Covid-19 Parent/Student Handbook

CESD COVID-19 PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Cape Elizabeth School District COVID-19 Parent/Student Handbook

1 CESD COVID-19 PARENT/STUDENT HANDBOOK

Message for Parents

Cape Elizabeth School District (CESD) is committed to partnering with our parents and families to provide our students with a continuation of their education, as best we can, during this difficult time without overwhelming students or their families. In response to COVID-19, CESD will comply with the guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), as well as the State of Maine, which are incorporated herein. This handbook is designed to provide you with essential information you will need to help us accomplish our goal. Our hope is that this handbook provides the building blocks for a system that can be expanded should the closure of schools continue for an extended period of time. As the information regarding COVID-19 is constantly changing, this plan will be updated as needed. All major updates to the plan will be posted on the CESD Website and communicated via PowerSchool Alerts. Therefore, you should plan to check the CESD website daily. School or class specific changes to the plan will be communicated via the principal or classroom teacher.

In closing thank you for your diligence, patience and continued support.

Sincerely yours,

Donna Wolfrom, Superintendent

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Message for Parents 2

COMMUNICATION 5

Instructional Program 6

Transportation 8

PARENT CONTRACT- RETURN TO SCHOOL 10

Daily COVID-19 Checklist- Student 11

Reporting Absences 12

Returning to School After An Illness-Related Absence 12

COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions 17

Additional resources 20

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COMMUNICATION

Ongoing communication is a critical element of flexible and remote learning. The following tools will be used to communicate with families:

Communication Tool Purpose How to Access the Tool

CESD website To provide updated https://www.cape.k12.me.us/ information regarding the continuing education plan, announcements, resources and access to individual school websites, along with principals’ and teachers’ webpages.

CESD Facebook To provide updated Cape Elizabeth Schools information regarding the (requires a Facebook account to continuing education plan, access) announcements, and resources.

PowerSchool Alert To provide updated CESD will notify the telephone information regarding the number and/or email address continuing education plan, listed for family contact on file announcements, and with the District. Please make resources sure the telephone number and email address that you want to receive district alerts is on file with your child’s school.

PowerSchool Absence Click here for a tutorial of how Reporting to report an absence

School Nurse Contact To discuss students’ Pond Cove: Erin Taylor Information symptoms, medical follow Middle School: Jill Young up, other health related High School: Karen Jenkins questions or concerns

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Principal and Teacher To provide school and class Go to CESD Website Webpages specific announcements, Click on “SITES” at the top of access to Google the page to locate your child’s Classroom and school. Scroll to the bottom of conference/instructional the school page to MENU. Click times and resources on STAFF to be brought to the staff list. The principal and teachers web pages are listed in alphabetical order by last name. Click on the name and the web page will appear.

Google Classroom The place where the Follow the instructions above teacher places assignments for accessing the teacher web and announcements page. Go to the teacher web page and follow the instructions for accessing Google Classroom

ZOOM This tool will allow you to Follow the instructions above communicate directly with for accessing the teacher web your child’s teacher and is page. Go to the teacher web for your child to attend page and click the link for Zoom instructional sessions or Conferencing. receive help either online or via the telephone.

Instructional Program

Instructional Models Pond Cove -Schedule

Middle School-Schedule

High School -Schedule

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Google Classroom ● Google Classroom will be used as our main learning platform to remain connected with our students, assign, and assess work. ● Parents/Students can access Google Classroom via the teacher webpage by following the instructions for accessing Google Classroom in the Communication chart above. ● Google has parent tutorials if assistance is needed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqxCfihxEVw ● Students will be able to see and complete their assignments and receive timely feedback from their teachers through Google Classroom.

DATA PRIVACY & SECURITY DURING REMOTE LEARNING:

Cape Elizabeth School District can only ensure the safety of your child's digital footprint and identity if he/she/they are using the district-approved applications listed above. The use of any other websites/applications or social media platforms is at the discretion of the parent. We strongly encourage you to read the privacy policies of any non-district approved applications to ensure that your child's identity is properly protected. If you are unsure whether a resource is approved by the district, please contact your school. As a community, we must all remain especially vigilant about cyber-security in the weeks and months ahead.

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Transportation

Please note that parents will not be allowed into the school buildings to drop off/ pick up their child.

