DRAFT V5 – 9/08/2020
Reopening our Schools Reconnect – Reinforce – Rediscover Fall Fall 2020 2020
Reopening WPS
2
Superintendent’s Message Please note that plans are currently in and will remain in DRAFT form and could change between now and the start of school as conditions in Connecticut change. The Revisions to Plan page will contain the additions and revisions to the plan as they become available.
7/30/2020
Page 27
Reference to masks not being required for PreK students
Page 36
Clarification of Daily Cleaning Protocols
Page 7
Definition of Reopening Plan updated based on new State guidance
Page 13
On-going Reopening Schools Communication Protocol revised
Page 18
Hybrid Learning Model updated
Page 22
Special Education Learning Environment updated
Page 29
Return to School or Work revised based on guidance from health district
Page 32
Containment Plan updated based on guidance from health district
Page 33 & 34
Student and Adult Expectations revised based on guidance from health district
Page 35
Wording added to specify water fountain types as recommended by health district
Page 35
Health room cleanings revised based on guidance from health district
Page 52
Addendum 1 - Interim Guidance for Decision-Making in Connecticut Schools During COVID-19 added
Page 14
Updated communication protocol, based on guidance from health district, in the event that a staff member or student is diagnosed with COVID-19
Page 17
Continuum of Learning – On Campus Learning - Updated wording
Page 18
Continuum of Learning – Hybrid Learning - Updated wording
Page 19
Continuum of Learning – Distance Learning - Updated wording
Page 24
Updated wording on Musical Arts
Page 27
Added wording to exclude masks with valves and/or vents per guidance from the CDC
Page 37
Updated wording on music class, singing and wind instruments
Pages 53-56
Addendum 2 - Interim Guidance for Responding to COVID-19 Scenarios in Connecticut School Districts
8/20/2020
Page 30
Health District’s Guidance for COVID-19 Scenarios in Schools revised
9/8/2020
Page 8 Page 27 Page 34 Page 37
Updated wording to clarify Facial Coverings during instruction Updated wording added regarding Facial Coverings as outlined by the CDC and CSDE Updated wording to Adult Expectations and the use of Facial Coverings Updated wording to Classroom Layout to include Facial Coverings within the designated teacher box as outlined by the CSDE
8/5/2020
8/13/2020
3
Superintendent’s Message
A Message from the Superintendent of Schools My grandmother was fond of saying, “Everything happens for a reason. We might just not know why right away.” The last five months have all of us asking, “Why?”. I have come to realize, the “why” for me is that it has given schools across the area, the state, and our country, the opportunity to reimagine possibilities. While we would all deem the spring nothing short of challenging, this fall will also test our resolve. There will be many regulations, restrictions, and limits on all of us, but the one constant is that our team cares about your children. I am unwavering in my belief that our team is up to the task and we stand ready to welcome your children back to our schools, and continue to assist your family in any ways we can. Reconnect The fall will require us to reconnect with your child and for your child to reconnect to our school buildings. Students will also be reconnecting with friends and peers that they have not seen. By the time school resumes in late August, our students literally will not have been in our schools for almost six months. We know our students will react in different ways to this reality. We have built into our plan significant time and resources devoted to addressing the social and emotional needs of our students as we return to the school buildings. We also know there are impending challenges as not all of our students will return to school this fall. It will be incumbent upon us to reconnect with our students and families who are engaging in learning from home. We need to include all of our students and families in the fabric of our schools at a deep and meaningful level. Reinforce Reinforcing prior learning and assessing students’ current status will be vital as we move forward instructionally this fall. Built into our plan are deliberate and critical steps for gauging where our students are academically in order for us to better plan instruction as we move forward. Through federal grant opportunities, we will be able to hire intervention tutors at each of our schools. Reteaching social skills and expected behaviors will also be important as students return to school. Important in our plan is the constant reinforcement of safety protocols and procedures. Schools will look unfamiliar in many ways, and the processes our students knew last year will be drastically altered. It will be imperative for us to reinforce and revisit these protocols and procedures daily. Rediscover While this has been nothing short of demanding, both last spring and in planning for the fall, the conditions have forced us to rediscover and reimagine our schools. We will need to be creative in our approaches with not only implementing all of the CSDE and State of Connecticut expectations, but also in our approach to learning. We know our students are ready to rediscover that energy and passion they bring to our schools each day. Schools without students are dreadfully quiet! We will all soon rediscover our students are the heartbeat of the school! Although our schools will look different to start the year and for an unknown period of time, be rest assured our team will be there for you and your children. Lastly, I want to thank all of the people who contributed to the development of this comprehensive plan for our school district. Waterford truly has a great team. Be well, Tom Thomas W. Giard III Superintendent of Schools 4
Table of Contents
District Reopening Taskforce & Committees
6
Reopening Our Schools - Fall 2020
7
State of Connecticut Guidelines and Expectations
8
District and School Liaisons
9
Communications Plan
10
Continuum of Learning
15
The Learning Environment
20
Health and Safety
26
Operations Plan
35
Transportation
42
School Dining and Nutrition Services
44
Family and Student Engagement
45
Staffing and Personnel
49
Reopening Our Schools Resources
50
Addendum 1 - Interim Guidance for Decision-Making in Connecticut Schools During COVID-19
52
Addendum 2 - Interim Guidance for Responding to COVID-19 Scenarios in Connecticut School Districts
53
5
District Reopening Taskforce & Committees The Waterford Public Schools’ District Reopening Task Force was comprised of six committees, consisting of administration, staff and Board of Education members representing all facets of the Waterford Team. The committees worked diligently to assist in the development of the reopening plan, reviewing state education and public health guidelines and providing valuable input. All committees, totaling over 70 people, were led by a member of the Waterford Public Schools Leadership Team. Thank you to the members of our team who provided insight and commitment to the education and safety of our students and staff.
Teaching and Learning
Operations and Logistics
Communications
Bill Bassett, WHS Teacher Erika Bassett, GN Intervention Lauren Benoit, GN, CLMS, WHS Intervention Marcia Benvenuti, Board Member Jennifer Boluch , QH Paraprofessional Linda Brailey, GN Teacher Elizabeth Cano, WHS Teacher Tessa Castleberry, WHS Teacher Yuan-Yuan Chen, CLMS School Counselor Ian Cheney, WHS Teacher Rob Cillino, CLMS Instructional Coach Gay Collins, WHS Teacher Barbara Comstock-King, CLMS UA Teacher Ed Crane, IT Director Cristina deCastro, CLMS Teacher Kim Dempsey, GN Teacher Timothy Fioravanti, WHS Teacher Andre Hauser, WHS Principal Diane Herr, WHS Teacher Courtney Hesch, WHS Teacher Tammie Hullivan, OSW Teacher Leah O'Connor, WHS School Counselor Whitney Logan, QH Teacher Joe Macrino, OSW Principal Amanda Marchese, WHS Teacher Wendy McCabe, GN Teacher Alison Moger, WHS Assistant Principal Kathy Morgan, WHS Teacher Jeanne Morgan, CLMS Teacher Susan Morrison, GN Paraprofessional Katherine Pesko, WHS Teacher Craig Powers, Assistant Superintendent Thomas Ryan, WHS Teacher Jim Sachs, CLMS Principal Kirk Samuelson, WHS Assistant Principal Wayne Schaedler, OSW Teacher Billie Shea, GN Principal Maggie Sullivan, GN Teacher Toni Tessier, WHS Teacher Kathy Vallone, Director of Special Services
Erica Baumgartner, WHS Teacher Sharon Burdsall, Secretary Special Service Ed Crane, IT Director Michele Devine, Board Member Chris Discordia, QH Principal Jo Ann Dumin, CLMS Teacher Dianne Houlihan, Director of School Dining and Nutrition Services Chris Landry, Director of Athletics and Student Activities Joe Mancini, Director of Finance and Operations Tracy Moore, CLMS Assistant Principal Art Peluso, WHS Teacher
Pat Fedor, Board Member Thomas Giard, Superintendent Andre Hauser, WHS Principal Diane Herr, WHS Teacher Chris Jones, Board Member Tracy Moore, CLMS Assistant Principal Thomas Ryan, WHS Teacher Caroline Whittaker, Central Office
Cleaning, Buildings and Infrastructure
SEL, Health and Safety
Joseph Bonillo, CLMS Teacher Sharon Burdsall, Secretary Special Services Tessa Castleberry, WHS Teacher Rob Cillino, CLMS Instructional Coach Tim Fioravanti, WHS Teacher Jay Gionet, CLMS Teacher Dianne Houlihan, Director of School Dining and Nutrition Services Chris Landry, Director of Athletics and Student Activities Beth Lewis, CLMS Librarian Bill McCleary, Elementary UA Teacher Jay Miner , Director of Buildings and Grounds Jim Sachs, CLMS Principal Kirk Samuelson, WHS Assistant Principal Tom Thurlow, Buildings and Grounds Supervisor
Jason Adler, WHS School Counselor Mary Childs, OSW Teacher Gay Collins, WHS Teacher Christine Dulin, WHS Social Worker Kerry Edwards, OSW Teacher Jessica Fedor, OSW Teacher Lori Hauser, CLMS School Psychologist Beth Lewis, CLMS Librarian Joe Macrino, OSW Principal Kelly McNamara, WHS School Psychologist Celeste Milukas, GN Teacher Alison Moger, WHS Assistant Principal Tracy Moore, CLMS Assistant Principal Billie Shea, GN Principal JoAnne Sturges , District Physical Therapist Kim Thibeau, WHS Teacher Michael Tyskiewicz, CLMS Teacher Kathy Vallone, Director of Special Services Maggie Wood, WHS Social Worker
Human Resources Joyce Sauchuk, Director of Human Resources Craig Powers, Assistant Superintendent Thomas Giard, Superintendent
Plan reviewed by: Stephen Mansfield, Director of Health, Ledge Light Health District Dr. Ramindra Walia, Waterford School District Medical Advisor Leah Hendricks, Supervisor, School Health and Wellness, Visiting Nurse Association of Southeastern CT, Inc. 6
Reopening Our Schools - Fall 2020
Please note that plans are currently in and will remain in DRAFT form and could change between now and the start of school as conditions in Connecticut change. We will inform you when changes are made to the reopening plan. The Waterford Public Schools’ Reopening Plan follows the guidelines of the State Department of Education Adapt, Advance, Achieve: Connecticut’s Plane to Learn and Grow Together, published on June 29, 2020. The publication from the state is admittedly a document with guidelines that may change prior to school reopening in the fall. The document from the state is “intended to be a fluid document that will evolve based on the public health data trends as well as the understanding of the best way to mitigate spread. As we proceed toward the fall, we will continue to receive input from our educational partners, students, and families and will continue to work toward providing the best opportunities for our greatest resource—the students in the State of Connecticut.” In planning for the reopening of the Waterford Public Schools, it has been essential to envision the safest environment and the highest quality instruction for the school community. Based on guidelines provided to school districts from the Connecticut State Department of Education and the State of Connecticut, the Waterford Public Schools are currently planning for a safe and appropriate reopening of our schools in the fall of 2020. A central belief in reopening is that the children of Waterford need to be connected in person once again to our schools’ academics, activities, arts, and athletics led in person by their teachers, coaches, and mentors. As the schools reopen in the fall, the plan is to phase in all aspects of school life in the safest and most appropriate manner. Feedback on the plan and throughout our reopening this fall is important. We encourage you to share your thoughts through a variety of mechanisms we have and will continue to employ:
On-going Surveys Virtual Online Forums Dedicated Reopening Email Address: Reopening@waterfordschools.org Regular Communication with your Child’s School
7
State of Connecticut Guidelines and Expectations from ADAPT, ADVANCE, ACHIEVE: Connecticut’s Plan to Learn and Grow Together Due to positive containment efforts in Connecticut, reopening schools on campus, as determined by the State of Connecticut, can be successfully achieved based upon current data. However, given the uncertainty planning for reopening months from now, schools must be prepared to modify their reopening model to support a partial reopening if the public health data changes. Districts are required to prepare three plans: On-Campus, Hybrid, and Distance Learning. As Connecticut schools plan to reopen, the guidance and considerations outlined in this document are grounded in six guiding principles: 1. Safeguarding the health & safety of students and staff; 2. Allowing all students the opportunity to return into the classrooms full-time starting in the fall; 3. Monitoring the school populations and, when necessary, potentially cancelling classes in the future to appropriately contain COVID-19 spread; 4. Emphasizing equity, access, and support to the students and communities who are emerging from this historic disruption; 5. Fostering strong two-way communication with partners such as families, educators and staff; and 6. Factoring into decisions about reopening the challenges to the physical safety and social-emotional well-being of our students when they are not in school Main Operational Considerations Cohorting: Emphasize grouping students by the same class/group of students and teacher (into a cohort) so each team functions independently as much as possible. Consider this methodology by grade levels. Placing students in cohorts is strongly encouraged for grades K-8, and encouraged where feasible for grades 9-12. Social Distancing and Facilities: Review building space and reconfigure available classroom space, such as gymnasiums and auditoriums, to maximize social distancing, consistent with public health guidelines in place at that time.
