Morgan County Schools

COVID-19 Re-entry Plan

July 24, 2020 ***Adapted from West Virginia Schools Re-Entry Toolkit COVID-19 Guidance - 7/8/2020

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MESSAGE FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT Dear Colleagues, Families and Friends, What a year 2020 has been! In a matter of weeks, the COVID-19 pandemic radically changed the structure of our daily routines as most of us retreated to our homes. Morgan County School personnel stayed on their jobs to continue instruction and provide meals to students. Teachers continued to work with their students online. It was a challenge for sure, and we learned alongside all of you. We have never lost sight of the fact that our children need to be in school. However, we understand that this can only happen with safety as the priority. We are committed to both of these charges. The pages that follow present guidelines that our schools will follow as we reenter on September 8. It is somewhat general because we understand that COVID-19 gives us an ever-changing situation. Our preferred option is a return to school, five days a week, with a dismissal one hour earlier than normal and safety measures in place. We will reorganize our classrooms and spaces to promote social distancing and will model and teach personal hygiene to slow the spread of the virus. We will urge the use of personal protective equipment. These measures, practiced by everyone, provide the best chance of keeping exposure to a minimum. While a preferred option is a five-day week, we understand that we may have to alter those plans. We will remain flexible and work with local and state health authorities to keep as many children in school as much as possible. We may have to temporarily close individual schools, or schedules may have to be altered. We may have to use a combination of in-person and online learning. In any event, we will strive to give you, our families, timely information so you can plan as needed. If you choose our virtual school option, we will have teachers assigned to your students ready to meet their needs as well. We recognize that there is no replacement for what our students experience in schools. Yet, we recognize that we may be required to return to a fully remote mode of instruction. We are ready for that and we have listened to your concerns about improving our instruction. Our teachers are already working on planning and mapping so that parents and students know what to expect. We are also working on ways to make sure that your children have more interaction with teachers. We are looking forward to these changes and the process of returning to school. It is an honor to serve as Superintendent in a county where there is such commitment and determination to provide the best possible education to our students, while focusing on the health, safety and well-being of all involved. Thank you, and we look forward to seeing you in the fall. Kristen E. Tuttle Morgan County Schools Superintendent

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TABLE OF CONTENTS Message from the Superintendent............................................................................................................2 The Return to School..................................................................................................................................4 Highlights of the Re-entry Plan…………………………………………………………………………………......5 Minimizing Exposure: A Critical Component of Re-entry.......................................................................7 Face Coverings and Face Masks.................................................................................................................8 Physical Distancing ………………………….…………………………….………………………………………..9 School Re-entry Options......................................................................................................................... 11 In-Person…………………………….............................................................................................................11 Virtual Option…………................................................................................................................................11 Remote Learning.........................................................................................................................................11 Equity in Access…………………………………………………………………………………….……………...12 Guiding Principles for Instructional Priorities…………………………….……………………………………...12 Special Education/Accommodations……………………….…………………………………………………….14 Safety of Students, Staff and Visitors ....................................................................................................15 Employee Screening & Protocols .............................................................................................................15 Visitors…………………………………………………………………..…………………………………………...16 Travel Restrictions/School Building Use……………………………………………………….……………….. 16 Health and Wellness………………………………………………………………………………………….……17 Monitoring and Handling of Presumptive, Suspected & Confirmed COVID-19 Cases ………………….....17 Protecting Vulnerable Populations..............................................................................................................17 Protocol for Returning to School after COVID……………………………………………..………………..…..18 Cleaning & Hygiene ...................................................................................................................................19 Water & Ventilation Systems.......................................................................................................................20 School Food Service...................................................................................................................................21 Transportation.............................................................................................................................................22

Communications...................................................................................................................................... 23 Topical Resources ...................................................................................................................................24 School Re-entry Resources…………………………….............................................................................25 Symptom Screen Checklist for Elementary School Classrooms................................................................25 Symptom Screen Checklist for Middle/High School Classrooms ..............................................................26 Should I Come to School Classroom Posters

Elementary Schools.......................................................................................................................27 Middle/High Schools …..................................................................................................................28

Best Health Practices in your Schools Posters Elementary Schools.......................................................................................................................29 Middle/High Schools......................................................................................................................30

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INTRODUCTION-THE RETURN TO SCHOOL

Morgan County Schools (MCS) has always placed the safety (physical and social-emotional) of our students and staff at the forefront of every decision we make. During this extraordinary time, the safety (physical and social-emotional) of our staff has become more important than ever. In this document, as well as in the Morgan County Virtual Academy Handbook, we provide you with current information to help guide your decision making as a parent. This plan has been created with the input of a huge number of stakeholders including teachers, service personnel, administrators and community partners. It is our goal to aid families and staff in navigating the re-opening of our school where employees, students, and families feel safe and to reduce the impact of COVID-19 conditions upon returning to the district. The guidelines referenced in this plan are based on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), The West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE), the American Pediatrics Association (APA) and the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR). **EXPECT THIS GUIDANCE TO CHANGE AS STATE AND FEDERAL GUIDANCE CHANGES.** On March 13, 2020, Governor Jim Justice announced the closing of all school facilities in West Virginia in response to the threat of the novel Coronavirus of 2019 (COVID-19). While the intent to re-open schools remained a top priority, the Governor realized that this could not be done within reasonable health and safety standards, and remote learning and engagement continued through the end of the 2019-2020 school year.

