NPPSD Pandemic Plan
Return to School Plan 2020-21 October 29, 2020
Dear NPPS students, staff, families, and community, Thank you for your support and understanding as we, as a nation, state, and community, responded to the unexpected interruption of the COVID-19 in March. I am very proud of the way our NPPS students, staff, parents, and community leaders handled the demands we were faced with to protect everyone as we continued to educate, provide mental health services, and feed our students during the most unfamiliar conditions. As you know, there continues to be concerns and questions related to how schools plan to reopen in August 2020. While we are in the business of educating, our first priority is the safety of our students and staff. Be certain, we have been working diligently on our NPPS 2020- 2021 Return-to-School Plans. Due to all the factors and information needed to plan as COVID-19 issues unfold, the comprehensive NPPS Return to School Plan will be released on or before Thursday, July 27th. Our plan is to return to school in person with enhanced safety and cleaning procedures. However, we must be proactive and be prepared during these ever-changing times to continue educating our students if and when circumstances change, as predicted, throughout the year related to the health and safety of our students and staff. We have gathered input from parents, staff, community stakeholders, administrators, state leaders, the Nebraska Department of Education, and medical professionals via surveys, committee meetings and work sessions, and weekly West Center District Health Department Command Center meetings. Administrators have been planning for increased safety procedures that can be taken at every location. North Platte Public Schools, in collaboration with the Nebraska Department of Education and West Central District Health Department, has developed guidance to support the district and community in determining their plans and strategies for reopening schools. NPPS’ Return-to-School Plan provides a tiered approach with clear, actionable steps that are advisable before students and staff return to school buildings, along with guidance that is applicable throughout the 2020-2021 school year. This plan is developed upon the guidance and recommendations of health officials; it is to a great extent aligned to the reopening guidelines that have been provided by our state and federal leaders, and it’s designed to help districts prioritize the health and safety of students and teachers as they open school buildings and deliver instruction for the 2020-2021 school year. I encourage parents to frequently visit our webpage nppsd.org and follow our social media for up to date and accurate information. There is some misinformation being disseminated which leads to unnecessary confusion. Everyone must understand there is no way for us to please all as we make these decisions. Our priority is to keep everyone safe while not making life more difficult for our parents and guardians. Each family situation is uniquely different. We fully understand your varied concerns about health and safety, distance learning, the importance of face-to-face instruction, parents needing to work, the economy, and all of the other unexpected consequences of not being in school or being in school in a traditional method. NPPS is planning to start school in August with the following guidance: ● Students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person. ● Accommodations will be made for K-12 students who are unable to attend in-person to utilize online learning through Zoom, Google Classroom, Edgenuity, and other remote learning tools. Students will have recorded lessons available with the possibility of some live instruction.
▪ Remote Learning Requirement Forms: Elementary, Middle School, High School ●
Based on current recommendations from WCDHD and to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, NPPS highly recommends face-coverings to be worn by students and staff, at all times. This recommendation is subject to change based on the risk dial and guidelines set forth by federal, state, and local health and education officials. All other approved individuals who need access to the schools are required to wear face-coverings at all times while in any NPPS facility (pending personal health concerns). NPPS will provide cloth face covering for students and staff who do not have them available. Students are welcome to bring and wear their own appropriate multilayered cloth face coverings.
Click Here for more information on the CDC recommendation on face coverings. By July 27, school administrators will finalize school plans and begin sharing with parents regarding their Return to School Plans for the upcoming school year. As we continue the NPPS Return to School planning process, we will keep you updated. Thank you for your continued support and positivity as we strive to do what is best for all of our students and staff during these challenging times, and for making the North Platte School District a great place to work and learn.
Dr. Ron Hanson NPPS Superintendent
Table of Contents 1. Considerations and Recommendations 2. COVID-19 Information and Proactive Measurements 3. Student Attendance 4. Practice Prevention 5. Arrival, Entering, Exiting, and Dismissal 6. Transporting Students 7. Serving Meals 8. Transitioning 9. Conducting Large Group Gatherings 10. Extracurricular Return to Play 11. Protecting Vulnerable Populations 12. When a Child or Staff Member Becomes Sick 13. Outdoor Readiness 14. Technology 15. Teaching and Learning Staff Support 16. Staff Social and Emotional Readiness 17. Elementary Student Academic Readiness 18. Secondary Student Academic Readiness 19. Student Social and Emotional Readiness 20. Special Education Staff Readiness 21. Special Education Student Readiness 22. PreSchool Staff Readiness 23. PreSchool Student Readiness 24. Kids Klub 25. Health Services 26. Community Readiness 27. Communication - Internal and External 28. Collaborative Plan
NPPS Considerations and Recommendations for Schools
North Platte Public Schools, in partnership with the Nebraska Department of Education and West Central District Public Health, has developed guidance to support the district and community in determining their plans and strategies for reopening schools. NPPS’ Return-to-School Plan provides a tiered approach with clear, actionable steps that are advisable before students and employees return to school buildings, along with guidance that is applicable throughout the 2020-2021 school year. This approach is built upon the guidance and recommendations of health officials; it is strongly aligned to the reopening guidelines that have been provided by our state and federal leaders, and it’s designed to help districts prioritize the health and safety of students and teachers as they open school buildings and deliver instruction for the 2020-2021 school year. North Platte Public Schools focuses heavily on the health and physical requirements necessary for reopening school buildings. The Nebraska Department of Education will continue to provide guidance and recommendations to districts and schools on navigating the academic, social, and emotional effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on students and employees. There are many details that still need to be considered and we will announce more detailed information as we get closer to August. Below is the framework and North Platte Public Schools Pandemic Procedures information we have available at this time to help answer some of your questions.
Update 10-28-20: NEW GUIDELINE SURROUNDING RED ON THE COMMUNITY RISK DIAL At NPPS, the health and safety of our students, staff, and the families we serve is of utmost importance to us. We will continue to err on the side of caution when making decisions regarding teaching and learning as we move through this pandemic together. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
If the Community Risk Dial moves to 'red' North Platte Public Schools may not resort to Remote Learning as outlined in the information below. If the Community Risk Dial elevates into the 'red' zone, NPPS will continue to work with the West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) and the Nebraska Department of Education (NDE) to implement plans and protocols for continued in-person learning. Along with using the Community Risk Factors, NPPS will continue to use District Internal Factors, including the number of students and staff who are either quarantined or isolated weekly to make an informed decision. We will follow WCDHD and NDE recommendations to provide in-person learning while controlling and reducing the spread of COVID-19. NPPS will continue to collaborate with the WCDHD and NDE to evaluate and adjust our plans according to our community and schools' needs. Our primary objectives are to keep students and staff safe and school operating in-person learning. We know that the best place to provide educational, social, and emotional support to our students is in the school buildings. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classroom, schools, and/ or the district may resort to remote learning as a safe alternative.
WCDHD COVID-19 Risk Dial The NPPS Pandemic Procedures for students and staff will align with the weekly updates to the WCDHD COVID-19 Risk Dial. These procedures and school safety measures are subject to change based on recommendations and health directives by the West Central District Health Department. These procedures do not relate to any extracurricular activities or sports.
 COVID-19 Information and Proactive Actions
CDC COVID-19 Information to Reduce Your Risk Definitions Recommendations regarding face coverings differ based on the level of community spread and can be found throughout this document. Information should be provided to staff, students, and families on proper use, removal, and washing of cloth face coverings. Any policy regarding face coverings should be sensitive to the needs of students and staff with medical issues that make the wearing of a face-covering inadvisable. Face Coverings
CDC Guidance Hand sanitizers should contain at least 60% alcohol and only used with staff and older children who can safely use hand sanitizer. Hand soap should be used for younger children.
Hand Sanitizer
CDC Guidance
Ensure the safe and correct application of disinfectants and keep out of reach of children.
Clean/Disinfect
CDC Guidance
Many things have changed from March 2020 to October 2020. Please take a look at this information to understand better what we can now do to help keep our schools open.
School Attendance
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk ● Students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person. ● Accommodations will be made for K-12 students who are unable to attend in-person to utilize online learning through Zoom, Google Classroom, Edgenuity, and other remote learning tools. Students will have recorded lessons available with the possibility of some live instruction. ● Based on current recommendations from WCDHD and to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, NPPS will require face coverings to be worn by students, staff, visitors, and other building users while at school. NPPS will provide cloth face covering for students and staff who do not have them available. Students are welcome to bring and wear their own appropriate multilayered cloth face coverings. When schools have a direct and/or secondary contact. Face coverings will be required. ● West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) offers information to help residents understand their risk of COVID-19. When WCDHD is investigating a positive case, contacts are placed into the following risk categories. ● Direct contacts are those who do not yet have COVID-19 but have been exposed to a positive case. They are high risk and most likely to develop symptoms of COVID-19. Direct contact is being closer than 6 feet for 10 to 15 minutes or more, without a mask with someone who has the virus and is contagious. ○ Direct contacts are to self-quarantine at home for 14 days after the last date of exposure to a positive case. ○ Secondary contacts are those who have been around a direct contact. Secondary contacts have lower risk of getting COVID-19 because the exposure is to a direct contact who may not be contagious. The secondary contact is not an exposure to a positive COVID-19 case. T hey are asked to self-monitor for symptoms, in the rare case they might become positive for COVID-19. ○ Third, fourth, fifth contacts etc. are those who have been around someone who was around someone who was exposed to the virus. Their risk is extremely low. They are asked to follow the same guidelines as the general public – wash hands often, clean commonly touched surfaces, keep a 6-foot distance from people outside your home, and wear a mask when you can’t keep your distance. Click Here for more information on the CDC recommendation on face coverings. Remote Learning Requirement Forms: Elementary, Middle School, High School
Orange - High Risk ● Students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person. ● Accommodations will be made for K-12 students who are unable to attend in-person to utilize online learning through Zoom, Google Classroom, and other remote learning tools. Students will have recorded lessons available with the possibility of some live instruction. ● In high school (grades 9-12) it MAY be necessary to reduce the number of students in grades 9-12 in the building at one time by utilizing an alternate schedule. If this is the case, additional details will be provided ahead of time. ● Based on current recommendations from WCDHD and to help reduce the spread of COVID-19, NPPS requires face-coverings to be worn by students and staff, at all times. This recommendation is subject to change based on the risk dial and guidelines set forth by federal, state, and local health and education officials. All other approved individuals who need access to the schools are required to wear face-coverings at all times while in any NPPS facility (pending personal health concerns).
