South Park School District's Forward Framework

FORWARD The South Park School District’s Framework For The 2020-2021 School Year

A MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

Our administration, faculty and staff bring valuable years of experience to the South Park School District. It is this shared experience that makes a meaningful impact for our students.

However, whether this is an educator’s fifth school year or 40th school year, the 2020-2021 academic year promises to be one unlike any other. We never imagined to be planning for a year in the middle of a pandemic. Despite the ever-changing circumstances, a meaningful, impactful education is essential.

As we developed the Forward framework, we acknowledged that there is still so much that is unknown. We have seen how quickly cases in our region and state can spike. We have experienced how targeted mitigation efforts can lead to the rollback of some reopening progress. It is impossible to predict what will transpire throughout the upcoming year.

Therefore, we must be flexible, and our plan must be thorough. We must be ready to begin the school year under one instructional model and be prepared to switch to another learning modality if the conditions change.

Simultaneously, we must and will provide an option for all South Park families who may feel uncomfortable sending their children back to the classroom even with health and safety protocols in place.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

It is because of our commitment to collaboration and communication that we have developed this Forward framework. This framework was developed in addition to the completion of the Pennsylvania Department of Education health and safety plan template. It details the educational modalities, mitigation efforts and modifications that will be in place for the 2020-2021 school year. It is important to remember that this framework is a living document. As information and guidance is continuously received by the district, we will be required to make changes to this plan up to the start of the year and throughout the year.

Because of this, new information added to this framework will be date and time stamped, and families and staff will be notified of those changes.

The Forward framework provides an overview of school operations. It details the instructional options families have and the possible educational delivery methods. It also includes summaries of the district’s health and safety plan including the cleaning and disinfecting measures that will be implemented in all buildings and the procedural changes that will be in place throughout the school year. It presents a timeline of key dates and communication leading up to the start of the school year. It provides guidance as to when communication will be shared in the event our plans changed or a confirmed case of COVID-19 is reported in one of our schools. It also asks South Park families to partner with us before and during the school year to help us ensure our schools are healthy and safe. The Forward framework directs every one of our actions in the weeks and months to come.

As you review this publication, we understand that questions will undoubtedly arise. We have developed multiple ways for families to interact with us virtually as we near the start of the 2020-2021 school year. Additionally, contact information for district employees who play a key role in the implementation of this plan has been added to this document.

I want to thank those who played a role in developing these guidelines and for their continued work as, together, we move Forward.

Sincerely,

Wayne P. Gdovic Superintendent of Schools South Park School District wayne.gdovic@sparksd.org (412) 655-3111, option 4

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FORMING THE FORWARD FRAMEWORK FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

Direction from local, state and federal health agencies and organizations has guided the South Park School District’s crafting of the required Health and Safety Plan and the Forward Framework for the 2020-2021 school year. Among the published documents reviewed include, but are not limited to: ››Guidance from the Allegheny County Health Department shared with district superintendents ››Preliminary Guidance for the Phased Reopening of Pre-K to 12 Schools released by the Pennsylvania Department of Education on June 3, 2020 ››Considerations for Reopening Pennsylvania Schools released by the Pennsylvania Department of Education on June 24, 2020 ››Order Requiring Face Coverings released by the Pennsylvania Department of Education on July 6, 2020 ››Instructional Days/Hours During the 2020-2021 School Year memo released by the Pennsylvania Department of Education on July 6, 2020. ››Public Health Guidance Regarding COVID-19 for Phased Reopening of Pre-K to 12 Schools released by the Pennsylvania Department of Education and Pennsylvania Department of Health on July 16, 2020 ››Interim Guidance for Administrators of US K-12 Schools and Childcare Programs released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ››School Decision Tree released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ››Considerations for Schools released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ››Preparing a Safe Return to School released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ››FAQ for School Administrators for Reopening Schools released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ››Pennsylvania School Reopening Task Force Report released on June 18, 2020 ››COVID-19 Planning Considerations: Guidance for School Re-entry released by the American Academy of Pediatrics

Since the shutdown of schools in March 2020, Allegheny County superintendents and school leaders have worked collaboratively and met regularly in meetings coordinated by the Allegheny Intermediate Unit. Since late spring, as the focus shifted to reopening schools in the fall, these meetings included leaders from the Allegheny County Health Department who provided information and considerations for the phased reopening of schools. The partnership between Allegheny County Schools has fostered robust discussions about how to safely resume school operations for the 2020-2021 school year.

Following the release of the preliminary guidance from the Pennsylvania Department of Education and the release of the Health and Safety Plan template, the South Park School District commenced the planning process for the 2020-2021 school year. In June, Lynn Como, assistant middle school principal, and Patrick Harrigan, director of communications, were appointed to serve as pandemic co-coordinators under the direction of Superintendent Wayne Gdovic. Internal reopening templates were created to guide the work of five subcommittees. These subcommittees, which included representatives from key stakeholder groups, reviewed guidance from the Pennsylvania Department of Education and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as surveys of district families and staff, and then drafted recommended action plans tailored for the South Park School District. The recommended action plans from the five subcommittees were carefully reviewed and discussed by the district’s core pandemic team as it developed the South Park School District’s Health and Safety Plan. The plan was presented to and approved by the South Park School District Board of Directors on Tuesday, July 28, 2020 at a special meeting.

As the work to implement the district’s Health and Safety Plan begins in preparation for the start of the 2020-2021 school year, it is crucial to know that the Health and Safety Plan and this Forward framework are fluid and dependent on guidance from local, state and federal health agencies. While both plans are subject to change, they provide the roadmaps to open an academic year unlike any in modern-day education.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

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PANDEMIC CORE TEAM AND SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBERS FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

Wayne Gdovic, Superintendent Lynn Como, Pandemic Co-Coordinator Patrick Harrigan, Pandemic Co-Coordinator CORE PANDEMIC TEAM Chelsea Campolongo, Business Manager Justin Dellarose, High School Assistant Principal Dr. L. Robert Furman, Elementary Principal Thomas Kayda, Athletic Director Dr. Kevin Monaghan, Middle School Principal Kim Mosi, Elementary Center Nurse Todd Naylor, Director of School Police Dr. David Palmer, High School Principal Kathleen Wooddell, Special Education Director SUBCOMMITTEE MEMBERS

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

Tina Baldigowski Tera Barkey Amy Baumgardner Grace Blackburn Julie Bradley Charles Bove Matt Casamento Joseph Cawley Eve Chambon Carolyn Doyle Melissa Dubyak Patricia Elkin Stephanie Feth Kellie Garrison Angela Girol David Giusti Stephanie Giusti Kari Havel Rusty Hewitt Juliet Highberger Suzzette Kelley Diana Klein Kristy Kwitowski Lauren Lippert Michael Lockett Julie Maffei Cathy Maiorano Carey Mejalli Jennifer Monturo Colleen Moses John Pastorius

Wayne Perry Marty Rieck Jen Rinto Lori Sarver Devon Serena Laura Siniawski Rosemary Siyufy Brandon Smoker Cheryl Stinebaugh Sean Van Eman April Vezio Terri Vietmeier Ashley Wamsley PANDEMIC CRISIS RESPONSE TEAM

Meets to discuss and make within-year decisions regarding response efforts in the event of a confirmed positive case or exposure among staff and students

Wayne Gdovic, Superintendent Lynn Como, Pandemic Co-Coordinator Patrick Harrigan, Pandemic Co-Coordinator Tina Baldigowski Tera Barkey Charles Bove Chelsea Campolongo Joseph Cawley Bethany Chicora-Lewis Anita Christie Justin Dellarose Dr. L. Robert Furman Kari Havel Thomas Kayda Natalie Liptak Carol Lupo Julie Maffei Dr. Kevin Monaghan Kim Mosi Todd Naylor Dr. David Palmer Stephanie Scruggs Rosemary Siyufy Chris Stoicovy Kathleen Wooddell Click the names of the pandemic co-coordinators or the members of the core pandemic team to email that individual.