Though educators and school employees have worked diligently to deliver instruction and critical services while school buildings have been closed, children across our state have experienced loss during the pandemic. There has been a widened divide in academic progress. Certain children were able to access distance learning and continue to grow academically while others had difficulty accessing or engaging with remote instruction. Many children also lost access to emotional support and health services. The impact of these losses has been especially profound for our children who face significant social-emotional and physical trauma at home.

It is imperative that we do everything possible to safely bring our children back into our schools where they have equal access to all of these vital services.

Our schools, educators, students and families must begin to prepare for our re-entry to school. Our teachers and school personnel are key to the safety and well-being of our students, yet we will need to remain vigilant and flexible. If there is a resurgence of the virus, we have contingencies in place for county-wide or individual school closures to prevent community spread. However, if we, through our combined and unifying efforts, follow the requirements and

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recommendations of this document, we will be safer, healthier and better prepared to thrive in the midst of this pandemic.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE RE-ENTRY PLAN

When schools open in the fall, we want you to know that we will follow all health and safety guidelines by the Local Health Department to minimize the spread of COVID-19. Here are the most important facts: Options for School (pg 11)

● In School - 5 Days per week with a 1 hour early dismissal schedule ● Morgan County Virtual Academy - Live meeting times determined by student’s teachers

Face Coverings (pg 7)

● Face coverings will be worn in the following areas: ○ Staff and students in grades 3-12

■ When social distancing can’t be maintained ■ In congregant areas (i.e. large groups of students) ■ On the bus ■ In the hallways

○ Pre-K - Grade 2 Students ■ Will not be required to wear masks

○ Pre-K - Grade 2 Staff ■ Will be required to wear face coverings in the following areas:

● When social distancing can’t be maintained ● In congregant areas (i.e. large groups of students) ● On the bus ● In the hallways

Bus Information (pg 22)

● Bus routes will be posted in the Morgan Messenger in August. ● Family members and/or bus pick-up groups will sit together. Seating arrangements will

be used on all busses. ● Students and drivers must wear face coverings while on the bus. ● Busses will be cleaned before and after every route.

Morning Arrival

● All schools will eliminate large groups of students in one area, and students, upon arrival, will report to designated classrooms and/or areas.

● Elementary students will remain with their classroom teacher and core group all day. ● Secondary students will report to their first period classroom. ● More detailed guidance will be provided regarding parent drop off times as school

openings near.

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Meals (pg 21)

● Breakfast and lunch will be provided in the classrooms.

Dismissal ● Each school will dismiss from the classrooms. ● More detailed guidance will be provided regarding parent pick up times as school

openings near.

Cleaning and Sanitizing (pg 19) ● High touch surfaces, desks and shared materials will be cleaned throughout the day. ● Additional cleaning will occur after students are dismissed.

Visitors (pg 16)

● Visitors will need to schedule an appointment. ● Visitors will be subject to screening questions, temperature checks, and additional

restrictions in place at the time of entry. ● MCS will limit the number of visitors in order to maintain safety and cleanliness.

Student Assistance Teams (SAT) (pg 9)

● Parents, teachers, social workers, nurses, administrators and other school personnel are encouraged to request a SAT meeting to problem-solve student centered concerns.

Possible Staggered Start to School

● MCS is considering a staggered start to the school year to allow time with fewer students present for staff and students to learn and adjust to the new procedures. Information concerning this will be released in a future communication.

If you have any questions, please email us at COVID19@morganschools.net or call 304-248-2430.

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MINIMIZING EXPOSURE: A CRITICAL COMPONENT OF RE-ENTRY The need to minimize possible exposure to COVID-19 must be a consistent priority for Morgan County Schools. Scientific evidence supports the curtailing of the spread of COVID-19 through behavior changes or practices. These requirements and recommendations serve the sole purpose of preventing or slowing the spread of COVID-19 in order to keep students, educators and professional and service personnel safe during the school day. *Due to the fluid nature of the COVID-19, requirements and recommendations on all protocols are subject to change. Face Coverings and Social Distancing According to national and local health experts, face masks and coverings significantly reduce the spread of COVID-19 by preventing people from contracting and transmitting the disease. It is important to note that all guidance (locally and nationally) either requires or strongly recommends the use of face coverings in public. The science continues to support the same as these items reduce air droplets produced when people speak, sing, yell, cough and sneeze. This document reinforces the importance of face coverings when it is possible and when it does not aggravate existing health conditions. Not all students can use these because of their age or developmental constraints. However, the West Virginia Department of Education has outlined requirements and recommendations for face coverings to best protect public health in our schools. This is especially important when children are in congregant settings, unable to exercise six feet of social distancing and/or when there are active cases of COVID-19 in the school community. When feasible, face coverings or masks will be provided. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) To minimize exposure to COVID-19, PPE will be provided to employees and students at the start of the school year. One (1) cloth mask will be provided to students and staff. Parents will be expected to maintain a supply of cloth face coverings/masks for their child and maintain cleanliness of those masks. MCS will provide single-use surgical masks at school as a back-up. Cloth face masks and/or face shields will be available to employees, upon request to their school administrator. Face masks, Face Coverings or Face Shields This PPE is an important part of employee protection and is required for all MCS employees when they can’t social distance in addition to personal hygiene, social distancing practices and frequent cleaning efforts. Gloves Touching the face with contaminated hands, whether gloved or not, poses a significant risk of infection. Wearing gloves does not diminish the need to wash hands. Please remember to wash