NPPS will provide cloth face covering for students and staff who do not have them available. Students are welcome to bring and wear their own appropriate multilayered cloth face coverings. When schools have a direct and/or secondary contact. Face coverings will be required. ● West Central District Health Department (WCDHD) offers information to help residents understand their risk of COVID-19. When WCDHD is investigating a positive case, contacts are placed into the following risk categories. ● Direct contacts are those who do not yet have COVID-19 but have been exposed to a positive case. They are high risk and most likely to develop symptoms of COVID-19. Direct contact is being closer than 6 feet for 10 to 15 minutes or more, without a mask with someone who has the virus and is contagious. ○ Direct contacts are to self-quarantine at home for 14 days after the last date of exposure to a positive case. ○ Secondary contacts are those who have been around a direct contact. Secondary contacts have lower risk of getting COVID-19 because the exposure is to a direct contact who may not be contagious. The secondary contact is not an exposure to a positive COVID-19 case. T hey are asked to self-monitor for symptoms, in the rare case they might become positive for COVID-19. ○ Third, fourth, fifth contacts etc. are those who have been around someone who was around someone who was exposed to the virus. Their risk is extremely low. They are asked to follow the same guidelines as the general public – wash hands often, clean commonly touched surfaces, keep a 6-foot distance from people outside your home, and wear a mask when you can’t keep your distance.
Click here for more information on the CDC recommendation on face coverings
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Practice Prevention
Green - Low Risk ● Teach and reinforce good hygiene measures such as handwashing, covering coughs, and face coverings ● Provide hand soap and hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, paper towels, and no-touch trash cans in all bathrooms, classrooms, and frequently trafficked areas
Yellow - Moderate Risk District/School Considerations: ● Teach and reinforce good hygiene measures such as handwashing, covering coughs, and face coverings ● Provide hand soap and hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, paper towels, and no-touch trash cans in all bathrooms, classrooms, and frequently trafficked areas ● Post signage in classrooms, hallways, and entrances to communicate how to stop the spread. COVID-19 symptoms, preventative measures (including staying home when sick), good hygiene, and school/district specific protocols. ● Clean/disinfect frequently touched surfaces at least daily and shared objects after each use ● Allow students and staff to bring hand sanitizer and face masks/coverings to use from home ● Require students and staff to wear face-covering and other appropriate PPE ● Take steps to ensure all water systems and features are safe ● Ensure ventilation systems operate properly and increase the circulation of outdoor air as much as possible, as long as this does not pose a safety or health risk to students or staff ● Conduct deep cleaning of schools prior to students/staff returning; schedule periodic cleanings during weekends or school holidays/breaks (to the extent practicable) Reopening Guidance for Cleaning and Disinfecting Schools Nebraska Department of Health and Human Resources Six Rules to Stay Safe - DHHS CEO Dannette Smith Guidance for Reopening Buildings After Prolonged Shutdown
Roadmap for Facilities
Orange - High Risk ● Same considerations/protocol listed in yellow will be utilized as guidance. ● Require students and staff to wear face-covering and other appropriate PPE
Red - Severe Risk District/School Considerations: ● Use social media and other communications to inform parents, students, and staff about COVID-19 symptoms, preventative measures, good hygiene, and school/district specific protocols ● Encourage COVID-19 testing How to Protect Yourself and Others
COVID-19 Symptoms
COVID-19 and Children
Communication Tools
Nebraska Department of Public Health website
CDC COVID-19 Self-Checker
Arrival, Entering, Exiting, and Dismissal
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk District/School Considerations: ● Implement standard operating procedures while taking preventative measures such as: ○ Provide hand sanitizer for students and staff and require the use of face-coverings for anyone entering the buildings ○ Limit unnecessary congregations of students and staff ○ Pick and Drop off times will be determined and communicated to parents ■ Students will enter buildings through designated doors based on building and location o 7:15-7:45 main entrance 7:45-8:05 assigned drop off and pick up and school entrance ● Parents will not be allowed to enter the building with students ○ Only Preschool and Kindergarten Parents will be allowed to enter to sign students in/out but this will be conducted at the door if at all possible ○ Post signage in classrooms, hallways, and entrances to communicate how to stop the spread. COVID-19 symptoms, preventative measures (including staying home when sick), good hygiene, and school/district specific protocols ○ Establish a protocol for students/staff who feel ill/experience symptoms when they come to school (see When a Child, Staff Member, or Visitor Becomes Sick at School) ○ Stickers on the floor in designated areas will honor social distancing ● Establish a protocol for visitors: ○ calling the front office before entering ○ screening visitors (screening questions will be on the signage in all entrances) ○ requiring the use of face coverings/masks, etc. ● Outside Volunteers will not be allowed to enter during the Pandemic ○ Teammates ○ RSVP ○ Grandparents ● Establish a protocol for Students and Staff that enter the building early for practice American Health Care Association • COVID-19 Screening Checklist for Visitors Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) • Coronavirus Warning Poster for Entrances
Orange - High Risk District/School Considerations: ● Post signage in classrooms, hallways, and entrances to communicate how to stop the spread. COVID-19 symptoms, preventative measures (including staying home when sick), good hygiene, and school/district specific protocols. ● Establish a protocol for students/staff who feel ill/experience symptoms when they come to school (see When a Child, Staff Member, or Visitor Becomes Sick at School) ● Mark spaced lines to enter the building and designate entrance and exit flow paths ● Staff only- Mandatory- screening questions including temps upon arrival- Raptor program- self temps checks at stations ● Screen students- To be determined (to the extent practicable & building specific): o Take temperatures ideally before entering buildings
o Isolate and send home if temperature maintains at 100°F (38°C) o Consider safety and privacy concerns (confidentiality should be maintained) ● Establish a protocol for visitors: calling the front office before entering, screening visitors, requiring the use of face coverings/masks, etc. Restrict access to nonessential visitors and no volunteers. ● Establish a protocol for student pick/drop up: staggered entry and release (by grade)
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning. ● All essential staff will report as needed. NDE Guidance
NE Department of Public Health Guidance
Transporting Students
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk District/School Considerations: ● All field trips will be suspended until further notice ● Middle School transportation will be provided on a limited basis for activities busing between schools. ● Transportation for special needs students: o Implement standard operating procedures while taking preventative measures such as ■ Provide hand sanitizer for students and staff and Provide face masks for bus drivers; require students to wear face masks/coverings pending health conditions ■ Limit unnecessary congregations of students and staff ■ Establish a protocol for students/staff who feel ill/experience symptoms when they come to school (see When a Child, Staff Member, or Visitor Becomes Sick at School) ● Establish protocols for bus stops, loading/unloading students to minimize the congregation of children from different households o Special Education/ELL/Project Search o Parents will be surveyed and Students will be screened on entering the bus ■ Temperature checks may be implemented- Temp must be under 100.0 F (38 c) to ride the bus o Students will wear a face coverings o If a student cannot wear a mask; they will be seated according to CDC guidelines ■ If a student with a disability cannot remove their own mask or cannot keep one on because of their disability, they will not be required to wear one. ■ We will be providing face shields for students to ensure safe transportation ● Allowing bus drivers and students to wear face coverings/face shields during transportation o Social Distance will be implemented ● Cleaning and disinfecting frequently American Health Care Association • COVID-19 Screening Checklist for Visitors Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM) • Coronavirus Warning Poster for Entrances
Orange - High Risk District/School Considerations: ● All field trips will be suspended until further notice ● Middle School transportation will be provided on a limited basis for activities busing between schools. ● Transportation for special needs students: ○ Implement standard operating procedures while taking preventative measures such as ○ Provide hand sanitizer for students and bus drivers ○ Provide face masks for bus drivers; require students to wear face masks/coverings pending health conditions ○ Screen students and bus drivers for symptoms of illness and utilize spaced seating (to the extent practicable) ○ Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces on the bus at least daily ● Establish protocols for bus stops, loading/unloading students to minimize the congregation of children from different households
○ Parents will be surveyed & Special Education students will be screened on entering the bus ■ Temperature checks will be implemented- Temp must be under 100.0 F (38 c) to ride the bus ○ Students will need to wear a mask/face shield ■ If a student cannot wear a mask; they will be seated according to CDC guidelines ■ If a student with a disability cannot remove their own mask or cannot keep one on because of their disability, they will not be required to wear one. ■ The District will be providing face shields for students to ensure safe transportation ● Allowing bus drivers and students to wear masks/face shields during transportation ○ Social Distance will be implemented ● Cleaning and disinfecting frequently CDC Guidance What Bus Operators Need to Know
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Meals
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk District/School Considerations: ● Implement standard operating procedures while taking preventative measures such as: ○ Providing hand sanitizer for students and staff ○ Use disposable plates, trays, utensils, etc… ● K-5 Student Population ○ 1-5 students will consume breakfast and lunch meals in their classrooms ○ KDG students will consume meals in the multipurpose room; additional tables will be required to accommodate social distance ○ K-5 all lunch meal items placed on trays by food service staff or dining room paras ○ Lunch self-service food items such as salad bars, share carts, condiments will not be offered ○ POS classroom rosters for K-5 Breakfast for non-CEP schools ● 6-12 student population ○ Breakfast meals either - Breakfast In Classroom or Grab & Go when entering school ○ Lunch self-service food items such as salad bars, share carts, condiments will not be offered ○ All meals will have a reduction in menu selections and the use of portion-controlled condiments ○ POS scanning of student ID’s to purchase meals vs keypad entry ● School visitors will not be allowed to purchase and eat meals with students ● Outside meal deliveries for students and staff is not allowed ● Requiring students and staff to wear face coverings while in large group gatherings ● Conducting cleaning of cafeterias and high-touch surfaces throughout the operational day and between classes during meal service
Orange - High Risk ● The same considerations/protocols listed in yellow will be utilized as guidance.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Transitioning
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk District/School Considerations: ● Implement standard operating procedures while taking preventative measures such as: ○ Providing hand sanitizer for students and staff ○ Requiring students and staff to wear face masks/coverings while in large group gatherings ○ Conducting cleaning of hallways and high-touch surfaces throughout the school day ● Designating areas of the hallway (i.e. lanes) to walk to keep students separated (to the extent practicable) ● Encourage wearing face coverings during transitions ● Reduce the amount of time transition time and be able to monitor and track cohort group movement
Orange - High Risk District/School Considerations: ● Limit mixing between groups (to the extent practicable) ● For class changes and other transitions throughout the school day: ○ Provide additional time for transitions (utilizing state seat time waiver to extend transition period) ○ Designate areas of the hallway (i.e. lanes) as flow paths to keep students separated students to minimize congregation of students ○ Plan staggered class (ex: by hall, odd/even room numbers, grade/ discipline) changes to decrease the number of students in hallways at one time ○ Have the same group of students stay with the same staff (all day for young children and as much as feasible for older children) ○ Require face coverings during transition times
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning. ● Please visit your school playbook for more information.