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PANDEMIC RESPONSE TEAM SUBCOMMITTEES FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

INSTRUCTION SUBCOMMITTEE

FACILITIES SUBCOMMITTEE

SPECIAL EDUCATION & MENTAL HEALTH SUBCOMMITTEE

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

CORE PANDEMIC RESPONSE TEAM

OPERATIONS SUBCOMMITTEE

ATHLETICS SUBCOMMITTEE

5

Updated on August 13, 2020

Revised 7/28/20

SOUTH PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT 2020-2021 SCHOOL CALENDAR AUGUST 2020 M

T

W

H

F

3

4

5

6

7

10

11

12

13

14

17

18

19

20

21

24

25

26

27

28

31

New Teacher Orientation Professional Development Teacher Preparation Day In-Service/Clerical Day First Day of School *Under Hybrid Model, Group A Starts on August 31, and Group B Starts on September 1

Teachers: 6 Days

SEPTEMBER 2020 M

19-20 24-26 27 28 31

T

W

H

F

1

2

3

7

8

9

14

15

21 28

7

FEBRUARY 2021 M

T

W

H

F

1

2

3

4

5

8

9

10

11

12

15

16

17

18

19

22

23

24

25

26

Students: 1 Day

No School (Labor Day)

MARCH 2021 T

W

H

F

4

1

2

3

4

5

10

11

8

9

10

11

12

16

17

18

15

16

17

18

19

22

23

24

25

22

23

24

25

26

29

30

29

30 Q 31

Students: 21 Days

OCTOBER 2020 M

T

W

F

1

2

M

T

30 31

W

H

F

1

2

1

2-5

6

7

8

9

5

6

7

8

9

12

13

14

15

16

12

13

14

15

16

19

20

21

22

23

19

20

21

22

23

26

27

28

29

30 Q Teachers: 22 Days

26

27

28

29

30 Teachers: 20 Days

M

T

W

H

F

3

4

5

6

7

10

11

12

13

14

17

18

19

20

21

24

25

26

27

28

NOVEMBER 2020 M

T

W

H

F

2

3

4

5

6

9

10

11

12

13

16

17

18

19

20

23

24

25

26

27

30

T

W

H

F

1

2

3

4

7

8

9

10

11

14

15

16

17

21

22

23

24

28

29

30

31

T

W

H

23 24-31

Students: 16 Days

One-Hour Early Dismissal No School (Winter Break)

MAY 2021

31

JUNE 2021 W

H

F

1

2

3

4

7

8

9

10

11

18

14

15

16

17

18

25

21

22

23

24

25

28

29

30

Teachers: 17 Days

Students: 17 Days

M

Q

First Day of School

F 1

1 18

25

No School (Winter Break) No School (Martin Luther King Jr. Day) No School (In-Service/Clerical Day)

4

5

6

7

8

11

12

13

14

15

18

19

20

21

22 Q

25

26

27

28

29 Teachers: 19 Days

Q

7 9

10

Students: 19 Days

No School (Act 80 Day) No School No School (Memorial Day)

Students: 19 Days

No School (Kennywood Day) Last Day for Students (Early Dismissal) In-Service/Clerical Day

Teachers: 7 Days

Students: 6 Days Possible Snow Make-Up Days

No School

2/15, 3/31, 5/7, 6/7

End of Quarter

Last Day of School Early Dismissal Times

Last Day of School Total Days

Students: 18 Days

7 18 31

Teachers: 19 Days

T

JANUARY 2021 M

No School (In-Service/Clerical Day) No School (Act 80 Day) No School (Veterans Day) One-Hour Early Dismissal No School (Fall Break)

Teachers: 17 Days

DECEMBER 2020 M

2

3 11 25 26-30

Students: 23 Days

No School (In-Service/Clerical Day) No School (Spring Break)

5

Students: 22 Days

Students: 20 Days

One-Hour Early Dismissal No School (Act 80 Day)

Teachers: 23 Days

APRIL 2021

H

No School (Act 80 Day) (Presidents Day)

Teachers: 20 Days

M

Teachers: 21 Days

15

Teachers: 191 Days Students: 182 Days

SPHS: 11:00 a.m.

SPMS: 11:30 a.m.

SPEC: 12:00 noon Graduation 2021

June 4 or June 11

In accordance with Pennsylvania School Code 24 PS 15-1502, “days schools not to be kept open,” the following days are considered official school district holidays by the South Park School District: November 11, November 27, December 24, December 31, and April 2.

2020-2021 EDUCATION PLAN FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

South Park School District students and families will have the option to choose one of two educational tracks for the 20202021 school year. The educational tracks are listed below, and the delivery of instruction within those tracks is described on the following pages of the Forward framework.

After carefully reviewing these options, South Park School District families will be asked to decide which educational track best meets the needs of the student. Families wishing to enroll their children in the Cyber Education Track will be asked to complete an online form by Wednesday, August 5 at 3 p.m. If a cyber enrollment form is not submitted for a student by August 5 at 3 p.m., that student will remain in the Flex Learning Track. Families with more than one child enrolling in the Cyber Education Track are asked to complete an online form for each child. Additionally, children in the same family are permitted to be enrolled in different educational tracks. One child may be enrolled in the Flex Learning Track while a sibling is enrolled in the 100% Cyber Education Track.

Families with questions about which educational track may be most appropriate for their child/children are encouraged to contact their building principal.

OPTION #1: FLEX LEARNING TRACK With the mitigation efforts from the South Park School District’s Health and Safety Plan in place, South Park students enrolled in the Flex Learning Track may attend school 2-5 days per week or participate in 100% remote learning based on the current reopening phase in Allegheny County; the current dynamics of the coronavirus pandemic in our community, region and state; the ability of the district to meet the needs of students and staff in a traditional school setting and the ability of the district to adhere to guidance from local, state and federal health agencies. All students in grades K-12 will be provided with a district-issued Chromebook at the start of the 2020-2021 school year.

OPTION #2: CYBER EDUCATION TRACK We understand that some students and families may not feel comfortable returning to school immediately when it reopens, despite our health and safety protocols. The South Park School District wants those students to feel comfortable while receiving a quality education this upcoming school year. Students who enroll in the Cyber Education Track will be enrolled in the new South Park Cyber Academy. All students in grades K-12 enrolled in the cyber education track will be provided with a district-issued Chromebook at the start of the 2020-2021 school year.

Students who initially enroll in the Flex Learning Track may switch into the Cyber Education Track at any time after consultation with their building principal.

Students who initially enroll in the Cyber Education Track will be permitted to enroll in the Flex Learning Track at the conclusion of the first semester (January 2021).