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hands properly as it is the number-one defense against any virus. Additionally, the proper removal of gloves reduces the risk of being exposed to contamination. Face Coverings, Face Shields, and Masks School staff will teach and reinforce use of cloth face coverings. Face coverings may be challenging for students (especially younger students) to wear in all-day settings such as school. As mandated by the Governor of West Virginia’s Executive Order dated July 6, 2020, until further notice, face coverings shall be worn inside all school facilities as follows:

● Face coverings (face shield or mask) are required of all staff when they cannot

provide instruction in a socially distanced manner and when they are in congregant areas.

● Staff AND students in grades 3 and above are required to wear face coverings unless medically waived when outside of their core classroom group or in congregant areas.

● Staff AND students in middle and high school are required to wear face coverings in congregant areas and in classrooms if their core groups and/or physical distancing cannot be maintained.

● Face coverings/shields are required for bus drivers and transportation aides any time students are on the bus and while in all school facilities.

● All students shall wear face covering prior to entering the bus, while riding the bus and when exiting the bus.

● Face coverings are required for all food service staff; face shields are only allowed with a medical exemption.

Note: Due to the fluid nature of COVID-19, requirements and recommendations on all protocols are subject to change. Cloth face coverings should not be placed on:

• Anyone who has trouble breathing or is unconscious • Anyone who cannot tolerate a cloth face covering because of developmental, medical or behavioral needs as discussed and approved by an administrator and the child’s health care provider.

Special Notes regarding Face Coverings and PPE to minimize Exposure

● Individuals will be frequently reminded not to touch the face covering and to wash their hands frequently. Information will be provided to staff, students, and students’ families on proper use, removal, and washing of cloth face coverings.

● Cloth face coverings should be washed or sanitized after daily use and for elementary students.

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● Face coverings should include the last name of the student and be placed safely on the outer portion of the mask where it is visible.

● Administrators with the assistance of school staff shall enforce the wearing of face coverings inside buildings and on school buses when physical distancing is not possible.

● Individuals who are communicating or seeking to communicate with someone who is hearing impaired or who has another disability, where the ability to see the mouth is essential to communication, are not required to wear a mask; however, individuals should consider using another type of face covering such as a plastic face shield.

● Families will need to consider providing back-up face coverings for students who experience allergies, runny noses, and other developmental considerations which may require replacement face coverings through-out the day.

Universal Precautions

● Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. ● Use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not available. ● Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth. ● Cover mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing or use the inside of the

elbow if a tissue is not available. ● Promptly dispose of all used tissues. ● Educate students to do all of the above.

Physical Distancing Schools will do the following for physical distancing:

● Mark or designate six feet of spacing to remind students and staff to always stay six feet apart in lines, restrooms, locker rooms, and at other times when they may congregate (hallways, cafeterias, waiting areas, etc).

● Monitor arrival and dismissal of students to ensure students report directly to classrooms or designated areas.

● Minimize opportunities for sustained exposure (15 minutes or more) by ensuring sufficient social distancing in congregate areas, waiting areas, etc.

● Provide frequent reminders for students and staff to stay at least six feet apart from one another.

● When feasible, arrange desks or seating so that students are separated from one another by six feet. If it is not possible to arrange seating six feet apart, it is recommended that students sit facing the same direction (i.e., all sitting on the same side of a table).

○ https://services.aap.org/en/pages/2019-novel-coronavirus-covid-19-infections/clinical-guidance/covid-19-planning-considerations-return-to-in-person-education-in-schools/

● Suspend or reduce activities that involve bringing together large groups of people or

activities that do not allow for social distancing, including assemblies, large groups using playground equipment simultaneously, holiday parties and meals.

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● Whenever possible, conduct events such as field trips, parents/family meetings, assemblies and performances virtually.

● Common areas such as hallways and entrances/exits may be marked to designate one-way directions to reduce people meeting face to face.

Playground Use ● Larger schools will need to consider the size of playground areas and develop

designated zones for individual classrooms to participate in outdoor activities/recess ● Classrooms will be scheduled during staggered times to minimize interactions of core

groupings ● Upon returning from playground/outdoor areas, students will be asked to participate in a

handwashing and cleaning routine. ● Shared smaller equipment (balls, individuals toys, etc) will be cleaned after each

classroom’s use and according to building sanitation schedules.

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MORGAN COUNTY SCHOOL RE-ENTRY Morgan County Schools has developed this school re-entry plan that addresses the needs and safety of its students and staff in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. This plan will be updated regularly to adhere to the most current guidelines from the health department, the West Virginia Department of Education, and the governor.

