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Attica Central School District’s

Reopening Plan
Attica High School
Attica Middle School
Attica Elementary School

8/4/2020 1
Table of Contents
Letter from the Superintendent of Schools .................................................................................7
Providing Context.......................................................................................................................8
State of Emergency Declarations: ..................................................................................................... 8
Recommendations for school closures: ............................................................................................. 8
New York State School Closure Executive Orders: ......................................................................... 8
New York Forward Phase Descriptions: .......................................................................................... 8
County-by-County Data on Testing, Positive Cases, and Fatalities ................................................. 9
Wyoming County .......................................................................................................................................... 9

Percentage Positive Test Results by Region ..................................................................................... 9


Region-by-Region Status Statistics ................................................................................................. 10

Communication and Family Engagement................................................................................11


Reopening Committee ..................................................................................................................... 11
Communications Plan ..................................................................................................................... 11

Health and Safety .....................................................................................................................14


Required Elements: ......................................................................................................................... 14
In-Person Instruction ...................................................................................................................... 15
Health Checks.................................................................................................................................. 15
Screenings ........................................................................................................................................ 16
Healthy Hygiene Practices .............................................................................................................. 17
Hand Hygiene .................................................................................................................................. 18
Respiratory Hygiene........................................................................................................................ 18
Physical Distancing ......................................................................................................................... 19
Medically Vulnerable/High-Risk Groups ....................................................................................... 19
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ............................................................................................ 20
Management of Ill Persons.............................................................................................................. 21
If Students or Staff become Ill with Symptoms of COVID-19 at Schools ...................................... 21
Return to School After Illness ......................................................................................................... 22
COVID-19 Testing........................................................................................................................... 23
Contact Tracing............................................................................................................................... 23

8/4/2020 2
Cleaning and Disinfection ............................................................................................................... 23
Safety Drills ..................................................................................................................................... 29

Facilities ...................................................................................................................................31
Required Elements .......................................................................................................................... 31
In-Person Instruction ...................................................................................................................... 31
Hybrid Instruction .......................................................................................................................... 32
Remote Instruction .......................................................................................................................... 32

Child Nutrition .........................................................................................................................33


Safety and Sanitation ...................................................................................................................... 33
Cleaning/Disinfecting Protocols ...................................................................................................... 33
Food Service Staff ........................................................................................................................... 34
Roles and Responsibilities ............................................................................................................... 34
Contact Vendors and Suppliers ...................................................................................................... 35
USDA Waivers Approved for the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast
Program, July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021 ........................................................................................... 35
Meal Service .................................................................................................................................... 35

Transportation..........................................................................................................................38
The School Bus ................................................................................................................................ 38
School Bus Contractors ................................................................................................................... 38
Roles and Responsibilities ............................................................................................................... 38
Employees ........................................................................................................................................ 39
Students ........................................................................................................................................... 40
Loading/Unloading & Pickup/Drop-off .......................................................................................... 40
Transporting to BOCES ................................................................................................................. 40
Communication to Parents ............................................................................................................. 40

Social Emotional Well-being ....................................................................................................41


Mental Health and Trauma-Responsive Practices ......................................................................... 41
Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) ....................................................................................... 41
Instructional Support teams (IST) Roles within MTSS ....................................................................... 42

8/4/2020 3
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and Transformative SEL .................................................................. 42
Technical Assistance Centers....................................................................................................................... 42
Supporting Young People and Families ....................................................................................................... 42
Self-Care..................................................................................................................................................... 43
Supporting Adults ....................................................................................................................................... 43
Online Learning .......................................................................................................................................... 43
Supporting School Transitions ..................................................................................................................... 44
District Resources ....................................................................................................................................... 44
Additional Resources .................................................................................................................................. 44

Restorative Practices ....................................................................................................................... 44


Planning and Capacity Building ..................................................................................................... 45
Adult SEL & Well-being ................................................................................................................. 45
Student SEL & Well-being.............................................................................................................. 46

School Schedules......................................................................................................................47
In-Person Instruction: ..................................................................................................................... 47
Hybrid Model: ................................................................................................................................. 47
Remote Instruction .......................................................................................................................... 47

Attendance and Chronic Absenteeism ......................................................................................48


Attendance for Reporting Purposes................................................................................................ 48
Attendance for State Aid Purposes ................................................................................................. 48
Chronic Absenteeism ...................................................................................................................... 48
Educational Neglect ......................................................................................................................... 49
Persons in Need of Supervision (PINS) ........................................................................................... 49

Technology and Connectivity ...................................................................................................50


Required Elements .......................................................................................................................... 50
In-Person Instruction ...................................................................................................................... 50
Hybrid Model .................................................................................................................................. 50
Remote Instruction .......................................................................................................................... 51

Teaching and Learning ............................................................................................................52


Required Elements .......................................................................................................................... 52
UPK ................................................................................................................................................. 52
Health and Safety Considerations: ............................................................................................................... 52
Instructional Practices and Programming Considerations:............................................................................. 52
In-Person Instruction ................................................................................................................................... 52

8/4/2020 4
Hybrid Model .............................................................................................................................................. 53
Remote Instruction ...................................................................................................................................... 53
Staffing Regulatory Flexibility .................................................................................................................... 53
Budget and Fiscal Considerations ................................................................................................................ 53
Considerations for Volunteers, Visitors, and Service Providers..................................................................... 53

