Washington Township Reopening of Schools Plan (2020)

Marion County Public Health Department (MCPHD) Review June 24 - July 1, 2020

Washington Township (WT) School Board Approval July 6, 2020

Introduction

Washington Township (WT) Schools will reopen following the normal calendar for instruction 5 days per week along with all Marion County Public Schools, unless directed otherwise due to COVID-19. This plan outlines details for reopening of schools in WT with COVID-19 considerations. For parents not comfortable sending their students to school for instruction at this time, a virtual learning option called the WT Virtual Academy will be available for all students PK-12.

This plan remains fluid based on data and information. The School Board will review the percentage of families choosing in-

person versus virtual learning and determine exact dates and plans for reopening of schools.

This plan for WT has been developed in collaboration with Indiana Department of Education (IDOE), Mayor Hogsett’s Office, Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH), Marion County Public Health Department (MCPHD) and with the benefit of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance. Additionally, a WT Reopening of Schools Task Force representative of school board members, health care professionals, administrators, teachers, parents, community members, athletics, facilities, child nutrition and transportation have reviewed and given feedback on the plan. Each school will also have a Reopening of Schools Task Force with broad-based stakeholders to work through implementation of the details and logistics in this plan specific to each school site. This Plan is contingent upon executive orders related to COVID-19 from the Governor’s office or directives from IDOE, Mayor’s office, ISHD or MCPHD.

COVID-19 Information for WT Schools

Reopening of Schools Info for WT

Marion County Public Health Department COVID-19 Info

COVID-19 Testings Sites in Marion County

Free Face Masks Form for Marion County Residents

IN Department of Education Reopening of Schools Guidance Document

Center for Disease Control Information on COVID-19

Visual Poster Resources for COVID-19

The American Academy of Pediatrics Reopening of Schools Guidance

These are the frequently asked questions about reopening of WT Schools. Comprehensive details are located in the “WT Reopening of Schools Plan” section which follows these FAQs.

FAQs were designed to give a quick glance at summary information, not comprehensive details.

1. Q: Will students and staff be required to wear a face covering at school?

A: Yes, staff and students are required to wear face covering when social distancing of 3-6 feet is not possible both inside and outside on school property and using school equipment such as buses. Exceptions established by MCPHD are allowed with documentation to supervisor for staff or to school nurse for students. Guidance for staff, parents and students for proper use of face coverings.

2. Q: Due to COVID-19, can I enroll my student in a virtual learning option in WT and how long will this commitment be?

A: Yes, parents of PK-12 may select a full-time Virtual Learning Academy option for their child. Please go to the MSDWT website for complete details on the WT Virtual Learning Academy option for students. Students in grades K-8 will commit to the Virtual Learning Academy for a quarter at a time or 9 week grading period. Students in grades 9-12 will commit to the Virtual Learning Academy f or a semester at a time.

3. Q: If a family selects virtual learning will there be connectivity support from WT? A: Devices are available for checkout by all Washington Township students. Internet support is available on an as-needed basis through our school social workers.

4. Q: What is the difference between virtual learning for the upcoming school year and at-home learning from this past spring?

A: After reviewing feedback from families and teachers, virtual learning will incorporate more interaction, direct instruction from the teacher, and increased differentiation. Virtual learning will also follow all pacing guides and academic standards for the enrolled grade level. All parents and students are encouraged to read the detailed guidance on WT Virtual Learning Academy prior to making a decision.

5. Q: Why isn’t hybrid instruction, some in-person and some virtual learning, an option for parents in addition to in-person and virtual full-time learning?

A: All traditional Marion County public schools, in collaboration with the Marion County Public Health Department, have committed to a five day a week schedule for students attending school physically, and MSDWT has been able to creatively adjust our schedules and staffing to accommodate a five day a week virtual option for students as well. While we want to be flexible in support of our families, our master schedule and teacher class loads cannot effectively accommodate the complexities of a five day face to face, a five day virtual, and a hybrid option as well. The following would be significant concerns with a hybrid instruction model:

Adequate staffing (teachers cannot prepare and teach both a 5 day a week and a hybrid class)

Meals - Over 60% of our students qualify for free and reduced lunch; therefore, a high volume of students could go without food potentially multiple times per week.

