keller