Grades K – 6 .................................................................................................................................... 54
In-person Instructional Model ...................................................................................................................... 54
Hybrid Instructional Model.......................................................................................................................... 54
Remote Instructional Model ........................................................................................................................ 55
Other Factors/Considerations....................................................................................................................... 55

Grades 7 – 12 – Units of Study ........................................................................................................ 56


Units of Credit ............................................................................................................................................ 56
Science Laboratory Requirements................................................................................................................ 56
In-Person Instructional Model...................................................................................................................... 57
Hybrid Instructional Model.......................................................................................................................... 57
Remote Instructional Model ........................................................................................................................ 58
Other Factors/Considerations....................................................................................................................... 58

Visual and Performing Arts ............................................................................................................ 59


Physical Education .......................................................................................................................... 60

Career and Technical Education (CTE) ..................................................................................61


Genesee Valley BOCES Introduction ............................................................................................. 61
2020 – 2021 CTE Schedule .............................................................................................................. 62

Special Education.....................................................................................................................63
Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) ............................................................................................ 63
LRE Documentation........................................................................................................................ 63
IEP Implementation ........................................................................................................................ 63
Provision of Services ................................................................................................................................... 63
Progress Monitoring .................................................................................................................................... 63
Compensatory Services ............................................................................................................................... 63
Partnership and Collaboration to Reflect All Settings Where Students are Served ......................................... 64

In-person Instructional Model/Hybrid Model as Applicable ......................................................... 64


Remote Instructional Model/Hybrid Model as Applicable ............................................................ 64

Bilingual Education and World Languages .............................................................................65


Initial Identification of Potential ELLs........................................................................................... 65
Units of Study for English as a New Language (ENL) and Transitional Bilingual Education (BE)
Programs ......................................................................................................................................... 65
Communications and Language Access........................................................................................................ 65

8/4/2020 5
Professional Learning for Educators ........................................................................................................... 65
Progress Monitoring ................................................................................................................................... 66
Educational Technology .............................................................................................................................. 66
Students with Interrupted/Inconsistent Formal Education (SIFE) ................................................................. 66
Emergent Multilingual Learners (EMLLs) in Prekindergarten ..................................................................... 66
Family Partnerships and Communication .................................................................................................... 68
Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education Framework ............................................................................. 68

Teacher and Principal Evaluation System ...............................................................................68


Education Law §3012-D/APPR ....................................................................................................... 68

Certification, Incidental Teaching, and Substitute Teaching ...................................................68


Education Law §3001 ...................................................................................................................... 68

8/4/2020 6
Letter from the Superintendent of Schools
Dear Attica Central School District’s families and staff:
Since the release of the New York State Department of Health’s “Interim Guidance for
In-person Instruction Pre-K to Grade 12 during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency” and
the New York State Education Department’s Board of Regents “Reopening Guidance,” we have
been gathering information, conducting surveys and forming a committee to devise our own
reopening plan. Governor Cuomo has directed school districts in NYS to submit a reopening
plan by July 31, 2020. Our Reopening Committee is comprised of Board of Education members,
Administrators, Faculty, support staff, health care professionals, parents and community
members. The committee was given the task of reading and reviewing the most up-to-date
research, statistics, guidance documents, reopening frameworks and school reopening models.
The committee used the aforementioned information and their varied perspectives to construct a
plan in the best interest of the Attica Central School District’s students, faculty and staff. The
following functional areas were deliberated with an emphasis on facts, research and best
practices:
 Health and Safety  Schedules
 Nutrition  Teaching and Learning
 Social-emotional Well-being  Technology and Connectivity
 Facilities  Special Education
 Transportation  Bilingual and World Languages
 Budget and Fiscal  Staffing and Human Resources
 Attendance
This document will be the Reopening Plan for the Attica Senior High School, Attica
Middle School and the Attica Elementary School. The reopening of school plans must provide
models that will include In-Person Instruction, Remote Instruction and a hybrid plan to provide
both. Governor Cuomo has stated that schools may consider re-opening if a region is in Phase IV
and has a daily infection rate that remains at 5% or lower over a 14-day period. Governor Cuomo
has also stated that schools will close if a region’s infection rate is greater than 9% on a 7-day
average. Our reopening plan must accommodate any or all three models of instruction as the data
dictates.
The safety of our schools was of paramount importance in all decision-making processes.
Our committee investigated, collaborated, problem-solved and debated the merits of each
component of the plan. The resulting framework considers our local context while respecting
national public health trends. Executive orders, regulatory charges, data and our own experiences
may cause us to pivot our course of action and subsequently alter the contents of this living
document.
We look forward to reopening our schools so that it is a safe and healthy learning
environment.

Sincerely,

Bryce Thompson
Superintendent of Schools

8/4/2020 7
Providing Context

State of Emergency Declarations:


Wyoming County State of Emergency declared Sunday, March 15, 2020
Recommendations for school closures:
Wyoming County Schools closed beginning Monday, March 16, 2020

New York State School Closure Executive Orders:


On March 16, 2020, Andrew Cuomo, Governor of the state of New York, signed an executive
order closing schools statewide for two (2) weeks beginning on March 18, 2020 and ending on
April 1, 2020.

On March 27, 2020, Andrew Cuomo, Governor of the state of New York, signed an executive
order extending school closures statewide for another two (2) weeks through April 15, 2020.

On April 7, 2020, Andrew Cuomo, Governor of the state of New York, signed an executive
order extending school closures statewide for another two (2) weeks through April 29, 2020.