Consistency for students would not be possible as students would be switching from in class to Canvas

platform throughout the week, just as teachers would be working through both platforms as well

Supports for students with ILP’s and IEP’s

The teacher responsibilities of teaching both models concurrently would exceed the negotiated contract

All students need to receive 180 days of either virtual or face to face instruction

Would create child care consistency concerns for many families

6. Q: Why are there differences in CDC guidance and MCPHD guidance to public schools?

A: CDC makes general recommendations but local health departments are tasked to personalize guidance based on public health data in that area.

7. Q: If a student or staff member has been exposed to a person with a confirmed case of COVID-19 what should they do?

A: Contact their health care provider for directions. If the directions from the health care provider involve the school, please notify the Principal or supervisor as soon as possible.

8. Q: What happens if a staff member or a student is confirmed with COVID-19?

A: The confirmed COVID-19 person should follow the directions from their health care provider. WT Schools will follow the steps outlined by MCDPH for confirmed COVID-19 cases. Resource for understanding COVID test results.

9. Q: How will meals be served?

A: Elementary students will have breakfast and lunch provided in the classrooms when possible or in the cafeteria at reduced capacity. Secondary students will have breakfast and lunch served traditionally in the cafeteria with social distancing modifications and face coverings should be worn by staff or students when they are not eating. Staff and students are required to wear a face covering when social distancing of 3-6 feet is not possible both inside and outside on school property and using school equipment such as buses. Exceptions established by MCPHD are allowed with documentation to supervisor for staff or to school nurse for students.

10. Q: What will happen on school buses?

A: Parents/guardians are encouraged to transport their students to school per MCPHD. All students and staff on school buses are required to wear a face covering because social distancing is not possible. Exceptions established by MCPHD are allowed with documentation to supervisor for staff or to school urse for students. Staff and students are required to wear a face covering when social distancing of 3-6 feet is not possible both inside and outside on school property and using school equipment such as buses. Exceptions established by MCPHD are allowed with documentation to supervisor for staff or to school nurse for students.

11. Q: Will WT schools implement staff and/or student temperature or routine symptom checks?

A: No. Staff and students must contact and work with their appropriate health care providers on COVID-19 concerns and follow guidance on self-screening and self-reporting symptoms. Symptoms of COVID-19

12. Q: Where can staff or students be tested for COVID-19?

A: Anyone in the community should check with their health care provider or MCPHD for COVID-19 testing. COVID-19 Testings Sites in Marion County

13. Q: What procedures will be in place in the classroom setting?

A: The “WT Reopening of Schools Plan” outlines details for schools by level. Generally speaking, social distancing of 3-6 feet will be implemented when possible, and face coverings required when social distancing is not possible. Additionally, shared materials will be minimized, and extra opportunities for hand washing will be scheduled. Staff and students are required to wear a face covering when social distancing of 3-6 feet is not possible both inside and outside on school property and using school equipment such as buses. Exceptions established by MCPHD are allowed with documentation to supervisor for staff or to school nurse for students.

14. Q: How will social distancing be put in place?

A: The recommended 3-6 foot social distancing guideline from MCPDH will be put in place where possible in our school settings and operations. When social distancing is not possible, face coverings will be required. This applies to all WT property, facilities, and equipment such as school buses. Staff and students are required to wear a face covering when social distancing of 3-6 feet is not possible both inside and outside on school property and using school equipment such as buses. Exceptions established by MCPHD are allowed with documentation to supervisor for staff or to school nurse for students.

15. Q: Can a school or multiple schools close again due to COVID-19?

A: Yes, a school or multiple school closures are possible due to continued concerns from COVID-19. Public schools are under the direction of the Governor's office, the Mayor’s office and the Health Department since COVID-19 is a public health issue. These government agencies would issue closure notices to us for one or more schools. School closure due to COVID-19 is not a local decision.

16. Q: If a school or multiple schools close again due to COVID-19 will the students who selected Virtual Academy be able to continue in the same format, and what will happen to the students sent home for learning?

A: Students enrolled in Virtual Academy will remain in Virtual Academy. The students not in Virtual Academy will complete assignments via Canvas led by their in-person teachers.

17. Q. What if my child has an IEP or Section 504 Plan?

A. The school will make every effort to provide special education and related services to the child in accordance with the child’s individualized education program (IEP) or, for students entitled to FAPE under Section 504, consistent with a plan developed to meet the requirements of Section 504. The team in collaboration with parents/guardians will determine if a meeting is needed to review/adjust the IEP or 504 plan.