Transportation: Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) should plan for buses to operate close to capacity with heightened health and safety protocols, including requiring all students and operators wear face coverings. Plans must be developed to activate increased social distancing protocols based upon community spread. Face Coverings: All staff and students will be required to wear a protective face covering or face mask that completely covers the nose and mouth when inside the school building, except for certain exceptions including when students need to view the face/mouth of the staff for instruction/ evaluation purposes.
8
District and School Liaisons
District Health and Safety Compliance Liaison: Thomas W. Giard III, Superintendent of Schools 15 Rope Ferry Road, Waterford, CT 06385 Phone: (860) 444-5852 reopening@waterfordschools.org
The administrators indicated below will be responsible for engaging with all stakeholders to answer questions or concerns about COVID-19 health and safety requirements. School Liaisons: Waterford High School 20 Rope Ferry Road Waterford, CT 06385
Andre Hauser, Principal (860) 437-6956 ahauser@waterfordschools.org
Clark Lane Middle School 105 Clark Lane Waterford, CT 06385
James Sachs, Principal (860) 443-2837 jsachs@waterfordschools.org
Great Neck Elementary School 165 Great Neck Road Waterford, CT 06385
Billie Shea, Principal (860) 442-2593 bshea@waterfordschools.org
Oswegatchie Elementary School 470 Boston Post Road Waterford, CT 06385
Joseph Macrino, Principal (860) 442-4331 jmacrino@waterfordschools.org
Quaker Hill Elementary School 285 Bloomingdale Road Quaker Hill, CT 06375
Christopher Discordia, Principal (860) 442-1095 cdiscordia@waterfordschools.org
Each school will also have a COVID-19 Response Team comprised of the School Nurse, Building Administration, the School Liaison, a Custodian, and an Administrative Assistant.
School Nurse: Assessment of symptoms, medical interventions, and notification to parents. Building/District Administrators/District Liaison: Notification to health officials and Superintendent, supervision of containment room, and dissemination of information.
Custodians: Cleaning and disinfecting. Administrative Assistant: Communicate with school nurse that parents have arrived for pick-up.
9
Communications Plan Communications Communications Plan and Data Collection
The Superintendent of Schools will oversee communications regarding reopening. Families, staff, and the community will receive regular updates via email, website, and social media during the school year directly from the district regarding the most up to date policies and protocols related to all considerations and aspects of this plan and future COVID-19 planning. The district has created a COVID-19 Reopening Schools Webpage that will be updated regularly. The reopening webpage will include a repository of all out-going messages; FAQs; archive of all webinars; state and federal resources; and reopening plans. The district will also send/forward information from trusted sources/experts (i.e.-CDC). The district will communicate relevant information in English and Spanish. Parents will be invited to webinars for updates, discussions, input, and suggestions in addition to the designated reopening@waterfordschools.org email address. Surveys will be sent to families regarding plans for students to attend school and utilize the district-provided transportation. Changes to planning, changes in the status of the schools’ schedules, and any school closures will be communicated directly from the Superintendent or his designee to the school community. The district will utilize a variety of communication mechanisms to encourage two-way communication including but not limited to a dedicated reopening@waterfordschool.org email address; on-going surveys; online webinars and forums; FAQs published regularly; and direct contact with building administration.
Signs and Messages Signs with clear and concise text, as well as pictures, will be posted at different eye levels in heavy traffic areas around the schools. Signs will be posted in highly visible locations (e.g., school entrances, staff areas, and restrooms) that promote everyday protective measures and provide instruction related to properly washing hands and properly wearing a face mask or covering. Signage will be accessible for students with disabilities. The Administration will work to ensure the distribution of information and regular communication about the actions school communities can take to stop the spread. The following communication will appear in school email, website, and social media: “For the safety of all students and all staff, the State of Connecticut guidelines for returning to schools and Waterford Board of Education policy require that all staff and students must wear face coverings or masks that completely cover the nose and mouth while inside the school and on the bus.” The district/school YouTube channels will be utilized to post staff-created video updates on a regular basis as well as regular positive messages about stopping the spread will be incorporated as a part of morning announcements.
10
Communications Plan
Transportation The district will administer surveys to parents about their intent to utilize district transportation. Survey data will be utilized to plan for the potential increase in traffic at the beginning and end of the day that will impact drop-off and pick-up procedures. The district will communicate with families the advantages to transporting their child to school. Families will be asked to select whether or not they will be utilizing district transportation. For families who select not to use district transportation at the start of the school year, the process for accessing district transportation is as follows: A protocol has been developed for families who change their transportation preference during the year. An online transportation form will be available and sent to parents/guardians via School Messenger. Changes in transportation preferences will be accommodated within two weeks of receipt of the form.
Standard Health Practices and Adequate Supplies There will be a coordinated effort among all schools and all staff to ensure that students and staff take everyday preventive actions to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. The Superintendent and Administration will develop a strong communication program educating all parties to stay home when sick or feeling sick; appropriately covering coughs and sneezes; practicing social distancing; cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces; wearing of masks/face coverings; and washing hands often with soap and water or using hand sanitizer. Teachers and students will share any positive actions they witness throughout the week in regards to safe practices. Regularly scheduled intercom updates will occur weekly with some of the positive takeaways from the week; turning the weekly refreshers into a time of positive recognition. Reminder messages, protocols will be shared with families to encourage reinforcement at home.
Containment Plan There will be a coordinated effort among all schools and all staff to ensure that students and staff take everyday preventive actions to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. The Superintendent and Administration will develop a strong communication program educating staff and families on the sign and symptoms of COVID-19. A resource page for parents will be created on the district's reopening page and also sent home via school messenger. We will use our communications protocols which are contained in this plan for suspected and confirmed cases of COVID-19. The district will also promote the use of the How We Feel App amongst staff and families for regular use.
11
Communications Plan Family and Student Engagement ďƒ˜ School Messenger will be used to notify families of new information on reopening and guidance on school protocols appearing on the school website and email. School Messenger will also be used to disseminate information to those with limited email access. ďƒ˜ The district will employ a variety of methods to communicate for two-way communication, including but not limited to, a dedicated email address reopening@waterfordschools.org; on-going surveys, and webinars. ďƒ˜ All reopening plans will be posted on Reopening Schools Webpage; communicated to families and the community via School Messenger; and promoted on district social media accounts.
12
Communications Plan On-going Reopening Schools Communication Protocol There will be a coordinated effort among all schools and all staff to ensure that students and staff take everyday preventive actions to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19. The Superintendent and Administration will develop a strong communication program educating all parties to stay home when sick or feeling sick; appropriately covering coughs and sneezes; practicing social distancing; cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces; wearing of masks/face coverings; and washing hands often with soap and water or using hand sanitizer. Communication guidelines are established in each school according to the appropriate transmission tiers or an in-school case. ● No Community Transmission
Minimal Community Transmission
Substantial Community Transmission
In-School Transmission
Regular communication will be shared with staff and families concerning the status of school’s reopening efforts and continuing safety efforts. The communications frequency at the teacher, school, and district levels will be communicated to families. ● Communication is via Waterford Public Schools website, newsletters, School Messenger, social media accounts, and letters home will address prevention efforts, updated information from local, state, and national authorities, and publications from the Ledge Light Health District as materials become available. ● Information will be made available to parents and community members if one of the school buildings is designated or participates as a vaccination site. ● Regular communication will be shared with staff and families concerning the status of the school district. ● Communication is via Waterford Public Schools website - Reopening Schools Webpage, newsletters, School Messenger, social media accounts, and letters home will address prevention efforts, updated information from local, state, and national authorities, and publications from the Ledge Light Health District as materials become available. ● As needed, update and share information on Hybrid and Distance Learning plans and procedures for school closure and moving to learning at home. ● If necessary, update and share information on moving to hybrid scheduling (reduced daily capacity) and procedures for any adjusted schedule. ● Students who are absent from school are called to confirm COVID 19 symptoms or to confirm if staying home for prevention or family care. ● Close communication is maintained with absent staff members to confirm COVID 19 symptoms or to confirm if staying home for prevention or family care. The district will maintain constant communication with Ledge Light Health District on absentee reasons. ● Provide information and education to staff, students and families regarding pandemic flu, individual prevention measures, and various community/school plans and updates. ● Immediate communication is via Waterford Public Schools website, newsletters, School Messenger, social media accounts, and letters home will address prevention efforts, updated information from local, state, and national authorities, and publications from the Ledge Light Health District as materials become available. ● As needed, update and share information on length of Distance Learning and procedures for school reopening. ● If necessary, share information on possible return to school and outline procedures for moving to hybrid scheduling (reduced daily capacity) and procedures for any adjusted schedule. ● Students who are absent from online instruction are called to confirm COVID 19 symptoms or to confirm if staying home for prevention or family care. ● Close communication is maintained with absent staff members to confirm COVID 19 symptoms or to confirm if staying home for prevention or family care. The district will provide a daily report to Ledge Light Health District on absentees and reasons. ● Provide information and education to staff, students and families regarding pandemic flu, individual prevention measures, and various community/school plans and updates. District reverts to Communication Protocol for Notification of Suspected and Positive Cases Within Cohort/ School/ District
13
Communications Plan Communication Protocol for Notification of Suspected and Positive Cases Within Cohort/ School/ District If a student who has been present in school has a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19, the School Nurse and the building Principal will contact the Central Office. The Superintendent of Schools notifies the local health officials (Ledge Light Health District) immediately. In addition, the Superintendent will be notified by school personnel that a student is suspected of being sick, maintaining confidentiality in accordance with FERPA, privacy expectations, and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The Superintendent will communicate to the local health officials (Ledge Light Health District) when a student, teacher, or staff member or a member of their household has tested positive for COVID-19 and has possibly exposed others at the school. The Ledge Light Health District will assess risk of further transmission in the school. Decisions are made concerning:
CONTACT TRACING CLOSURE CLEANING
CONTINUITY OF EDUCATION
REOPENING OF SCHOOL
The decision to suspend or close a school (or the entire school district) will be decided based on guidance and direction from the Connecticut Department of Health, Ledge Light Health District, the State Department of Education, and the District Medical Advisor. The Superintendent will act on these recommendations based on information from local health officials and will notify the Board of Education members, town officials, and the State Department of Education. Schools will likely implement a short-term closure (2-5 days) or longer regardless of community spread if an infected person has been in a school building. The CDC recommends dismissal of students and most staff for 2-5 days. This initial short-term dismissal allows time for the local health officials to gain a better understanding of the COVID-19 situation impacting the school. This allows the Superintendent, in consultation with the local health officials, to determine appropriate next steps, including whether an extended dismissal duration is needed to stop or slow further spread of COVID-19. All communications to the school community including staff and families are made through the Central Office. The geographic scope (e.g., a single school, multiple schools, the full district), will be made on a case-by-case basis using the most up-to-date information about COVID-19 and the specific cases in the community. During school dismissals, extracurricular activities, athletics, and school-based afterschool programs are canceled. Communication is immediate to all staff and families, as well as to local and state officials that a school or the school district is shutting down for a time period (to be determined). Procedures for closure and reopening are shared with the staff and parents. In the event that a staff member or student is diagnosed with COVID-19, Ledge Light Health District will perform contact tracing activities; all individuals who have been in close contact (closer than 6 feet for more than 15 minutes) with the infected individual will be notified and instructed to quarantine as appropriate. To ensure that contact tracing activities are initiated as soon as possible, students and staff are encouraged to report their positive COVID-19 status as soon as they become aware of it. Although all personal information will remain confidential, we will notify the entire school community when we have a positive case, and assure them that Ledge Light Health District will perform appropriate contact tracing, as required. In addition, the physical space occupied by the infected student or students will be thoroughly cleaned in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the Connecticut Department of Health and Ledge Light Health District. Communication is via the Waterford Public Schools website - Reopening Schools Webpage, newsletters, School Messenger, social media accounts, and letters home will address prevention efforts, updated information from local, state, and national authorities, and publications from the Ledge Light Health District as materials become available.
