District Clarifies Back to School Plan

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The Watonga School Board, meeting in regular session Aug. 10, readjusted its return to school plan. The revised plan includes many of the already-agreed upon items, such as self-screening for students and employees for fever or other symptoms of Covid-19. Those who have been diagnosed with the virus may return to school if three days have passed since recovery (no fever), if the patient has improved respiratory symptoms such as cough, and 14 days have passed since diagnosis. If someone has symptoms but does not seek diagnosis, they must meet the first two markers as well as be 14 days since the onset of symptoms.

The district is recommending face masks or other coverings in schools, but will exercise flexibility, especially for younger students. Students will need to supply their own face covers and those coverings must meet dress code regulations such as no messages or images that distract from learning. If a student cannot wear a mask because of documented medical conditions, a compromise will be sought. If none is available, the student may exercise virtual learning or blended learning programs.

Additionally, middle school students will not use lockers this year, meals will be served with students socially distanced and the lunchroom area disinfected after each group vacates the premises. Desks will be arranged six feet apart as is feasible and all desks faced in the same direction.

The district has set up a color-coded system for threat assessment. Green (no cases) is the new normal where students and staff may use regular or distance learning and gather in small groups. Yellow is low risk, (one case) and masks will be recommended, while the other guidelines remain the same.

Orange is a moderate risk earmarked by significant increases in Covid-19 cases in the school community- eight cases. Masks will be mandatory for employees and students grades 4-12 and for younger students in halls, common areas and during transport. Teachers will be required to wear masks as well. Instruction will be by regular means, hybrid models or distance learning.

At red, or high-risk levels, 25 or more cases, masks will be mandatory for everyone with the only exception being for meals. Blended classes will be available for special needs students while other students will use online or hybrid models.

The school district has or is installing cameras and microphones in each classroom. Teachers can live stream their classes and post the recordings. Online students will be able to ask questions in real time and the expectations for classwork, homework and attendance are the same for all students. Students may choose to be on site, all online, or blend the two options. For example, if a parent wasn’t sure it was the best for their student to be in the building when school starts, but later becomes more comfortable with in school instruction, the change could be made. Likewise, if a student begins school in person, but later the parent feels the risk is too great, they could transition to online classes.

A third option is blended learning, using both choices at various times throughout the term. It may be for health or other reasons.

Students must attend virtual class sessions as assigned to be counted as present. If a student logs in, completes and returns assigned work on time, they are counted as present.

In all instances, whatever option is utilized, the student is eligible for extracurricular activities.

More information and forms are available on the Watonga Public Schools website.

Connie Burcham can be reached at Editor@WatongaRepublican.com