18. Q: What supports are available for students with unique needs (English as a New Language)?

A: EL teacher will collaborate with the content teacher to ensure that the appropriate supports and accommodations are provided to students. The team in collaboration with parents/guardians will review the student’s plan and adjust the plan appropriately to meet the unique needs of the student.

19. Q: Will playgrounds be open for elementary students?

A: Playgrounds will be open during the day for students to use. However, we are limiting the number of students out at recess at a time.

20. Q: How long is the “WT Reopening of Schools Plan” in effect?

A: This plan is in effect until we are directed otherwise by the Governor, Mayor, and/or Health Department.

IDOE Reopening of Schools Guidance Areas for District Planning

WT Schools & Facilities Implementation Plan

(this applies to all WT property, outdoor facilities and indoor facilities)

#1: Policy Review

On July 6th, the WT School Board voted to adopt a blanket local resolution suspending any Board policies that conflict with future statutory waivers or extensions granted by the Gov., IDOE or IGA. Link to Resolution: Resolution - COVID Reopening

#2: Liability Coverage Review

Business Services Division has collaborated with the WT insurance carrier to discuss specifics of liability coverage due to COVID-19.

#3: Collaboration with Teachers Union (WTEA)

WTEA Centralized Discussion and individual meetings with WTEA President have been held with agenda items specific to reopening due to COVID-19 and will continue throughout reopening.

In addition, WTEA appointed teachers from all levels to serve on the “WT Reopening of Schools Task Force” and school building WTEA representatives served on the “School-Based Reopening of Schools Task Force”

#4: COVID-19 Information for Federal Leave (FFCRA) Posting in Facilities

All WT facilities have the designated FFCRA information posted in appropriate areas as of July 1, 2020. Employee Rights Resource

#5: Review COVID-

19 related Worker’s Compensation

The Human Resources Division has reviewed COVID-19 related Worker’s Compensation information as of July 1, 2020 and plans to follow the guidance in accordance with MSDWT past practices. Guidance Resource

#6: Staff & Students to Update Contact and Medical Information

Returning families will be asked by Student Services Division to review and update their student’s contact and medical information prior to the first day of school via Skyward. Parents are encouraged to keep this information updated throughout the year.

Human Resources will invite staff to update their emergency contact information and necessary medical information upon reporting back to work. Staff members are encouraged to keep this information updated throughout the year.

#7: Inform Staff of Available Resources

Regular WT communications will be shared monthly to staff through “Benefits News” and the “Wellness Newsletter” to continue to share resources for COVID-

19. CDC Resources

#8: Review School Calendar

The School Board reserves the right to review and amend the school calendar based on updated information and guidance from the State of Indiana, the Indiana Department of Education, and the Marion County Public Health Department. The state requires 180 instructional days for students. 2020-21 WT School Calendar

Details for the WT Virtual Learning Academy can be found on the website.

#9: Review Organization Structure

WT Schools have established an alternative command structure of Division Leaders, District Leaders, School Leaders and/or key employees who may become unable to work due to illness. The Superintendent, or designee, will give direction for the alternative command structure if needed.

#10: Review Student Handbooks, Athletic Guides, Codes of Conduct

The statement, “Adherence to all procedures, guidelines, and recommendations due to COVID-19 outlined in our board approved, WT Reopening of Schools Plan, is critical in addition to information in this (handbook, athletic guide, code of conduct) for the health and safety of our students, staff and families.” will be applied to all handbooks, guides and code of conduct.

#12: Review Facility Cleaning Procedures

WT Schools will implement the following facility cleaning procedures: Clean and disinfect high-touch areas throughout the day. Increase access to cleaning supplies for each classroom. Increase accessibility to hand sanitizer for staff and students (at least 60% alcohol formulation necessary for COVID-19). Extend bathroom breaks for adequate handwashing. Clean and disinfect playground equipment daily. Playgrounds will be closed for public use due to cleaning capacity. Monitor air quality and replace air filters as appropriate. All buses will be disinfected at appropriate intervals. Staff and students may be asked to support additional cleaning and disinfecting of high-touch areas and shared/personal use materials throughout the day. Utilizing staff and students to clean and disinfect high-touch areas and shared/personal use materials will provide extra support for maintaining a healthy learning environment and continues a current practice.

#13: Review School Safety Plan

WT has reviewed safety plans and no other changes are recommended beyond adherence to this plan. Safety plans are not public documents in accordance with state statute.

#11: Establish Procedures for Confirmed COVID-19 Cases

Procedures for a confirmed COVID-19 case have been established based on guidance from Indiana State Department of Health along with additional guidance for various scenarios.