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

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OPTION 1: FLEX LEARNING TRACK FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

In the Flex Learning Track, there are three scenarios for how instruction may be delivered in the 2020-2021 school year.

The delivery of instruction will be based on the current reopening phase in Allegheny County; the current dynamics of the coronavirus pandemic in our community, region and state; the ability of the district to meet the needs of students and staff in a traditional school setting and the ability of the district to adhere to guidance from local, state and federal health agencies.

Families who enroll their children in the Flex Learning Track are asked to keep in mind that the district may shift between these three possible scenarios for the start of and at any point during the 2020-2021 school year.

FLEX LEARNING TRACK SCENARIO 1: TOTAL REOPEN ››With mitigation measures in place, this delivery scenario most resembles the traditional school experience with which students and staff are familiar. Students and staff would return to face-toface learning five days a week. ››All school operations would comply with the district’s Health and Safety Plan. Prior to their return and throughout the school year, students and staff will be educated about hygiene protocols and will be reminded to follow them. ››Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting procedures will be enacted. ››All students in grades K-12 would be provided with a district-issued Chromebook at the start of the academic year. K-12 teachers will utilize the Canvas learning management platform to create a coexisting digital classroom environment for class communication, parent information, assignments, activities, assessments and grading. Instructional time at the beginning of the academic year across the district will be dedicated to the introduction to and deployment of the Canvas platform to ensure student success. Additionally, our youngest learners will receive instruction on how to use their district-issued Chromebooks as a learning tool during the 2020-2021 school year. ››Teachers will be asked to review with their students how classroom operations would change with a transition to a hybrid or 100% remote learning scenario. ››Some curricula and learning practices including group work may need to be modified. ››The use of online learning materials and resources which supplement the district’s curricula will be encouraged. ››Schools will continue to offer resources and supports to students to the greatest degree possible while adhering to the district’s Health and Safety Plan. Some resources and supports may need to take place virtually. ››Teachers will communicate with students and families through Canvas and other platforms as outlined by the teachers at the start of the academic year. ››The total reopen scenario can occur when Allegheny County is in the green phase of reopening.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

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OPTION 1: FLEX LEARNING TRACK FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

FLEX LEARNING TRACK SCENARIO 2: HYBRID MODEL ››When the South Park School District is faced with the need to reduce capacity in all school buildings to further maximize physical distancing, a hybrid learning model will be deployed. Learning will occur both in-person and at home during the week following an ABAB schedule. ››Students would be assigned to either Group A or Group B and report to school on designated days. »» Students with last names beginning with A-L will be assigned to Hybrid Group A. Students with last names beginning with M-Z will be assigned to Hybrid Group B. To more effectively balance class sizes or bus capacity or for another reason, some students may be assigned a hybrid group that does not correspond to the last name breakdown. In those instances, the impacted families will be directly contacted by the district. »» Students assigned to Hybrid Group A will attend school in-person on Mondays and Wednesdays during a five-day school week. »» Students assigned to Hybrid Group B will attend school in-person on Tuesdays and Thursdays during a five-day school week. »» All students will work at home on Fridays during a five-day school week. »» The hybrid week schedule will be adjusted for weeks with scheduled holidays, staff professional development days, in-service/clerical days or Act 80 days. The hybrid schedule generally will not be adjusted mid-week in the event of an unannounced or emergency school closure. »» If siblings in the same household are assigned to different hybrid groups because of different last names, the parent/guardian may request the same group for each child by completing this online form. If a request is made, the students in the same household only will be assigned to the same group as the oldest sibling. The deadline to complete this form is Thursday, August 6 at noon. ››In an effort to maximize instructional time when students are physically in the classroom, teachers will prioritize content and instruction most suitable for an in-person learning environment. During at-school days, students will be led by teachers in new learning experiences and instruction and prepared for meaningful, independent learning assignments and activities which will take place during students’ scheduled at-home days. ››On scheduled at-home days, students will complete independent learning assignments and activities which build upon and advance instruction received during at-school days. The district does not expect teachers to regularly connect with students during at-home days because teachers will need to focus on maximizing instructional time with the group of students who are physically at school at that time. Students and families may contact classroom teachers as outlined by the teacher at the start of the academic year.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

››On Fridays during five-day school weeks, all students will engage in independent learning assignments and activities. Teachers will be available to connect either with individual students or small groups of students when needed as no students will be in the classroom on those days.

Teacher office hours will be communicated with students and families at the start of the school year.

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OPTION 1: FLEX LEARNING TRACK FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework Updated on August 13, 2020

FLEX LEARNING TRACK SCENARIO 2: HYBRID MODEL ››Students will be required to report their attendance by a school-specific time during all at-home days. The process will be outlined to student and families prior to the start of the year. ››All school operations would comply with the district’s Health and Safety Plan. Prior to their return and throughout the school year, students and staff will be educated about hygiene protocols and will be reminded to follow them. ››Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting procedures will be enacted. ››All students in grades K-12 would be provided with a district-issued Chromebook at the start of the academic year. K-12 teachers will utilize the Canvas learning management platform to create a coexisting digital classroom environment for class communication, parent information, assignments, activities, assessments and grading. Instructional time at the beginning of the academic year across the district will be dedicated to the introduction to and deployment of the Canvas platform to ensure student success. Additionally, our youngest learners will receive instruction on how to use their district-issued Chromebooks as a learning tool during the 2020-2021 school year. ››Teachers will be asked to review with their students how classroom operations would change with a transition to 100% remote learning scenario. ››Schools will continue to offer resources and supports to students to the greatest degree possible while adhering to the district’s Health and Safety Plan. Some resources and supports may need to take place virtually. ››Some curricula and learning practices including group work may need to be modified. ››The use of online learning materials and resources which supplement the district’s curricula will be encouraged. ››Teachers will communicate with students and families through Canvas and other platforms as outlined by the teachers at the start of the academic year. ››Traditional grading policies, not a pass/fail system, will be implemented. ››In a hybrid model, the first day of school for Hybrid Group A would be Tuesday, September 8. The first day of school for Hybrid Group B would be Wednesday, September 9. (Updated on August 13, 2020) ››The hybrid model scenario may occur when Allegheny County is in the green or yellow phases of reopening.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020 Updated: August 13, 2020

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OPTION 1: FLEX LEARNING TRACK FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework Updated on August 13, 2020

HYBRID MODEL CALENDAR The South Park School District has created this calendar for families to reference if a hybrid model is implemented during the first quarter of the 2020-2021 school year. Should the hybrid learning model begin or continue in the second quarter of the 2020-2021 school year, an additional calendar will be shared with families in November 2020. This calendar is subject to change.