Conducting Large Group Gatherings
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk District/School Considerations: ● Implement standard operating procedures while taking preventative measures such as: ● Providing hand sanitizer for students ● Requiring students and staff to wear face masks/coverings ● Limiting unnecessary congregations of students and staff ● Attendance at a school activity event will follow the activities guidelines ; a school activity may be athletics; band concert; elementary music; assemblies and other events; Click Here to View the Activities Guidelines - https://issuu.com/nppsd/docs/nphs_activities_fall_covid-19_playbook Follow Nebraska School Activities Association g uidelines for sporting events and practices
Orange - High Risk District/School Considerations: ● Abide by the maximum number of people allowed to congregate as defined by the Activities Guidelines: https://issuu.com/nppsd/docs/nphs_activities_fall_covid-19_playbook ● Discourage the congregation of students in parking lots and common areas ● Stagger the schedule for large group gatherings (i.e. recess and school meals) ● Identify and utilize large spaces (i.e. gymnasiums, auditoriums, outside spaces – as weather permits) for social distancing ● All assemblies will be suspended accordingly ● Required face coverings and hand sanitizer ● Streaming recordings of the event will assist parents in seeing students participation; all FERPA guidelines will be honored Follow Nebraska School Activities Association g uidelines for sporting events and practices
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Extracurricular Return to Play
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk District/School Considerations: ● Implement standard operating procedures while taking preventative measures such as: ○ Providing hand sanitizer for students and staff ○ Hand Washing should occur at every opportunity to ensure the removal of germs and prevent the spread of germs to others. ○ Requiring students and staff to wear face masks/coverings ○ Limiting unnecessary congregations of students and staff ● MS Activities will be modified where all activities will occur; ○ Shared Gym Space will occur honor all safety protocol ○ Staggered Practice times could occur ● Attendance at a school activity event ○ Abide by the maximum number of people allowed to congregate as defined by the Activities Guidelines: https://issuu.com/nppsd/docs/nphs_activities_fall_covid-19_playbook ● There are no restriction on the amount of contact between students ○ All activities can began practicing on 7/1/2020 ● Transportation to activities will occur in two forms; Since coaches can take a Type 1 bus; they must comply with all safety protocol on students entering a bus Establish protocols for bus stops, loading/unloading students to minimize the congregation of children from different households Students will be required to wear a mask on the bus and seating will be according to the CDC Guidelines Screen students and bus drivers for symptoms of illness and utilize spaced seating (to the extent practicable) ● Temperature checks will occur when load a bus for an activity- Temp must be under 100.0 F (38 c) to ride bus Parents can take students to events if they are concerned about the spread ● Parents must honor students attendance at events according to the head coaches directives Cleaning and disinfecting accordingly ● Training Room Students are scheduled as needed PPE gear worn by trainers/interns (Limit 2) ● Practice Follow NSAA mandated- Temperature scan/questionnaire answered ● Lockers Rooms Cleaning and disinfecting frequently ● Participation in school activities is voluntary and every individual will need to evaluate the risk versus the benefits of activity participation. Follow Nebraska School Activities Association g uidelines for sporting events and practices ● The district follows NDE/CDC guidelines on transportation
Orange - High Risk District/School Considerations: ● Abide by the maximum number of people allowed to congregate as defined by the Governor’s current statewide Directed Health Measures ● Discourage the congregation of students in parking lots and common areas ● Stagger the schedule for large group gatherings (i.e. recess and school meals) ● Identify and utilize large spaces (i.e. gymnasiums, auditoriums, outside spaces – as weather permits) for social distancing Student Participation: ● Face coverings required. ● Depending on NSAA Guidelines; if all events are canceled then we will follow student participation in events accordingly. ● If events continue all attendance will be suspended and only online viewing will be allowed ● Students participation will be coordinated based on social distance and events. Follow Nebraska School Activities Association g uidelines for sporting events and practices
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Protecting Vulnerable Populations
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk District/School Considerations: ● Implement standard operating procedures while taking preventative measures such as: ○ Establish a point-of-contact with the local health department ○ Identify local COVID-19 testing sites ○ Provide hand sanitizer for students and staff ○ Provide PPE to vulnerable students and staff as appropriate ○ Allow vulnerable students to complete their coursework virtually ○ Allow vulnerable students and staff to wear PPE throughout the school day (to the extent practicable) ○ Establish a process for regular check-ins with vulnerable students and staff ○ Allow an early transition for vulnerable students to go to classes ○ Limit large group gatherings/ Interactions for vulnerable students and staff
Orange - High Risk District/School Considerations: ● Survey at-risk staff members to gauge their intentions in returning to work while maintaining confidentiality consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable federal and state privacy laws ● Survey families with vulnerable children to gauge their intentions in returning to a traditional school setting while maintaining confidentiality consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable federal and state privacy laws ● Provide remote/distance learning opportunities for vulnerable student populations in consultation with parents and public health officials ● Consult with local board attorneys and district human resources officials to offer special accommodations (such as an alternative teaching assignment) for personnel who are members of vulnerable populations ● Adhere to FERPA and HIPPA requirements ● Adhere to state and federal employment law and extended leave allowances ● Offer an Employee Assistance Program to all staff members
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
When a Child or Staff Member Becomes Sick
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk District/School Considerations: ● Isolation room or area to separate anyone who exhibits COVID-like symptoms- building-specific ○ Call ahead to nurses office/office prior to sending the ill student down- will meet the student at triage/assigned area ■ Traffic flow- Entrance/Exit specific ■ Well and sick triage areas- separate spaces for daily meds/diabetic cares as needed ■ Updated teacher guidelines on when to keep students in class or send to nurses office- PDF ○ COVID flow chart- PDF ■ COVID Symptoms ○ Masks or Face Covering- placed on students or staff with suspected COVID Respiratory/Cough complaints and fever over 100.0 F, if tolerated and developmentally appropriate ■ Face coverings guidance CDC ● School nurses and other health staff ○ Nurse or Health office workers in all district buildings for 100% health coverage ■ Resources- Standard and Transmission-Based Precautions when caring for sick people. See: What Healthcare Personnel Should Know About Caring for Patients with Confirmed or Possible COVID19 Infection ■ PPE appropriate- N95 masks, gowns, face shields ■ Training unlicensed personnel ○ NASN when student ill at school ○ Establish procedures for safely transporting anyone who is sick home or to a healthcare facility. ■ A parent or EMS transportation ● Notify local health officials, staff, and families immediately of a possible case while maintaining confidentiality consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable federal and state privacy laws. ○ Accurate daily attendance ○ Seating charts- assist in contact tracing ○ WCDHD contact- illness surveillance reported- weekly at a minimum ● Close off areas used by a sick person and do not use it before cleaning and disinfection. Wait 24 hours before you clean and disinfect. If it is not possible to wait 24 hours, wait as long as possible. Ensure the safe and correct application of disinfectants and keep disinfectant products away from children. ○ Notify custodian ○ Place signage to identify isolation room needs cleaned- taken down once cleaned ● Advise sick staff members and children not to return until they have met state DPH criteria to discontinue home isolation ○ MD and/or WCDHD communication & Clearance if appropriate ○ WCDHD Resources ○ When to discontinue home isolation- symptom/time/test- CDC ● Inform those who have had close contact to a person diagnosed with COVID-19 to stay home and follow state DPH guidance if symptoms develop. If a person does not have symptoms, follow appropriate state DPH guidance for home quarantine. ○ Quarantine guidelines- CDC
● Symptoms of Coronavirus ● What Healthcare Personnel Should Know About Caring for Patients with Confirmed or Possible COVID-19 Infection ● Standard Precautions ● Transmission-based Precautions ● Face coverings guidance CDC
Orange - High Risk ● The same considerations/protocols listed in yellow will be utilized as guidance.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Outdoor Readiness
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk District/School Considerations: ● Implement standard operating procedures while taking preventative measures such as: o Provide hand sanitizer for students and staff and face-coverings are required. o Limit unnecessary congregations of students and staff ▪ Students will enter buildings through designated doors based on building and location o Post signage in entrances to communicate how to stop the spread. COVID-19 symptoms, preventative measures (including staying home when sick), good hygiene, and school/district specific protocols o Establish a protocol for students/staff who feel ill/experience symptoms when they come to school (see When a Child, Staff Member, or Visitor Becomes Sick at School) ● Cleaning and disinfecting frequently based on usage of our outdoor facilities
Orange - High Risk District/School Considerations: ● All outdoor activities will honor social distance and face coverings are required. ● Cleaning and disinfecting frequently based on usage of our outdoor facilities ● Implement standard operating procedures while taking preventative measures such as: ○ Provide hand sanitizer for students and staff ○ Limit unnecessary congregations of students and staff ● Students will enter buildings through designated doors based on building and location ● Post signage in entrances to communicate how to stop the spread. COVID-19 symptoms, preventative measures (including staying home when sick), good hygiene, and school/district specific protocols ● Establish a protocol for students/staff who feel ill/experience symptoms when they come to school (see When a Child, Staff Member, or Visitor Becomes Sick at School)
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Technology
