We are sure many of you are seeing tentative back to school plans with three forms of operation which include: opening in full instruction mode, a hybrid of in-school and remote instruction, and a full remote learning scenario. Districts are already stating that, with the current number of COVID cases in Pennsylvania, they are looking at hybrid instruction for the fall, but this will most likely change if we see a rise or decline in the number of infections and which area of the state they are located.
On July 1, the PA Department of Health issued an order mandating the wearing of masks in public settings. While many school districts were not going to make masks mandatory for students, this new requirement would include classrooms and creates an extra level of monitoring and enforcement if students take their masks off while in the school building or bus.
Exceptions to the mask requirement order are:
- Individuals who cannot wear a mask due to a medical condition, including those with respiratory issues that impede breathing, mental health condition, or disability
- Individuals for whom wearing a mask while working would create an unsafe condition in which to operate equipment or execute a task as determined by local, state, or federal regulators or workplace safety guidelines
- Individuals who would be unable to remove a mask without assistance
- Individuals who are under two years of age
- Individuals who are communicating or seeking to communicate with someone who is hearing-impaired or has another disability, where the ability to see the mouth is essential for communication
While the hybrid model of teaching appears to be the best way to keep students and staff safe while providing in-person instruction, this puts an enormous economic strain on schools due to their large purchases of PPE, cleaning supplies, and extra staff. Transportation is also proving to be the most daunting logistical hurdle, as seating students two and three to a seat is not acceptable in this current climate.
This is an unprecedented time in the world of education, but the “summer slide” has morphed into the “COVID avalanche.” Most agree that students need to resume some form of in-person instruction to get back on track, but doing it safely is challenging.
Please do not hesitate to contact KEYTA if you have any questions or concerns regarding your school’s re-opening plan. Our staff and legal team are here to assist with any issues that may arise regarding your return to school.