#14: Review Drill Plans

WT has reviewed procedures for drills and emergencies, and no changes are recommended due to COVID-19. All staff and students are required to wear a face covering during drills and emergencies, when feasible, because social distancing will not be possible in most cases. Staff and students are required to wear a face covering when social distancing of 3-6 feet is not possible both inside and outside on school property and using school equipment such as buses. Exceptions for face covering established by MCPHD are allowed with documentation to supervisor for staff or to school nurse for students.

#15: Review Social Distancing

Expectations

General Social Distancing Expectations (applies to all levels and facilities in WT):

Staff and students are required to wear a face covering when social distancing of 3-6 feet is not possible both inside and outside on school property and using school equipment such as buses. Exceptions are allowed with appropriate documentation to supervisor for staff or to school nurse for students. EXCEPTIONS for face cover ings: Any staff or student with a health condition that makes the wearing of a face covering a risk to his/her health. When staff or students are performing tasks that cannot be completed while wearing a face covering: eating, drinking, etc. When the wearing of a face covering by a teacher may impede the student’s learning (younger grades, Kindergarten, etc.). A student who is unable to remove a face covering on his/her own. Religious beliefs and practices

Students should be seated 3-6 feet apart facing one direction when feasible in the classroom setting. Eliminate the use of pods or table style seating as much as possible in classrooms. Arrange for the teacher to maintain a 3-6 foot distance from students; if not, face covering is required. Extend or stagger passing periods in secondary schools where possible. Consider moving some classes outside if possible. Do not allow nonessential visitors. This is determined at the discretion of the Principal, but the goal is to limit visitors during the school day who are nonessential. All essential visitors to any WT facility should wear a face covering upon entering the facility. Parents and non-essential visitors are strongly encouraged to contact the school instead of coming in to front offices. All essential visitors are required to wear a face covering when social distancing of 3-6 feet is not possible both inside and outside on school property and using school equipment such as buses. Exceptions established by MCPHD are allowed with documentation to supervisor for staff or to school nurse for students. Cohort students as much as possible using a team approach; the same students sticking together and rotating as a team. Assign the team to a room and consider teachers rotating. All field/study trips during the school day will be eliminated. All staff lounges will be closed for eating due to confined space and inability to wear a face covering while eating. Staff lounges can be used for non-eating activities implementing social distancing, and face coverings should be worn. Additionally, areas in schools not used for instruction, such as staff lounge, may

#15: Review Social Distancing Expectations

become designated isolation areas for a person exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms awaiting pick-up as needed. School staff will teach and emphasize wearing a face covering when social distancing is not possible. Parents are also strongly encouraged to speak with their students in age-appropriate language regarding why face coverings are important for their health as well as others. For areas of the school or WT facilities where lines may regularly develop such as the front office or bookstore, the staff will mark off designations for places to stand to provide a visual cue for social distancing from the targeted person with whom the person is speaking. Convocations, assemblies, and events during the school day that bring non-essential visitors into the school will be eliminated. School events beyond the school day may occur with strict times to limit the number of people in the building at each time. Face coverings should be worn by attendees. Small group instruction is permitted but must be limited to less than 15 minutes with any given group of students (teachers and students should wear face coverings during this time). Staff meetings, training, professional development, etc. will be held virtually when possible. When not possible, face coverings should be worn and meetings should occur in spaces large enough to meet social distancing recommendations. Dividers may be used in instruction situations where social distancing is not possible.

Elementary School Social Distancing Expectations (in addition to general expectations): Special Areas: ○ Physical education will take place outdoors when possible. ○ Special area teachers will clean high-touch areas and materials between

classes. ○ Classroom seating will be spread out as much as possible. Pulling

groups of students together will be limited. ○ There should be no indoor group or ensemble singing - weather permitting this should take place exclusively outdoors. ○ Students will continue to go to the library and check out books. Arrival/Dismissal: ○ Transportation by personal vehicle is encouraged. Parents/Guardians

are encouraged to transport their students to/from school when possible. ○ Drop off time for car riders will begin at 8:00 AM for all elementary

schools. No student drop-off, including outside, will be allowed prior to this time due to supervision. ○ All students will go directly to their classrooms upon arrival. ○ Student Late Arrival or Early Release - Parents can bring in students

who are late or need to be picked up early, but they will not be allowed

beyond the front office. Parents should always wear face coverings

when entering the building even if the duration of the visit is not expected to be long.

