Re: Return to Learn Update (June 30, 2020)
We have recently received several recommendations from both state and national organizations for returning to learning. Last week the Iowa Department of Education (DE) released Reopening Guidance for Schools, written in collaboration with the Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH). This week a new Frequently Asked Questions document was released by the DE providing further clarification. Within these documents it is recommended that schools do not need to screen students and staff upon entering the building nor should masks be required.
We know that there are a lot of questions about what school will look like this fall. Today the district submitted its required Return to Learn plan to the DE. The plan the state requires is only a checklist, so it functions more like an outline for the district’s implementation plan that will be developed between now and August 17th. A copy of the DE plan submitted to the state on July 1st can be viewed Here. Our plans will include the following contingencies:
On-site delivery of classes as close to normal as possible.
Required Continuous Learning- If schools are closed again.
Hybrid Learning- if only a certain percentage of students can attend on a given day.
We will continue to modify our plans and respond to this very fluid situation. The goal will be to have as many students as possible attending school in person.
We have already taken the following COVID-19 preparations:
Sneeze guards have been installed at a number of locations.
Plexiglas barriers are being installed at some other locations.
Face shields for nurses or others
Infrared thermometers
Ordered backpack Electrostatic Disinfecting system for buses and school. (x2)
UV-C room sanitizers (x3)
We have hand sanitizer on hand (over 25 gallons)
We have wipes on hand (over 12,650)
Paper face masks (1500)
Additional district level planning will continue regarding how we will implement this plan. Our implementation plans will be continually adjusted to reflect current guidance by the state. We are continuing to take this situation seriously and work to keep the safety of our students, staff, and public a top priority. #PACStrong