In-Person (Brick and Mortar) Traditional Learning

In this format, students will attend schools five days per week with a one-hour early dismissal each day to accommodate the necessary cleaning and disinfection of school facilities and employee work schedule allowances. Should the health department guidance change, Morgan County Schools could potentially move to a schedule where students attend in person two days per week. Regardless of the format, students will be engaged in learning five days per week.

Morgan County Virtual Academy

Morgan County Schools will have a full-time K-12 virtual option in place for the 2020-2021 school year. Morgan County curriculum (based on WVDE College & Career Readiness Standards) will be delivered through the Learning Management System (LMS), Schoology. Morgan County Virtual Academy information is available to students and parents on our website at www.morganschools.net.

Click here for the Morgan County Virtual Academy Handbook and FAQ. The enrollment form can also be found on our website at www.morganschools.net.

Remote Learning for School Closure (Governor Or WV DHHR Mandate)

Full remote learning for in-person (brick and mortar) students can only be instituted by an executive order from the Governor. If an outbreak occurs, which requires the temporary, short-term closure of a particular school or district, all students will complete school assignments remotely on Schoology for the duration of the closure. Morgan County is prepared to implement remote delivery of instruction. This remote learning plan will include daily communication between teachers and students to the extent possible as well as processes for monitoring, reviewing and/or grading student engagement activities. Students and staff will refer to the Remote Learning Framework for information regarding closures which will be released upon school closure. Students with Individualized Educational Plans (IEP) or 504 plans will refer to the Remote Learning Plan for delivery of educational services in the event of a closure.

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Equity in Access MCS is committed to continue its work with digital equity and narrow the digital divide in our communities. Some of our efforts to expand access for our students include:

● Providing devices to support families with limited or no devices in the home ● Expansion of WIFI hotspots in our school parking lots to allow families to safely park to

gain access to online digital material ● A partnership with a local cellular company to provide mobile hotspots for families who

require additional services ● Developing partnerships with local businesses to provide internet access at local

business parking lots Guiding Principles for Instructional Priorities Before jumping straight into curriculum-based activities, educators will best serve students by helping them to make sense of what happened during the COVID-19 pandemic which can minimize the risk of associated trauma. One way a teacher can do this is by having open-ended, optional conversations with the whole group, small groups, or individual children where students share their feelings, questions, and coping strategies with others. These conversations also provide time for teachers to learn about the social and emotional needs of their students. Teachers will receive training and support on how to best meet their students needs, and support personnel are available to receive referrals. Social Emotional In order to maximize learning, students must feel safe and secure at school and within their relationships with school staff and other students. This sense of safety and security can be accomplished by deliberately focusing on how to support the development of social-emotional skills. Social-emotional skills help us understand, experience, express, and manage emotions. These skills enable us to develop meaningful relationships as well as support academic learning and achievement. During these stressful times, social-emotional skills are particularly important because they can help us build resilience. These skills are also foundational to our students’ ability to benefit from the educational environment and their ability to succeed in life. Morgan County Schools continues to improve school-wide practices to ensure students feel safe, welcome and connected to at least one caring adult in the school regardless of the school situation. First, purposeful efforts will be made to support staff’s mental and physical well-being because children (no matter the age) need calm, caring, and confident adults to help them reach their potential. Second, supports will be provided on a continuum to address all students’ needs through school social workers, school counselors, school psychologists, and school nurses. Referrals for supports and services may come through a variety of sources including parents, teachers, universal screeners, peer referrals, etc. Parents are encouraged to reach out to their

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child’s teachers and request a Student Assistance Team (SAT) meeting to discuss academic, behavioral or mental health concerns. The SAT team is a collaborative, problem solving process for which school members and parents may work through a variety of student-centered situations. Additionally, Morgan County Schools will

● Provide an integrated delivery of social-emotional standards. ● Convene a crisis response planning team meeting to update and revise the West

Virginia Schools Crisis Prevention and Response Plan. ● Provide mental health supports (on-going & in response to crises). ● Continue building community relationships and partnerships that benefit our students

physical, emotional, and mental health. In-Person (Brick and Mortar) Traditional Safe Learning Instructional Practices Pre-K through Grade Five

● Students will stay with their core groups throughout the school day limiting contact with other students (in hallways, restrooms, etc.).

● Unless medically waived, students grades 3 and above are required to wear face coverings when outside of their core classroom group or in congregant areas.

● Meals will be provided to students in the classroom; this time can be counted as instructional time because of the learning that takes place during the meal process such as the development of social relationships, the exploration of new, healthy food options, and nutrition education This time together:

○ allows children to see adults model healthy eating. ○ teaches food safety by encouraging hand washing and the use of eating utensils. ○ builds independence by allowing children to make decisions and take

responsibility. ○ enhances language and social skills when children practice table manners and

appropriate mealtime behavior. ○ reinforces basic concept skills from the classroom such as naming shapes,

colors, flavors, and textures. ● Teachers can plan increased time for outdoor recess and/or instructional class time as

playground/outdoor space and weather allow. ● Art, Music, and Physical Education instruction will occur in the classroom or outside to

minimize contact with other students.

Grades Six through Eight ● Warm Springs Middle School will use a block schedule to minimize hallway transition

time for both students and staff. ● Students in middle and high school are required to wear face coverings in congregant

areas and in classrooms if they are not in their core groups and/or social distancing cannot be maintained.