On May 1, 2020, Andrew Cuomo, Governor of the state of New York, signed an executive
order closing school districts for the remainder of the 2019 - 20 school year.

New York Forward Phase Descriptions:

8/4/2020 8
County-by-County Data on Testing, Positive Cases, and Fatalities
Wyoming County

Percentage Positive Test Results by Region

8/4/2020 9
Region-by-Region Status Statistics

 The capacity of Wyoming County Community Hospital is 64 patients.

8/4/2020 10
Communication and Family Engagement

Reopening Committee
Individuals from the following stakeholder groups participated in the development of this
reopening plan:

 Board of Education  Support Staff


 Administrators  Operations and Maintenance
 Teachers  Public Health
 Related Service Providers  Parents/Guardians

Communications Plan
The District will utilize a multi-prong approach to communicate matters of importance to its
students, parents/guardians, staff and visitors.

 District Webpage – http://www.atticacsd.org


 Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/School/Attica-Central-
School-District-209048482912776/
 Blackboard Connect automatic call, email and text system.
 District mailing
 Signage will be posted in conspicuous areas to promote best practices and the safety of
building inhabitants. The District will utilize print signage from the Centers for Disease
Control (CDC) - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/communication/print-
resources.html?Sort=Date%3A%3Adesc.
 Interpretation services will be utilized to translate District correspondences.
 Videos will be produced and published that model best practices when in school
buildings, at school functions or on District transportation. Topics will include:
o Hygiene practices o Physical distancing
o Health screenings o Proper transitions
o Signs and symptoms of o Entrance and egress
COVID-19 o Cleaning and disinfection
o Face coverings procedures

8/4/2020 11
A school community stakeholders committee was formed and met to develop the plans. The
constituency includes:

8/4/2020 12
Organizational Chart

Superintendent of Schools
- COVID-19 Coordinator
- Bryce Thompson, Superintendent
- Phone: (585) 591-0400 ext. 1000
- Email: [email protected]

Health & Safety Child Nutrition Teaching & Learning


Facilities Transportation Technology & Connectivity
Human Resources Special Education
Director of Facilities Social-Emotional Well-being
David Barber Business Administrator Bilingual & World Languages
Phone: (585) 591-0400 ext. 1267 Meaghan Matuszak Attendance
Email: [email protected] Phone: (585) 591-0400 ext. 1002 Schedules
Email: [email protected]
Director of Curriculum
Assistant Principal- HS Director of Food Services Matt Stroud
John Spink Kris Wicks Phone: (585) 591-0400 ext. 3001
Phone: 585-591-0400 ext. 1107 Phone: (585) 591-0400 ext. 1195 Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]
High School Principal
Faculty: Transportation Expeditor Josh Audsley
Erin Holt Ralph Marvin Phone: 585-591-0400 ext. 1109
Email: [email protected] Phone: (585) 591-2107 Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected]
Matt Struzik Middle School Principal
Email: [email protected] Assistant Principal- MS Paul Clark
Sherry Bennett Phone: 585-591-0400 ext. 1500
Diane Gebel Phone: 585-591-0400 ext. 1400 Email: [email protected]
Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]
Elementary Principal
Eric Romesser Faculty: Kelly Beitz
Email: [email protected] John Dickhut Phone: 585-591-0400 ext. 2236
Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]
Nurse:
Amy Meyer Kelly Goldsmith Director of Special Education
[email protected] Email: [email protected] Deb Barie
Phone: 585-591-0400 ext. 3008
Staff: Mike Jansma Email: [email protected]
Jodi Rudgers Email: [email protected]
[email protected] Technology Director
Sarah Stenson Doug Ewert
Cheryl Conrad Email: [email protected] Phone: 585-591-0400 ext. 1016
[email protected] Email: [email protected]
Staff:
Board Member: Brooke Schery Faculty:
Brian Fugle [email protected] Jeff Cusmano, [email protected]
[email protected] Kristin Janes [email protected]
Board Member: Amanda Hofheins [email protected]
Pam Rudolph Melissa Mitchell [email protected]
[email protected] Luke Simon [email protected]
Lorri Warwick [email protected]

Board Member:
Jeff Peters [email protected]

8/4/2020 13
Health and Safety

Required Elements:

School and District Reopening Plans must include information on how the school will:

 Review and consider the number of students and staff allowed to return in person based
on the following:
o The ability to maintain appropriate physical distancing or face coverings
o PPE and face covering availability
o Availability of safe transportation
o Local hospital available capacity
 Engage with school stakeholders and community members when developing their
reopening plan and identify those who participated.
 Communicate with students, parents/guardians, staff, and visitors regarding instructions,
training, signage, and a consistent means to provide individuals with information.
 Instruct staff to observe for any signs of illness in students and staff and will require that
any symptomatic persons be sent to the school nurse or designated personnel.
 Perform daily temperature screenings on all students and staff, along with daily screening
questionnaires for faculty and staff with periodic use for students.
 Require any ill student or staff member be assessed by the school nurse.
 Require any student or staff member with a temperature, signs of illness, and/or a positive
response to the questionnaire to be sent directly to a dedicated, supervised isolation area,
prior to being picked up and/or sent home.
 Address visitors, guests, contractors, and vendors to the school which includes health
screening.
 Instruct parents/guardians to observe for signs of illness in their child that may require
them to stay home from school.
 Will instruct staff and students in correct hand and respiratory hygiene.
 Ensure all persons in the school buildings follow physical distancing practices of at least
6 feet apart whenever possible.
 Accommodate students and staff who are at high risk or live with a person who is at high
risk.
 Require all employees, adult visitors, and students to wear a cloth face covering
whenever physical distancing cannot be maintained.
 Obtain and maintain adequate supplies of cloth face coverings for school staff and
students who forget their masks, and obtain proper PPE for use by school health
professionals.
 Take action if there is a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the school.
 Comply with DOH and CDC guidelines for the return to school of students and staff
following a positive screen for COVID-19 symptoms, illness or diagnosis of a confirmed
case or following quarantine due to contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19. All of
the above will be done with coordination between the school district and the local health
department.