School Day: ○ A reduced number of students will be on the playground at a time. Face coverings should be worn when social distancing is not possible.

#15: Review Social Distancing Expectations

Secondary Schools Social Distancing Expectations (in addition to general expectations):

Band/Orchestra: ○ Woodwind and Brass Instruments should not be shared. ○ If String instruments must be shared, they should be disinfected

between use. ○ Percussion students should not share mallets without properly

disinfecting them, unless students are wearing gloves. ○ Students will be assigned times to pick up and return instruments from

lockers to encourage social distancing. ○ Class may occur in a gymnasium whenever PE classes are outside.

• Choir ○ There should be no indoor group or ensemble singing. Weather permitting, this should take place exclusively outdoors.

○ Class may occur in a gymnasium whenever PE classes are outside.

• Physical Education (PE) ○ PE teachers will create scheduled locker room access in order to allow

students to socially distance as much as possible while changing in

and out of PE uniforms. ○ PE will be taught outside whenever the weather permits, and the heat index is between 50 degrees and 85 degrees. • Arrival/Dismissal: ○ Transportation by personal vehicle is encouraged. Parents/Guardians

are encouraged to transport students to and from school whenever possible. ○ Students should not be dropped off or walk on to school property

until the following times (students involved in athletic practices

prior to school are exempt from this schedule but must be under the

supervision of a coach): ◘North Central High School and JEL 6:50 AM

◘ Middle School 9:00 AM

○ Parents are expected to pick up students no later than fifteen minutes

after the end of school, practice, or an event in order to prevent students from gathering in an unsupervised situation. ○ Student Late Arrival or Early Release - Parents can bring in students

who are late or need to be picked up early, but they will not be

allowed beyond the front office. Parents should always wear face

coverings when entering the building even if the duration of the

visit is not expected to be long.

#15: Review Social Distancing Expectations

School Meal Service Social Distancing Expectations (in addition to general expectations):

If a cafeteria or group dining room is typically used, meals should ideally

be served in classrooms. Eliminate self-serve food items. Napkins and silverware (disposable if possible) are provided directly by staff, not for individuals to grab. Install engineering controls such as sneeze guards in cafeteria serving

lines. Place floor markings to promote social distancing while waiting in line. Prohibit food sharing. No shared food tables will be allowed. Limit cash transactions. Staff handling cash should not, also, handle food. PPE should be provided to all food service staff, including students

preparing and serving food.

Elementary School Meal Service

○ Breakfast in the classroom if feasible

○ Lunch in the classroom if feasible

○ Rotation of grade levels as usual ○ Cafeter ia serving lines will not be open

○ Meal identification will be provided for students with documented

allergies or special dietary needs

○ Menus will be limited and include all components of a reimbursable

meal ○ Meal payments will continue to be collected through on-line

payments (MyPaymentsPlus) • Middle and High School Meal Service

○ Breakfast and lunch meal service method will be traditional with social distancing modifications where possible

○ Menu choices will be limited (all food items will be wrapped or covered) - Same items will be available on all serving lines ○Sneeze guards will be in place

○ Placemarkings on the floor will be provided to support social distancing

○ Students will scan their own ID at checkout ○ Cash transactions are limited and students will be encouraged to use

online payments through MyPaymentsPlus. Additionally, a payment dropbox and/or kiosk will be available if feasible (currently being

explored). One cash line will be implemented if feasible, however there will be no change provided. All change will be deposited to the

meal account ○ Tables will be cleaned and disinfected after each meal service.

#15: Review Social Distancing Expectations

Transportation Social Distancing Expectations (in addition to general expectations):

Transportation by personal vehicle is encouraged. Drivers and staff on the bus are required to wear an approved fac

covering. Use assigned seating. Space students apart as much as is feasible. Students and staff are required to wear a face covering during bus

transportation. Open windows for cross ventilation as weather permits. Students and staff may be asked to support the opening of windows. Students will be assigned a seat on the school bus by grade level as per the

transportation handbook. Siblings, or students from the same household,

#16: Review Procedures for Tracking COVID-19 Confirmed Cases & Contact Tracing

Staff - Staff will follow normal HR attendance reporting procedures. Staff who are notified about a positive COVID-19 result are encouraged to notify their supervisor immediately. Confirmed COVID-19 cases will be reported to MCDPH by designated WT staff. The state or local health department will conduct any necessary contact tracing and keep records on confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Students - Parents of students who are notified about a positive COVID-19 result are encouraged to notify their Principal immediately. All normal student attendance procedures will be followed as outlined in the School Board approved Student Handbook. Absences will be precorded in the student management system, accordingly per normal procedure. Confirmed COVID-19 cases will be reported to MCPHD by designated WT staff. The state or local health department will conduct any necessary contact tracing and keep records on confirmed COVID-19 cases.