14
Continuum of Learning Our way of teaching and learning has dramatically changed last year and this year will change again. This year will be synchronous learning for all. We have gone from traditional teaching, to supplemental learning, to asynchronous distance learning, and now to synchronous learning for all. So what does this mean? This year will begin with every student having the option to return back to the school fulltime, or choose to continue with distance learning. This change alone challenges us to think about the delivery of education differently, while at the same time trying to keep intact, to the best of our abilities, the teacher and student connection. So, synchronous learning for all means that the teacher will teach the class from wherever the students are (On Campus or Distance Learning) each day on a normal school schedule. We will be sending more information to families who wish to opt for distance learning during times full on-campus learning is being offered. Families will be asked to sign a form. To do this, we will continue to utilize the Learning Management Systems with all of our students; in the classroom or at home during distance learning. This will serve several purposes:
To provide a consistent planning and teaching system for all students; To minimize or eliminate the back and forth of paper; and To have a system in place in the event we need to move to from in person instruction to a hybrid or full distance learning model; synchronous learning for all.
Waterford Public Schools will engage in synchronous learning for all, through the Online Learning Management System, and District Email in the following ways:
PK – Grade 2 will use See Saw as the Learning Management System Grades 3 - 12 will use Google Classroom as the Learning Management System PK-12 will use Zoom so students will be engaged in a synchronous means of Distance Learning
TERMS AND DEFINITIONS Distance Learning - This model allows teachers to collaborate with students to provide engaging learning opportunities while schools remain closed. There are two models for Distance Learning: Synchronous: Asynchronous:
Students and teachers are working together and interacting in a digital space concurrently. Teachers post educational opportunities online. Students engage with opportunities and work at their own pace within a given timeframe.
Waterford Public Schools will primarily use a synchronous model throughout the school year in any of the three phases of teaching and learning: 1. Full in person On Campus Learning; 2. Hybrid Learning - part On-Campus and part Distance Learning; 3. Full Distance Learning, with the teachers only in school or at home to be determined based upon safety conditions, engaging their students in full Distance Learning.
15
Continuum of Learning The Connecticut Department of Public Health will be working with school districts throughout the state to develop specific community and school-based indicators to assist school leaders in determining the learning model best for students and staff at that time. Waterford Public Schools Learning Continuum
On Campus Learning Assumes low incidence of virus spread as determined by the health department ⇩ 100% of students have option to attend on-campus instruction five days per week for normal school hours ⇩ Students may elect to stay home and engage in synchronous distance learning ⇩ Attendance for all students recorded through PowerSchool and reported to school offices ⇩ Mitigation strategies including masks, social distancing, disinfection, and screening protocols in place ⇩ Superintendent of Schools continues to monitor local health trends with health officials to determine movement to other levels
Hybrid Learning
Distance Learning
Assumes a shift to a moderate incidence of virus spread as determined by the health department ⇩
Assumes a sustained community transmission of the virus as determined by the health department ⇩
Instruction is shifted to 50% capacity in all buildings with students remaining at home engaging in synchronous distance learning utilizing an alternating schedule ⇩
Instruction is shifted to 100% of students learning via synchronous instruction from home ⇩
Attendance recorded through PowerSchool ⇩
Attendance recorded through PowerSchool ⇩
Mitigation strategies including masks, social distancing, disinfection, and screening protocols in place ⇩
All school events and athletics cancelled ⇩
Superintendent of Schools continues to monitor local health trends with health officials to determine need to shift to full distance learning ⇩
Superintendent of Schools orders cleaning of all classroom spaces and monitors health data with the health department ⇩
Shift to hybrid model communicated to CSDE
Shift to distance learning model communicated to CSDE
On the subsequent pages of this document, an overview of the operational plan for the model in place for the fall reopening along with secondary models have been provided. The flexibility to move within the continuum will be determined through review and monitoring of local health data and trends as well as consultation with local health department officials, the CSDE, and the Connecticut Department of Public Health. The geographic scope (e.g., a single school, multiple schools, the full district), will be made on a case-by-case basis using the most up-to-date information about COVID-19 and the specific cases in the community. As always, student and staff safety is the foundational objective for planning. 16
Continuum of Learning
In situations where the incidence of the virus remains at low levels, the Superintendent of Schools will instruct building principals to facilitate in-person/on-campus teaching and learning for all students. A learning management system (Google Classroom, See Saw) will be used for all students. Bring your own device policy (BYOD) will be opened to all schools. Students needing the use of a Chromebook or iPad will be issued one. The State of Connecticut has developed a remote learning hub for students and families to access curated instructional content and resources. Students that do not prefer to return to campus due to parental choice, medical concerns or illness will be provided access to instruction through a synchronous audio live stream or video on availability via Zoom. Students will use a learning management system (Google Classroom, See Saw) to access their assignments and assessments. Additional strategies, including hard copy materials, can be considered for those students not meeting with success in the digital format. Families that select to continue distance learning during periods of on-campus learning will be asked to fill out the district’s Distance Learning Form. We will be sending more information to families in the near future who wish to opt for distance learning during times full on-campus learning or hybrid learning is being offered. Students learning from home may choose to return to campus at any time. School personnel will be available to determine a mutually agreed upon re-entry date. Parents are asked to provide a reasonable notification (up to 2 weeks) to the school office so that preparations may be made to accommodate all learners safely. Transportation of students through school busses will occur near full capacity with cleaning between bus runs and deep cleaning before the morning and afternoon runs. Everyone is required to wear a facial covering and adhere to social distancing parameters unless an approved medical exemption is provided. The Superintendent of Schools will monitor local health trends daily in collaboration with the Ledge Light Health District and Connecticut State Department of Education.
Sample Learning Schedule Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
On Campus
17
Continuum of Learning
In considering a shift to hybrid learning, the district will consider public health data as well as the district’s ability to implement mitigation strategies, logistics, and other community factors. In situations where the virus begins to demonstrate increasing levels of community transmission, the Superintendent of Schools in collaboration with health officials at the Ledge Light Health District will make a determination to shift to the hybrid model. The Superintendent will provide immediate communication to the Connecticut State Department of Education the need to shift the organization of instruction. Administration will notify staff and students as expeditiously as possible. Students switching to learning from home will be instructed to bring home materials for distance learning. School campuses will operate at 50% occupancy with the remaining 50% of students learning from home. The district will operate an “A Cohort” and “B Cohort” alternating schedule in which student groupings will alternate between who is in attendance within the school building and who is being instructed at home distance learning. Student groupings will be created alphabetically by last name to ensure siblings in the same household remain on the same learning schedule. Appropriate accommodations will be provided for siblings that have different last names to ensure consistent scheduling. All students will be distance learning on Wednesdays so that school can be cleaned for the next cohort to come on campus. Students will be provided access to instruction through a synchronous audio live stream or video on availability via Zoom. Students will use a learning management system (Google Classroom, See Saw) to access their assignments and assessments. Additional strategies, including hard copy materials, can be considered for those students not meeting with success in the digital format. Transportation of students through school busses may have reduced capacity with cleaning between bus runs and deep cleaning before the morning and afternoon runs. Everyone is required to wear facial covering and social distancing in place. The Superintendent of Schools will monitor local health trends daily in collaboration with the Ledge Light Health District and Connecticut State Department of Education. All school events and interscholastic athletics may be cancelled until further notice.
Sample Learning Schedule--Alternating Days Monday
Tuesday
Cohort A 50% (On Campus)
Cohort A 50% (On Campus)
Cohort B 50% (Distance Learning)
Cohort B 50% (Distance Learning)
Wednesday
Distance Learning for All Students
Thursday
Friday
Cohort A 50% (Distance Learning)
Cohort A 50% (Distance Learning)
Cohort B 50% (On Campus)
Cohort B 50% (On Campus)
18
Continuum of Learning
In situations where the virus begins to demonstrate substantial levels of community transmission, the Superintendent of Schools, in collaboration with health officials at the Ledge Light Health District, will make a determination to shift to fully distance learning for a short-term or prolonged duration for all students and staff. Approval is required from the State Department of Education, the State Board of Education and the Department of Public Health The Superintendent will provide immediate communication to the Connecticut State Department of Education the need to shift the organization of instruction. Administration will notify staff and students as expeditiously as possible. All students will be instructed to bring home materials for learning. The district will shift to a full distance learning model. Curriculum will be analyzed and compacted to focus upon key instructional concepts and tasks and to facilitate educational equity, specialized instructional needs and essential social/emotional related services. Scope and sequence of school year to be revised to identify focus areas. Appropriate tools to ensure equal access to the general education curriculum and supports for specialized needs and related services will be provided. Technology devices, food, and learning materials packets (if there is difficulty with accessing the internet at home) will be distributed at CLMS as ensuring all students receive a Chromebook if needed. All instruction will be delivered through a synchronous learning model. Staff will be face-to-face with students via Zoom and utilizing a learning management system (Google Classroom, See Saw). The learning management system will be the place for: o Student attendance will be taken during the academic day and submitted via PowerSchool. o Instruction will be delivered to students and students will return their work there. o Assessment data will be collected and feedback will be shared o Evaluation of student performance will utilize a standards-based system for Grades PK-5 and numerical scoring for Grades 6-12.