Traffic Safety:

Your child’s safety is of utmost importance to us. In order for the CESD to provide a safe environment for your child, we need your help. If your child does not ride the bus, please abide by the following requests:

I. Drop-Off / Pick-up Process:

If carpooling, families are advised to carpool with the same stable group of people. Everyone in the vehicle should wear a mask. Open vehicle windows and maximize outdoor air circulation. Parents should remain in the vehicle. Students may exit the vehicle at designated drop off points when instructed to do so.

II. Bus Transportation: ● School transportation will be provided for those families who are unable to drop off or pick up students. ● Regular school day hours may need to be adjusted and staggered to meet transportation and safe pick-up/drop-off procedures. ● Bus Schedules will be available when developed. ● Students are required to wear face coverings while riding the bus. ● Students are expected to observe proper physical distancing at bus stops and at school when being loaded onto buses. ● All buses being used will be cleaned and disinfected before and after each bus run. ● Drop off and pick-up procedures will be amended/updated (per CDC guidelines) to ensure health and safety requirements are met.

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● Up to two (2) children will be allowed in the school van, depending on the size of the van. If a second adult monitor is required, only one (1) child will be allowed. The total capacity of a van should not exceed three (3) people at any given time. Face coverings will be required in the van. ● Bus/van drivers will clean and disinfect frequently-touched surfaces between uses. ● Students will be picked up at the same bus stop each morning. Only students assigned to the bus will be allowed to board. ● Students will be dropped off at the same bus stop each afternoon. Only students assigned to the bus will be allowed to board.

On the bus:

1. Students will be assigned seating on the bus. Students will sit one to a seat to establish necessary physical distancing. 2. Tape marks and signage will show students where to sit. 3. To minimize contact between passengers, buses will be loaded from back to front and unloaded from front to back whenever possible. 4. Windows will be open if the weather allows to improve ventilation on the bus.

Health and Safety

The Cape Elizabeth School District has established procedures that adhere to the CDC guidelines in order to create and maintain a safe environment. The health and safety of students and employees are the district’s top priority. This document will be updated to reflect best practices as recommended by the CDC.

1. Before the start of the school year:

Parents must complete the Powerschool Portal form entitled Parent Contract - COVID-19 Return to School (see a sample below). Please contact your child’s school if you need a paper copy of this form. Your child will not be permitted to attend their first day of school if this form has not been completed.

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PARENT CONTRACT- RETURN TO SCHOOL

*THIS FORM MUST BE COMPLETED IN POWERSCHOOL

Parent Contract- COVID-19 Return to School

The Cape Elizabeth School Department (CESD) has established procedures that adhere to the CDC guidelines in order to create and maintain a safe environment. The health and safety of students and employees are the district’s top priority. This requires your help and compliance. However, during these uncertain times, the CESD cannot guarantee that your child will not be exposed to COVID-19 while at school. If you have any questions about this contract, please contact your child’s school administrator.

Please read and sign the following prior to the first day of school. Students will not be permitted to enter the building without a signed contract on file.

❏ I have read and understand the CESD COVID-19 Parent Handbook. ❏ I have read, understand, and agree to comply with the expectations of myself and my child. ❏ I agree to complete the daily symptom checklist honestly and to report absences related to these symptoms per building protocol. ❏ I have a plan in place to pick up my child from school within 30 minutes of being contacted by the school nurse should my child become ill while on school grounds. ❏ I agree to follow the guidance and recommendations of the school nurse related to COVID-19 symptoms and the return to school. ❏ I agree to comply with state travel guidelines. ❏ I understand that school closure could occur at any given time which may result in 100% remote learning. ❏ I understand that COVID-19 guidelines are subject to change.

______- ______

Parent Signature Date

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2. Before arrival to school: Parents will complete a symptom checklist on their child(ren) in accordance with recommendations by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Any child exhibiting signs or symptoms of COVID-19, or students who were potentially exposed to someone displaying these signs or symptoms will not be permitted into the school building. Students who travel out of state will be expected to follow the current Maine CDC guidelines upon returning to Maine.

3. Click here for a video tutorial for parents about the COVID-19 screening checklist, reporting absences, and what to do if your child has symptoms. (NEW 10/16/20)

Daily COVID-19 Checklist- Student

Please check your child’s temperature every morning prior to scheduled classroom instruction and then answer the screening questions on this link (UPDATE 10/13/2020)

Please contact your child’s school nurse if you are unable to get a thermometer or a daily temperature check.

We recognize that attendance is important. Keeping your child home for even mild symptoms is essential to protect the health and safety of our school and community. We anticipate a higher than usual rate of absences related to the pandemic. Measures will be in place to support your child if they have to stay home.