M

SEPTEMBER 2020

OCTOBER 2020

T

W

H

F

Labor Day

8 A: School B: N/A

9 A: Home B: School

10 A: School B: Home

11* A: Home B: School

14 A: School B: Home

15 A: Home B: School

16 A: School B: Home

17 A: Home B: School

18 A: Home B: Home

5 A: School B: Home

6 A: Home B: School

21 A: School B: Home

22 A: Home B: School

23 A: School B: Home

24 A: Home B: School

25 A: Home B: Home

12 A: School B: Home

28 A: School B: Home

29 A: Home B: School

30 A: School B: Home

7

M 2 A: School B: Home 9 A: School B: Home

M

T

H

F

1 A: Home B: School

2 A: Home B: Home

7 A: School B: Home

8 A: Home B: School

9 A: Home B: Home

13 A: Home B: School

14 A: School B: Home

15 A: Home B: School

16 A: Home B: Home

19 A: School B: Home

20 A: Home B: School

21 A: School B: Home

22 A: Home B: School

23 A: Home B: Home

26 A: School B: Home

27 A: Home B: School

28 A: School B: Home

29 A: Home B: School

30 A: Home B: Home

NOVEMBER 2020 3

W

T

W

H

F

No School

4 A: Home B: School

5 A: School B: Home

6* A: Home B: School

SECOND QUARTER TBD

*Adjusted Schedule Due to Shortened Week

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020 Updated: August 13, 2020

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OPTION 1: FLEX LEARNING TRACK FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

FLEX LEARNING TRACK SCENARIO 3: REMOTE LEARNING 2.0 ››The South Park School District will implement Remote Learning 2.0 should a school or schools be unable to operate under the total reopen or hybrid model scenarios and need to close at any point during the 2020-2021 school year. It is important to note that Remote Learning 2.0 will not resemble the remote learning which took place following the abrupt closure of all Pennsylvania schools in the spring of 2020. Based on feedback from parents from a survey on remote learning in the spring, the South Park School District’s vision for Remote Learning 2.0 will emphasize live instruction where students and teachers are online, engaged in instruction and interaction at the same time throughout the week. ››All students in grades K-12 would be provided with a district-issued Chromebook at the start of the academic year. K-12 teachers will utilize the Canvas learning management platform to create a coexisting digital classroom environment for class communication, parent information, assignments, activities, assessments and grading. Instructional time at the beginning of the academic year across the district will be dedicated to the introduction to and deployment of the Canvas platform to ensure student success. Additionally, our youngest learners will receive instruction on how to use their district-issued Chromebooks as a learning tool during the 2020-2021 school year. If the school year needs to begin with Remote Learning 2.0, the district will share details about plans for students to receive their district-issued Chromebooks and be trained on the Canvas platform before instruction in the 2020-2021 academic year begins. ››Schedules for Remote Learning 2.0 will be created by building principals and assistant principals and will outline the frequency of synchronous learning (instruction provided to students in realtime) and asynchronous learning (independent student work outside of real-time instruction). These schedules, as much as possible, will resemble a student’s regular school-day schedule so as to meet the days and hours requirements set by the Pennsylvania Department of Education. ››Teachers will use Zoom or another pre-approved live video conferencing platform which integrates with Canvas. Each teacher’s schedule for live video conference sessions for the purpose of synchronous learning will be posted in the Canvas platform. ››Students will be expected to “attend” classes daily unless prior arrangements have been made with their teacher/teachers. Students will be required to report their attendance on every Remote Learning 2.0 day via an online form by a school-specific time. Directions on this process will be shared with students and families. ››Traditional grading policies, not a pass/fail system, will be implemented. ››School supports and resources will be offered to students virtually. ››Remote Learning 2.0 may occur when Allegheny County is in the green, yellow or red phases of reopening.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

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OPTION 1: FLEX LEARNING TRACK FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

DETERMINING THE FLEX LEARNING TRACK DELIVERY At a special meeting on Tuesday, July 28, 2020, the South Park School District’s Board of Directors approved the district’s health and safety plan and the hybrid model of reopening for the Flex Learning Track. However, the board of directors recognizes the evolving nature of the COVID-19 pandemic. It is impossible to predict what, if anything, will change in our community and region from late-July to lateAugust. Therefore, this reopening decision may change in the weeks leading up to the first day of school.

The Superintendent, upon reviewing data-driven information about the transmission of COVID-19 in our community and the possible future release of guidance and directives from local, state and federal health agencies, may decide to modify the delivery of instruction in the Flex Learning Track before the first day of school. The Superintendent may also change the delivery of the Flex Learning Track at any point in the 2020-2021 school year in the interest of the health and safety of South Park School District students and staff.

Factors that may result in the transition to a different Flex Learning Track delivery at any point in the 20202021 school year include, but are not limited to: ››The current reopening phase in Allegheny County (red, yellow or green). However, state leaders have indicated a reluctance to move a county or counties to a different phase. Instead, it appears they will more likely take targeted mitigation efforts within the current reopening phase. ››The current state of transmission of COVID-19 in our classrooms, schools, district, community, region and/or state and the extent to which the spread of the virus is under control in our community, region and/or state. ›› The ability of the South Park School District to sufficiently and adequately provide the resources for and meet the needs of students and staff in an in-school setting. ››Orders or additional directives from the Allegheny County Health Department or the Pennsylvania Department of Health regarding the status of in-person school operations.

Should the Superintendent modify the delivery of instruction in the Flex Learning Track, families and staff will be notified via phone and email as quickly as possible. The modification will also be posted on the district’s website (sparksd.org) and on the district’s social media pages.

If the district is required to pivot to a different instructional delivery scenario mid-year, the change may need to take place immediately without much prior notice. While the district’s reopening plan provides the framework for each instructional delivery scenario, an overnight transition may not be possible. School cancellations and subsequent calendar changes may need to occur.

Additionally, the South Park School District may experience temporary disruptions in the instructional delivery at a school, several schools or throughout the district due to a number of factors. This may require the closure of school in a manner and timeframe similar to a snow day or the brief shift to a different instructional delivery. These changes may need to be announced as little as a few hours before the start of a school day.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

13

OPTION 1: FLEX LEARNING TRACK FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

FLEX LEARNING TRACK INSTRUCTION DELIVERY SUMMARY

STUDENTS ENROLLED IN THE FLEX LEARNING TRACK MAY RECEIVE INSTRUCTION DELIVERED VIA ANY ONE OF THESE SCENARIOS IN 2020-2021 TOTAL REOPEN Students & Staff return to school five days per week with health and safety protocols and mitigation efforts in place.

HYBRID REOPEN Students are divided into two groups. While one group of students receives instruction in school, the other group of students completes independent learning activities and assignments from home.

REMOTE LEARNING 2.0 Students and staff are engaged in a combination of real-time instruction and independent work remotely.

CAN OCCUR IN

GREEN PHASE

CAN OCCUR IN GREEN PHASE YELLOW PHASE

CAN OCCUR IN GREEN PHASE YELLOW PHASE RED PHASE

THE SOUTH PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT MAY TRANSITION BETWEEN THESE DELIVERY SCENARIOS DURING THE 2020-2021 SCHOOL YEAR

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

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AN INTRODUCTION TO CANVAS FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

CANVAS: SOUTH PARK’S NEW CLASSROOM CONNECTION Following remote learning during the school shutdown in spring 2020, families provided feedback about the need for a standard, district-wide system for South Park teachers to connect with students, provide instruction, assign independent learning activities, conduct assessments and communicate with students and families. The South Park School District, along with many other school districts in the South Hills and surrounding area, examined a number of learning management systems and found that Canvas best met this request.

Canvas will be used in all instructional deliveries for students enrolled in the Flex Learning Track. Whether instruction is delivered in the traditional classroom setting in a total reopen, a hybrid setting of classroom and home or a total remote setting, Canvas supports learning, no matter where it happens. Canvas can truly become a one-stop shop for South Park students and families in the Flex Learning Track. Canvas replaces Google Classroom.