Sample Learning Schedule Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
All on Synchronous Distance Learning
19
The Learning Environment
The Waterford Public Schools will continue to adapt and modify curriculum and instruction to maintain high levels of academic rigor and access to scaffolds and supports for all learners whether students learn oncampus or during periods of hybrid and distance learning instruction.
Curriculum & Instruction Classroom Learning Schools will continue to implement rigorous, high quality curriculum with appropriate instructional benchmarks for all students. Prior to the start of school, teachers, interventionists, instructional coaches, and related service staff to have the opportunity to participate in vertical articulation teams with their colleagues from the prior grade. They will learn about what content was covered pre-COVID and what was covered during distance learning and give them a perspective on the participation of students in the incoming class. Content will emphasize the important prerequisite standards for new learning in the current grade. The vertical articulation teams will collaboratively plan what the incoming year’s teacher should re-teach, to ensure a solid academic foundation for the year. The First Unit of Instruction will be planned: o To reduce student anxiety and ease them back into learning, educators should design the first unit of instruction for the start of the school year to not only: Engage students Ensure that students have a high probability of success with that unit. The Assistant Superintendent will work with principals and faculty to integrate resources from the Connecticut Learning Hub, and the Plan to Reimagine CT Classrooms for Continuous Learning. Although best practice lends itself to instructional practices that promote cooperative, small group inquiry, students will not engage in these activities upon return to campus. Student Teacher Assistance Team (STAT) meetings will continue to meet commencing at the start of the school year to develop STAT Plans for students requiring responsive and immediate academic and/or behavioral support in consultation with intervention and academic support staff in alignment with the Waterford Public Schools SRBI Plan. Schools will continue to leverage resources and support for universal screening, progress monitoring, and reporting of data to classroom teachers. Instructional Technology The district will also continue to employ our Bring Your Device Program so that student can bring his/her own device to school. To ensure continued connectivity and equitable access to high quality learning experiences, students in Grades PK-1 will have access to an iPad while students in Grades 2-12 will have access to a Chromebook if they do not have a device at home. Student devices will be maintained within the classroom space, but will be distributed to students to bring home should instruction shift to the hybrid or distance learning model.
20
The Learning Environment Assessment Practices The district will need to prioritize strategies for assessing the learning, gaps, and areas of emphasis for student instruction. Assessments should minimize testing times, increase instruction time, empower teachers, prompt vertical communication among teachers, use available information and implement differentiated instruction, personalized learning and formative assessment practices. Teachers are to review available student information: o This includes longitudinal dataPublic such as annualDistance state tests, universal screenings, early reading Waterford Schools Learning assessments, district MAP assessments from fall and winter, English language proficiency assessment results for ELLs, IEP progress reports, student attendance patterns, disciplinary events, course grades/failures, etc. o Teachers can also learn a lot about their incoming class of students by talking individually with peers from the prior grade or in vertical teams to assess means to evaluate or estimate. o One does not need to administer a new test to “assess” students in fall 2020. The Assistant Superintendent will work with principals and faculty to integrate resources from Sensible Assessment Practices for 2020 and Beyond, to focus in the following areas: o Address school attendance with parents. o Ensure that systems are in place for early identification of students who are missing too much school, detecting the root causes, and implementing and monitoring effective tiered interventions for reversing a pattern of absenteeism. o Revisit school discipline policies with a focus on re-engaging students in their building rather that removing them from school. Staff will read: Stop Searching for the Holy Grail: Responding to COVID-19 Achievement Gaps. Staff will have pre-service training on how to use more formative assessment in a distance learning environment, by going through: Center for Assessment: Classroom Assessment Learning Modules.
21
The Learning Environment
Special Education The district will comply with all federal and state mandates and statutes. The district will survey all families and determine, specifically if any students with disabilities, are unable to access the reopening plan. If a family of a special education student reports they are unable to access the reopening plan, the building principal or designees will contact the parent to discuss options. If needed, a PPT will be scheduled. Staff will facilitate individualized plans for re-entry, if required, based upon individualized student needs, present level of functioning, developmental levels, and student/parent input and adhere to all safety protocols. Students unable to wear protective personal equipment will be identified by building staff and appropriate alternative protocols put into place for the student and staff, such as the use of alternative face coverings. The district will identify high-risk students that may require remote instruction and/ or blended learning due to underlying health conditions or family members at risk. Programming decisions will not be based on a student’s disability category. However, the nature and/or severity of a student’s disability may require unique considerations. Protocols should consider the student’s developmental level and skills. Flexibility with these guidelines for specific special education programs, so long as the program follows established standards as well as public health strategies such as proper hygiene, social distancing, and cleaning/sanitizing. Special education programs may be allowed some flexibility with guidelines as long as the programs follow standards and public health strategies. Communication will occur with all families. Students determined by case managers/building principals to have a high level of need then a transition plan will be developed to assist them in their return to the school building. The use of social stories, visual cues, and other developmentally appropriate strategies, as determined by the school team can be used to reinforce these new concepts and protocols. For students who need physical assistance with feeding, toileting or activities of daily living, protocols will be established and staff training will occur around safety and PPE. For students who exhibit significant behaviors that require de-escalation strategies and emergency safety procedures, protocols will be established and staff training will occur around safety and PPE. Staff will be provided the appropriate PPE for these situations. If the district shifts to a hybrid model, decisions regarding the needs for specific students to continue to receive in-person instruction will be made on an individual case by case basis. Every effort will be made for students involved in transition programs that require direct time at work sites off campus to be scheduled with minimal transitions. All required health and safety protocols will be adhered to on any job site. Students identified as being in need of additional support to understand the new rules and protocols may be given additional opportunities to practice them.
22
The Learning Environment English Learners (EL) All language instruction education programs for English Learners will resume as well as support to allow them to access academic content. Communication with parents and guardians that have limited proficiency in English will occur in the language they understand through translation and/or interpretation services, if needed. Students who are dually identified as ELs and students with a disability will continue to receive support for their ELs needs as well as support for their disabilities. Communication will be ongoing with families of ELs regarding distance learning and returning to their school building in their native language, if needed. All established processes for identification, parental notifications, assessment requirements, and provision of services will be followed.
Physical Education and Athletics Physical Education All CDC, state and local guidelines related to social distancing and disinfecting areas and equipment used for physical education and physical activity including recess will be followed. The Physical Education curriculum will be modified in consultation with the Connecticut Association for Physical Education, Health, and Dance to limit high energy activities that promote physical contact or dissipation of respiratory droplets. Whenever possible, Physical Education should be conducted outside. The instructional design will be matched to the available space; use stations, marked off areas, and staggered participation to ensure separation and distancing between students during activities. Physical education should be instructed through a combination activities tailored according to available spaces, restrictions on gatherings, and use of shared equipment. There will be a focus on activities, fitness, exercises, and sports that are teacher led but performed individually and focus on lifetime fitness, utilizing alternative environments, land based activities, and individual sports/activities. Swing sets and playscapes will not be used due to the difficulty of continual cleaning. Locker rooms are not available for student use at the six through twelve grade levels. PE teachers will modify their instruction to limit vigorous physical activity to assist in the hygiene needs of the students. Fitness/training concepts will be taught though didactic instruction and reinforce skill development and individual fitness goals. Water bottles are highly encouraged. Water fountains will be bottle-filling type or closed. Athletics and Student Activities Middle and high school interscholastic sport activities will adhere to all Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) guidance. The Athletic Director will provide regular updates to the Superintendent of Schools regarding modifications that will need to occur for student participation in athletic practices and exhibitions. After school extracurricular activities including student clubs must seek use of a pre-approved space within the building by the school principal. Students are expected to adhere to hygiene and distancing protocols. The Superintendent will make all final decisions on athletics and student activities. 23
The Learning Environment Visual and Musical Arts Visual Arts PK-8 Art instruction will be conducted in the home room classroom for cohorting purposes. K-12 Art: Art department will review current supplies, student population, and curriculum to plan for safe access to materials which may include individual kits and increased sanitization between all uses. Provide art supplies to students to use at home in order to give everyone the same opportunity to fulfill assignments for Distance Learning or hybrid model. Students will be required to use individual art supplies when possible, and to wear gloves when handling supplies that must be shared. PK-12 Art: Art staff will continue to use drawing/painting platforms such as Google Sites and any other necessary and approved applications for digital portfolios, teaching, and communicating with students.
Musical Arts All music staff will read and follow the National Association for Music Education’s COVID-19 Instrument Cleaning Guidelines for handling musical instruments. We are waiting for additional guidance from the CSDE on chorus. PK-8 Music instruction will be conducted in the home room classroom for cohorting purposes. Teachers will ensure that students will maintain proper spacing of at least 12 feet during music. We are awaiting further state guidance on singing or performing wind instruments. o Large ensembles outdoors and in auditoriums, cafeterias, gyms or other large space or ensembles will need to be broken up into smaller groupings that can be scheduled throughout the school day. o There will be a focus on maximizing distancing for instruments that require blowing or for singing, compared with string and percussion instruments. Music grades 4-12 will continue to use Flipgrid, Audacity and video editing software to create virtual performances. Music grades 4-12: Music staff will meet with administration to allow for homogeneous groupings to be given instruction together. WHS: Students will be encouraged to use their own instruments when feasible. Cleaning protocols will be adhered to for instruments that must be shared (i.e. pianos, percussion, etc.) Recorder, Orchestra, and Band instruction will continue following previously established grade-level access with new safety guidelines and scheduling considerations in place. Music faculty will create a schedule that respects the cohort structure as much as possible and allows beginning instrumentalists to experience correct pedagogical process.