8/4/2020 14
 Clean and disinfect schools following CDC guidelines.
 Continue to conduct the required school safety drills with modifications only to ensure
physical distancing between persons.
 Run before and after school child care programs. (the district does not run a before or
after school child care program)
 Designate a COVID-19 safety coordinator whose responsibilities include continuous
compliance with all aspects of the school’s reopening plan, as well as any phased-in
reopening activities necessary to allow for operational issues to be resolved before
activities return to normal.

In-Person Instruction

Complete In-person instruction cannot happen under current guidelines for physical
distancing in classrooms. The capacity of each space will be calculated and posted on or
near the door. PPE will be provided to students and staff in the form of face coverings, and
where appropriate, gloves, gowns, shields. Transportation will be provided at a safe level.

Health Checks

Parents/guardians and staff members will be provided the following resources to educate them
regarding the careful observation of symptoms of COVID-19:
 CDC Symptoms of Coronavirus - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html
 The following signs will be distributed to parents/guardians, and staff members and will
be posted throughout the District’s facilities.

8/4/2020 15
 Parents/guardians and staff members will be able access a video which describes the
symptoms of COVID-19:
o Fever or chills (100° or o Headache;
greater); o New loss of taste or smell;
o Cough; o Sore throat;
o Shortness of breath or o Congestion or runny nose;
difficulty breathing; o Nausea or vomiting; and/or
o Fatigue; Diarrhea.
o Muscle or body aches;
 Staff will be educated to observe students or other staff members for signs of any type of
illness by participating in the following mandated SafeSchools trainings:
o Coronavirus Awareness (Full Course)
o Coronavirus: CDC Guidelines for Making & Using Cloth Face Coverings (Full
Course)
o Coronavirus: Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Workplace (Full Course)
 Staff and approved visitors will complete a health questionnaire daily. Individuals will
be provided a link to this questionnaire prior to visiting the District’s buildings.
o In the event individuals do not have access to the internet or cannot access the
form, a hard copy of the form will be distributed to the individual.
 Students will complete a health questionnaire bi-weekly. Students will be instructed on
how to complete the questionnaire. Students may require assistance due to their unique
needs.

Screenings

Daily temperature checks are required for staff, students and approved visitors. Temperature
checks will be performed prior to staff, students and approved visitors entering District facilities
or District transportation to the greatest extent practicable.
 Prior to utilizing any thermometer, operators should review product-specific directions.
 Parents/guardians will be provided access to the video: “It’s All About Thermometers.”
o https://youtu.be/G-m0aNDw_zQ
 Staff, students and approved visitors are required to complete temperature screenings at
home.
 The School Nurses will train staff on the appropriate use of infrared thermometers.
 Trained staff conducting temperature screenings will:
o Utilize no-touch, infrared thermometers;
o Wear a face covering;
o Wear gloves; and
o Perform a visual inspection of an individual prior to conducting a temperature
screening.
 Students, staff, and approved visitors will be temperature screened before entering the
district facilities.
 Individuals will maintain physical distance while waiting for their temperature screening.

8/4/2020 16
Healthy Hygiene Practices

Healthy hygiene practices will be taught and re-taught in ten (10)-week intervals for both
students and staff. Instruction will be provided in the following areas:
 Hygiene practices  Physical distancing
 Health screenings  Proper transitions
 Signs and symptoms of COVID-19  Entrance and egress
 Face coverings  Cleaning and disinfection procedures

The District will provide trainings through:


 Daily General Announcements:
o COVID-19 Everyday Prevention Actions -
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/CDC-COVID-19-PSA-
Everyday-Prevention-Actions.pdf
o COVID-19 Readiness - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/downloads/CDC-COVID-19-PSA-Readiness.pdf
o Coronavirus Stops with Me - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/downloads/2020_06_30_SG-PSA-Re-RECORD.pdf
o Cleaning and Disinfection - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/downloads/PSA_Cleaning-and-Disinfection.pdf
o What To Do If You Are Sick - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/downloads/PSA_What-to-Do-When-Sick.pdf
 Videos
o Symptoms of Coronavirus Disease 2019 - https://youtu.be/7zzfdYShvQU
o How does COVID-19 spread? - https://youtu.be/WfJSVbQtHsk
o What You Need to Know About Handwashing - https://youtu.be/d914EnpU4Fo
 Conspicuous signage will be placed in the following areas:
o Entrances o Offices
o Restrooms o Auditoriums
o Cafeterias o Operations and Maintenance
o Classrooms Spaces
 Signage will be posted on the following topics:
o Wash Your Hands - https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/pdf/wash-your-hands-
poster-english-508.pdf
o Handwashing is Your Superpower - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/downloads/superhero_poster.pdf
o Stop the Spread of Germs - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/downloads/stop-the-spread-of-germs.pdf
o Symptoms of Coronavirus Disease 2019 - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/downloads/COVID19-symptoms.pdf
o Please Wear a Cloth Face Covering - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/downloads/cloth-face-covering-building-entrance.pdf
o Protect Yourself and Others from COVID-19 -
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/downloads/Young_Mitigation_recommendations_and_resources_toolkit_01.
pdf