Canvas is an easy-to-use, cloud-based platform that allows for all of the resources and tools our teachers use to be in one place. Its integration with the district’s new student information system, PowerSchool, automatically enrolls students in courses. There’s no need for registration codes like other learning management systems. After logging in, students will see summaries of their assignments, announcements and other important information right on their Canvas dashboard. Customized notifications alert students to announcements they need to know. Canvas also supports real-time instruction through Zoom and other video conference programs if the district needs to transition to Remote Learning 2.0. Students will be introduced to Canvas at the beginning of the school year and learn how their teachers will use this tool to support learning in all instructional delivery scenarios.

Another key benefit to Canvas is the availability of a parent app on iOS or Android devices, where parents/ guardians can see their children’s courses, basic assignment details and due dates to help support their children’s learning. Parents can also receive alerts for course announcements and reminders for specific assignments. Assignment grades would be available in the parent app. Final grades will be reported in the new PowerSchool parent portal. A Canvas parent account does not allow parents/guardians to submit assignments, participate in the course or take assessments on their child’s behalf. Instructions on how to access and set up the Canvas parent app will be shared with families as we get closer to the school year.

The district will also roll out additional details about the Canvas platform ahead of the first day of school.

KEY REMINDER:

Canvas will only be used by students enrolled in the Flex Learning Track and will be used by those students in all three instructional delivery scenarios (total reopen, hybrid model or Remote Learning 2.0)

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

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OPTION 2: CYBER EDUCATION TRACK FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework Updated on August 7, 2020 Even with health protocols in place in all of our school buildings, we recognize that some students and families may not yet feel comfortable returning to the classroom. Feedback received from our family survey and through conversations over the past several months has emphasized the desire for some South Park families to have a total cyber education option available, while still remaining a South Park School District student.

The district is pleased to announce the creation of the South Park Cyber Academy. For students in kindergarten through eighth grade, the South Park Cyber Academy provides South Park curricula delivered by South Park teachers in an online learning environment. For high school students, the South Park School District has partnered with Waterfront Learning to combine the collective resources and supports with the rigor and flexibility of leading national online education providers.

SOUTH PARK CYBER ACADEMY FOR GRADES K-8 ››Administrators and teachers thoroughly reviewed our Cyber Education Track for K-8 students and are proposing a revised, enhanced model for the South Park Cyber Academy for students in kindergarten through eighth grade. This new K-8 model utilizes only South Park teachers and South Park curriculum. K-8 students enrolled in the South Park Cyber Academy will use the Canvas learning management platform to view instruction, receive assignments and interact with teachers and classmates. This is the same system that will be used by students enrolled in the Flex Learning Track. ››The K-8 South Park Cyber Academy, under this new model, will blend synchronous learning (students and teachers are online at the same time, engaged in instruction and learning) and asynchronous learning (students complete assignments independently). All K-8 cyber course content, assignments and lessons will be created, planned and uploaded by South Park School District teachers. Teachers assigned to cyber courses at the elementary center and middle school will communicate their class schedule for students once the enrollment process is complete. When live, real-time instruction during a scheduled class is not occurring, K-8 teachers will be available to answer questions and provide support. K-8 teachers will also be available during scheduled office hours that will be outlined at the start of the school year. ››Under this new Cyber Academy model, K-8 students enrolled in the South Park Cyber Academy will learn the same content and work on the same assignments as their classmates enrolled in the Flex Learning Track. Course pacing in the South Park Cyber Academy will mirror in-school course pacing.

This allows a smooth transition to the Flex Learning Track should a student choose to switch out of the South Park Cyber Academy at the start of the second semester (January 2021) or if a student would need to be out of school for an extended period of time. ››K-8 South Park Cyber Academy students still will receive district-issued Chromebooks and automatically will be enrolled in courses in the Canvas learning management platform. Canvas training for K-8 South Park Cyber Academy students will be provided. ››Virtual office hours, contact information and schedule information will be provided to K-8 students and families by the designated cyber academy teacher.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020 Updated: August 7, 2020

››K-8 students with IEPs and GIEPs will have updates made to receive itinerant support. A schedule will be provided by the case manager for special education teacher availability during virtual instruction. Gifted instruction will be facilitated virtually, and a schedule will be provided by the gifted education teacher.

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OPTION 2: CYBER EDUCATION TRACK Updated on August 7, 2020

FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

SOUTH PARK CYBER ACADEMY FOR GRADES K-8 (CONTINUED) ››K-8 students will be able to participate in all specials and exploratory classes as if they were enrolled in the Flex Learning Track. Those classes would be reflected on a cyber student’s schedule.

SOUTH PARK ELEMENTARY CENTER ››A grade-level teacher will facilitate self-contained content consistent with the grade-level curriculum being taught to students participating in the Flex Learning Track. ››Instruction may consist of synchronous learning, asynchronous learning and independent practice. ››Participation in specials classes will be in accordance with the classroom teacher’s rotation schedule through the specials program.

SOUTH PARK MIDDLE SCHOOL ››Students will receive instruction from teachers assigned to subject areas in each grade level. For example, a fifth grade student will receive instruction from the 5th grade science, social studies, ELA and math teachers. ››Teachers will facilitate content consistent with the curriculum being taught to students participating in the Flex Learning Track. ››All levels of middle school classes (for example, accelerated) will be available in the South Park Cyber Academy. ››Instruction may consist of synchronous learning, asynchronous learning and independent practice. ››The exploratory class rotation will run under the same cycle sequence and duration as the students participating in the Flex Learning Track. The exploratory teacher will provide a schedule of availability for each grade level. ››Enrolling in the South Park Cyber Academy is a semester commitment. South Park Cyber Academy students are eligible to enroll in the Flex Learning Track at the start of the second semester (January 2021). Students enrolled in the Flex Learning Track may enroll in the South Park Cyber Academy at any point during the school year.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020 Updated: August 7, 2020

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OPTION 2: CYBER EDUCATION TRACK Updated on August 7, 2020

FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

SOUTH PARK CYBER ACADEMY FOR GRADES 9-12 ››The South Park Cyber Academy provides enrolled students in grades 9-12 with the ultimate flexibility while remaining South Park School District students. This means South Park Cyber Academy students are eligible for district athletics, extra-curricular activities and after-school events as those activities are offered in accordance with the district’s Health and Safety Plan and local, state and federal guidelines. South Park Cyber Academy students follow the district’s 2020-2021 school year calendar. Cyber Academy seniors will graduate with a South Park diploma. ››South Park Cyber Academy courses will be administered by South Park teachers or contracted instructors. All teachers are certified and highly-qualified in their content area. ››Personalized learning plans ensure completion and overall success. South Park Cyber Academy fits students’ individual learning styles, by providing courses aligned with state standards in a way that is tailored to each family’s circumstances and needs. ››Students complete schoolwork where and when they choose while being accountable for their work and progress as they move towards mastery in each content area. ›› AP and honors courses are available through the South Park Cyber Academy. ››Students in grades 9-12 will take courses through Edgenuity. This national, online education platforms provide curricula aligned with state standards while still offering the personalization of courses that make the South Park Cyber Academy an option for all high school learners. ››District administrators or staff will work with students and families enrolling in the South Park Cyber Academy to schedule courses and ensure a smooth transition into the cyber education track. ››South Park Cyber Academy students will receive a district-issued Chromebook prior to the start of the academic year. The district’s technology office will handle all Chromebook-related technology issues for these devices. ››Enrolling in the South Park Cyber Academy is a semester commitment. South Park Cyber Academy students are eligible to enroll in the Flex Learning Track at the start of the second semester (January 2021). Students enrolled in the Flex Learning Track may enroll in the South Park Cyber Academy at any point during the school year.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020 Updated: August 7, 2020

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OPTION 2: CYBER EDUCATION TRACK FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework Updated on August 7, 2020

SOUTH PARK CYBER ACADEMY FOR GRADES 9-12 (CONTINUED) ››The South Park Cyber Academy for grades 9-12 is not the same as Remote Learning 2.0 as outlined in the Flex Learning Track section. While Remote Learning 2.0 is an extension of traditional classroom instruction in an online setting using the Canvas platform, the South Park Cyber Academy for grades 9-12 maintains its personalized approach for each student with a focus on flexibility.