24
The Learning Environment Career and Technical Education Our plan for cleaning and disinfecting shared equipment: o Frequently touched surfaces and all shared equipment will be routinely cleaned during the class period. This includes: shared utensils, tables, chairs and electronics. o These will be routinely cleaned with appropriate cleaner and EPA registered disinfectants following labeling instructions for safe and effective cleaning. o This includes removing collected trash after every period of usage to continue to follow CDC guidelines. o Whenever possible students should be given their own supply of materials (i.e. mixing spoons, spatula, art pencils and paint) and disposable gloves. o Limit the amount of "sharing" of tools during class time. For example, having one group a day "make the food item" Our plan to address the public access to the building including Child Development Programs as well as cafes in Culinary Arts: o Limit the entry area where public access (i.e. Main entrance only or a designated "drop off" entrance separate from the main entrance) for Child Development students. o Have a hand sanitizing station available upon arrival of the students. o Institute a sign in log to monitor who is dropping students off. o Education Programs: limit the amount of outdoor Education Programs allowed in the building. o Remind any outside Education Programs they need to follow all the CDC guidelines before being able to enter any school buildings. o Culinary Arts Café to follow the CDC guidelines and review if such activities should take place during specific time (i.e. Move the Fall Bake Sale to another time period). Step by step procedures will be reviewed with students on the new protocols in each class. Teachers will develop plans for students to flexibly participate in class activities from home (e.g. Alternate activities, alternate resources to use, etc.) and instruct students in those flexible options at the start of each course. Class sizes for courses utilizing industrial technology workspaces may need to be adjusted to adhere to social distancing guidelines. Face shields or other protective eyewear do not substitute for the use of facial coverings. Students will be provided with disposable gloves for CTE courses to minimize contact with high-touch surfaces. Whenever possible, students should receive individualized supply kits for use in courses. Students are expected to maintain appropriate distancing when working on machinery that may be fixed near student seating. Frequently touched surfaces and all shared equipment will be routinely cleaned during and between class periods. This includes: shared utensils, tables, chairs and electronics. These will be routinely cleaned with appropriate cleaner and EPA registered disinfectants following labeling instructions for safe and effective cleaning. This includes removing collected trash after every period of usage to continue to follow CDC guidelines. Whenever possible students should be given their own supply of materials (i.e. mixing spoons, spatula, art pencils and paint) and disposable gloves. Tool usage will be logged by student name for contact tracing purposes. Culinary Arts students will follow all procedures from the local health dept. and CDC for Food Service thus limiting the amount of exposure for each student. 25
Health and Safety Supplies The district will provide an adequate supply of PPE for staff and students. Staff is expected to provide their own mask. The district will have a supply for staff that comes to work without one. Parents will be expected to send their child to school with a mask. The district will have a supply to provide one to a student who does not have one. School health offices will be provided with no-touch scan thermometers.
Immunizations and Health Assessments Immunizations: The District Head Nurse will continue to update staff with changes to immunizations to CSDE guidance in accordance with guidelines from the Department of Public Health issued on June 17, 2020, emphasizing the importance of protecting students by staying up to date on immunizations. This information will be communicated to families. The cancelling or lack of availability of “well” child appointments have resulted in fewer vaccines being administered, leaving children at risk for vaccine-preventable diseases. The CT Immunization Program (CTIP) surveyed pediatric vaccine providers to determine whether a grace period should be considered for immunizations required at the start of school this fall 2020-2021. However, based on the responses from the survey and from discussions with other state and federal partners, the CTIP has decided to maintain that children need to be up to date on their immunizations at the start of school. Parents and guardians may be reassured to know that many health care providers have made changes to their routine immunization services to deliver vaccines more safely by minimizing the chance of exposures to ill children during immunization visits. Parents and guardians of students who are in need of vaccinations should contact their primary care physician or health care provider to schedule a visit for the required immunizations and to discuss any concerns. Health Assessments: The District Head Nurse will continue to update staff with changes to guidance from the CSDE issued on June 26, 2020 outlining the requirements for Health Assessments prior to students enrolling in school. This information will be communicated to families. In accordance with CT General Statutes Section 10-206, the Waterford Public Schools must require each pupil enrolled in public schools to have a routine physical (Health Assessment Record/ HAR) prior to school enrollment, entering grade seven and again entering grade eleven. The HAR requirement is an important element in ensuring a healthy and safe learning environment. The CT State Department of Education (CDSE) understands that, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, “well” child appointments have been subject to cancellation and may be limited in availability prior to and during the 2020-2021 school year. Due to the unavailability of appointments, there may be barriers for a child to obtain a required health assessment. Boards are permitted to deny attendance to a student who does not have the appropriate HAR on file. However, during the 2020-2021 school year, boards of education are encouraged to prioritize keeping students in the classroom where it is possible. With this guidance in mind, Waterford Public Schools will work with parents and guardians to have an appointment scheduled as soon as possible for the required HAR rather than deny attendance to students. Parents/guardians are asked to contact the school nurse when they have made the appointment. 26
Health and Safety Face Coverings, Masks, and Shields The Waterford Board of Education will adopt policies for the 2020-2021 school year requiring face coverings for students, staff, and visitors in accordance with all applicable state and federal laws. Lessons related to COVID 19-specific safety will be embedded in daily lessons and school assemblies. Messaging to staff, parents, and students will be included in district and school communications
All students including PreK students, staff, and visitors entering a district building are required to wear a mask or other
suitable face covering that covers the entirety of the nose and mouth as required by State of Connecticut guidelines for reopening. Educators and staff may remove facial coverings only in instances when the wearing of a face mask is problematic (i.e., when the teacher’s and student’s mouth must be visible during speech therapy, when a child with hearing loss needs to read lips, etc.). During these times other appropriate control measures will be implemented, including ensuring proper social distancing and/or the use of physical barriers between students and staff. Exceptions for the use of facial coverings are, as follows: o For anyone that has medical documentation stating that a health condition would make it unsafe to wear a face covering, a mask will not be required. o For anyone who has trouble breathing, or anyone who is unconscious, incapacitated, or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance, face coverings and masks will not be required, per CDC guidance. Students and staff may remove facial coverings to consume meals, or when students and staff are outside of the school building, as long as appropriate social distancing guidelines continue to be met. o Modifications to these plans may be made for students with disabilities or other special populations as well as to staff when it is necessary for students to view the face/mouth of the staff for instruction/evaluation purposes. o Students with documented medical exemptions for use of a mask will be provided a desk shield within the classroom space to ensure social distancing. o In situations where students need to transition within the building including arrival, dismissal, and lunch, passing times separate from the general transition time will be provided to allow students to pass safely. School principals will pre-arrange scheduled “mask breaks” during the school day. Social distancing guidelines must be followed during these scheduled breaks. Students and staff arriving at the school building or boarding a school bus without a mask will be issued one and expected to apply the covering immediately. Additional personal protective equipment (gloves, masks, face shields, gowns) will be provided to school nurses or custodial staff for use in screenings and disinfection. Additional personal protective equipment will also be provided to school staff that may need to engage with students who are exhibiting disruptive and/or dangerous behaviors and need to be isolated. The use, removal, and washing of face shields will be taught and reinforced in the classroom, via Town Hall Meetings, posters, and newsletters. Per CDC guidance, masks with valves and/or vents will not be allowed as they are not effective in stopping the spread of COVID-19.
Required for Students and Staff
27
Health and Safety Health Monitoring Plan It is anticipated that the Connecticut DPH will be providing additional guidance on the information in this section in the coming days. Therefore, this information is subject to change. Waterford Public Schools have created written protocols for monitoring symptoms that could be related to COVID-19 in alignment to CDC guidelines in order to decrease the risk of spreading or contracting the virus. The district will be prepared to screen staff and students on a more consistent basis if it becomes a requirement based on public health data.
Prior to Coming to School Parents should check their children and staff should check themselves prior to coming to school each day to be sure they do not have symptoms consistent with COVID-19. Families and staff may refer to following CDC links for specific updated illness guidelines: “When You Can Be Around Others After You Had or Likely Had COVID-19” CDC Symptom-Checker
Dismissal From School or Work Staff or students showing symptoms will be dismissed immediately from the school building. These will include but are not limited to: o HIGH-RISK Symptoms associated with COVID-19 according to CDC Guidelines and other infectious diseases in children o Fever (above 100℉ or per clinical judgement with OR without fatigue/body aches/chills) o New unexplained loss of taste or smell o Respiratory symptoms (cough, lung congestion, persistent shortness of breath) o Gastrointestinal symptoms (diarrhea or vomiting) The student or staff member will be sent home until guidelines for returning to school and work are met. Students will remain in an “isolation room” until they can be released to a parent or guardian. Parents/guardians/staff must call their physician and encourage tele-visits for documentation clearing to return to campus. Communication must be provided for filing with the school nurse. Immediate coordination with Ledge Light Health District, including being ready to comply with requests for information from the local health department to assist with contract tracing while maintaining relevant privacy and health laws.
28
Health and Safety
Return to School or Work The ability for students or staff to return to campus will be determined based upon research-based guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and coordination with Ledge Light Health District (LLHD). 1. Symptom-based Strategy: “At least 24 hours have passed since recovery defined as resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared.” 2. Time-Based Strategy (for those asymptomatic but tested positive) o At least 10 days have passed since the date of their first positive COVID-19 diagnostic test assuming they have not subsequently developed symptoms since their positive test. o If they develop symptoms, then the symptom-based strategy should be used. o Note, because symptoms cannot be used to gauge where these individuals are in the course of their illness, it is possible that the duration of viral shedding could be longer or shorter than 10 days after their first positive test. All students and staff returning to campus will immediately report to the school nurse for a health screening before returning to work/classes. OTHER Diagnosed Conditions: 1. After the first 24 hours of various antibiotic treatments (ex: strep throat) etc. 2. As directed per provider’s note with or without restriction.
29
Health and Safety
30
Health and Safety The Waterford Public Schools will follow a traditional schedule of school while monitoring the level of transmission of COVID 19 with the assistance of the Ledge Light Health District. Ideally, the Town of Waterford will remain in the “green” level with little or no community transmission. School schedules and/or protocols may be adjusted if the community enters a “yellow” level with minimal or moderate community transmission. If there is a substantial surge in local cases, based on guidance from the State of Connecticut and/or the Ledge Light Health District, the school will likely revert to a Hybrid Learning Model or Distance Learning Model.
LITTLE or NO COMMUNITY TRANSMISSION
MINIMAL OR MODERATE COMMUNITY TRANSMISSION
SUBSTANITAL COMMUNITY TRANSMISSION
Minimal/No spread of Virus (or Virus Contained)
Moderate Spread of Virus (requires possible adjusted schedule and adjusted transportation)
High Spread of Virus (requires quarantine)
Instruction is 100% in-person
Instruction is 100% in-person or a possible reduced daily attendance Hybrid Model Daily attendance rates monitored and shared with local health officials Concentrated reinforcement of healthy hygiene Heightened prevention measures in place Heightened social distancing in place with limitations in activities/events Group gatherings/events postponed Active Preparation for Distance Learning and/or short-term school dismissals resulting in possible Distance learning for two-week periods Intensified cleaning and sanitizing in place Coordination of closure with local health officials
Instruction is 100% Distance Learning
Daily attendance rates monitored Teaching and reinforcing of healthy hygiene Prevention measures in place Social distancing and masks in place Group gatherings/events limited; all events require approval Remain prepared for Distance Learning while learning is in-person at school
Cleaning and disinfecting in place Regular communication with local health officials
Attendance for Distance Learning is monitored based on participation from home Communication to home on healthy hygiene practices Strict prevention measures in place for essential personnel Quarantine measures in place All group gatherings/events canceled Continued enagagement in Distance Learning during extended school dismissals and/or closures for long periods Classroom and buildings sanitized and shut down Order of closure from local health officials and/or Executive Order for closure from Governor’s Office
Note: All plans are subject to change/adjustments as appropriate.