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● Morgan County Schools will utilize core grouping of students where feasible so that those students can remain together throughout the day.

● Related Arts classes will be scheduled in such a manner as to maximize core group time and minimize contact with other groups of students where possible.

● Creative means and alternative delivery methods of offering physical education instruction and scheduling music courses will be considered so that age-appropriate social distancing is maintained, and the spread of respiratory droplets is reduced.

● Meals will be provided to students in the classroom; this time can be counted as instructional time due to the learning that takes place during the meal process.

Grades Nine through Twelve

● Morgan County Schools will develop a schedule that minimizes hallway transition time for both students and staff.

● Efforts will be made to group students in such a way as to minimize contact with other groups of students.

● Creative means and alternative delivery methods of offering physical education instruction and scheduling music courses will be considered so that age-appropriate social distancing is maintained, and the spread of respiratory droplets is reduced.

● Meals will be provided to students in the classroom; this time can be counted as instructional time due to the learning that takes place during the meal process.

Special Education/Related Service Provision/Accommodations

● Morgan County Schools recommends that IEP teams meet to review student academics, social-emotional needs, address parent concerns/questions, and adjust IEP goals and services to ensure meaningful IEP goal progress in the student’s least restrictive environment.

● Morgan County Schools recommends IEP/504 teams develop continuous Remote Learning Plans to address remote learning options should the need arise.

● Morgan County Schools will complete any outstanding evaluations, re-evaluations, or IEP meetings that were delayed as a result of COVID-19/school closures.

● Morgan County Schools will utilize a combination of support services to help student’s recoup skills.

● Morgan County Schools will collaborate with Parent Facilitators to provide parental support, resources and training, as appropriate.

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Safety of Students, Staff, and Visitors Building Entry Our safety section contains step by step protocol for transportation, facilities, nutrition and custodial services. However, we believe it is an important first step to convey some concepts that apply to every individual (staff, students, law enforcement, etc.) who enter a MCS facility.

1. Signage will be posted at the main entrance requiring that people who have been symptomatic with fever and/or cough do not enter.

2. EVERY ADULT INDIVIDUAL ENTERING A MCS SCHOOL WILL BE REQUIRED TO COMPLETE THE HEALTH AND SAFETY SCREENING CHECKLIST AND TEMPERATURE CHECKS IN THE DESIGNATED SCHOOL ENTRY LOCATION.

3. Any individual with a reading of 100 or higher (per Morgan County Health Department (MCHD) shall be held for a manual re-check of temperature by designated staff.

4. Any individual with a confirmation reading of 100.0 or higher will not be admitted any further into our buildings.

5. Every individual entering a MCS facility will be required to wear a face covering upon entry and to maintain the face covering under the guidelines outlined in each programmatic section (the guidance varies by developmental level).

6. Upon arriving at their core classrooms, students in elementary schools will be screened with the screening checklist and through observations by the teachers for signs of illness.

7. Upon arriving at the school, secondary students will report to their first period and will be screened there.

Employee Screening and Protocols: To help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the potential risk of exposure to our employees and students, all employees will be required to complete a self-screening* after completing a temperature check and answering a set of questions related to COVID-19 symptoms, which include:

● Cough ● Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing ● Chills ● Repeated shaking with chills ● Muscle pain ● Headache ● Sore throat ● Loss of taste or smell ● Diarrhea ● Feeling feverish or a measured temperature greater than or equal to 100.0 degrees

Fahrenheit

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● Known close contact with a person who is lab confirmed to have COVID-19 Health Protocol

● If an employee becomes ill at work, or if another person is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 at home, they will be asked to leave work and go home immediately.

● Employees should contact their health care provider or their home Health Department (ex. Morgan or Berkeley) if exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19.

● Employees returning to work from quarantine or COVID-19 should contact Human Resources and provide a return to work note from their health care provider or their home health department.

*All screening information will be kept confidential by Human Resources and the nursing staff. MCS Administration and County Lead Nurse will coordinate with the local health department to share contact tracing information, as requested and in accordance with HIPPA and FERPA guidelines. Visitors – Remote Visitor Service Model MCS values the collaboration and commitment of our community volunteers and partners. However, to maximize student and staff safety we will be instituting remote visitor services. Should a non MCS employee have business to conduct the following guidelines will apply:

● To the greatest extent possible, phone calls or virtual meetings should replace school visits.

● Visitors should phone the school to make appointments with staff as the need arises. ● For those requiring drop off or pick up of materials, each school will have a touchless

“drop box” outside of the school for material exchange. ● Guardians whose children arrive late or need to leave early should notify the school

when possible. Once on site, the guardian will provide visual identification at the camera entrance, and a staff person will escort the child to and from our facility. The guardian will not enter the facility unless authorized by the principal in special circumstances.

● When circumstances require visitor entry, all visitors will be subject to the same safety protocol: temperature scan, questionnaire, face covering requirement as MCS staff. Those unable to comply due to medical restrictions will be required to wait in an assigned area, and arrangements will be made. If entry requires visitation where the student/staff population is present, social distancing will be enforced by administration.