Remote Learning 2.0 will have an emphasis on a normal school-day schedule; whereas, the South Park Cyber Academy provides students in grades 9-12 with the opportunity to work where and when they choose under the direction of a South Park or contracted instructor. If the district delivers instruction via Remote Learning 2.0 for students enrolled in the Flex Learning Track, those students in grades 9-12 enrolled in the South Park Cyber Academy maintain their enrollment in the cyber courses. Remote Learning 2.0 and the South Park Cyber Academy may at times during the 20202021 school operate simultaneously. ››Courses for each student will be carefully chosen in consultation with building administrators and counselors. ››Eligible high school students enrolled in the South Park Cyber Academy are still able to attend Steel Center for Technical Education. ››Comprehensive services for all special programming are fully integrated with the South Park School District as a learning partner to make sure the student needs are met.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020 Updated: August 7, 2020

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OPTION 2: CYBER EDUCATION TRACK FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

SOUTH PARK CYBER ACADEMY TENTATIVE COURSE LISTINGS GRADES 9-12 LANGUAGE ARTS

ELA 9 ELA 10 ELA 11 ELA 12

MATH

Algebra I Algebra II Financial Math Geometry Pre-Calculus Statistics and Probability

SOCIAL STUDIES

Economics Modern World History Psychology US History I World History: 1450 – Present

SCIENCE

Biology Chemistry Earth and Space Science Environmental Science Introduction to Physical Science Physics

Course schedules and offerings still to be finalized by South Park School District administrators.

Finalized course schedules should be available in early- to mid-August.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

20

OPTION 2: CYBER EDUCATION TRACK FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

SOUTH PARK CYBER ACADEMY TENTATIVE COURSE LISTINGS GRADES 9-12 (CONTINUED) WORLD LANGUAGES

Spanish I-III German I-II

AP COURSES

AP Calculus AB AP English Language and Composition AP English Literature and Composition

ELECTIVES (SOME ELECTIVES MAY BE A SEMESTER IN LENGTH)

AP US History Advertising and Sales Promotion Astronomy Career Explorations Career Planning and Development Creative Writing Culinary Arts Digital Arts I Digital Arts II Digital Photography I Digital Photography II Early Childhood Education Game Design Physical Education I Physical Education II Physical Education III Public Speaking

Course schedules and offerings still to be finalized by South Park School District administrators.

Finalized course schedules should be available in early- to mid-August.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

21

ENROLLING IN THE CYBER EDUCATION TRACK FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

After reviewing the educational track options for the 2020-2021 school year, families who would like to enroll their children in the South Park Cyber Academy must complete the online cyber education form. The form will be open from Wednesday, July 29 to Wednesday, August 5 at 3 p.m. Families who want their children to remain in the Flex Learning Track do not need to take any action. If a cyber education form is not submitted for a student, that student will remain in the Flex Learning Track.

Families enrolling in the South Park Cyber Academy will be required to complete additional forms. The online form shared by the South Park School District on Wednesday, July 29 only begins the South Park Cyber Academy enrollment process. Families selecting the South Park Cyber Academy option will receive additional information from the South Park School District or Waterfront Learning in the coming weeks.

Students may transition from the Flex Learning Track into the South Park Cyber Academy at any point during the school year.

Contact your building principal or guidance counselor to begin the process. Please allow several days for the enrollment process to take place.

Students enrolled in the South Park Cyber Academy may only transition into the Flex Learning Track at the end of the first semester (January 2021).

If you have questions about the enrollment process or the educational offerings, please contact your building principal.

HAVE GENERAL QUESTIONS? While we have attempted to create an educational framework that covers as many questions as we can, it is impossible to anticipate every question that families may have when making this important decision.

Therefore, we want to give families the ability to submit general questions and answer those questions in a public forum prior to the deadline for selecting an educational track. Please remember that the planning for the 2020-2021 school year continues, and this plan is not final. Therefore, we may not be able to fully answer every question. If you have a question, please click here to complete the online question form. The district will work to answer as many questions as possible in a public forum (for example, an online FAQ page or a video Q&A shared with families on Monday, August 3.) The deadline to submit questions about the educational options is Friday, July 31 at noon. If you have a specific question about your child, please do not ask that via the online form. Those questions should be directed to your building principal.

CLICK HERE TO ACCESS THE EDUCATIONAL PLAN QUESTION FORM CLICK HERE TO ACCESS THE CYBER EDUCATION ENROLLMENT FORM

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

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HEALTH & SAFETY PLAN OVERVIEW FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

The South Park School District Board of Directors approved the district’s Health and Safety Plan at a special meeting on Tuesday, July 28, 2020. The district will now submit the Health and Safety Plan to the Pennsylvania Department of Health. The complete Health & Safety Plan can be found by clicking here. We are providing an overview of our health and safety measures in this Forward Framework.

HEALTH SELF-ASSESSMENT ››Students and staff are required to self-assess at home for signs and symptoms of COVID-19 daily prior to leaving for school. The district has developed an at-home screening guide (Example on Page 24) for families and staff to use each school day. This tool was developed based on guidance from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and will be updated if new symptoms are recognized by either of these health agencies. The district will review the at-home screening guide with families and staff in early August and will provide frequent reminders, especially early in the academic year, to ensure self-assessments are taking place at home. ››Students and employees should stay home when they are sick. ››Families of students and staff will inform the school nurse of exposure and await further instructions of possible quarantine as per health department guidelines before boarding a school bus or arriving at a district campus. Contact information for school nurses is on page 31.

TEMPERATURE SCREENINGS ››Upon entrance to district buildings, all students and staff will undergo a temperature screening through thermal cameras in place at various entrances which will notify the student or staff member of an elevated temperature or through a contactless thermometer operated by a district staff member. The school nurse will perform a follow-up temperature screening if a student or staff member records an elevated temperature. Any follow-up screening will be performed discreetly and respectfully.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

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AT-HOME SYMPTOM SCREENING FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework As part of the district’s health and safety plan, all families and staff are asked to use this at-home symptom screening tool prior to leaving for school. This screening tool is based on guidance received from the Pennsylvania Department of Health and is subject to change based on new information about COVID-19. In the event of a modification to this screening tool, an updated version will be shared with families and staff.