Green - Low Risk District/School Considerations: ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations. ● Prepare for the possibility of escalation of risk and need to have some or all go to remote learning. ● Students Prek-5 will utilize individual students assigned computers in carts at their school and not take devices home. ○ Parents sign device agreement form ○ Bags and Chargers are available in each classroom should need to arise to go remote. ○ Families are given the opportunity to purchase optional device insurance ○ Student support resources on the district website. ● Students in grades 6-12 are to have Chromebooks deployed 1:1 and take devices home. ● Students in grade 6-12 bring assigned Chromebook to school each day charged and ready to go. ○ Distributed through student bulldog/homeroom with labeled bags/Chromebooks for each student ○ Parents and Student sign device agreement form ○ Families are given the opportunity to purchase optional device insurance ○ Student support resources on the district website. ● Staff Training on Google Classroom, Zoom, Remind (parent communication)
Yellow - Moderate Risk District/School Considerations: Staff Support ● Submit help desk tickets through the helpdesk system at https://help.nppsd.org or contact the district technology dept. 308-535-7100 ● Secretarial & Administrative Staff are given access to utilize remote desktop system portal to access critical business office systems. ● All teaching and administrative staff have district-issued laptops for access on and off-campus. Secretarial staff will utilize sub spare laptops to go remote. ● Raptor Staff Check-in updates to support health question screenings Remote Learning support resources for students and parents ● Training and support resources provided through the district website for Zoom, Google Classroom, Clever, Edgenuity, etc. ● Technology helpline for students & parents to call 308-535-6060 Student device repairs ● NPHS students can bring devices to the media center to get assistance from district technicians & student interns (if available) ● Madison and Adam’s students bring devices to media centers to get assistance from district technicians & library media specialists. ● Elementary staff submits help desk tickets for device repair needs. ● The staff wears masks for protection. ● Staff procedures to bring in devices disinfect with antibacterial/viral wipes prior to working on equipment. ● Check-out of day-loaner devices to students if a student forgot a device, spare device carts in media centers with extra bags. ● Check-out of extended-loaner Chromebook to students for broken devices Student ID badges updated to support barcode scanning in PCS lunch in addition to raptor sign-in. ● ID badges will be distributed to all 6-12th grade students with “personID” barcodes. ● Photos were taken July 27-31 by the vendor to provide ID badges using new design and barcode by 1st day of school
● Students who miss photo opportunities will goto the office at school (Madison, Adams, NPHS) to have their photo was taken and ID badge printed. ● NPHS provides lanyards/pouches for student ID’s. ● Adams/Madison lanyards/pouches for student ID’s. Student system Schedule changes due to covid ● Infinite Campus working on rolling out solutions to accommodate for covid scheduling.
Orange - High Risk District/School Considerations: Accommodations will be made for K-12 students who are unable to attend in-person to utilize online learning through Zoom and other remote learning tools. Students will have recorded lessons available with the possibility of some live instruction. ● K-5 Students are unable to attend provide the parent a Chromebook, bag, and power adapter from the classroom teacher. Sign agreement form, provide care, and user expectations. ● PK students unable to attend provide the parent an iPad (in case), charger, and zip lock bag. Sign agreement form, provide care, and user expectations. ● Parents of Pk-5 students request device support and repair through tech helpline 308-535-6060, make arrangements to bring the device to McKinley for loaner and replacements.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning. Implement Remote Learning Plan ● PreK-5 devices are deployed to parents from school to take home and use for remote learning ○ PreK- iPads are deployed to these families, charger, iPad, ziplock bag. ○ K-5 devices deployed with bags already prepared in classrooms, staff pull chargers from carts to place in bags with Chromebooks. ○ Tech Support through Parent/Student helpline 308-535-6060 ● 6-12 devices already deployed and students already have been using them in a blended learning environment. Transition to remote learning
Teaching & Learning Staff Support
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk The following training and online resources will be made available to elementary staff to support remote learning. ● Zoom Training ○ Technology and T&L will train principals prior to 8/13/20 ○ Principals will train staff on 8/13/20 in their buildings ● Google Classroom Training ○ Technology and T&L will train principals prior to 8/13/20 ○ Principals will train staff on 8/13/20 in their buildings ● How to Link Journeys Think Central to Google Classroom ○ Technology and T&L will train principals prior to 8/13/20 ○ Principals will train staff on 8/13/20 in their buildings ● How to Link Envisions Pearson Online to Google Classroom ○ Technology and T&L will train principals prior to 8/13/20 ○ Principals will train staff on 8/13/20 in their buildings ● Additional Online Resources accessible through Clever linked via Google Classroom ○ Math: Pathblazer K-8, Envisions Easybridge, MyMath Lab [9-12] ○ English: Pathblazer K-8, Quill[6-12], Readworks [6-12], Voicethread [9-12] ○ Science: HMH Ed Your Friend in Learning [6-8]; McGraw Hill ConnectEd [9-12] ● There will be no field trips for elementary students for the first semester of the 2020-21 school year. The second semester will be determined at a later date. ○ T&L will work to find virtual field trip opportunities for our elementary students
Orange - High Risk ● The same considerations/protocols listed in yellow will be utilized as guidance.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Staff Social and Emotional Needs
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations. (Planning and reopening will continue to require a flexible and fluid approach as the information we need to make informed decisions becomes available knowing the information may change between now and August 17, or even after the school year has started. As we evaluate staffing needs and available resources, employees that have been advised by a health care provider to self-quarantine related to COVID-19, are caring for an individual who has been advised by a health care provider to self-quarantine related to COVID-19 or have childcare issues due to COVID-19, are asked to please notify Director of Human Resources, Kevin Mills, 308-696-3313 or kmills@nppsd.org
Yellow - Moderate Risk ● If any staff is found to be struggling emotionally or physically (illness) - 1st step-notify immediate supervisor; 2nd step - Supervisor notifies HR; 3rd step - evaluate mental health needed at building or send staff home; 4th - subs; 5th follow-up with staff. Mental health therapist on-call for COVID related stressors; will travel to the school to meet with staff. ● Maintain healthy operations by following CDC protocols: how to stop the spread of COVID-19, properly wash hands, promote everyday protective measures, and properly wear a face covering(suggested). Common sense social distancing wherever possible. Self-care for staff: resiliency strategies Coping with stress Helping Children cope with stress
Orange - High Risk Monitor Employee Absences: Flowchart ● (Staying Home When Appropriate) ● Plan for when a staff member, student, or visitor becomes sick: each school will need an isolation room to send people; safety measures to transport home; maintain confidentiality. ● Identify staff that may experience a high rate of absenteeism based on prior health issues. (People who need to take extra precautions) ● Monitor staff absenteeism/available subs. Implement flexible sick leave policies and practices if necessary. ● Restrict non-essential visitors, volunteers, and outside activities to all schools; cancel all field trips. ● Train or remind all staff on the appropriate use of technology, social media, and 1st amendment rights. ● Flexibility to transfer of staff to other buildings as related to enrollment numbers. ● Continue to Recruit using virtual means and zoom interviews. (recruiting)
Leave / Staff Attendance Employees will be permitted to take leave (paid or otherwise) provided by the terms of employment (staff contract, negotiated agreement, etc.) and as provided by law (e.g., ADA, FMLA, FFCRA, etc.). See below In addition, to leave required by law, policy, or contract, the district will allow employees that satisfy the COVID-19 Qualifying Criteria below to take up to 80 hours of leave (paid or unpaid, or some combination of the same) in addition to all of the forms of leave provided by the terms of employment (e.g., staff contract, negotiated agreement, etc.): COVID-19 Qualifying Criteria ● An employee has one of the following conditions that the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has identified to put Employee at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19: ○ Chronic kidney disease
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○ COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) ○ Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from solid organ transplant ○ Obesity (body mass index [BMI] of 30 or higher) ○ Serious heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies ○ Sickle cell disease ○ Type 2 diabetes mellitus An employee has one of the following conditions that the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has identified to maybe put Employee at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19: ○ Asthma (moderate-to-severe) ○ Cerebrovascular disease (affects blood vessels and blood supply to the brain) ○ Cystic fibrosis ○ Hypertension or high blood pressure ○ Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from blood or bone marrow transplant, immune deficiencies, HIV, use of corticosteroids, or use of other immune weakening medicines ○ Neurologic conditions, such as dementia ○ Liver disease ○ Pregnancy ○ Pulmonary fibrosis (having damaged or scarred lung tissues) ○ Smoking ○ Thalassemia (a type of blood disorder) ○ Type 1 diabetes mellitus A member of Employee’s residence has one of the conditions (listed above) that the CDC has identified to put or possibly put that member of Employee’s residence at increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19. FMLA: If an employee or member of an employee’s family has a medical condition or an employee who needs leave to care for an immediate family member who has a medical condition, the following steps should be followed: ○ Determine if the employee is FMLA-eligible (generally, worked at least 1,250 hours over the past 12 months); ○ Determine if the employee has any remaining FMLA leave; ○ Request employee to complete FMLA application; ○ Determine if the employee’s request qualifies as FMLA-eligible leave; then ○ Follow up with other FMLA forms, as deemed appropriate. FFCRA: If an employee may meet any of the following conditions, have the employee submit an FFCRA leave request form: ○ Subject to a quarantine or isolation order related to COVID-19; ○ Been advised by a health care provider to self-quarantine related to COVID-19; ○ Experiencing COVID-19 symptoms and is seeking a medical diagnosis; ○ Caring for an individual subject to an order described in (1) or (2); ○ Caring for a child whose school or place of care is closed due to COVID-19; or ○ Experiencing any other substantially-similar condition specified by HHS. ADA: If an employee has a medical condition, the following steps should be followed: ○ Hold an interactive process meeting with the employee (and complete the interactive process meeting ○ form); ○ Determine if the employee has a “disability” under the ADA; then ○ Determine whether a reasonable accommodation can be provided to the employee.