WT will be terminating any attendance incentive rewards systems and recognition programs related to attendance.

#17: Develop Screening Procedures for Those Who Display Symptoms at School

A procedure for our school clinics will be implemented to screen for symptoms of COVID-19 when symptoms are exhibited by a staff or student while in our school facilities during the school day. These procedures will follow the IN State Department of Health COVID-19 Screening Decision Tree. Staff or students exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 during the school day, as determined by the school nurse, will be safely and immediately isolated under appropriate supervision in the school/building until they can leave. Parents/guardians who are called to pick-up a student exhibiting symptoms must arrive within 60 min.

MCPHD encourages staff and students to contact and work with their appropriate health care providers on COVID-19 concerns and follow guidance on self-screening and self-reporting symptoms. Symptoms of COVID-19

#18: Review Staff & Student Opportunities in the School Day for Increased Hygiene (handwashing, etc.)

Restroom and handwashing times will be set throughout the elementary school day: arrival, before eating, after restroom, after using shared equipment. School schedules will be modified where necessary to allow for additional handwashing at various times across the school day.

Portable hand sanitizing stations will be offered at designated locations. Hand sanitizer is only encouraged when soap and water is not available.

Use water stations for cup or bottle refills only and consider increased availability of bottled water. Water fountain spouts will be closed. WT staff and students will be encouraged to bring their own water bottles from home.

#19: Review School Clinic Procedures

Each school will follow normal clinic procedures as outlined in the School Board approved Student Handbook.

Faculty/Staff and students exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, as determined by the school nurse, will be safely and immediately isolated in the school/building until they can leave the school/building. Each school will designate an area where symptomatic students can wait for pick-up separate from the clinic area.

Confirmed COVID-19 cases will be reported to MCPHD by designated WT staff. MCPHD will conduct any necessary contact tracing and keep records on confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Require all staff and students who are sick to be fever free for at least 72 hours before returning to school.

#20: Review Personal Wellness Inventory

Portable hand sanitizing stations will be provided in designated locations in all facilities.

Hand soap is available in all student and staff restrooms and locations with a sink.

Trash can lids will be modified to make them “touch-free” (remove or open lid) where feasible.

Students will receive one reusable face covering issued by the Governor at the beginning of the year. Parents/Guardians have the responsibility to supply face coverings for students beyond this one time issue. Free Face Masks for Marion County Residents Staff will receive one reusable face covering issued by WT at the beginning of the year.

Staff have the responsibility to supply face coverings beyond this one time issue.

#21: Review Guidance Related to Serving Students with Special Needs

The Special Services Department has reviewed guidance related to serving students with special needs. Individual implications of the COVID-19 reopening plan for students will be discussed and decided through parent meetings, case conferences, teacher of record communication, etc.

#22: Review Student Health Plans

The Coordinator of Health Services will meet with each clinic nurse, in conjunction with building Principal and IU Health.

The Coordinator will be the lead for all health related procedures and plans (IHP, 504, etc).

#23: Review Staff Health Plans

Staff Health Plans will be coordinated via the WT Benefits Specialist in accordance with ADA/FMLA guidelines:

1. When a staff member presents documentation from a physician and requests an accommodation to their work provisions that meets the requirements of ADA we will engage in interactive dialogue per our past practice and will follow ADA guidance as we do so. 2. When a staff member presents documentation from a physician that indicates that they are unable to work or telework due to a medical condition affecting them or a person or dependent family member (as defined under FMLA) the employee will be provided with appropriate FMLA/FFCRA documents per WT past practice.

#24: Review and Revise HR Handbooks & Policies

All WT employees will receive a memo via email indicating the need for them to review expectations as laid out in this reopening plan prior to returning to work. Immediate supervisors can answer any questions employees have regarding reopening of schools.

All staff will also receive a reminder of the Health & Safety Standards for office spaces and classrooms. MSDWT Health and Safety Standards

#25: Review and Revise Job Descriptions

All MSDWT employees will receive a memo indicating the need for them to review expectations as laid out in this reopening plan. The Human Resources Division will implement any additional necessary changes to specific job descriptions as needed due to COVID-19.