GROUP A SYMPTOMS Fever (100.4 or higher) Cough Shortness of Breath Difficulty Breathing New Loss of Taste or Smell

GROUP B SYMPTOMS Chills Muscle Pain Headache Sore Throat Nausea or Vomiting Diarrhea Fatigue Congestion or Runny Nose

BEFORE LEAVING FOR SCHOOL, ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS

Is the student/are you exhibiting one (1) or more of the Group A Symptoms?

If Yes, Stay Home and Contact the School Nurse Is the student/are you exhibiting two (2) or more of the Group B Symptoms?

If Yes, Stay Home and Contact the School Nurse Is the student/are you taking a fever-reducing medication?

If Yes, Stay Home and Contact the School Nurse Has the student/have you tested positive for COVID-19, been exposed to someone with COVID-19 symptoms (listed above) or to someone with a confirmed or probable case of COVID-19?

If Yes, Stay Home and Contact the School Nurse SPHS Nurse: Tera Barkey SPMS Nurse: Anita Christie SPEC Nurse: Kim Mosi

(412) 655-3111, ext. 2020 (412) 655-3111, ext. 3030 (412) 655-3111, ext. 4040

COVID-19 Symptoms from CDC Source: CDC and Pennsylvania Department of Health Created: July 21, 2020, Revised: August 17, 2020

tera.barkey@sparksd.org anita.christie@sparksd.org kim.mosi@sparksd.org

CommunityRelated Exposure from CDC

HEALTH & SAFETY PLAN OVERVIEW Updated on August 17, 2020

FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

FACE COVERINGS ››The July 1, 2020 order from the Pennsylvania Department of Health mandates the wearing of face coverings for all students and staff in public schools when a distance of six feet cannot be maintained. The order was revised for school districts on August 17, 2020. ››“Face covering” means a covering of the nose and mouth that is secured to the head with ties, straps or loops over the ears or is wrapped around the lower face. A “face covering” can be made of a variety of synthetic or natural fabrics, including cotton, silk or linen, and, for the purposes of the order, can include a plastic face shield that covers the nose and mouth. “Face coverings” may be factory-made, sewn by hand or improvised from household items, including but not limited to, scarves, bandanas, t-shirts, sweatshirts or towels. While procedural and surgical masks intended for health care providers and first responders, such as N95 respirators, would meet these requirements, these specialized masks should be reserved for appropriate occupational and health care settings. ››According to the Pennsylvania Department of Education, students may remove face coverings only when those students are eating or drinking when spaced at least six feet apart, when wearing a face covering creates an unsafe condition in which to operate equipment or execute a task or when at least 6 feet apart during “face-covering breaks” to last no longer than 10 minutes. ››South Park School District students and staff will be required to wear face coverings at all times, including on school buses. Students are to provide their own face coverings. The district will provide face shields and/or masks to staff. ››Children two years and older are required to wear a face covering unless they have a medical or mental health condition or disability, documented in accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act or IDEA, that precludes the wearing of a face covering in school. Accommodations for such students should be made in partnership with the student’s health care provider, school nurse and IEP/504 team. The district will ask these families for medical documentation. ››Students may remove their face coverings when seated to eat breakfast or lunch, but they must keep the face covering on at all other times. ››Scheduled face covering breaks will be scheduled for our younger students. ››We understand that wearing a face covering can be uncomfortable but believe that increasing the amount of time a student is wearing a face covering at home will better prepare your child for the school day. ››It is also important to teach your child how to properly wear a face covering as well as how to properly put on and take off a face covering. (CDC Face Covering Directions) ››Especially important for our younger students is that children will need to be able to put the face covering on independently so that no adult will need to touch your child’s face covering. We ask that you help them prepare by practicing in the weeks leading up to school.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

25

HEALTH & SAFETY PLAN OVERVIEW FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

CLEANING , SANITIZING & DISINFECTING ››All facilities will be thoroughly cleaned with disinfectant approved for schools and effective against SARS-CoV-2 as per CDC and/or state health department guidelines daily. Electrostatic sprayers will continue to be deployed. ››High touch surfaces will be disinfected regularly before, during and after the school day. ››NanoSeptic skins will be installed on door handles throughout school buildings. The skins are powered by light and utilize mineral nano-crystals which create an oxidation reaction. The surface continually oxidizes organic contaminants without the use of poisons, heavy metals or chemicals. ››Water fountains will be closed. Water bottle refill stations will be installed for reusable bottles only.

Students are encouraged to bring a reusable bottle with them to school. Students may bring bottled water with them to school. Water fountain heads on classroom sinks will be covered. ››Approved cleaning supplies will be provided to staff for use in classrooms on high-touch surfaces throughout the day when students are not present. ››School bus drivers will thoroughly disinfect school buses after every run. For example, a school bus will be disinfected after dropping off high school students in the morning and before picking up middle school students in the morning. ››Cafeteria spaces will be disinfected between each meal period. ››The district will continuously monitor the stock of cleaning supplies.

VENTILATION & AIR QUALITY ››Coils inside all HVAC units will be routinely deep cleaned. Air turnover rates will be increased.

Additional outside air will be brought in during normal operation. ››Filters are routinely monitored and replaced. The district’s commercial-grade HVAC units have filters with an efficiency rating of MERV 7. 100% of the air is filtered through the air handler. ››Open classroom windows if and when feasible. ››Windows on school buses are to be open when possible to increase ventilation.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

26

HEALTH & SAFETY PLAN OVERVIEW FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

HYGIENE ››Reminders about healthy hygiene habits will be shared with families prior to the start of the school year, and messaging will continue into and throughout the school year. ››Hand sanitizer will be available on school buses, and the driver is to promote its use. ››All students and staff will be provided ample opportunities to practice good hand hygiene using soap and water or hand sanitizer. Time will be scheduled for elementary center students to have hand-washing breaks. ››Reminders/posters of proper hand washing will be posted throughout the schools. Audio and video reminders of health etiquette will be produced and used during morning announcements and on television monitors throughout the district. ››Hand sanitizer will be available in common areas and in classrooms. ››Students and staff will be encouraged to wash or sanitize their hands when entering and exiting their classrooms. ››Students will be required to wash or sanitize their hands before and after eating. ››Ensure classrooms with sinks are supplied with hand soap and paper towels.

PHYSICAL DISTANCING ››Classrooms and learning spaces will be arranged to maximize separation between students and between students and staff to the greatest extent possible. A hybrid model of operation allows for increased distance between students and between students and staff. Student desks will be arranged to face the same direction. Seating at tables will be on one side when and where feasible. ››One-way directional signage will be used in hallways and stairwells. ››Class and activity sizes will be reduced when and where possible. ››Extra furniture may be removed from classrooms when and where possible to maximize classroom space. ››Alternate locations may be utilized for instruction throughout the buildings. ››When weather permits, in-person instruction may take place outdoors. ››Elementary center students will remain in their homeroom classrooms to the maximum extent feasible. Specials classes at the elementary center will be held in students’ homerooms when possible. When possible, students at the elementary and middle levels will be grouped and remain as a scheduled group.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

27

HEALTH & SAFETY PLAN OVERVIEW FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

TRANSPORTATION ››Parents/guardians will be encouraged to transport their children to school when possible. ››In the district’s plan for a hybrid educational schedule, the district’s transportation office will work to reduce capacity on school buses by approximately 50-60%. ››In the district’s plan for a total reopen, the district’s transportation office will work to reduce capacity on school buses by 20-30%. ››Students and families will be reminded to physically distance at bus stops. ››The district will assign seating by loading buses from back to front on trips to school and unloading buses from front to back on trips from school. Seats will be numbered. Siblings will be seated together. ››Students will not be permitted to sit in the first row of seats. ››The driver and students will be required to wear face coverings according to the order from the Pennsylvania Department of Health. ››Scheduled staggered arrival times for buses should limit the number of students holding to disembark. ››School buildings will implement staggered dismissal schedules if and when feasible to avoid a large number of students in hallways going to buses.