● Substitutes: We will be short subs this year and we ask employees to give building principals as much notice a possible for any absences; we will need to rely on our colleagues to help cover when we cannot schedule a substitute; worst-case scenario, we may have to cancel certain elementary classes for the day if we cannot find coverage.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Elementary Student Academic
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk ● Accommodations will be made for K-12 students who are unable to attend in-person to utilize online learning through Zoom and other remote learning tools. Students will have recorded lessons available with the possibility of some live instruction. ○ One teacher from each grade level will record their daily teaching and upload it to Google Classroom. ○ All of the students in the district working from home are assigned to the Google Classroom with the designated teacher. ○ The student will be expected to watch and do all the online activities provided. All students at school or working remotely at home will be graded on their work. ○ Everything will be assigned online. Materials that cannot be assigned online will be given to the parents at the start and weekly instructions for work will be provided. Examples being writing and handwriting. ○ Reading, math, and writing will be recorded on Zoom and uploaded each day to Google Classroom. ○ Supplemental materials may be provided. Pathblazer can be utilized at all times. ○ The student’s actual grade level teacher of the student will still grade and record the student’s work. ○ Students who choose remote learning and receive services may be offered synchronous online learning during the school day if it works for the interventionist. Otherwise, Pathblazer will be utilized as an online intervention for the child. ○ A stipend will be paid to each teacher teaching remote learning for their grade level.
Orange - High Risk ● The same considerations/protocols listed in yellow will be utilized as guidance.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning. ● If All NPPS buildings are closed then all students will participate in remote learning from home. ○ Every student will have a Chromebook assigned to them at the start of the school year. Each student will take their Chromebook home. ○ Students will be taught direct instruction from the classroom teacher via Zoom every day. The following schedule will be utilized: ■ Preschool: 1 Hour of Instruction via Zoom ■ Kindergarten through Second Grade: 1.5 Hours of Instruction via Zoom ■ Third Grade through Fifth Grade: 2 Hours of Instruction via Zoom ○ Reading and math will be taught each day, and the time will be split between each subject. Reading will be Whole Group Reading during this time frame. ○ Each teacher will record their Zoom instruction and upload the video to Google Classroom in case a student is unable to attend. ○ All assignments and activities will be accessible through Google Classroom.
○ Interventions classes will be set up by the classroom teacher and/or interventionist to run any time from 8:00-3:15. The teacher will work with the child and parents to set up a zoom schedule to provide instruction to meet each student’s needs. ■ LLI will be provided to our tier 2 and tier 3 students for reading. Our goal is two to three interventions times a week. ■ Envisions and additional supplemental products will be provided to our tier 2 and 3 students for math. ■ The teacher will work to set up times to do small group work for their interventions with both reading and math. ○ Buildings and/or grade levels that are one track will begin their lesson each day at 9:00. If you are on two tracks, one teacher will start their lesson at 8:00. The other teacher will teach their lesson after the other teacher is complete. Three track schools would teach three separate times. This is done so our interventionists have eight hours in the day to provide necessary services to their students. If the teachers are open to other students watching their lesson, it would give students three live viewing opportunities. ○ Specials will create lessons and record them that follow the building’s 10 Day schedule. They will be uploaded to Google Classroom and be supplemental activities for the students to access. (One K-2 Activity and One 3-5 Activity)
Secondary Student Academic
Green - Low Risk ●
All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk ● Accommodations will be made for K-12 students who are unable to attend in-person to utilize online learning through Google Classroom and/or other remote learning platforms/tools. A postsecondary response team will continue to closely monitor monthly all students in keeping them on pace with the North Platte Public School District’s graduation requirements. ● All students in attendance onsite will receive direct instruction and will complete formative and summative assessments as usual for all courses. Staff will provide hybrid learning experiences in the classroom utilizing Google Classroom in all content areas in grades 6-12. ● All students in the district who choose remote learning will be assigned to Google Classroom for each of their scheduled courses. In certain circumstances, a student may be assigned Edgenuity Courseware in grades 9-12 at the discretion of the administration. Based upon the recommendation of the Nebraska Department of Education, students who are attending school via remote learning can expect 3 to 4 hours of daily commitment in grades 6-12 in order to successfully complete online learning, meet grade-level expectations, and stay on pace to graduate. ● All students are expected to complete all assigned formative and summative assessments whether they are in attendance onsite or are choosing remote learning. ● All students, whether in attendance onsite or in attendance via remote learning will be graded on all assigned formative and summative assessments. The North Platte Public School District Grading & Reporting Handbook will be followed. ● Middle Schools will determine a schedule for students to meet with staff during the school day via zoom for weekly instructional support for those in remote learning. ● High School will determine a schedule for students to meet with staff during the school day via zoom for weekly instructional support for those in remote learning. ● All students will receive necessary supplemental materials whether they are in attendance onsite or are choosing remote learning. ● All students in attendance onsite in grades 6-10 will receive intervention enrichment supports through the district’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports [MTSS]. ● All students in grades 11 & 12 will be monitored by content area teachers and, if necessary, individually screened to identify basic skill deficits. ● All students whether they are in attendance on-site or are choosing remote learning in grades 6, 7, & 8 will receive intervention/enrichment via PathBlazer in the areas of Reading & Math and, in some cases, IXL and Lexia. ● All students in grades 6-12 who receive specialized services will continue to receive intervention/enrichment support from their case manager whether they are in attendance onsite or are choosing remote learning. ● All students in grades 6-12 whether they are in attendance onsite or are choosing remote learning will receive a Chromebook for use during the 2020-2021 school year.
Orange - High Risk ●
The same considerations/protocols listed in yellow will be utilized as guidance.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning. ● All students in grades 6-12 will be assigned online learning should the district or assigned school move to RED.
● All students in grades 6-12 will be assigned to Google Classroom for each of their scheduled courses. In certain circumstances, a student may need to continue completing a previously assigned course on Edgenuity Courseware in grades 9-12 at the discretion of administration. ● A postsecondary response team will continue to closely monitor all 9-12 students in keeping them on pace with the North Platte Public School District’s graduation requirements. ○ Graduation Requirements Board Policy 5205 Link ● All courses in grades 6-12 will shift course content to Google Classroom to support remote learning. Each secondary building will create a daily schedule for students that will include both asynchronous and synchronous learning opportunities. Synchronous learning will be scheduled by the assigned teacher for remote learners to attend via zoom. At the discretion of administration for grades 9-12, Edgenuity Courseware may be utilized to support asynchronous remote learning. ○ Google Classroom Video Description Link ○ Edgenuity Courseware Video Description Link ● It is important for students and families to understand the two types of instructional support that will occur during remote learning: ○ Asynchronous Learning [independent learning with online guidance/directions from teacher] ○ Synchronous Learning [live direct instruction from teacher via zoom] ● Based upon the recommendation of the Nebraska Department of Education, students attending school via remote learning can expect 3 to 4 hours of daily commitment to their learning in grades 6-12 in order to successfully complete online learning activities, meet grade level expectations, and stay on pace to graduate. ● All students are expected to complete all assigned formative and summative assessments in Google Classroom. All students in grades 9-12 assigned Edgenuity Courseware at the discretion of administration are expected to complete all assigned formative and summative assessments. ● All students will be graded on all assigned formative and summative assessments posted in Google Classroom or Edgenuity Courseware. ● All students will be graded according to the North Platte Public School District Grading & Reporting Handbook. ● It is the responsibility of the remote learning student and family to meet all remote learning requirements set forth by North Platte Public Schools. Families must understand that remote learning does require daily engagement and coursework completion is required in order for a student to successfully be prepared for promotion to the next grade level. ● Students are required to sign in to Google Classroom when assigned to do so by the classroom teacher. This includes but is not limited to whole class scheduled, instructional zoom sessions; small group scheduled, instructional zoom sessions; and/or individually scheduled, instructional support zoom sessions. Students who do not sign in to scheduled and required zoom sessions will be considered absent. Continued lack of engagement could result in the district conducting a home visit to determine what barriers need to be removed for the student to complete their school work. ● Teachers may hold open zoom office hours for additional instructional support opportunities for students outside of required zoom sessions. Students would have access to teachers during these open time slots but would not be required to sign in since it is considered an open forum for extra support. ● During remote learning, students assigned to Google Classroom are the responsibility of the classroom teacher to whom they are assigned. Students in grades 9-12 assigned Edgenuity courseware are monitored by the building administrator or his/her designee. ● Google classrooms are managed by the teacher and the teacher will be the contact person for the student and parents. Students assigned Edgenuity courseware will contact the building administrator or his/her designee with any questions or concerns. Students on Edgenuity courseware will be connected to a classroom teacher should questions arise that cannot be answered through building administration. ● The classroom teacher will be responsible for the grading and reporting of remote learners rostered in their courses. Students assigned to or completing Edgenuity courseware are assessed and graded via the courseware platform. ● Adams and Madison will determine a building schedule for students to meet with staff via zoom for weekly instructional support [synchronous learning]. Teachers may record these instructional zoom sessions to be posted on Google Classroom. ● North Platte High School will determine a building schedule for students to meet with staff via zoom for weekly instructional support[synchronous learning]. Teachers may record these instructional zoom sessions to be posted on Google Classroom. ● All students will receive necessary supplemental materials/resources during remote learning. ○ Buildings will determine a schedule for distributing and collecting remote learning materials if necessary. ● All students in grades 6, 7, & 8 will continue intervention/enrichment via PathBlazer, IXL, and/or Lexia in the content areas.