● Morgan County Schools will minimize the number of non-essential visitors. Travel Restrictions and Limits to Building Use MCS will discontinue staff travel to conferences and workshops until further notice. Students shall not take physical field trips of any kind until further notice. Assemblies outside of the class

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group will discontinue until further notice. Travel for athletic and extracurricular activities are addressed in separate notice based upon the governing body WVSSAC. Building use will be limited to organizations approved by the Morgan County Board of Education. HEALTH & WELLNESS Monitoring and Handling of Presumptive, Suspected & Confirmed COVID-19 Cases In the event that a student, staff member, visitor, or other school community member presents with COVID-19 symptoms, MCS will coordinate communications, contact tracing, and closure decisions with the Berkeley-Morgan County Health Department (BMCHD). The BMCHD is the agency responsible for the management of the contact tracing protocol. Below are processes and practices that MCS will follow in the event of a suspected exposure: In the event a student presents with COVID-19 symptoms, Administration will immediately contact the parent/caregiver, isolate the student in a designated area with adult supervision, ensure proper face coverings and practice social distancing for student/staff until a parent/guardian arrives.Students should be tested for COVID-19 as soon as possible. MCS Administration and Lead Nurse will coordinate with the Local Health Department to share contact tracing information, as requested and in accordance with HIPPA and FERPA guidelines. Protecting Employees and Supporting Their Health and Well-being:

● MCS will require staff to stay home if sick. ● MCS will allow flexibility with leave policies as provided by the CARES Act Temporary

Rule for Paid Sick Leave and Expanded FMLA. ● Staff will be provided with necessary and appropriate cleaning products to maintain

sanitation practices. ● Staff will be provided with necessary and appropriate Personal Protective Equipment.

Protecting Vulnerable Populations Morgan County Schools will:

● Review all current health plans for accommodating students with special healthcare needs and update their care plans as needed. SAT teams will meet with families as identified or as requested by parents in writing.

● Refer parental concerns regarding health/safety of their children to the appropriate school Student Assistance Team (SAT) for problem solving and discussion of educational options.

● Provide employees with appropriate personal protective equipment, relative to their job assignment and/or upon employee request.

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● Provide vulnerable students with appropriate academic instructional options, upon parental request to the SAT/IEP/504 team.

● Obtain complete health histories and current well-child checks for all students entering pre-k, kindergarten, grade 2, grade 7 and grade 12.

● Will update health records and emergency contacts for students and staff. ● Consider transportation needs for students identified as a vulnerable population.

Morgan County Schools will adhere to the following process for allowing a student or staff member to return to school:

● If a person has had a negative COVID-19 test, they can return to school once there is no fever (without the use of fever reducing medicines) and they have felt well for 24 hours.

● If a person is diagnosed with COVID-19 by a medical professional based on a test or symptoms or does not seek medical attention and has symptoms, he or she should not be at school and should stay at home until he or she (or a family member if younger child) can answer YES to the following questions:

○ Has it been at least 10 days since the individual first had symptoms? ○ Has it been at least three days since the individual had a fever (without using

fever reducing medicine)? ○ Has it been at least three days since the individual’s symptoms have improved,

including cough and shortness of breath? ● If a person with COVID-19 was in the school setting while infectious, Morgan County

Schools Lead Nurse will coordinate with local health officials to notify staff and families immediately while maintaining confidentiality in accordance with FERPA and all other state and federal laws.

Health Clinic Protocols

● For the health and safety of all Morgan County School students, and to keep students in their core groups students will only be seen in the clinics when presenting fever, vomiting, diarrhea or unresolved complaints in the classroom. Students with identified medical needs will still be seen based on up-to-date HCP or medical orders. Special precautions will be made for medically fragile students on a case by case basis.

● All schools will have a designated area for symptomatic students who are awaiting pick-up. All parents need to have a plan for pick-up and updated contact information in the event your child(ren) becomes ill at school.

Screening of students:

● Students will be screened following the WVDE checklists: pre-K-5 and 6-12. This will be used in conjunction with teacher observation & monitoring of student’s appearance, activity and level of engagement. Students who are symptomatic will be required to wear a mask unless deemed inappropriate by the school nurse.

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● Any student who has had exposure or symptoms to COVID-19 will be sent to the quarantine room to be picked-up and evaluated by medical personnel.

● Morgan Schools will be working in conjunction with the local health department on any suspected or confirmed cases.

● Teachers will notify the school nurse before sending students in an effort to reduce congestion and keep social distancing at the clinic.

● School nurses and med-trained aides will wear appropriate PPE based on assessment and CDC Guidelines, and touchless thermometers will be utilized throughout Morgan County Schools. Thermometers will be cleaned per manufacturer’s instructions.

● Once a symptomatic person is removed from the school, Morgan County Schools will implement cleaning and disinfecting procedures following CDC guidelines.

Cleaning & Hygiene Morgan County Schools will:

● Provide adequate supplies to support healthy hygiene behaviors (e.g., paper towels, tissues, soap and hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol) for safe use by staff and older children in all classrooms.