Reporting Absences

All absences must be reported through the PowerSchool parent portal. The “reason for absence” is required to complete the form. Health information will be kept confidential. Your child’s school nurse may follow-up with you depending on the reason for your child’s absence.

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Consult with your child’s healthcare provider if your child is absent for COVID-related symptoms or exposure. They will advise you about the possible need for COVID-19 testing and when your child will be able to return to school.

Communication between the parent and school nurse is important during your child’s absence.

Please click here for a tutorial on how to report an absence in Powerschool.

What do I do if my child failed the daily COVID-19 screening or is sent home sick from school? (UPDATED 10/13/20)

Please refer to this link.

Returning to School After An Illness-Related Absence

● A note from your child’s medical provider is required to return to school. ● Students should check in with their school nurse upon their return to school.

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Definition of Exposure to COVID-19 The Maine CDC defines “exposure” as an individual who has had close contact (<6ft) for a period greater than or equal to (>) 15 minutes with a person who has tested positive for COVID-19. This is the definition of exposure the CESD will use when determining contact tracing processes and protocols.

Contact Tracing & Notifications

Communication involving a positive case within the CESD community will be by Central Office, under the guidance of the Maine CDC.

Whenever a positive case of COVID-19 is confirmed within the CESD, the building school nurse will work with the Maine CDC liaison for the district to determine those who may have been exposed to the individual in question using the definition of “exposure” listed above. The CDC and/or school nurses will contact individual(s) who may possibly have been exposed. Individuals who are notified of an exposure should self quarantine for a period of 10 days AND reach out to their child’s healthcare provider to discuss COVID-19 testing.

Maine Travel Restriction Guidelines

The CESD will be adhering to the Governor’s Orders for travel out of Maine. Students who travel out of state will be expected to follow the current Maine Travel Advisory Guidelines upon returning to Maine. This may include quarantining at home and monitoring for symptoms for 14 days or providing proof of a negative COVID test.

Upon Arrival to School:

I. Hand hygiene: Hand sanitizer will be available on all buses, at the entrance of each building, in each classroom, at the main office, and throughout the school buildings. Students will also have access to soap and water in the school buildings.

Students should sanitize or wash hands with soap and water: ● when boarding the bus ● upon arrival to school and before dismissal ● before/after each class (MS and HS level)

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● before/after donning/removing a face covering ● before/after eating snack and lunch ● before/after recess and movement breaks ● after using the restroom ● after coughing/sneezing/blowing nose ● before/after touching common surface areas ● before and after using the playground and shared equipment

Hand washing and hand hygiene videos: What you need to know about handwashing (CDC) - CDC Hand washing videos: Clean Hands Save Lives - multiple videos listed Proper Hand washing Technique (K-4) WHO: #Safe Hands Challenge (MS/HS)

II. Face Coverings:

All students in grades K-12 must wear a face covering at all times while on the school bus and on school property with the exception of designated face covering breaks and eating times.

● The face covering must be fitted to cover both the student’s nose and mouth.

● Face masks with valves, gaiters, and bandanas do not provide adequate protection and are not allowed.

● Face shields: Because they do not provide as much protection as a mask, medical documentation of need is required for a student to wear a face shield. They will also need to maintain 6 ft distancing from other students. ○ Face shields may be an option for those students with medical, behavioral, or other challenges who are unable to wear masks/face coverings.

● Transparent masks may be considered, if available, for both teachers and students in classes for deaf and hard of hearing students. They may also be useful for teachers and younger students who rely on visual / facial cues.

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Parent Expectations: ● Send child to school with at least 2 face coverings per day ● Non-disposable face coverings should be washed daily ● Practice with your child the proper way to wear face coverings. Use videos below as a guide.

Student Expectations: ● Wear a face covering that is properly fitted to cover mouth and nose while on school grounds and when riding the school bus. ● If face covering becomes wet during the day, replace face covering.

School Expectation: ● If a child does not have a face mask and/or replacement available during the day, one will be provided. ● Please contact your student’s administrator should you need assistance providing masks/face coverings.

Face covering resources and videos: CDC: Use of Cloth Face Coverings to Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19 Includes: How to Wear Cloth Face Coverings Washing Cloth Face Coverings CDC: Prevent COVID-19 - Wear A Face Covering How to Safely Wear and Take Off a Cloth Face Covering COVID-19 and Mask Myths DEBUNKED! Bill Nye the Science Guy Explains the Importance of Masks CDC: Considerations for Wearing Masks Help Slow the Spread of COVID-19

III. Social Distancing:

Social distancing of 6 feet or greater will be maintained throughout the school day as feasible.

