July 13, 2021

Printable Version of "LDNE Safe Return Plan"

Updated July 12, 2021

A Plan for Safe Return to In-Person Instruction and Continuity of Services

Pursuant to the Federal American Rescue Plan Act – ESSER III

The purpose of this document is to provide a framework for how the LDNE School District will address the status of the COVID-19 Pandemic for the 2021-2022 school year. The safety of our students and staff is one of our top priorities, while providing the highest quality education for every student. This plan can be adapted and updated throughout the school year; it will be re-evaluated every 6 months or more frequently, if needed.

We are asking for your input on the plan and encourage you to share your thoughts, concerns, and questions with us. You may email any thoughts, concerns, or questions to: lbeaudette@lyonsdecaturschools.org.

It is the intent of the LDNE to start the school year with as close to normal school operations as possible. The goal is to provide in-person education for all students for the entire 2021-2022 school year. Seeing our students every day in the classroom helps to meet student academic, social-emotional, and mental health needs. If it is necessary for a student to miss an extended period due to COVID-19, we will ensure the student is provided a device and connection to help keep them on track.

Required components of this plan:

• Universal and correct wearing of masks ~ Wearing of face masks will be optional for anyone on school property and anyone riding school transportation.

• Modifying facilities to allow for physical distancing ~ Social distancing will be practiced when possible.

• Handwashing and respiratory etiquette ~ Personal hygiene will be stressed to all students and staff. We will teach proper handwashing and cough/sneeze etiquette. Hand sanitizer will be available to be used as needed.

• Cleaning and maintaining healthy facilities, including improving ventilation ~ High touch surfaces will be disinfected frequently and routinely. When possible, shared supplies and equipment will be sanitized between uses. Windows will be opened when able and feasible and HVAC settings will be set to maximize ventilation.

• Contract tracing in combination with isolation and quarantine, in collaboration with the State, local, territorial or Tribal health departments ~ ELVPHD requirements for contact tracing, isolation, and quarantine will be followed. Normal health and wellness procedures will be used: Students and staff shall stay home when sick, students and staff must be fever free for 24 hours (without medication) before returning to school, and students or staff experiencing COVID symptoms should contact their health care providers.

• Diagnostic and screening testing ~ Temperatures and verbal confirmation of potential symptoms will be used for any student or staff member that shows any signs of COVID-19. Students and staff who exhibit signs and symptoms of COVID-19 will be encouraged to stay home and get tested.

• Efforts to provide vaccinations to school communities ~ LDNE will provide information to parents and students regarding vaccination availability within the community and surrounding area.

• Appropriate accommodations for children with disabilities with respect to the health and safety policies ~ All IEP’s and 504 plans will be followed. If necessary, these plans will include specific health and safety procedures related to COVID-19.

• Coordination with State and local health officials ~ LDNE will continue to communicate and collaborate with local and state health officials to monitor case levels, be up to date with COVID-19 related guidance and implement or modify protocols.

Feedback for this plan will be sought at our July 12, 2021, board meeting and via email through our school website.

This plan is created with input from parents, staff members, board members and administrators. Decisions moving forward will be made with the best interest of everyone in mind. As a district, we thank you for your cooperation and patience as we continue to navigate our way through the COVID-19 Pandemic.