8/4/2020 17
o Cover Coughs and Sneezes - https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-
ncov/downloads/cover-your-cough_poster.pdf
Hand Hygiene
Students, staff and approved visitors will practice good hand hygiene to reduce the spread of
COVID-19. Hand washing stations (sinks) are located:
 Inside restrooms
 Inside some classrooms
 Inside health offices
 Inside operations and maintenance areas
 Inside food service areas

Soap dispensers and paper towels are provided at each station. Paper towel dispensers have been
placed next to all handwashing stations.

Students, staff and approved visitors will wash their hands:


 Before, during, and after preparing food
 Before eating food
 After using the restroom
 After blowing one’s nose, coughing, or sneezing
 After touching garbage
 After having been in a public place and touched an item or surface that may be frequently
touched by other people, such as door handles, railings, etc.

When washing hands, individuals will:


 Wet their hands with clean, running water and apply soap.
 Lather their hands by rubbing them together with the soap.
 Scrub their hands for at least 20 seconds.
 Rinse their hands well under clean, running water.
 Dry their hands using a clean towel.

Hand sanitizer will be provided at all entrances, classrooms, large-occupancy spaces


(Gymnasiums, Auditorium, etc.), cafeterias, and operations and maintenance areas.

Respiratory Hygiene

Students, staff and approved visitors will be instructed and re-instructed on:
 How to Safely Cough and Sneeze - https://youtu.be/a220fnvLyxY

The District will provide the necessary hand and respiratory hygiene supplies.

In instances where physical distancing or mask requirements cannot be complied or easily


regulated, light-transmitting plastic barriers will be installed.

8/4/2020 18
Physical Distancing

Students, staff and approved visitors will receive instruction and re-instruction on physical
distancing.
Training video - https://youtu.be/GDDDz89EhSU

The District will adhere to maintaining six (6) feet of space between individuals to the greatest
extent practicable. In instances when six (6) feet of distance cannot be maintained, individuals
will be required to utilize face coverings or protective barriers.

The District will implement the following methods, to the greatest extent practicable, to
encourage physical distancing and reduce density:
 Develop multiple entrance points
 Stagger arrival and departure times
 Reduce the use of locker storage areas
 Structure classroom settings to ensure physical distancing between individuals or groups
of individuals
o In settings where groups of individuals must be distanced, light-transmitting
plastic barriers will be installed
 Desks will be turned to face in the same direction to the greatest extent practicable.
o In settings where desks cannot be turned in the same direction due to grouping,
light-transmitting plastic barriers will be installed
 Students will pass between settings in staggered intervals
 Hallways will be marked with directional arrows
 Windows and doors will be opened to improve ventilation
 Limit the use of shared supplies.
o Supplies will be sanitized and disinfected if they must be shared.
 Utilization of outdoor and large alternate spaces (Gymnasiums, auditoriums, etc.) to
maintain adequate distance between individuals.
 Limit the number of individuals in smaller spaces (Main Offices)
 Limit the number of activities where multiple groups interact (Playground, assemblies,
etc.)
 Additional distancing will be ensured for individuals who are participating in activities
requiring projection of a voice or instrument, or aerobic activity.

Medically Vulnerable/High-Risk Groups

Individuals in these groups should consult with their healthcare provider regarding prevention:
 Age 65 or older;
 Pregnant;
 Underling health conditions including, but not limited to:
o Chronic lung disease or moderate to severe asthma
o Serious heart conditions
o Immunocompromised
o Severe obesity

8/4/2020 19
o Diabetes
o Chronic kidney disease undergoing dialysis
o Liver disease
o Sickle cell anemia
o Children who are medically complex, who have neurologic, genetic, metabolic
conditions, or who have congenital heart disease are at higher risk for severe
illness from COVID-19 than other children.

Individuals in these groups will collaborate with their healthcare providers to make informed
decisions. In order to meet the needs of individuals in these groups and ensure their health and
safety, the District requires medical documentation supporting recommended courses of action.
The District will consider all information when determining courses of action.

School health services personnel, special education personnel, and administration may develop
alternate plans for individuals in these groups. Appropriate accommodations include, but are not
limited to:
 Additional PPE for staff caring for such students
 Limiting the number of students in an educational setting
 Development of alternative schedules

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Students, staff and approved visitors will utilize face coverings at all times with the following
exceptions:
 Individuals are physically distanced (Six (6) feet) and in a secure setting (Classroom,
Office).
 Individuals are not physical distanced, in a secure setting, and protected by light-
transmitting plastic barriers.
 Individuals have provided the District with medical documentation supporting
accommodations. Medical or sensory issues may impede an individual’s ability to
participate in the learning environment. The aforementioned individuals may be required
to wear an alternative barrier to protect others in the learning environment. Acceptable
barriers include, but are not limited to: dust masks, face shields, etc.