Expectations for students: ● Follow arrows and signage for proper movement throughout the building. ● Use designated markings on the floor to allow for proper distancing when waiting to enter a classroom or other room (e.g. outside bathrooms, outside nurse office, etc.), line up at the sink, etc.

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● Classroom desks will be placed 6 feet apart from each other. Students are to keep their desk in the assigned spot. ● Only bring materials needed for their scheduled education day. All student belongings will remain with the student during the day. ● Avoid sharing electronic devices, toys, books, art supplies and other games or learning aids within the classroom. ● Avoid bringing toys to school. ● Bring a reusable water bottle: students will have access to water refill stations but will not have access to water fountains during the day.

Social distancing videos: CDC: Social Distancing Social Distancing Explained Explaining Social Distancing to Children: Meet the Helpers

IV. Food Services: ● Six foot distancing will be maintained while students are eating. ● Existing school safety protocols will be followed for students with food allergies. ● Students will be required to wash their hands prior to and after eating.

V. Visitor Policy During COVID-19:

● Visitors (including parents) and volunteers will not be permitted in the building. ● Parents should refrain from dismissing their children from school unless pick up is advised by school staff. Efforts should be made to schedule appts during remote learning days.

COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions

The CESD school nurses will be following guidelines provided by the Maine CDC and the Maine DOE. Parents are encouraged to contact their child’s school nurse to report any medical conditions so the school nurse can make a plan to accommodate those needs.

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1. How long do I keep my student home if they have been sick with a confirmed case of COVID-19? A student must remain home for: ● At least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared. AND ● At least 24 hours have passed since recovery which is defined as a resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and improvement in respiratory symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath)

● Siblings and household members also stay home during the 10 day quarantine.

● A “Release from Isolation” letter is required before a child can return to school. The case (or parent) must request this from the CDC and share with the school.

Students will not be penalized for being absent from school due to COVID-19. Your child’s school administrators and teachers will work with your family to ensure that your child does not fall behind in their academic instruction. CDC: Discontinuation of Isolation for Persons with COVID-19 Ending COVID-19 Isolation in Non-Healthcare Setting

2. What happens if my child exhibits signs of COVID-19 while at school? An ill-appearing student will be triaged by the school nurse. Any child exhibiting a temperature of 100.4 or greater, or possible COVID-related symptoms will be isolated. The school nurse will contact the child’s parent or emergency contact to arrange dismissal. The school nurse will advise you to consult with your child’s healthcare provider for further guidance. It is the responsibility of the parent/guardian or emergency contact to dismiss the student from school within 30 minutes of the school nurse’s phone call. ● Before the start of the school year, please update all phone numbers of parent/guardian and emergency contacts listed in Powerschool.

● If the school nurse is not able to reach a parent/guardian on initial call, she will immediately move to the next available contact number listed for the student.

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● Parents need to make dismissal arrangements with their emergency contacts if the parent/guardian will be unavailable during school hours.

3. What is the protocol for other siblings/other household members if one child is sick?

4. What happens if a positive case of COVID-19 is confirmed in the school?

○ Cape Elizabeth Schools will follow the direction of the Maine CDC if a positive case of COVID-19 is reported in one of the school buildings. These local health officials will help the administrators determine a course of action for school. ○ School nurses and other school officials will assist with contact tracing as needed. ○ If school closures are indicated, parents will receive a notification via text alert and email.

5. What is the difference between ISOLATE and QUARANTINE? (NEW 10/16/20)

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Click here for guidelines on testing, quarantine, and isolation.

6. How can I learn more about COVID-19? The CDC has many resources available about COVID-19 on their website.

Additional resources What to Expect if My Child Needs a Nasal Swab COVID-19 Test (NEW 10/7/20) Symptoms of Coronavirus How to Protect Yourself and Others The Coronavirus Explained to Children ME Department of Education Coronavirus Update: Resources for Parents ME Department of Education Coronavirus Update: Framework for Returning to Classroom Instruction American Academy of Pediatrics Resources for Families Maine Academy of Pediatrics: Return to School Return to School During the COVID pandemic Back to School Planning: Checklists to Guide Parents, Guardians, and Caregivers State of Maine 2019 Coronavirus (COVID-19) Frequently Asked Questions