photo by Boyd Loving
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
The CDC has published updated guidance regarding school openings. The updated guidance provides additional recommendations for a myriad of topics, including ventilation, food service, and mask use as schools continue to prepare and implement their plans to start the 2020-21 school year. The guidance also expands on previous iterations regarding students with “special healthcare needs and disabilities” with a new section dedicated to these challenges. Schools may need to develop individualized plans for some students and staff, including those with limited mobility, those with visual or hearing impairments, those with underlying health conditions, or those who may have difficulties understanding or adapting to new routines. The information notes that some individuals may struggle with social distancing or isolation or mask use, or they may need additional visual or verbal reminders or assistance implementing the school’s social distancing protocols. The information also links to guidance regarding protections related to service animals.
Another notable addition is guidance regarding how schools should address infected students or staff. The document advises schools to coordinate with local health officials to address the issue of suspending in-person classes and events. The CDC notes that short-term building closures may be necessary to allow health officials time to assess the situation, and local health officials can help determine whether longer-term interruptions to in-person classes and activities may be necessary. If schools are cohorting students, particularly if they are cohorted in specific areas, it may be possible to limit interruptions to just those groups or spaces, rather than the entire school.