● All students in grades 9-12 will be monitored by content area teachers and, if necessary, may be assigned interventions for basic skill deficits. ● All students in grades 6-12 who receive specialized services will continue to receive intervention/enrichment support from their case manager and/or assigned content area SPED teacher during remote learning. ● All students in grades 6-12 received a District Chromebook for use during the 2020-2021 school year. It is highly recommended that while students are in remote learning they utilize their assigned NPPSD Chromebook for all coursework as this ensures the North Platte Public School Technology Department can support the student with troubleshooting. ● Students and families are encouraged to remain in direct and consistent communication with their teachers and building administrators when they have questions or concerns. ● Students and families can continue to monitor earned grades through Infinite Campus via student and/or parent portal.
Student Social & Emotional Readiness
Green - Low Risk ● Soft Launch of Sanford Harmony, counselors will work with staff on SEL activities and teach zones of regulation. ● Counselors will continue with guidance lessons in the classroom. Small group work on students identified through the SRSS Screener, trauma screening, and SEL support through Kids Klub. ● All staff will be trained on trauma-informed care with Jenn McNally. ● Ongoing training for PBIS. ● Reflective Practice for directors, principals, and counselors. ● Mental Health debriefing for staff. ● Continue to serve kids determined to be SED through a private mental health therapist.
Yellow - Moderate Risk ● The same considerations/protocols listed in green will be utilized as guidance.
Orange - High Risk ● The same considerations/protocols listed in green will be utilized as guidance.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Special Education Staff Readiness
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk ● Special Education teachers will receive Google and Zoom training with the general ed teachers ○ Special ed teachers will need to be teachers (collaborators) on Google sites for classrooms they work with ● Training for these on-line resources will be provided for those special education teachers that need it ○ AIMS web, Lexia, IXL ● Teachers will receive training on how to assess students for unmet learning needs according to NDE guidance. Link to NDE Document Learning Guidance for Students with Disabilities ● Teachers will monitor student progress and see if there are any unmet needs from when school was closed. If data shows that there is, an IEP meeting will be called and these questions will be considered: ○ Do new present levels need to be established and then draft goals that will appropriately impact student learning? ○ Do adjustments in frequency, duration, and intensity of specially designed instruction need to occur? ○ Does the IEP Team need to consider the Extended School Year (ESY) services? ● Teachers will be provided guidance for amending IEPs for remote learning plans ● Sensory rooms will need to be sanitized daily. ● Parents will be given the option of IEP & MDT meetings being held via Zoom or in person. If held in person, they will be asked to follow the safety guidelines of the building (masks required).
Orange - High Risk ● No additional training needed ● Staff who travel to multiple buildings to provide services may be asked to stay at home building and provide services to other buildings remotely depending on the severity in the orange level. ● Sensory rooms will need to be sanitized more frequently (between groups). ● Parents will be given the option of IEP & MDT meetings being held via Zoom or in person. If held in person, they will be asked to follow the safety guidance of the building (masks required). As we move to higher levels in orange, it will be recommended that most IEP & MDT meetings be held via zoom to limit numbers in the buildings.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Special Education Student Readiness
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk Early Childhood Special Ed For students who are on-site For a preschool-age student who receives special ed, while the preschool the child attends is in session, services will be provided in the natural environment where the child attends as outlined in the IEP (preschool, childcare setting, home, etc.) ● Students will be encouraged to wear a mask if possible in small group settings if social distancing cannot be maintained. Proper hygiene will be reinforced and taught as needed by special education teachers if needed based on a child’s needs per IEP. ○ If a student with a disability cannot remove their own mask or cannot keep one on because of their disability, they will not be required to wear one. This will be addressed in the child’s IEP and a decision will be made by the IEP team on the proper safety precautions for this student. This may include temperature screenings. If a child needs to wear a different mask or have the adults they are working with wear one (face shield or mask with the see-through front), this will also be addressed in the student’s IEP and will be a decision made by the IEP team on an individual basis. ● Since special education staff travels to different centers, they will follow safety precautions outlined by the district (hand washing and sanitizing before and after each location and wearing masks is recommended when social distancing can not be established. If a building was to go to remote learning for a short time ● If that classroom/center where a child attends would go remote learning for a short period of time, special education services will be provided according to the remote learning plan decided upon by the IEP team. Electronic means will be utilized to provide these services (zoom, see-saw, etc.) ○ If technology is needed for services to be delivered, it will be provided. Elementary For students who chose remote learning ● Accommodations will be made for K-12 students who are unable to attend in-person to utilize online learning through Zoom and other remote learning tools. Students will have recorded lessons available with the possibility of some live instruction. ● An IEP meeting will be called for students who choose remote learning and special education services will be discussed and a decision will be made by the IEP team as to the best way to provide services to this student. For Students who are on site ● Intervention groups and special education will be held as normal based upon the child’s IEP. ● Students will be encouraged to wear a mask if possible in small group settings if social distancing cannot be maintained. Proper hygiene will be reinforced and taught as needed by special education teachers if needed based on a child’s needs per IEP. ○ If a student with a disability cannot remove their own mask or cannot keep one on because of their disability, they will not be required to wear one. This will be addressed in the child’s IEP and a decision will be made by the IEP team on the proper safety precautions for this student. This may include temperature screenings. If a child needs to wear a different mask or have the adults they are working with wear one (face shield or mask with the see-through front), this will also be addressed in the student’s IEP and will be a decision made by the IEP team on an individual basis. ● The child’s progress will be monitored to see if there are any unmet learning needs from school closures. If so, an IEP meeting may be called to make a plan to address any unmet needs. If a building was to go to remote learning for a short time
● Special education services will be offered according to the remote learning plan amendment in student’s IEP that will be agreed upon by the IEP team. Interventions classes will be set up by the classroom teacher and/or interventionist to run any time from 8:00-3:15. The teacher will work with the child and parents to set up a zoom schedule to provide instruction to meet each student’s needs. ○ LLI will be provided to our tier 2 and tier 3 students for reading. Our goal is two to three interventions times a week. ■ If a student also receives reading interventions via Lexia, this will be available via online as needed. ○ Envisions and additional supplemental products based on student needs will be provided to our tier 2 and 3 students for math. ○ The teacher will work to set up times to do small group work for their interventions with both reading and math. ■ If a student does not attend an intervention group, the special ed teacher will not stop the group to contact one student. The student will be marked as absent and a reminder message will be sent to the parent of the next time for that group to meet. ○ For students on the alternate assessment who may receive an intervention not listed above, their special education teacher will set up a time for them to receive that intervention two to three times a week either in a small group or individually. These services will be according to the remote learning plan amendment in the child’s IEP that will be agreed upon by the IEP team. ■ If an i-pad is needed for instruction for these students rather than a Chromebook one can be checked out ○ If a student receives a related service according to their IEP such as PT/OTSpeech, these will be provided via zoom or through consultation according to the remote learning plan of the student. The appropriate amount of services will be decided by the IEP team. Interventions will be set up by the related services provider to run any time from 8:00-3:15.
Secondary ● Accommodations will be made for K-12 students who are unable to attend in-person to utilize online learning through Zoom and other remote learning tools. Students will have recorded lessons available with the possibility of some live instruction. ○ An IEP meeting will be called for students who choose remote learning and special education services will be discussed and a decision will be made by the IEP team. For students who are on site ● Special education will be held as normal based upon the child’s IEP. ● Accommodations and modifications will be provided per the student’s IEP in general education classes whether the instruction is in person or via a hybrid learning model ○ Special Ed teachers will communicate with regular ed teachers about struggling students and intervene as needed ● Students will be required to wear a mask if possible in small group settings if social distancing cannot be maintained. ○ If a student with a disability cannot remove their own mask or cannot keep one on because of their disability, they will not be required to wear one. This will be addressed in the child’s IEP and a decision will be made by the IEP team on the proper safety precautions for this student. This may include temperature screenings. If a child needs to wear a different mask or have the adults they are working with wear one (face shield or mask with the see-through front), this will also be addressed in the student’s IEP and will be a decision made by the IEP team on an individual basis. ● Proper hygiene will be reinforced and taught as needed by special education teachers if needed based on a child’s needs per IEP. ● The child’s progress will be monitored to see if there are any unmet learning needs from school closures. If so, an IEP meeting may be called to make a plan to address any unmet needs. If we are in a hybrid learning model and the student is receiving services on-line ● Special education services will be offered according to a remote learning plan amendment in student’s IEP that will be agreed upon by the IEP team. ● Interventions may be offered via the online platforms of IXL and Lexia Power Up based on each student’s needs. ● In the afternoon teachers hold staff office hours via zoom ○ A building may decide the best way to proceed with these office hours for special ed teachers that align with regular ed office hours ■ May schedule groups of students for a specific time ■ Support will be provided on daily assignments as needed ■ When there is a test, a session will be scheduled via zoom for students to attend to receive accommodations
○ Special ed teachers will stay in contact with students weekly via one or a combination of the following platforms and keep documentation ■ E-mail ■ Remind ■ Phone calls (when necessary) ■ Zoom sessions ○ Individual sessions will be offered more often with students that have a higher amount of instructional needs and we may need to provide other adapted materials appropriate to the instructional level. Group sessions will be offered for these students as well to interact with each other ■ Utilize on-line learning platforms to individualize lessons (IXL, Unique Learning, etc.) ● If a student receives a related service according to their IEP such as PT/OTSpeech, these will be provided via zoom or through consultation according to the remote learning plan of the student. The appropriate amount of services will be decided by the IEP team. Interventions will be set up by the related services provider to run any time from 8:00-3:15.