#26: Review Indiana’s Extra-

Curricular and Co-

Curricular Re-entry Considerations

Elementary Before/After School Activities: AYS (before and after school programming) will remain open. Elementary after school activities/clubs will be eliminated until further notice. After school tutoring may be offered for designated students due to academic loss during Covid-19. This tutoring may occur virtually. There will be no after school buses for elementary schools.

Secondary Before/After School Activities: After School Buses - Buses will be available after school for middle & high school but the schedule may be modified.

Non-Athletic & Marching Band - Secondary schools are encouraged to conduct non-athletic extracurricular and co-curricular activities virtually whenever possible. When virtual is not possible, both staff and students should wear face coverings when social distancing expectations are not possible. Staff and students are required to wear a face covering when social distancing of 3-6 feet is not possible both inside and outside on school property and using school equipment such as buses. Exceptions established by MCPHD are allowed with documentation to supervisor for staff or to school nurse for students.

Athletics - Athletics will restart under a three phase plan. The three phase plan is based on guidance from the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) and the Indiana High School Athletic Association (IHSAA). The IDOE and IHSAA recommendations are listed here. IDOE Guidance for Reopening Schools document in Appendix C (starting on page 18). Coaches and Athletic Directors will communicate details to athletes and parents/guardians prior to the beginning of the season.

#26: Review Indiana’s Extra-

Curricular and Co-

Curricular Re-entry Considerations

Virtual Learning Students - Students attending virtual learning may participate in extracurricular and/or co-curricular activities at the secondary level. If a virtual student chooses to participate and the activity is not offered virtually, the participation is required to be in-person and transportation will not be provided, unless permitted by the presiding body of the competition or activity.

#27: Review and Revise Technology Plan

Elementary Schools: Grades K-5 elementary students will not share devices. The same device will be checked out to the same student daily. Devices will stay at school and charge overnight at the conclusion of each day.

Secondary Schools: Grades 6-12 secondary students will not share devices, except in select courses where technology requirements require access to equipment that is cost prohibitive to issue to individual students. In this situation, the equipment will be sanitized before and after it is used each period. Otherwise, middle school and high school students will each be issued a device that can be taken home each day.

All K-12 virtual learning students will be issued a device and connectivity support when needed.

#28: Review and Revise Continuous Learning Plan

The appropriate staff, including WTEA, have developed and reviewed the WT Continuous Learning Plan and it has been approved by IDOE. WT Continuous Learning Plan

#29: Review Guidance on Career and Technical Education

Workforce Cabinet. The Director of CTE will coordinate High School and Adult Education programs. All guidance, as outlined in the “WT Reopening of Schools Plan” will be implemented at J. Everett Light Career Center. On-line (virtual) learning will be limited. Work-Based Learning, certification assessments and hands-on skills requirements must be completed in-person.

#30: Review Training for Staff

Schools Division reviewed training for all staff and will provide appropriate training for each staff member, virtually when possible. MSDWT district level training for staff will be delivered and tracked using the SafeSchools platform. Additionally, the WT Coordinator of Health Services will meet with and train each clinic nurse and appropriate staff.

#31: Review and/or Revise Budgets

Business Services Division and Cabinet will monitor regular funding information received from Federal, State, and Local agencies through the following:

Continue to review information from Federal, State, and Local guidance

on funding availabilities and cash flow timing limitations

Review staffing to student ratios with projected enrollments counts for Sept. 2020 and Feb. 2021

Monitor student count data regularly after school starts to project revenue

for 2021 and adjust 2020 budgets and 2021 budget preparations as needed

Define what will be included in CARES Act and FEMA grants

applications

Explore other grant resources from Federal, State, or Local agencies

#32: Review School Schools will review supply lists and minimize the lists wherever possible. Shared supplies will be minimal in the classrooms.

#33: Review Visitor, Volunteer, Intern & Delivery Procedures

Do not allow nonessential visitors. Program/Instruction service providers, designated interns, construction workers, maintenance repair contractors and delivery service personnel are deemed “essential” visitors. The Principal has the discretion to define other “essential” visitors. Essential visitors should wear a face covering prior to entering the facility or school and keep it on the entire time. Staff and students are required to wear a face covering when social distancing of 3-6 feet is not possible both inside and outside on school property and using school equipment such as buses. Exceptions established by MCPHD are allowed with documentation to supervisor for staff or to school nurse for students.