The District will allow individuals to wear their own face coverings as long as they cover
individuals’ mouths and noses. The District will provide trainings for students and staff on the
use and care of face coverings.
 Trainings may include:
o SafeSchools - Coronavirus: CDC Guidelines for Making & Using Cloth Face
Coverings (Full Course)
o Students – Prevent COVID-19: Wear a Cloth Face Covering -
https://youtu.be/ML3n1c0FHDI
o Students and Staff – How to Wash Cloth Face Coverings -
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/how-to-wash-
cloth-face-coverings.html

8/4/2020 20
The District has purchased disposable looped masks. Masks will be made available to students,
staff and approved visitors who are unable to secure their own masks.

The School Nurses will be provided additional PPE to care for individuals expressing COVID-19
symptoms. Such PPE includes, but is not limited to:
 Respirators (N95) masks that are fitted
 Eye protection
 Face shields
 Gloves
 Disposable gowns

Management of Ill Persons

Students and staff with symptoms of illness will be sent to the health office. School Nurses will
assess individuals who are sent to the health office.

If a school nurse is not available, building administrators will isolate and dismiss any student or
staff member who has a fever or other symptoms of COVID-19 that are not explained by a
chronic health condition for follow up with a health care provider.

If Students or Staff become Ill with Symptoms of COVID-19 at Schools

The District will follow Education Law § 906, which provides:


“whenever...a student in the public schools shows symptoms of any communicable or
infectious disease reportable under the public health law that imposes a significant risk of
infection of others in the school, he or she shall be excluded from the school and sent
home immediately, in a safe and proper conveyance. The director of school health
services shall immediately notify a local public health agency of any disease reportable
under the public health law. The director of school health services, or other health
professionals acting upon direction or referral of such director, may make such
evaluations of teachers and any other school employees, school buildings and premises
as, in their discretion, they may deem necessary to protect the health of the students and
staff.”

Staff will immediately report any illness of students or staff to the school nurse or building
administrator. Reports will be made in compliance with FERPA, and Education Law 2-d. If
nurses choose to go to classrooms to make assessments of students, this will be done in a manner
that protects the student’s confidentiality. If there are several students waiting to see the school
nurse, students will wait at least 6 feet apart. Health offices in both buildings have general
admission areas, bathrooms, bed areas and isolated examination rooms. The offices are
supervised by the school nurses and have hand hygiene supplies. The school nurses assessing or
providing care to ill students and staff will adhere to the following transmission-based
precautions:
 Contact Precautions - https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/pdf/contact-precautions-sign-
P.pdf

8/4/2020 21
 Droplet Precautions - https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/pdf/droplet-precautions-sign-
P.pdf
 Airborne Precautions - https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/pdf/airborne-precautions-
sign-P.pdf
Students suspected of having COVID-19 awaiting transport home by the parent/guardian will be
isolated in the health offices examination rooms separated from others. Once individuals have
exited the examination rooms, the rooms will be closed until cleaning and disinfection has
occurred.

Return to School After Illness

8/4/2020 22
COVID-19 Testing

Per CDC Guidance, the District will not conduct COVID-19 testing. The decision of whether a
test needs to be conducted will be determined by a healthcare provider or the local department of
health.

Contact Tracing

Contact tracing is a public health function performed by local public health departments to trace
all persons who had contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19. This allows public health
officials to put in place isolation or other measures to limit the spread of the virus. The District
will cooperate with state and local health department contact tracing. The District will assist the
Department of Health in knowing who may have had contact at school with a confirmed case by:
 keeping accurate attendance records of students and staff members;
 ensuring student schedules are up to date;
 keeping a log of any visitors which includes date, time and where in the school they
visited; and
 Assist the Department of Health in tracing all contacts of the individual at school in
accordance with the protocol, training, and tools provided through the New York State
Contact Tracing Program.

Confidentiality will be maintained as required by federal and state laws and regulations. School
staff will not determine who is to be excluded from school based on contact without guidance
and direction from the Department of Health.

Cleaning and Disinfection

The District will:


● Create and retain logs stating:
o Date
o Time
o Scope of cleaning and disinfection
● Schedule (at least daily) cleaning and disinfecting of touched surfaces during the regular
school day. Cleaning and disinfecting will include frequently touched surfaces (PE
equipment, door handles, sink handles, drinking fountains) and shared objects (toys,
games, art supplies) between uses.
● Ensure safe and correct application of disinfectants ensuring adequate contact times
● Keep products away from children
● Ensure ventilation systems operate properly and increase circulation of outdoor air as
much as possible by opening windows and doors, or other methods
● Not open windows and doors if they pose a safety or health risk (e.g., allowing pollen in
or exacerbating asthma symptoms) risk to children using the facility.
● Take steps to ensure all water systems and features (for example, drinking fountains,
decorative fountains) are safe to use

8/4/2020 23
● Soft Surfaces - Clean the surface using soap and water or with cleaners appropriate for
use on these surfaces
● Electronics
o Follow manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and disinfecting. If there are no
instructions, use alcohol-based wipes or sprays containing at least 70% isopropyl
alcohol. Dry surfaces thoroughly

Cleaning/Disinfecting Procedure

Appropriate cleaners
 Surface cleaner
o Spray bottle
o Bucket
 Soap & water
o Spray bottle
o Bucket

Step 1. Clean
● Wear disposable gloves or any other required PPE to clean and disinfect
● Clean surfaces using an appropriate cleaner making sure you produce friction on the
surface
● Read all labels and follow instructions (PPE may be required)
● Cleaning reduces the number of germs, dirt and impurities on the surface. Friction action
breaks biofilm on any virus allowing disinfectant to contact the area
● Change out cleaning cloths (microfiber) often or use disposable products
● Clean surfaces prior to disinfecting
● Practice routine cleaning of frequently-touched surfaces.