Orange - High Risk ● The same considerations/protocols listed in yellow will be utilized as guidance. The following will be in addition to what is in yellow. ● Students will be required to wear a mask if possible in small group settings if social distancing cannot be maintained. Proper hygiene will be reinforced and taught as needed by special education teachers if needed based on a child’s needs per IEP. ○ If a student with a disability cannot remove their own mask or cannot keep one on because of their disability, they will not be required to wear one. This will be addressed in the child’s IEP and a decision will be made by the IEP team on the proper safety precautions for this student. This may include temperature screenings. If a child needs to wear a different mask or have the adults they are working with wear one (face shield or mask with the see-through front), this will also be addressed in the student’s IEP and will be a decision made by the IEP team on an individual basis.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning. Early Childhood Special Ed ● If that classroom/center where a child attends would go remote learning, special education services will be provided according to the remote learning plan decided upon by the IEP team. Electronic means will be utilized to provide these services (zoom, see-saw, etc.) ○ If technology is needed for services to be delivered, it will be provided. Elementary ● Special education services will be offered according to the remote learning plan amendment in student’s IEP that will be agreed upon by the IEP team. Interventions classes will be set up by the classroom teacher and/or interventionist to run any time from 8:00-3:15. The teacher will work with the child and parents to set up a zoom schedule to provide instruction to meet each student’s needs. ○ LLI will be provided to our tier 2 and tier 3 students for reading. Our goal is two to three interventions times a week. ■ If a student also receives reading interventions via Lexia, this will be available via online as needed. ○ Envisions and additional supplemental products based on student needs will be provided to our tier 2 and 3 students for math. ○ The teacher will work to set up times to do small group work for their interventions with both reading and math. ■ If a student does not attend an intervention group, the special ed teacher will not stop the group to contact one student. The student will be marked as absent and a reminder message will be sent to the parent of the next time for that group to meet.
○ For students on the alternate assessment who may receive an intervention not listed above, their special education teacher will set up a time for them to receive that intervention two to three times a week either in a small group or individually. These services will be according to the remote learning plan amendment in the child’s IEP that will be agreed upon by the IEP team. ■ If an i-pad is needed for instruction for these students rather than a Chromebook one can be checked out ○ If a student receives a related service according to their IEP such as PT/OTSpeech, these will be provided via zoom or through consultation according to the remote learning plan of the student. The appropriate amount of services will be decided by the IEP team. Interventions will be set up by the related services provider to run any time from 8:00-3:15. Secondary ● Progress in the regular education curriculum will be monitored by the special education teacher and support will be provided as needed. Accommodations and modifications to classroom assignments and assessments will be given according to the students’ IEP. ● Special education services will be offered according to the remote learning plan amendment in student’s IEP that will be agreed upon by the IEP team. ● Interventions may be offered via the online platforms of IXL and Lexia Power Up based on each student’s needs. ● In the afternoon teachers hold staff office hours via zoom ○ A building may decide the best way to proceed with these office hours for special ed teachers that align with regular ed office hours ■ May schedule groups of students for a specific time ■ Support will be provided on daily assignments as needed ■ When there is a test, a session will be scheduled via zoom for students to attend to receive accommodations ○ Special ed teachers will stay in contact with students weekly via one or a combination of the following platforms and keep documentation ■ E-mail ■ Remind ■ Phone calls (when necessary) ■ Zoom sessions ○ Individual sessions will be offered more often with students that have a higher amount of instructional needs and we may need to provide other adapted materials appropriate to the instructional level. Group sessions will be offered for these students as well to interact with each other ■ Utilize on-line learning platforms to individualize lessons (IXL, Unique Learning, etc.) ● If a student receives a related service according to their IEP such as PT/OTSpeech, these will be provided via zoom or through consultation according to the remote learning plan of the student. The appropriate amount of services will be decided by the IEP team. Interventions will be set up by the related services provider to run any time from 8:00-3:15.
Preschool Staff Readiness
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk ● Staff will be trained on the following tools: (Face-Coverings Required) ○ Big-Day for the Pre-K on-line resources (staff will be trained in this on July 15th) ○ See-Saw - on-line tutorial videos will be available ○ Check-in and check-out system training will occur for the new on-line system ○ If the WCHD allows them, home visits will be allowed prior to school starting if staff and parents follow established safety guidance ○ Social stories will be shared with staff to teach the students about subjects pertaining to the pandemic to help explain to students (handwashing, masks, etc) ● Preschool staff will set out toys each night that need to be sanitized. They will also ensure that flat surfaces are sanitized more frequently throughout the day.
Orange - High Risk ● No additional training will be provided (Face-Coverings Required) ● Home visits will not be allowed prior to school starting but parents and children will be invited into the classroom to meet with the teacher. Safety guidance will be followed and the room will be sanitized between visits. ● Preschool staff will sanitize toys used throughout the day and set them out at night to be sanitized. They will also ensure that flat surfaces are sanitized after each use. ● The music teacher will travel to the classrooms for music rather than students traveling to the music room.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Preschool Student Readiness
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk ● If attending in person . . . ○ Parent drop off will occur at the door and sign-in will be done either electronically or by a staff member. (Parents will not come into the classroom so we can limit the number of people entering the building each day). ■ Screening questions will be included with the electronic check-in ○ Students will be allowed to interact with students from other classrooms ○ Students will be required to wear masks. ○ Students will be encouraged to wash/sanitize hands on a more regular basis. ■ After sharing items ■ In between centers ■ When leaving and entering the classroom ■ Before and after eating ○ Toys or items that have been shared by students will be sanitized daily and flat surfaces used will be sanitized more frequently throughout the day. ○ Students will eat in the classroom and teachers will serve them their food instead of family-style meals ■ Extra tables may be added to spread children out while eating ● Students will be taught the following: ○ Social distancing and keeping hands to self ○ Proper hygiene and handwashing ○ How to run i-pad and how to access zoom, See-Saw, and Big Day for the Pre-K ● Classes will be encouraged to use separate areas on the playground ● No community field trips. Virtual field trips will be encouraged to give students a language-rich experience. ● If a building or classroom goes into remote learning for a short period of time ○ Each classroom will have enough i-pads on hand so that one can be sent home with each student if that class or school has to go to remote learning ■ The teacher will teach a group zoom session one time daily ○ This will be recorded and shared with parents if their child cannot attend at that time ○ Activities will be sent daily for the student to do at home via See-aw and send back to the teacher ■ Hands-on manipulatives will be supplied to families in a bag to add to hands-on activities ○ Big Day for the Pre-K resources and activities will be shared with parents via See-Saw
Orange - High Risk ● In addition to the considerations/protocol listed in yellow, the following procedures will be enhanced at this level. ○ Students will be screened by a staff member upon arrival ■ Student temperatures will be taken at arrival and at lunch. The child’s temperature must be below 100. ○ Students will not be allowed to interact with students from other classrooms. ○ More tables will be added to the preschool classroom to spread students out during mealtime.