● Increase monitoring to ensure adherence to safety measures among students and staff. ○ Supervise use of hand sanitizer by students. ○ Ensure children with skin reactions to hand sanitizer use soap and water. ○ Reinforce handwashing during key times such as, before, during and after

preparing food; before eating food; after using the toilet; after blowing nose, coughing, or sneezing; after using bare hands to touch objects that have been handled by other individuals.

○ Ensure custodial staff is adhering to all sections of this document. ● Require hand cleaning when entering each classroom. ● Establish a schedule for and perform ongoing and routine environmental cleaning and

disinfection of high touch areas (e.g., door handles, stair rails, faucet handles, toilet handles, playground equipment, light switches, desks, tables, chairs, kitchen countertops, cafeteria and service tables, carts, and trays) with an EPA Approved Disinfectant for SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19), and increase frequency of disinfection during high density times.

● Ensure cleaning and disinfection products are stored away from children. ● Allow adequate ventilation when staff use such products. ● Limit the use of water fountains to water bottle filling. Students are encouraged to bring

their own water bottles. ● Use manufacturer-approved disinfectants which can be sprayed on surfaces (e.g., paint

sprayers, backpack sprayers). ● Disinfect Playgrounds daily

Shared Use of Items:

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● Teachers are encouraged to provide individualized personal spaces and storage options in classrooms for students academic and personal belongings (lockers, cubbies, tubs, etc)

● Limit sharing of personal items and classroom materials to small groups and disinfect between uses or provide adequate supplies for individual student use.

● Paper-based materials, such as books and loose-leaf paper, are not considered high-risk for COVID-19 transmission and do not require additional cleaning or disinfecting procedures.

● Avoid shared use of soft or other items that cannot be easily cleaned and disinfected (e.g., stuffed toys, clay, playdough).

When a student or staff member is suspected of/confirmed positive case of COVID-19: Morgan County Schools will ensure that routine cleaning and disinfection has been done regularly. Therefore, additional cleaning and disinfection may not be necessary. Depending on when a person with COVID-19 was last in the facility, it may be difficult to know what areas they were in and what objects or surfaces they may have touched after they became sick. General precautions for the custodial staff after an ill student has been in your facility The risk of getting COVID-19 from cleaning is low. However, the following practices are required.

● Staff should not touch their face while cleaning and must wash hands after cleaning. ● Custodial staff shall wear a mask and disposable gloves when cleaning and handling

trash. ● Custodial staff should thoroughly wash hands with soap and water for at least 20

seconds after gloves are removed. ● MCS will provide training to staff who are responsible for cleaning and disinfecting, to

use disinfectants safely and effectively and to safely clean up potentially infectious materials and body fluids - blood, vomit, feces, and urine.

● All MCS staff will wear face coverings while performing cleaning duties. Water & Ventilation Systems When reopening a building after it has been closed for a long period of time, reduced use of water and ventilation systems can pose health hazards. There is an increased risk for Legionella and other bacteria to form in stagnant or standing water. To mitigate this risk, Morgan County Schools will:

● Implement guidelines found in the CDC’s Guidance for Reopening Buildings After Prolonged Shutdown or Reduced Operation and take steps to ensure that all water systems and features (e.g., sink faucets, drinking fountains) are safe to use after a prolonged facility shutdown to minimize the risk of diseases associated with water & ventilation systems.

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● Inspect ventilation systems for proper operation and maximum circulation of outdoor air. ● HVAC filters will be changed on a regular basis.

School Food Service Morgan County Schools have taken statewide guidance for safely opening restaurants issued under the current State of Emergency declaration on June 2, 2020, by the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, Bureau for Public Health and recommendations from the WVDE to take every precaution to keep students safe, while providing the best quality meals possible. Morgan County Schools will

● be serving both breakfast and lunch in the classrooms to keep student’s exposure to other students outside of their core group to a minimum.

● ensure that food service employees are screened daily for illness and will wear face coverings to the greatest extent possible and that they are cleaned or replaced daily.

● implement additional procedures to increase the frequency for cleaning and sanitizing surfaces in the kitchen. Cleaning products and protocols shall include EPA-approved disinfectants that meet CDC requirements for use and effectiveness against viruses, bacteria and other airborne and blood borne pathogens.

● Discontinue all share tables and self-service stations, such as salad bars or condiment stations until the COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. Any single-use items or left over pre-packaged food items will be discarded at the end of the meal service time. Trash receptacles where students will dispose of their items at the end of meal service will be placed in a manner that adheres to proper social distancing guidelines.

● Be serving all food items in a prepackaged manner to add an additional layer of safety. Teachers or food program staff will serve students each item, as to avoid students reaching into bins or coolers and possibly contaminating other student’s food items. This service model will be followed in all grade levels including head start/pre-k.

Morgan County Schools will ensure that all staff are trained in proper hand washing techniques, and that they are trained to follow the guidelines set forth in our HACCP food safety plan for Meals in the Classroom. It is strongly recommended that parents send their students to school with their own water bottles. Any water filling stations with buttons or levers (such as a water cooler) shall be cleaned following the use of each core group of students. Water fountains will not be in working order until the COVID-19 restrictions are lifted. Our school system will continue to ensure that USDA Civil Rights requirements (i.e., special diets, protected classes) are followed. Students with food allergies will have their meals prepared, sealed and delivered to classrooms in their own holding bag.