Step 2. Disinfect
● Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces
● Ensure the area or item is cleaned with a cleaning agent before disinfecting
● Then disinfectant can be used
● Take all precautions on the label such as PPE, and safe handling procedures
● Change out cleaning cloths (microfiber) often or use disposable products
● Use EPA-registered disinfectant. Follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and
effective use of the product. Many products recommend:
o Keeping the surface wet for the entire contact/dwell time (see product label)
o Precautions such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation
during use of the product
 Diluted bleach solutions may also be used if appropriate for the surface
o ⅓ cup bleach per gallon of water - highly concentrated solutions may result in
adverse health effects, discoloration and residue
o Bleach solutions should be made fresh and not kept for more than 24 hours
o Check the label to see if your bleach is intended for disinfection, and ensure the
product is not past its expiration date. Some bleaches, such as those designed for
safe use on colored clothing or for whitening may not be suitable for disinfection

8/4/2020 24
o Unexpired bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly diluted.
Follow manufacturer’s instructions for application and proper ventilation
o Never mix bleach with ammonia or any other cleanser
o Leave solution on the surface for at least 1 minute

Laundering

Launder items (if possible) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Use the warmest
appropriate water setting and dry items completely or disinfect with an EPA-registered
disinfectant
o Washing face coverings in a washing machine and drying in a dryer is
recommended to properly clean a face covering
o If masks are hand washed prepare a bleach solution of 4 teaspoons household
bleach per quart of room temperature water. Soak the face covering for 5 minutes.
Rinse the face covering thoroughly with cool water. Air dry, in direct sunlight,
when possible. Wash hands for 30 seconds after washing the mask
o Face coverings must be completely dry before wearing
● Wear disposable gloves when handling dirty laundry from a person who is sick
● Dirty laundry from a person who is sick can be washed with other people’s items
● Do not shake dirty laundry
● Clean and disinfect clothes hampers according to guidance above for surfaces
● Remove gloves and wash hands right away

Classrooms

● Teachers may be responsible for general cleaning within the classrooms and should be
provided with appropriate cleaning supplies
● Keep cleaning supplies out of reach of children
● Schedule (at least daily) cleaning and disinfecting of touched surfaces during the regular
school day. Cleaning and disinfecting should include frequently touched surfaces (PE
equipment, door handles, sink handles, drinking fountains) and shared objects (toys,
games, art supplies) between uses. Consider scheduling this task late morning and early
afternoon, ensuring adequate contact time for the disinfection
● In order to facilitate cleaning and disinfection, classroom materials should be removed to
the greatest extent possible
● Trained Custodial staff should be responsible for heavier cleaning and disinfecting within
classrooms

Suggested Cleanliness and Disinfection Standards


This section outlines the process and expectations following an extended school closure for the
continued levels of cleanliness and disinfection required to meet federal and state mandates.

Classroom
● Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces (but not limited to):
o Classroom desks and chairs
o Door handles and push plates

8/4/2020 25
o Bathroom faucets
o Light switches
o Shared telephones
o Shared desktops
o Shared computer keyboards and mice
● All trash receptacles emptied and trash removed from the room
● Floors swept and dust mopped
● Floors spot mopped or full mopped
● Wipe clean: Tables, furniture and counter tops
● Window in the classroom door is cleaned at minimum once per week
● Walls are spot cleaned
● Carpets are spot cleaned
● Make sure all windows are locked
● Clean/Disinfect classroom sink and toilet area (if applicable)
● Vacuum carpet daily if applicable
● Re-stock all paper and soap products
● Clean Baseboards - Weekly
● Clean Light Fixtures - Weekly
● Replace Lights (Notify Custodian or Maintenance)

Restrooms and Locker Rooms


● Clean and disinfect toilets, sinks and shower areas
● Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces (but not limited to):
o Drinking Fountains
o Door handles and push plates
o Light switches
o Handrails
● All trash receptacles emptied and trash removed from the room
● Floors full mopped
● Clean Doors and Partitions in Restrooms and Locker Rooms
● Walls are spot cleaned
● Check that toilets, faucets, and drains are working
● Check Sanitary Napkin Boxes
● Clean Exterior of Dispensers
● Make sure all windows are locked
● Restock all toilet paper and soap products
● Clean Baseboards - Weekly
● Clean Light Fixtures - Weekly
● Replace Lights (Notify Custodian or Maintenance)

Common Areas (Hallways)


● Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces (but not limited to):
○ Drinking Fountains
○ Door handles and push plates
○ Bathroom faucets
○ Light switches

8/4/2020 26
○ Handrails
○ Buttons on vending machines
● All trash receptacles emptied and trash removed
● Floors swept and dust mopped
● Floors spot mopped or full mopped
● Walls are spot cleaned, when soiled
● Carpets are spot cleaned
● Make sure all windows are locked
● Make sure all unoccupied classrooms are locked