○ Meals and snacks will not be served family-style because of shared utensils. Staff will serve students their food. ○ Students will be required to wear masks. ○ Toys or items that have been shared by students will be sanitized periodically throughout the day and flat surfaces used will be sanitized after each use. ○ Classes will be kept separate on the playground and equipment sanitized between use. ○ The music teacher will travel to the classrooms for music rather than students traveling to the music room.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Kids Klub
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
When in Yellow Kids Klub will operate per the same guidelines as each elementary Programming to start in Sept. to allow students, parents, and building staff time to assess needs and learn new procedures Hand washing, sanitizing, individual snacks served Individual supply totes M-Th programming with Fridays spent sanitizing supplies Smaller enrollment at sites due to social distancing procedures Priority enrollment is given to last year’s enrollees as well as students who need to be enrolled per teacher/principal request SEL program enrollees (Brandy & outside counselor) Some remote learning opportunities Parent check out procedures done away from the students No mega days Sept.-Dec. reassessment in December Outside play, no playground equipment Masks required for students and staff Drop off and pick up procedures individualized per building No visitors/volunteers/outside partners allowed Social distancing procedures will be in place
Orange - High Risk ● The same considerations/protocol listed in yellow will be utilized as guidance ● Masks will be worn by students and staff ● Temperatures will be taken of each child/staff upon arrival at Kids Klub
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Health Services
Green - Low Risk ● ● ● ●
Hand and increase hygiene practices, cover cough, reducing the spread of germs, stay home when not feeling well, social distancing Parent communication to the school of student illness complaints- accurate attendance for illness surveillance slow the spread Encourage Mask use- large groups, when unable to social distance Isolate and send home if temperature maintains at 100°F (38°C) and /or additional COVID-19 symptom complaints
Yellow - Moderate Risk ● The following protocol is being implemented ○ Provide hand sanitizer for students and staff- encourage hand washing when available ○ Limit unnecessary congregations of students and staff ○ Students will enter buildings through designated doors based on building and location ○ Post signage in entrances to communicate how to stop the spread. COVID-19 symptoms, preventative measures (including staying home when sick), good hygiene, and school/district specific protocols ○ Parent communication to the school of student illness complaints- accurate attendance- illness surveillance ○ Medications & treatments given at home prior to school ■ Breathing Medications/Treatments- Inhalers with spacers are preferred and recommended, Nebulizer treatments are aerosol-generating and should be given at home due to current recommendations: ○ American Academy of pediatrics- Nebulizer at school info ○ Mask use required for staff and students- masks on the move, in large groups, and when unable to social distance ■ Masks available at school ○ Establish a protocol for students/staff who feel ill/experience symptoms when they come to school (see When a Child, Staff Member, or Visitor Becomes Sick at School) ■ Isolation rooms established in each building if suspected COVID 19 for the staff or student complaints ○ Isolate and send home if temperature maintains at 100°F (38°C) and/or additional COVID-19 symptom complaints ■ COVID flow chart for Health staff ○ Masks- placed on students or staff with suspected COVID Respiratory/Cough complaints and fever over 100.0 F, if tolerated and developmentally appropriate ■ Consider safety and privacy concerns (confidentiality should be maintained) ● Screenings ○ Students- Parents or guardians should conduct a symptoms survey for their child at home, including a temperature check, before coming to school or activities. ○ Staff- symptom survey and temp check at home before coming to work daily ○ Consider safety and privacy concerns (confidentiality should be maintained) ○ The district may implement screenings including temperature during school hours when the risk dial is approaching orange to prepare our students and staff for evaluation
Orange - High Risk ● Mask- staff, and student -Mandatory due to high risk in the community- masks available at school ○ Face coverings guidance CDC ● Heightened hygiene including hand washing, covering cough, social distancing, avoiding large groups ● Medications & treatments given at home prior to school ○ Possible accommodations for parent drop off of necessary medications needed during school hours ○ Breathing Medications/Treatments- Inhalers with spacers are preferred and recommended, Nebulizer treatments are aerosol-generating and should be given at home due to current recommendations: ■ American Academy of pediatrics- Nebulizer at school info ● Parent communication to the school of student illness complaints- accurate attendance- illness surveillance ● Screening○ Staff only- Mandatory- screening questions including temps upon arrival- Raptor program- self temps checks at stations ○ Screen students - To be determined (to the extent practicable and possible building specific) ■ Take temperatures and monitor students for complaints of illness or flushed cheeks for example- ideally before entering buildings and/or in homeroom classes arrival ■ Isolate and send home if internal temperature maintains at 100°F (38°C) ■ Implemented during normal school hours- activities before and/or after school will be evaluated as needed ● Activities before school hours- parents should conduct a symptoms survey for their child at home, including a temperature check, before coming to school ● Consider safety and privacy concerns (confidentiality should be maintained)
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Community Readiness
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations.
Yellow - Moderate Risk ● Align expectations with YELLOW - Moderate Risk -, including students, teachers, school leaders, and parents, that prioritize the whole child, and emphasize a tone of safety, togetherness, and empathy. ● Develop a systemic process so all schools, district offices, and community protocols are aligned and communicated in a timely manner. ● Articulate a vision in line with local values and community needs relative to the Return to School Team’s work and communicate this vision with all district stakeholders. ● Weekly meetings with West Central Health Department - WCHD ● Involving personnel from WCHD and Great Plains Health with communicating the safety measures for YELLOW - Moderate Risk ● Refine and update communication protocols and tools for information sharing between local and state public health agencies and policy leaders as well as district stakeholders’ relative to YELLOW - Moderate Risk ● Bi-weekly meetings with the Commissioner of Education and Superintendent Advisory Team ● Weekly meetings the WCHD Command Center ● Weekly updates to North Platte Parents and Patrons via podcast (Sunday Spotlight) and webpage Scenario plan with Return to School Teams. ● Multiple scenarios should include . . . ○ School begins on time and remains open ○ School begin on time and closes due to the second wave of COVID-19 ○ School opening is delayed ● Multiple scenarios were reviewed and discussed on June 10, 2020 NPPS Administrative Work Session ○ This activity included personnel from Great Plains Health and WCHD ○ The principal will conduct a similar activity with the School Return-to-School Team
Orange - High Risk ● Align expectations with Orange - High Risk -, including students, teachers, school leaders, and parents, that prioritize the whole child, and emphasize a tone of safety, togetherness, and empathy. ● Develop a systemic process so all schools, district offices, and community protocols are aligned and communicated in a timely manner. ● Articulate a vision in line with local values and community needs relative to the Return to School Team’s work and communicate this vision with all district stakeholders. ● Weekly meetings with West Central Health Department - WCHD ● Involving personnel from WCHD and Great Plains Health with communicating the safety measures for Orange - High Risk ● Refine and update communication protocols and tools for information sharing between local and state public health agencies and policy leaders as well as district stakeholders’ relative to Orange - High Risk ○ Bi-weekly meetings with the Commissioner of Education and Superintendent Advisory Team ○ Weekly meetings the WCHD Command Center ○ Weekly updates to North Platte Parents and Patrons via podcast (Sunday Spotlight) and webpage
● Create or amend any existing District Pandemic Response Plans and Emergency Recovery Plans based on lessons learned from the COVID-19 outbreak to date that will help inform responses to a second wave in the school year 2020-2021, should it materialize ● Establish/Reestablish a district-level Pandemic Response Committee ● name a leader with single-point accountability, meaning there is one person who is ultimately responsible ● Assess where additional capacity and support may be needed from external partners to support the Return to School Committee’s work. Subsequently, develop strategies, including procurement considerations, for securing assistance.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning. ● Align expectations with Red - Severe Risk -, including students, teachers, school leaders, and parents, that prioritize the whole child, and emphasize a tone of safety, togetherness, and empathy. ● Develop a systemic process so all schools, district offices, and community protocols are aligned and communicated in a timely manner. ● Articulate a vision in line with local values and community needs relative to the Return to School Team’s work and communicate this vision with all district stakeholders. ● Refine and update communication protocols and tools for information sharing between local and state public health agencies and policy leaders as well as district stakeholders’ relative to Red - Severe Risk
Communication - Internal and External
Green - Low Risk ● Share Smore Form ○ Share and update as information and resources change ○ Educate the public and our employees on the color risk-dial ● Work with the WCDHD, Executive Team, Directors, & Principals to determine what information should be shared. ● Notify Directors, BOE, Admin, Staff, & Families of current color and where to find the color risk-dial to gain a better understanding of what this means. ○ Email ○ School Messenger - Email & Text ○ Website ○ Media - Print, Radio, TV ○ Social Media ● Update website to reflect color changes and what this means to all involved ● Remain informed in an effort to effectively communicate with our public
Yellow - Moderate Risk ● The same considerations/protocols listed in green will be utilized as guidance.
Orange - High Risk ● The same considerations/protocols listed in green will be utilized as guidance.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
Collaborative Action
Green - Low Risk ● All students in grades Pre-K through 12 will attend school in person and regular school operations. ● Establish and maintain communication with local and state DPH health officials.
Yellow - Moderate Risk ● Establish and maintain communication with local and state Departments of Public Health officials ● Participate in contact tracing efforts and specimen collection efforts as directed by local health officials (to the extent feasible) ● Post signage in classrooms, hallways, and entrances to communicate how to stop the spread. COVID-19 symptoms, preventative measures (including staying home when sick), good hygiene, and school/district specific protocols ● Establish a protocol for students/staff who feel ill/experience symptoms when they come to school (see When a Child, Staff Member, or Visitor Becomes Sick at School) ● Consider ways to accommodate the needs of children, teachers/staff, and families at higher risk for severe illness (see Protecting Vulnerable Populations for considerations)
Orange - High Risk ● Establish and maintain communication with local and state Departments of Public Health officials ● Participate in contact tracing efforts and specimen collection efforts as directed by local health officials (to the extent feasible) ● Implement enhanced social distancing measures (see Transitioning, Large Group Gatherings, and Teaching and Learning) ● Post signage in classrooms, hallways, and entrances to communicate how to stop the spread. COVID-19 symptoms, preventative measures (including staying home when sick), good hygiene, and school/district specific protocols ● Establish a protocol for students/staff who feel ill/experience symptoms when they come to school (see When a Child, Staff Member, or Visitor Becomes Sick at School) ● Isolate and deep clean impacted classrooms and spaces ● Consider ways to accommodate the needs of children, teachers/staff, and families at higher risk for severe illness (see Protecting Vulnerable Populations for considerations) NPPS has the authority and flexibility to close school buildings and utilize distance/remote learning as needed.
Red - Severe Risk Students, Staff, and the district will operate in the orange category guidelines if the community risk dial moves to red. If NPPS, WCDHD, and NDE determine that in-person learning is not safe due to the spread of the coronavirus, classrooms, schools, and/or the district will close and resort to remote learning as a safe alternative. More detailed information will be provided if we resort to remote learning.
For additional guidance on addressing community spread, see the CDC’s Considerations for Schools Resource References: Nebraska Department of Health and Human Resources
Nebraska Department of Education
West Central District Health Department
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
LaunchNebraka
Georgia Department of Education
Six Rules to Stay Safe - DHHS CEO Dannette Smith
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