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Morgan County Schools has already established procedures and protocols to ensure students have access to school meals during unanticipated school closures. Our school system has seamlessly provided meals to our student population throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Should students go back to a remote learning environment we will continue to provide students with 5-day meal packs. These packs will be distributed each Monday at each school location from 11-1. During the pandemic our school system has built stronger relationships with community partners, vendors and volunteers. This has allowed us the ability to utilize many different types of foods and distribution models. As we continue working through this process we will keep staff, students and parents informed through the use of the following communications: School Messenger, the Morgan County Schools Facebook page, the Morgan County Schools website and various school communication applications. Transportation Morgan County Bus Operators are required to:

● Wear face coverings/shields any time children are entering or exiting the bus. ● Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces in the bus (e.g., surfaces in the driver’s

cockpit, operator arm rests, door handles, light and air controls, doors and windows, and grab handles) before all routes. Bus Operators will receive proper training on how to clean the bus. Random Bus Inspections will be performed to ensure the bus has been cleaned as directed.

● Fully clean and disinfect transportation school buses regularly after each route. Children must not be present when a bus is being cleaned.

● Properly dispose of cleaning supplies in the designated trash can located in the wash bay.

● Keep doors and windows open when cleaning the bus and between trips to let the bus thoroughly air out.

● Clean, sanitize and disinfect equipment including items such as car seats, wheelchairs, walkers and adaptive equipment being transported to schools.

● Ensure safe and correct use and storage of cleaning and disinfectant products, including storing products securely away from children and providing adequate ventilation when staff uses such products. The designated area for the cleaning and disinfectant supplies will be the chain box located on the exterior of the bus.

● Provide hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol) to support healthy hygiene behaviors on all school transportation buses for safe use by staff and older children.

○ Hand sanitizer should only remain in school buses while they are in use as heat and direct sunlight can degrade its effectiveness.

○ Systematically and frequently check and refill hand sanitizers. ● Morgan County Schools will require teachers and students to view the “Safe Bus

Loading & Unloading Procedures” video to address best practices related to transportation safety.

● Develop seating arrangements and protocols to limit the number of students to no more than two per seat. Face masks or shields are required for all bus operators. Students are

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required to wear face masks or shields while on the school bus. Morgan County Schools will provide face masks for students if they do not have one.

It is recommended that Morgan County Bus Operators:

● Utilize seating arrangements that require siblings and/or any students who cohabitate to sit together. Students living in the same household may be permitted to sit three to a seat, when possible. Keep bus stop groups of students together in the same section of the bus. WVBE Policy 2525 stipulations for pre-k students still apply.

● Design appropriate bus loading and unloading procedures and/or seating charts to minimize contact between students.

● If appropriate and safe, consider keeping windows open while the bus is in motion to help reduce spread of the virus by increasing air circulation.

● Evaluate each bus route to safely maximize occupancy and capacity to ensure bus loads are equalized.

● Morgan County Schools will create a contingency plan for the transportation of students who may experience any COVID-19 symptoms during the course of the school day.

● When feasible, utilize procedures for loading and unloading buses to limit the number of students entering and exiting the building at one time.

COMMUNICATIONS It is important that education staff, families, students and communities receive information from reputable and reliable sources. Credible information is available at wvde.us/COVID19, coronavirus.wv.gov and cdc.gov. Parents and community members can email us at COVID19@morganschools.net with any specific questions or concerns. We will monitor this regularly and return the email or have someone call you if needed. Morgan County Schools will:

● Develop reliable communication channels that accommodate all families regardless of technology accessibility.

● Communicate timely updates and changes in school schedules, openings/closings, and change of instructional days via Morgan County Facebook page, School Messenger calls, School Specific Webpages, Morgan County Board of Education webpage, and Radio Stations (when necessary).

● Establish Parent Listservs (email addresses) for school specific communication needs. ● Involve parent facilitators to support the home-school connection for students. ● Be transparent and timely in updating families and communities.

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TOPICAL RESOURCES Resources for Protecting Vulnerable Populations › Centers for Disease Control and Prevention › COVID-19 School Re-entry Recommendations & Guidelines, West Virginia Association of School Nurses (attached PDF) › National Association of School Nurses Coronavirus Disease 2019 Resources › West Virginia Department of Health & Human Resources (COVID-19) Resources for Social-Emotional Wellness › Collaborating for Student Success: Understanding the Roles of Student Support Personnel (WVDE) › Social-emotional Learning for Parents (CASEL video) › West Virginia Department of Education: ReClaimWV › West Virginia Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports › West Virginia Behavior and Mental Health Technical Assistance Center › West Virginia Safe Schools Toolkit › West Virginia Handle With Care Resources for School Food Service › West Virginia Food Code • Permit holders are required to follow directives of the regulatory authority in response to public health emergencies. 8-304.11 https://www.wvdhhr.org/phs/food/index.asp › West Virginia Code 21-3A-1A (Article 3: Safety and Welfare of Employees) • http://www.wvlegislature.gov/wvcode/code.cfm?chap=21&art=3 Resources for General Public Health and Safety Protocols › The American Academy of Pediatrics › The Journal of the American Medical Association

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For complete details visit wvde.us/covid19

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