All offices, including CEC or central office, will not allow nonessential visitors.

Deliveries will be restricted to designated areas.

#34: Review and/or Revise Facilities Usage Plan

All non-essential district/school-sponsored groups are encouraged to find alternative indoor facilities for meetings and/or activities. Due to restricted staff and extensive additional cleaning/disinfecting for regular school operations, we are limiting indoor facility use to Class 1 groups events based on guidance from CDC and MCPHD. An additional COVID-19 cleaning/disinfecting fee may be applied based on square footage requested and availability of cleaning service. Exterior facility use of approved fields and courts will be available to groups/organizations upon facility use process approval. Approval is also dependent upon staff availability to clean/disinfect facilities after the event and prior to school use. https://www.msdwt.k12.in.us/facility-rental/

#35: Plan and Prepare for Academic, Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Wellness

Due to the COVID-19 school closure and length of time students have not been in school, we will have to focus on the social, emotional and behavioral wellness of our students as a priority. "I know you all have worked incredibly hard to really determine what this next school year is going to look like. Things like social distancing and wearing masks run counter really to traditionally what we look at in a collaborative school setting when learning is collaborative and students receive both educational and also the social connections that are so critical in their development...I firmly believe that the best thing for our students is to get them back into the classroom. Even if that is in a modified form...We need to do this not just for educational development but also for their physical, their social and their mental well-being." Dr. Box, Indiana State Health Commissioner

Elementary teachers will incorporate lessons from the Second Step curriculum, Responsive Classroom resources, and educational neuroscience resources to meet the social emotional needs of their students daily.

Middle school teachers will incorporate lessons from the Second Step curriculum, Developmental Designs resources, and educational neuroscience resources to meet the social emotional needs of their students daily.

High school and JEL teachers will incorporate lessons from Developmental Designs resources and educational neuroscience resources to meet the social emotional needs of their students daily.

Formative and diagnostic assessments will be given to determine learning loss and gaps. Explicit instruction will be reinforced, and critical standards will be scaffolded.

Social workers will meet with students and families and help connect families to community resources.

#36: Plan for Substitute Needs

WT will continue partnership with Kelly Educational Staffing and coordinate training of subs in COVID-19 response.

Additional permanent building substitute positions and substitute cohorts will be utilized whenever possible.

#37: Review Residential School Info

The Special Services Department has reviewed information impacting residential schools and plans to collaborate as needed with impacted families and facilities.

#38: Develop a Communications Plan

WT Reopening of School Communication Plan

Based on Guidance from IDOE: Effective and ongoing communication is a critical component of managing any school crisis. Implementing specific communication procedures and protocols surrounding re-entry following COVID-19 school closures will allow staff, students, families, and the community to understand new and evolving actions put in place to continue educating

students during these uncertain times.

Prepare Share Sustain

Who? Central Point of Contact Principals will serve as the central point of contact for parents. Principal Contact Info

WT Plan for Reopening Schools

Approval by the School Board July 6, 2020

www.msdwtk12.in.us/covid19

Resources

IN Dept. of Education Guidance to Reopening Schools

Center for Disease Control Guidance for Reopening Schools

Archive

The WT website will house documents, communications, updates, plans and FAQs on reopening of schools. www.msdwtk12.in.us/covid19

What? Messaging

Student, staff and family safety remain our top priority as we reopen schools under the guidance of health departments and government agencies.

Support If you have questions related to COVID-19 reopening of schools, please contact Mrs. Nicole Cooper, WT Health Services Coordinator, ncooper@msdwt.k12.in.us

When? Timing and Scheduling

When school is open each Principal will send weekly communication to families. District communication will be sent as needed to families.

How? Format and Methods

In addition to school and district email communications to families, the website will remain updated with FAQs and information.

Let’s Work Together

Please know that we remain in uncharted territory in reopening our schools during COVID-19. We ask for your patience,

flexibility and collaboration as we adjust to guidance, mandates and feedback on

reopening our schools. This is an imperfect situation and our focus will remain on health and safety first while supporting teaching and learning in our

schools. We remain under the direction of the Governor’s Office, Mayor’s Office and

Marion County Department of Public Health regarding the COVID-19 situation.

Dr. Woodson, Superintendent

Clarify

As we deploy the plan for reopening of schools in WT, we will offer ongoing opportunities for continued engagement. As during regular school, Principals remain the first line of contact for parents to get questions answered.