31
Health and Safety It is anticipated that the Connecticut DPH will be providing additional guidance on the information in this section in the coming days. Therefore, this information is subject to change. CONTAINMENT PLAN: District Containment & Building Isolation Rooms The purpose of the Containment Plan is to decrease the risks of spreading COVID-19. To ensure that Waterford Public Schools has protocols for containing and responding to individuals exhibiting symptoms consistent with COVID-19, a local containment plan has been established. When a staff member or student is suspected of exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms, that individual will be immediately separated from other staff and students with COVID-19 symptoms (such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath) at school. Each school will have a designated isolation room. Each isolation room will have a specific restroom space assigned to it for student use during isolation. If multiple students are confined to the space at any one time, all students will continue to maintain social distancing requirements of six feet. The school nurse or building principal will maintain a log of information including student name, date, time of entry, time of dismissal, and time for completion of room disinfection and sanitation. Isolation Room supervisors will utilize all PPE in accordance with CDC Guidelines. All persons who enter the room will be logged for purposes of contact tracing. The student will remain in this location until a parent or guardian arrives at the school. The student will be escorted to the exit and dismissed in the parent’s care. Staff exhibiting symptoms consistent with COVID-19 will be dismissed immediately from the school building. Individuals who are sick should go home or to a healthcare facility depending on how severe their symptoms are and follow CDC guidelines for care. Symptoms of coronavirus vary. Staff and students should not come to school and notify school officials (the designated COVID -19 point of contact) that they (staff) or child (families) have become sick with COVID-19 symptoms, tested positive for COVID-19, or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19 symptoms or a confirmed or suspected case. School nurses and other healthcare providers should use standard and transmission-based precaution. The Superintendent who will serve as the District Liaison will be contacted by the School Liaison immediately upon diagnosis of a potentially positive COVID-19 case. The Superintendent will provide the context of this information to the local health department representative. The Communication Protocol for Notification of Suspected and Positive Cases within Cohort/School/District will be utilized. Disinfection and cleaning procedures will be initiated following student release in compliance with CDC guidelines. These guidelines include: ○ Close off areas and allow a period of time, of up to 24 hours, to occur before entering the area to enact disinfection. ○ If surfaces are soiled, they should be cleaned with soap or detergent prior to disinfection. ○ All disinfection chemicals will provided by the Director of School Facilities under State Guidelines. The use of the school health office will continue to be utilized to treat and consult with students exhibiting other illnesses or injuries. Inform those who have had close contact with a person diagnosed with COVID-19 to stay home and self-monitor for symptoms and follow CDC guidance if symptoms develop. A negative test does not mean that students/staff can return to school/work. Students/staff will be contacted by Ledge Light Health Department. Student, Family and Staff Resources Related to Containment: What is close Contact? Public Health Guidance for Community-Related Exposure Quarantine If You Might Be Sick What to Do If You Are Sick 32
Health and Safety Student Expectations Stay home if feeling ill. Students must stay home if they are feeling sick, have any symptoms consistent with COVID-19, or have had close contact with a person diagnosed with COVID-19.
Morning heath check by parents required. In order to prevent transmission among the school population, parents are instructed to screen students before leaving for school. Check to ensure temperature is below 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit and observe for symptoms associated with COVID 19 outlined by public health officials.
Face coverings or masks required. Students must wear face coverings or masks that completely cover the nose and mouth while inside the school and on the bus, with exceptions only for those students for whom it is not safe to do so due to medical conditions. “Mask Breaks� will be provided during the day. Parents will be responsible for providing students with face coverings or masks. Schools will have backup disposable masks available for students who forget them.
Social distancing required. Students must maintain social distancing to the greatest extent possible. Students are expected to practice social distancing when entering and exiting the building, in classrooms, and moving throughout the school. Sharing of school supplies and materials will not be allowed.
Frequent hand washing or hand sanitizing expected. Students must engage in frequent hand washing or sanitizing upon arrival, before and after meals, after bathroom use, and after coughing or sneezing.
Students may not change buses. Students will be expected to ride the same bus to school in the morning and the same bus to home in the afternoon every day. Face coverings or masks need to be in place prior to entering the bus.
Parents are strongly urged to drive their children to school each day.
33
Health and Safety Adult Expectations Stay home if feeling ill. Teachers, staff, and volunteers must stay home if they are feeling sick, have any symptoms consistent with COVID-19, or have had close contact with a person diagnosed with COVID-19.
Morning self-screening required. In order to prevent transmission among the school population, teachers, staff, and volunteers are instructed to self-screen before leaving for school. Check to ensure temperature is below 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit and observe for symptoms associated with COVID 19 outlined by public health officials.
Face coverings or masks required. Teachers, staff, and volunteers must wear face coverings or masks that completely cover the nose and mouth while inside the school, with exceptions only for those for whom it is not safe to do so due to medical conditions. “Mask Breaks” will be provided during the day. Teachers will be allowed to remove masks only in instances when the wearing of a face mask is problematic (i.e. when the teacher’s and student’s mouth must be visible during speech therapy, when a child with hearing loss needs to read lips, etc.). During these times other appropriate control measures will be implemented, including ensuring proper social distancing and/or the use of physical barriers between students and staff. Schools will have backup disposable masks available for teachers, staff, and volunteers.
Social distancing required. Teachers, staff, and volunteers must maintain social distancing to the greatest extent possible.
Frequent hand washing or hand sanitizing expected. Teachers, staff, and volunteers and staff must engage in frequent hand washing or sanitizing upon arrival, before and after meals, after bathroom use, and after coughing or sneezing.
34
Operations Plan Facilities The Operations and Logistics Team developed an Operations Plan to organize students and staff in the safest manner upon the reopening of schools. The district will continue to monitor area trends and evaluate is any additional actions or mitigationsLayout are required. Classroom
Reopening of Facilities Before First Day of Classes District schools will plan for adhering to all DPH means and methods for disinfecting and cleaning of schools. The district will provide for the proper use and distribution of sanitizing supplies and a protocol for regular cleaning according to DPH and CDC Guidelines. The district will comply with the flushing of all lines, filter changes and other requirements of a municipal water system. Hot water heaters will be serviced and flushed prior to the school year. Eye wash stations and showers will be flushed prior to the start of the school year. Water fountains will be bottle-filling type or closed. Parents will be expected to send their child to school with a refillable water bottle. Ice machines will be cleaned regularly according to the DPH Return to Service Guidance for Building Water Systems. Additional facility maintenance and modifications may include the addition of plexiglass barriers, marking of hallways, offices, classrooms, bathrooms, and other rooms with appropriate signage, floor stickers, tape and other partitions as prescribed by administration. As needed, classrooms that require additional spacing may be reassigned to larger spaces. All schools have a health room with running water. All health room facilities have standard supplies and are staffed by VNA personnel as well as health aides. All health rooms will be deep cleaned daily, in accordance with CDC and DPH guidelines, fully stocked with medical supplies, partitions, plexiglass and signage to be applied as needed. All schools have developed a plan to set aside a designated isolation room with an adjacent lavatory. The district will comply with all requirements for servicing water and ventilation systems. All HVAC systems will be serviced ( i.e. belts, pumps, strainers, exhaust fans maintained) and filters changed quarterly. Buildings have been deep cleaned and will be ready by the start of the school year. All disinfectants being used comply with State of CT and CDC recommendations.
35
Operations Plan Daily Cleaning Protocols The Waterford Public Schools will follow the guidance from the State of Connecticut, DPH and the CDC regarding daily cleaning protocols for the district. The district will provide for the proper use and distribution of sanitizing supplies and a protocol for regular cleaning according to DPH and CDC Guidelines. The Director of Operations and School Administrators will communicate cleaning and hygiene protocols as recommended by the State of Connecticut and the CDC to staff and families. The Director of Facilities will ensure compliance with current DPH guidelines and is prepared to modify plans in response to changing conditions. All staff will be provided with adequate supplies, including sanitizing wipes, to support cleaning and disinfection practices that will enable them to clean commonly used surfaces (i.e. desks, keyboards) before use. In school daily sanitization of Handrails / sink handles / door handles and knobs / light switches / and bathrooms Regular evening daily cleaning will consist of: Cleaning / Disinfecting / & Sanitizing in accordance with guidelines stated above. Custodial staff will be trained in the appropriate health and safety practices and will adopt procedures for disinfection as outlined by the DPH and CDC . All disinfectants and sanitizers will be in accordance with the green cleaning Policy #1240 C-19. Each classroom has been equipped with wall mounted hand sanitizers and where applicable soap dispensers for use in the in classroom washing stations. Daily cleaning of busses is outlined in the WPS Reopening Plan – Transportation Section.
36
Operations Plan Classroom Layout School Administrators will oversee the organization of classrooms in an attempt to maximize the space between students. A model classroom has been established for each building. All rooms will be set up similarly (desks facing forward/spread out as much as possible). Extra furniture will be removed when possible so that student desks can be spread out to the maximum space. A designated teaching area will be clearly marked from which the teacher will deliver the majority of instruction to allow for optimal social distancing to occur. The teacher area will be clearly marked on the floor to give a visual representation to maintain maximum distance during instructional time. Teachers will be expected to wear a mask at all times, including while teaching in the designated teaching area. References to a teacher removing a mask while teaching only refers to those rare instances where it is necessary to teach, including but not limited to the provision of speech therapy or for a child with hearing loss who needs to read lips. Available spaces in each school building will be repurposed for instruction to the greatest extent possible. Procedures will be developed to familiarize staff who travel between instructional spaces as to appropriate hygiene procedures prior to transition to a different location within the school building. Survey data and student needs will be utilized when creating classes/cohorts. Each classroom will be equipped with wall mounted hand sanitizers and where applicable soap dispensers for use in the in classroom washing stations.
Flexibility and Compartmentalization of Protective Measures
Elementary: Class lists will serve as establishment of stable cohorts. Elementary classroom cohorts will be assigned marked boundaries of play area and toys specific to cohort on a rotating schedule. CLMS: All existing student data will be analyzed when creating cohort groups to ensure equitable learning opportunities are available for all learners. Administration will create cohorts (factors will include creating subgroups within cohorts for the purposes of academic support (SRBI and Spec. Ed), Music/instrumental lesson groups, and World Language selection. WHS: Steps will be taken to limit large-group exposure to peers (passing time, lunches, etc.) to the greatest extent possible. Special Education schedules will be reviewed to ensure continuity in cohorting. Parents will be notified as to the composition of cohorts and plans will be shared with students and families as they are developed. PK-8 - The movement of cohorts/groups of students in the building will be minimized. As much as possible, teachers will travel to classrooms and students will remain with cohort. Specific scenarios in which movement of students is necessary will be identified. Students will be required to maintain social distancing while attending music class. We are awaiting further state guidance on singing and wind instruments.
37
Operations Plan Foot Traffic, Hallways, and Shared Areas All schools will designate patterns for directional foot-traffic within hallways and stairwells through clearly labeled markings on the floors to minimize face-to-face contact of students. Schools will develop plans to minimize the number of students in hallways and stairwells during passing periods through cohorting and staggered bell schedules. Use of lockers at Waterford High School and Clark Lane Middle School will be suspended indefinitely.