FOOD SERVICES ››Capacity for each cafeteria will be determined by the building principal based on the six feet of distance between students. The existing cafeterias will be reconfigured to maximize spacing Additional, alternate dining locations have been identified in each building to maximize spacing. At the elementary center, the gym will be used for dining. At the middle school, the LGI room will be used for dining. At the high school, the auxiliary gym will be used for dining. Each of these spaces will be properly disinfected between lunch periods. ››Students may be required to be seated and then permitted to go up to the lunch line table-by-table. ››Meals, at least initially, will be served prepackaged or pre-bagged. Any buffet style serving areas will be unavailable (including salad bar and a la carte). The number of food choices will be limited as needed. ››A contactless payment method will be implemented. Exchange of cash at the register will be discouraged. Families will be encouraged and reminded to use the My School Account online payment option.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

››The Food Services department will announce details of meal distribution for students who are not physically in school.

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HEALTH & SAFETY PLAN OVERVIEW FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

VISITORS & OPERATIONAL CHANGES ››Non-essential visitors and volunteers will not be permitted to enter any district facility until further notice. ››Ample notification should be given to the school office in the event a parent/guardian needs to pick up or drop off a student outside the normal arrival and dismissal times. Modified procedures for this process will be outlined to parents at each school. At no time will parents be permitted inside the office. However, modified procedures will continue to ensure safety of the student and the verification of identification. Additionally, all required forms during this process will be converted to online forms and can be completed with a smartphone. Alternate versions will be provided for those without a smartphone. ››Forgotten items should only be brought to the school by parents/guardians in an emergency situation. A system will be developed to allow for those items to be dropped off without a parent/ guardian entering the building. ››IEP and parent meetings will be held virtually. ››Large group activities, field trips, assemblies and events will be prohibited until further notice.

Virtual events, assemblies and field trips are encouraged. ››The rental of district facilities by outside organizations is suspended until further notice. ››In the event a visitor must enter a school office, appointments are required and should be scheduled by contacting the school or district office. Visitors, vendors, or contractors are required to wear face coverings inside district facilities.

RECESS & PHYSICAL EDUCATION ››Elementary center recess will be conducted outdoors whenever possible. Use of the playground equipment will be restricted. Rather, students will be provided with other outdoor opportunities.

Shared equipment will not be used. In the event of inclement weather, recess will be held in students’ homerooms. ››Physical education classes will be conducted outdoors when and where possible to maximize physical distancing. Equipment, when utilized, will not be shared by students in the same class and will be thoroughly disinfected between classes. At the elementary center, the physical education teacher will rotate to classrooms with modified lessons and activities and an increased focus on mindfulness. Throughout the district, physical education opportunities must be modified to ensure adequate physical distancing between students and should not require vigorous physical activity when possible.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

››Locker rooms and the weight room at the middle school will be closed for physical education classes until further notice. The high school locker rooms and weight room will be closed for physical education classes until further notice. Students enrolled in the high school swimming class will use locker rooms, adhere to physical distancing requirements at all times in locker rooms, and wear face coverings at all times in locker rooms.

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HEALTH & SAFETY PLAN OVERVIEW FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

ISOLATION PROCEDURES ››Each school administrator will identify two isolation areas in each school building. Students or staff who exhibit COVID-19 symptoms will be immediately sent to the school nurse, and a teacher or other staff member should notify the school nurse that the student or staff member is on his/her way to the nurse’s office. The nurse will apply personal protective equipment and assess the student.

The student will wait in the designated isolation area until a parent/guardian arrives for pick-up. The nurse should accompany the student to the parent/guardian who will remain outside the building.

If the individual is a staff member, he/she should be sent home. The student or staff member will be provided with information about COVID-19, testing and return protocols. The isolation area is to receive enhanced cleaning after each use. The school nurse will contact the Allegheny County Health Department to determine whether isolation or quarantine is needed and will comply with the department’s recommendations. ››Contact tracing will be discussed with family or the staff member as well as with the Allegheny County Health Department as appropriate. The confidentiality of the individual/staff member will be maintained at all times. The South Park School District will adhere to guidance from the Allegheny County Health Department regarding contact tracing and subsequent quarantines. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines a contact as someone who was within six feet of an infected person for at least 15 minutes starting from two days before illness onset (or, for asymptomatic patients, two days prior to specimen collection) until the time the patient is isolated.

Close contacts may need to quarantine for 14 days, based on recommendations from the Allegheny County Health Department. ››Return to school by students and staff will follow current health department guidelines and/or documentation from a licensed physician stating the individual can return to school. The school nurse will ensure the guidelines are met prior to the student or staff returning. ››The school nurses will track students/staff with a confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis or with known exposures to COVID-19 and will be available to provide ongoing communication with them.

COMMUNICATION ››Should a case of COVID-19 be confirmed in a district building, a communication from the district would be released via email and posted on the district’s website. This communication will adhere to all federal and state privacy laws. ››Individuals identified through contact tracing following a confirmed case of COVID-19 will receive direct communication via email and/or phone call with information and recommendations from the Allegheny County Health Department. ››These communication strategies may change as the district awaits additional guidance and directives from the Allegheny County Health Department.

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

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HEALTH & SAFETY PLAN OVERVIEW FORWARD 2020-2021 School Year Framework

SOCIAL & EMOTIONAL WELLNESS ››The South Park School District recognizes that the transition back to school will require different levels of support for our students. Social/emotional wellness and mental health needs will be addressed through counseling staff and mental health partners. A screener will be used by counselors in response to concerns, and appropriate referrals will be made based on the level of support needed. ››A process for regular check-ins with at-risk students and staff will be established. ››To ease concerns for students moving to a new school building this year, building principals will develop orientation programs before the start of school. These orientation programs may need to be held virtually. ››Frequent updates will be provided to families throughout the summer about the district’s health and safety protocols in place and how it will affect day-to-day school operations to ease any concerns or uneasiness about the changes before the first day of school. ››The district will work to create virtual opportunities for students enrolled in the South Park Cyber Academy to foster inclusion and school pride.

SCHOOL NURSE CONTACT INFORMATION SPEC

SPMS

SPHS

Kim Mosi extension 4040

Anita Christie extension 3030

Tera Barkey extension 2020

kim.mosi@sparksd.org

anita.christie@sparksd.org

tera.barkey@sparksd.org

SCHOOL COUNSELOR CONTACT INFORMATION SPEC

SPMS

SPHS

Kari Havel extension 4406

Chris Stoicovy extension 3005

Bethany Chicora-Lewis (A-L) extension 2011

kari.havel@sparksd.org

chris.stoicovy@sparksd.org

bethany.chicoralewis@sparksd.org

Natalie Liptak (M-Z) extension 2012

natalie.liptak@sparksd.org

Subject to Change Created: July 29, 2020

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