COVID-19 Update - Fall Reopening

6/29/2020

Dear Fresh Start Families,

As many of you may have heard the state is releasing its guidelines and recommendations for schools reopening in the Fall.

At this point we know that the state is instructing schools to plan for three tiers of instruction but to assume, provided infection trends continue to improve, that schools will open in the fall with all students in person.

Three tiers of operation:

Tier 1 (minimal COVID spread):  If all data on infection rate remains promising, all students will return to school in the fall with implementing operational guidelines for safety

Tier 2 (moderate COVIS spread):  If data on infection rate trend down, schools will "ramp down" to a blended (in-person/distance learning) model to reduce number of children in school at any one time

Tier 3 (high COVID spread):  If data trends down further, schools will revert to full distance learning

In Addition, the guidelines list the operational considerations for in person instruction:

1.  Social distancing to the greatest extent possible. 

2.  Students and staff are required to wear face masks that cover nose and mouth when inside the school building

3.  Implementing cleaning and disinfection guidelines as recommended by the CDC.

4.  Frequent hand washing and hand sanitizers available.

5.  Implement a Cohort model where feasible.  Limit any opportunities for congregation.

The Governor will release the full guidelines this week and this information will play a critical role in the development of our school’s reopening plans. The Fresh Start School's Reopening Committee will continue to work on addressing the guidelines to develop our plan for reopening as well as for adapting to possible changes in COVID trends. As we move forward we will be sending out a survey to collect feedback from families to guide and shape our plan. 

We will keep our community updated as we develop our plans.

Thank you and have a great weekend.

Maeghen Plourde Harris, LCSW

Director of Educational Services

Fresh Start School

FOCUS Center for Autism