Recess/Playgrounds Recess will continue. Use of swing sets and playscapes will be suspended at the start of the 2020-2021 school year. Use will be evaluated on an ongoing basis. The recess field will be sectioned off and have staggered times to preserve cohorting.
38
Operations Plan Visitor Access 2020 in accordance with “Adapt, Advance, Achieve: Connecticut’s Plan to Learn and Grow Together,” the Waterford Board of Education has revised existing policies and regulations to account for temporary changes in applicable laws, rules, and guidance; allow for certain flexibilities; and provide alternative rules for students and staff in the new school environment. The Visitor Policy 1075, is one of those policies that will be temporarily revised due to COVID-19. The temporary changes to the Visitor Policy 1075 for the 2020-2021 school year are: o All visitors and observers permitted into school buildings or on school grounds must comply with all school health and safety protocols in place at the time, including any health screening protocols. o Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Board may limit or restrict visitors based on the guidance of federal, state, and local health authorities. As a result, schools will implement the following: o Building access for parents will be limited and in compliance with CDC, state and/or local health guidelines. o Plans for picking up and dropping off students in each building will be shared with families prior to the start of school via School Messenger, district website, signage, and/or social media. o Visitors will not be permitted into the buildings without prior approval by administration. o Any parent/guardian or previously approved visitor should cancel and reschedule appointments by phone should they be symptomatic (cough, fever, respiratory distress). o Parents/guardians and visitors entering district buildings must wear facial coverings at all times. o Posted protocols for appropriate hygiene techniques and social distancing will be expected to be followed by all who enter the district/school buildings. o Each school will provide a location for drop-off and retrieval of documents to limit in-person
Signs and Messages Signs will be provided by the district office to all school buildings to be displayed in specific locations, as follows: ○ Handwashing procedures will be displayed in all public and student restrooms. ○ Pictorial signs will be displayed depicting the proper application of facial coverings. ○ Entryways of all buildings will display protocols for the use of facial coverings, social distancing compliance, application of hand sanitizers, and hand washing reminders for school visitors. ○ Signs visible in high traffic areas will be displayed illustrating the signs/symptoms of COVID-19 and instructions for when to stay at home if feeling ill. ○ Signs will be formatted in languages appropriate for the school populations.
39
Operations Plan Professional Training Related to Facilities for Custodial and Maintenance Staff Recorded training sessions will be developed to facilitate training with all custodial and maintenance staff, including custodial substitutes, on protocols around proper use, removal, and care or disposal of face masks, social distancing, cleaning, and effective hygiene practices. Custodial and maintenance staff will engage in mandatory training prior to the opening of schools with time allotted for staff to practice applicable safety and health measures.
Ventilation The district will comply with DPH Guidance for School Systems for the Operation of Central and non-Central Ventilation Systems during the COVID-19 pandemic. The district is presently in compliance with the guidelines and Indoor Air Quality standards, as well as SMACNA indoor exchange rate protocols. The district will maintain compliance. The Director of Facilities will ensure that all school ventilation systems are in proper functioning (in alignment with Guidance for School Systems for the Operation of Central and non-Central Ventilation Systems during the COVID-19 Pandemic) The district presently has a schedule for preventative maintenance for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. In addition, all filters will be replaced and all major and minor repairs will be completed before the start of the school year. The preventive maintenance schedule will be maintained throughout the year. All schools currently have controlled systems that filter 100% of outside air entering the building. The system monitors CO2 levels and modulates outside air accordingly. Fresh air is continually brought into the building during occupied times. Fans and blowers are modulated by Variable Frequency Drives that adjust air volume within the parameters of the Building Management System. Ventilation and fresh air intake will be optimized.
No-Touch Usage Some toilets, urinals, and sinks are equipped with motion sensors to limit the use of touch. Existing hand dryers will be disabled and schools will maximize the use of disposable towels in lieu of hand dryers. Where no-touch usage is not practicable, hand sanitizer will be available. Smoke doors in hallway corridors will be magnetically propped open in accordance with fire and safety codes. In the result of an emergency, the alarm will sound triggering the doors to close automatically. Wherever possible, bathroom doors will be propped open. Remove or cover mirrors for privacy purposes. All classrooms, bathrooms, office spaces, cafeterias, libraries, gyms, etc. have been equipped with lidless trash cans and/or have had trash lids removed.
40
Operations Plan
Restroom Protocols Bathroom surfaces will be cleaned and disinfected twice per day in times of full building occupancy in accordance with DPH guidance for cleaning and disinfecting of schools. Cleaning and disinfection of restroom surfaces will also occur after conclusion of the school day. Custodial staff will complete a checklist to document regular daily cleanings of high touch surfaces in restrooms. Cleaning products should be utilized in well ventilated areas and should follow the manufacturer’s stated instructions for use (contact time, dilution quantities, and surface application). Assign bathrooms to student cohorts in each building. One bathroom will be designated use for isolation room occupants. Bathroom access will limit social contact in multi-stall shared bathrooms. Staff will use tracking procedures (sign-in sheets) to track and limit the number of students accessing restrooms at any one time. All cleaning and disinfecting products will meet CDC guidelines. When needed, restroom entrance doors will remain ajar to avoid handling of door handles/knobs. Bathroom trash cans will be placed near bathroom door in order to allow paper towel use to operate door if needed. No personal items will be left in any building bathrooms; including staff bathrooms.
Restroom Usage Procedures Multi-stall bathrooms will be reviewed to determine if stalls need to be removed from service to ensure maximized social distancing during restroom use. Paper towel dispensers will be provided in all restrooms throughout the district. The limited air dryer’s will be temporarily disabled. Trash cans, without lids, will be placed near the exits of each bathroom. All restroom entrance doors, where reasonable, will remain ajar to avoid touching the door handles/knobs.
41
Transportation Parents are strongly urged to drive their children to school each day.
CONNECTICUT SAFE STATUS Vaccine available or effective treatments for COVID-19
CONNECTICUT LOW STATUS Low transmission risk in the community of COVID-19
CONNECTICUT MODERATE STATUS Moderate or more severe spread of COVID-19
Full Capacity on Bus
Up to Full Capacity on Bus
Limited Capacity on Bus
Bus transportation can operate with no restrictions.
Bus transportation can operate up to full status with face coverings / mask requirements and loading and unloading restrictions.
Bus transportation can operate with seating and spacing restrictions, face coverings / mask requirements, and loading and unloading restrictions.
Fall 2020 Model
Reduced Number of Students and seating based on strict social distancing guidelines
Transportation Expectations For Reopening The Waterford Public Schools Transportation status will be determined by the State of Connecticut and/or DPH. In the “low status” currently determined to be the status of Connecticut, student passengers will be required to wear a face covering or mask that completely covers the nose and mouth during transit. The passenger’s face covering must be in place prior to boarding the bus and must be kept in place until they are completely off the bus. Passengers should load into the bus from the back row to the front (where the first passengers onto the bus sits in the back row) and then unload the bus in a controlled manner upon arrival at the school from front to back by seat. If the state determines that Waterford is in a “moderate status” student passenger density will be reduced further. Bus passengers should be spaced with family members sitting together and non-family members should be spaced as much as possible. Passengers will be required to wear a face covering or mask that completely covers the nose and mouth during transit. The rider’s face covering must be in place prior to boarding the bus and must be kept in place. Students should load into the bus from the back row to the front (where the first passengers onto the bus sit in the back row) and then unload the bus in a controlled manner upon arrival at the school from front to back by seat.
42
Transportation Transportation to and from by parents/guardians will be encouraged.
Parents are encouraged to transport their children to school. The school district will be surveying each family as to their decision to use Waterford provided transportation. The school district will use the survey to gauge any needs of staggered dismissal or arrival times. The school district in concert with the Waterford Police Department will plan to accommodate the expected increase in vehicles from parental provided transportation. Principals will develop arrival/departure procedures that limit unnecessary entrance of parents and guardians into the building. Each school will allow for minimal contact of parents with school personnel and students while dropping off and/or picking up students during the day. Procedures will be developed to minimize entrance into the building. Proper hygiene habits will be practiced on the bus. Parents of students in younger grades will be asked to secure masks on students at bus stops prior to students entering the bus. Students will be required to wear a face covering or mask that completely covers the nose and mouth during transit. Seating arrangements will be adjusted on buses to prevent students from passing one another while loading/unloading as much as possible. o First students to load on bus sit in back, filling seats toward the front of bus. o Students in front unload first. o Students will not be allowed to change seats. Stable groups help to mitigate the risk of spreading the virus. Students will only be permitted on the bus to which they have been assigned in order to minimize cross-contamination of student groups. Students will be expected to ride the same bus to school in the morning and the same bus to home in the afternoon every day. Bus drivers will follow the expectations for school employees regarding health and screening. Passive Screening: Drivers are instructed to self-screen before leaving for school by checking to ensure temperatures below 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit and to observe for symptoms outlined by public health officials. Drivers are to stay at home if they are feeling sick, have any symptoms associated with COVID-19, or have had close contact with a person diagnosed with COVID-19. Drivers with a temperature greater than 100.4 degrees are not permitted to drive. Drivers will be allowed to return 24 hours after a fever has broken, or with a note from their healthcare provider, or with a documented negative COVID-19 test. Bus Drivers must wear face masks. These must always be worn when children are in the bus. Buses will be wiped down between each run and will be sanitized twice a day.
Numbers of students on each bus will be confirmed by the State and/or by local health officials. Schools will ideally adjust schedules with as little impact as possible to meet transportation requirements. Bus routes will not initially be based on survey results from parents whether they will drive students to school; however, this information will be important if the State indicates that the number of students on buses must be reduced. If extra runs are required to accommodate students and distancing expectations, students will not be penalized for arriving late to school.
43
School Dining and Nutrition Services To comply with NSLP, SBP, and After School Snacks, the Director of School Dining and Nutrition Services will continue to follow National School Lunch Program (NSLP), School Breakfast Program (SBP), and After School Snack program guidelines; continue to determine eligibility for students needing free and reduced price meals and milk maintaining relevant documentation for claiming methods; and continue to adhere to guidelines for the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) policies for school meals and milk including meal pattern requirements.
On Campus Meal Distribution Services Food service staff will be provided with relevant PPE including but not limited to gloves, facial coverings, and physical barriers at serving stations. In collaboration with building principals, the Director of School Dining and Nutrition Services will outline protocols for student meal access on campus. o Students at Great Neck, Oswegatchie, and Quaker Hill Elementary Schools will receive lunch via classroom delivery. This will permit students to maintain cohort groupings and eat lunch within the classroom. Trash cans for disposal of trays and other discarded items will be made available in each classroom space. o Students at Clark Lane Middle School will eat lunch in classrooms with their cohort. Lunch will be delivered via cafeteria personnel. Waterford High School will develop specific plans to address eating times, passing times, use of restrooms, and open periods/study halls to reduce unnecessary exposure. Students will continue to receive lunch via a cafeteria pick-up model. The following guidelines will be in place to ensure social distancing: o Students will report to the classroom and be dismissed to the cafeteria and other designated spaces, one classroom at a time during each lunch wave. Students will be dismissed from the cafeteria back to classes at the conclusion of the lunch period in the same manner. o Upon arrival in the cafeteria, students will be seated maximizing social distance during lunch waves. If overflow space is required, additional areas throughout the building will be utilized to accommodate students. o Floor designations will be placed in six-foot increments to organize students in line waiting to receive lunch. o All self-service or buffet stations will be removed from serving areas. Staff will distribute serving utensils. o Plastic physical barriers will be installed at check-out stations to maintain distancing when a six-foot requirement is not feasible. Breakfast and lunch procedures will be developed to minimize face to face contact of students and maximizing social distancing when feasible
44
School Dining and Nutrition Services
Off Campus Meal Distribution Services The Director of School Dining and Nutrition Services will plan to make available grab-and-go meal options for any students learning remotely while on-campus learning is in session. Meal pick-ups will be arranged during extended absences from on campus learning during instances of increased community spread of the virus.
Continued Meals Eligibility The Director of School Dining and Nutrition Services will continue to determine eligibility for and make available free and reduced-price meals and snacks and free milk to all eligible students. The Director of School Dining and Nutrition will comply with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) regulations and policies (and any changes occurring) for school meals and milk including the meal pattern requirements The Director of School Dining and Nutrition will ensure that the schools claim meals/ milk provided to eligible students using accurate counting and claiming methods. Additionally, the number of free and reduced-price meals served and claimed for reimbursement must have adequate documentation on file to support the claim.
45
Family and Student Engagement Waterford Public Schools is committed to providing our students, families and staff with a safe, nurturing and supportive environment in which to learn, collaborate and grow. We understand that a safe environment encompasses both physical and social and emotional safety. To that end, our team has developed goals at the elementary, middle and high school levels to provide the education and support necessary to ensure that our school community is able to successfully transition back to the school buildings.
Family Support and Communication The District Reopening Taskforce has reviewed all state and federal family engagement requirements and have ensured their implementation via the district reopening plan. All reopening plans and information will be posted on district and individual school websites. A dedicated webpage to all reopening information has been created and is live on our website. It is clearly visible on our homepage. Expectations and procedures will be taught during the first days of school. A video and written communication will be prepared to share with students and families prior to school opening around expectations/ procedures. A system will be created for addressing students who do not follow health and safety guidelines that emphasizes reteaching, counseling, and a restorative approach. Training opportunities will be provided, as well as documentation and implementation adjustments based on ongoing survey results. Educational opportunities will be provided for parents to increase capacity in accessing online learning platforms and programs. Attendance and Engagement Team meetings will be held to identify students/families who were disengaged during March - June 2020 time period and develop strategies to re-engage those students and families. All information will be accessible in English and Spanish. Our team will establish culturally-responsive initiatives reflective of the classroom community to initiate conversation, education, and celebration of diversity.
46
Family and Student Engagement
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and Mental Health Annual training to staff about their responsibility as a DCF mandated reporter will be provided. The presentation shall be inclusive of how to uphold this responsibility in a distance learning environment. Daily opportunities for students to learn, discuss and practice adherence to new safety protocols will be delivered. At the elementary level, this could happen during a daily morning meeting. Incorporate SEL into classroom practices to build relationships with students. Identify and share best practices for including SEL in classroom practices. Begin to evaluate and address issues of systemic and implicit bias that impact our students and staff. Employ a multi-faceted approach to communication to ensure families engage regularly with their child's school. Identify students that may be struggling and create a mutually agreed upon support plan for both teachers and parents to support. Ongoing monitoring of daily attendance and levels of student engagement as determined by class participation and work output will be necessary. Educate all staff members on the importance of the work and model the actionable steps that will allow them to effectively deliver social and emotional learning to all students. Provide key SEL resources to all staff members in order to initiate best practices in classrooms. The district will establish a shared digital library of social emotional resources to support staff, student, and family wellness. Provide ongoing resources to staff to support their own well-being. Deliver daily opportunities for students to learn, discuss and practice adherence to new safety protocols. At the elementary level, this will happen during a daily morning meeting. CLMS – Will consider implementation of daily extended homeroom to allow for relationship building, check-ins with adults. WHS - Design SEL lessons for advisors to share with their groups. Establish a schoolwide "Declaration of Integrity and Respect" (Honor Code). Create advisory lessons addressing health and safety expectations. WHS - Collaborate with Envision Kindness (EnSpire) to create scientifically based methods of reducing stress, promoting connections and shifting our school culture.
Engage Families in a Proactive and Supportive Manner PK-8 Review data from spring to identify students who were disengaged with Distance Learning. Assign a point person to make contact with the family. WHS - The STAT/CARE Team will identify disengaged students and families, and assign a point person to make contact with each family. Review list of students who were Chronically Absent from 2019-2020 school year. School Attendance Teams will schedule regular meetings within STAT system, to monitor attendance, determine students at risk for disengagement & school refusal. Staff will engage family.
47
Family and Student Engagement
After School Programming The Superintendent of Schools will determine the viability of extra-curricular activities on a case by case basis. This may include full cancellation, virtual or modified in person programs. All Before and After Care Programs in our Elementary Schools: o Training for all staff for Before and After Care Programs prior to the program starting. o Reviewing all CDC guidelines including social distancing and ensure that the Before and After Care areas are sufficient to maintain social distancing. o Limit contact items to one user. o Remove toys and objects that can't be sanitized after single use. o Proper cleaning & disinfecting of shared equipment before & after use. o Personal items will need to be stored separately in a designated area. Students in the Before and After Care Programs will follow all school-day protocols and procedures. Work with the Recreation & Parks Department on limiting the community use of schools. Building use will be primarily restricted to school-sponsored activities until further notice.
48
Staffing and Personnel
Certification and Personnel Planning Waterford Public Schools will continue to employ appropriately certified, authorized and/or permitted educators. Waterford Public Schools will consult with board counsel as necessary to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements related to personnel, including but not limited to the EEOC guidance related to the ADA and the COVID-19 pandemic. Staff surveys will be utilized to assess the need for additional staffing / substitutes. The district will utilize the EdSight Active Endorsement Search Tool to access Connecticut Educator Certification data for strategic recruitment and hiring information. The district will continue to work closely with union leadership. The Human Resources Department will provide clear guidance regarding policies and practices as they relate to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Human Resources Department will plan to support staff health by educating staff of sick leave policies, laws, COVID-19 Specific legislation, and regulations.
Professional Learning District Pre-service Professional Learning was expanded this year from two to four days, beginning on August 25, 2020 and going through August 28, 2020. The Professional Learning & Evaluation Committee (PLEC) will meet virtually to finalize the August Professional Learning Days, make recommendations, and construct detailed building plans for each day. During August Professional Learning, all district staff will receive professional learning in all aspects of our Re-opening Plan: o Reconnecting as a School Community o Safety and Facilities District Health Protocols Use and proper application of facial coverings Hygiene practices: cough/sneeze etiquette, handwashing Health data reporting and confidentiality o Setting Up Your Learning Classroom Space for Safety o Types of School Plans o Supporting Student Social Emotional Learning and Mental Health--Including Suicide Prevention, Monitoring, Teacher Self-Assessment for Student Engagement, and Teacher SelfCare o Academics & Vertical Articulation Teams o Setting Up Your Learning Space With Technology For Synchronous Learning o Assessment: Use More Formative Assessment In A Distance Learning Environment
49
Reopening Our Schools Resources “Adapt, Advance, Achieve” Connecticut’s Plan to Learn and Grow Together - Connecticut State Department of Education “Reopen Connecticut” - Rules for operating Summer School during COVID 19 - State of Connecticut “Preparing for a Safe Return to Classroom Learning” - State of Connecticut East Hampton Public Schools – Reopening Plan (2020) Stafford Public Schools – Reopening Plan (2020) Griswold Public Schools – Reopening Plan (2020) Montville Public Schools – Reopening Plan (2020) “Stronger Together” - A Guidebook for the Safe Reopening of California’s Public Schools - California Department of Education “Back to School RI” - Reopening RI: Health and Safety Guidance - State of Rhode Island “Guidance on Required Safety Supplies for Reopening Schools” - Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education “Initial Fall School Reopening Guidance” - Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education “Preliminary Guidance for Phased Reopening of Pre-K to 12 Schools” - State of Pennsylvania Department of Education K-12 Schools and Childcare Programs - FAQs for Administrators, Teachers, and Parents - CDC.gov/coronavirus Recommendations for Protections and Procedures Regrading Education and Connecticut’s Public Schools – Connecticut Education Association, CEA Leveraging the Power of Social and Emotional Learning - Available at https://casel.org/wpcontent/uploads/2020/05/CASEL_Leveraging-SEL-as-You-Prepare-to-Reopen-and-Renew.pdf
50
Please note that all plans and items included in this document are subject to change based on requirements and/or advice from the Governor or State of Connecticut, the Connecticut Department of Public Health, the Connecticut State Department of Education, and the Ledge Light Health District.
Contact the Superintendent of Schools for additional information and/or questions: Thomas W. Giard III Waterford Public Schools 15 Rope Ferry Road Waterford, CT 06385 860-444-5852 tgiard@waterfordschools.org
For more information, please visit our district Reopening Webpage at: https://www.waterfordschools.org/parents_family/policies_procedures/reopening_schools
51
Addendum 1 Interim Guidance for Decision-Making in Connecticut Schools During COVID-19
52
Addendum 2 Interim Guidance for Responding to COVID-19 Scenarios in Connecticut School Districts
53
Addendum 2 Interim Guidance for Responding to COVID-19 Scenarios in Connecticut School Districts
54
Addendum 2 Interim Guidance for Responding to COVID-19 Scenarios in Connecticut School Districts
55
Addendum 2 Interim Guidance for Responding to COVID-19 Scenarios in Connecticut School Districts
End-notes 1. Key COVID-19 signs and symptoms are: feeling feverish, measured temp 100.4 F or more, chills, uncontrolled new cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, loss of taste or smell. There are other more nonspecific signs and symptoms. For a full list, see CDC Web page at https://www.cdc. gov/coronavirus/2019ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html 2. Close contact: Spending at least 15 minutes within 6 feet of a person with confirmed COVID-19, or a direct exposure to possibly infected droplets of saliva or nasal mucus (e.g., begin sneezed or coughed on in the face). See CDC web page at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html 3. COVID-19 test for school/work attendance: This is a viral test, NOT an antibody test. (see CDC information on COVID-19 tests at https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/testing.html). 4. Contact tracing: A public health intervention in which the contacts of a person with a communicable disease are identified, and possibly tested, quarantined or isolated to interrupt the transmission of the virus in a population. https://portal.ct.gov/Coronavirus/ContaCT 5. Self- Isolation: Individual with signs or symptoms of COVID-19, or a positive test, stays home until no longer infectious for at least 10 days since the onset of symptoms and until at least 24 hours have passed with no fever (without fever-reducing medications) and with improvement in other COVID-19 symptoms. See CDC web page at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/isolation.html 6. Fever: Measured temperature of 100.4 F or higher 7. Self-Quarantine: Individual without symptoms stays home for 14 days since last exposure to someone who was diagnosed with COVID-19 (the incubation period of the virus). See CDC web page https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/quarantine.html or https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-aresick/quarantine.html?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fif-youare-sick%2Fquarantine-isolation.html
56