Medical Office
● Clean and disinfect health cots regularly (after each student use)
● Discard or launder coverings after each use
● Cover treatment tables and use pillow protectors
● Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces (but not limited to):
o Classroom desks and chairs
o Door handles and push plates
o Bathroom faucets
o Light switches
o Shared telephones
o Shared desktops
o Shared computer keyboards and mice
● All trash receptacles emptied and trash removed from the room
● Floors swept and dust mopped
● Floors full mopped
● Wipe clean: Tables, furniture and counter tops
● Window in the door is cleaned at minimum once per week
● Walls are spot cleaned
● Carpets are spot cleaned
● Make sure all windows are locked
● Clean/Disinfect classroom sink and toilet area if applicable
● Vacuum carpet daily if applicable
● Re-stock all paper and soap products
● Clean Baseboards - Weekly
● Clean Light Fixtures – Weekly
● Replace Lights (Notify Custodian or Maintenance)

Clerical/Admin Offices
 Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces:
o Door handles and push plates
o Bathroom faucets
o Light switches
o Shared telephones
o Shared desktops
o Shared computer keyboards and mice
 All trash receptacles emptied and trash removed from the room

8/4/2020 27
 Floors swept and dust mopped
 Floors spot mopped or full mopped
 Wipe clean: Tables, furniture and counter tops
 Window in the door is cleaned at minimum once per week
 Walls are spot cleaned
 Carpets are spot cleaned
 Make sure all windows are locked
 Clean/Disinfect shared sink and toilet area if applicable
 Vacuum carpet daily if applicable
 Restock all paper and soap products
 Clean Baseboards - Weekly
 Clean Light Fixtures - Weekly
 Replace Lights (Notify Custodian or Maintenance)

Athletic Areas
 Establish a regular cleaning schedule for shared environmental surfaces such as wrestling
mats or strength training equipment
 Disinfect mats and other high-use equipment at least daily
 Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces:
o Handles on equipment (e.g., athletic equipment)
o Drinking fountains
o Ice Machines
o Door handles and push plates
o Light switches
o Shared telephones
o Shared desktops
 All trash receptacles emptied and trash removed from the room
 Floors swept and dust mopped
 Floors spot mopped or full mopped
 Wipe clean: Tables, furniture and counter tops
 Window in the door is cleaned at minimum once per week
 Walls are spot cleaned
 Make sure all windows are locked
 Re-stock all paper and soap products
 Clean Baseboards - Weekly
 Clean Light Fixtures - Weekly
 Replace Lights (Notify Custodian or Maintenance)

Restrooms
 Clean and disinfect toilets, sinks and shower areas
 Wear proper PPE, avoid splashes
 Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces:
o Sinks
o Faucets
o Soap dispensers
8/4/2020 28
o Drinking Fountains
o Door handles and push plates
o Light switches
o Handrails
 All trash receptacles emptied and trash removed from room
 Floors full mopped
 Clean Doors and Partitions in Restrooms and Locker Rooms
 Walls are spot cleaned
 Check that toilets, faucets, and drains are working
 Check Sanitary Napkin Boxes
 Clean Exterior of Dispensers
 Make sure all windows are locked
 Re-stock all paper and soap products
 Clean Baseboards - Weekly
 Clean Light Fixtures – Weekly
 Replace Lights (Notify Custodian or Maintenance)

Safety Drills

Education Law § 807 requires that schools conduct 8 evacuation and 4 lockdown drills each
school year. Conducting drills is an important part of keeping students and staff safe in an
emergency; however, steps will be taken to minimize the risk of spreading infection while
conducting drills.

Emergency Response Protocols:


 Shelter-In-Place
 Hold-In-Place
 Evacuation
 Lockout
 Lockdown

Shelter-In-Place

Identify areas that will be used for the Shelter-in-Place along with areas that cannot be used for
due to certain types of environmental hazards (i.e.: high winds, tornado, etc.). Shelter-In-Place
protocols will be the same with the following changes:

 Provide 6 feet of space between students and staff during the Shelter-In-Place
 Use of face coverings throughout the event may be considered
 If 6 feet between staff and students cannot be achieved, face coverings should be worn at
all times during the event
 Plan to have extra face coverings on hand in the event that a person does not have one
 Listen for updates and respond accordingly

8/4/2020 29
Hold-In-Place

Hold-In-Place protocols will be the same the following changes:

 Provide 6 feet of space between students and staff during the Hold-In-Place
 Use of face coverings throughout the event may be considered
 If 6 feet between people cannot be achieved, face coverings should be worn at all times
during the event
 Plan to have extra face coverings on hand in the event that a person does not have one
 Listen for updates and respond accordingly

Evacuate

Evacuation protocols will be routinely the same with some minor adjustments:

 Identify areas outside of the building in advance that will allow 6 feet of separation of
students and staff. Verify that students and staff will not impede emergency responders
 In effort to get all staff and students out of the building as quickly and efficiently as
possible, face coverings should be worn at all times
 Plan to have extra face coverings on hand in the event that a person does not have one
 Identify, in advance, who will be holding the door to get out of the building, therefore
reducing the amount of people touching the door hardware when leaving the building.
Personnel that will be conducting this task may be assigned to holding the door for one or
more classrooms or until confirmation that everyone has vacated the building
 As written in the established protocols, bring all necessary items needed and consider
adding the following items: extra face coverings, in the event a face covering becomes
unusable and hand sanitizer
 If no extra face coverings are available, instruct anyone that does not have a face
covering to use their shirt to cover their nose and mouth during the event

Lockout
Lockout protocols will be the same, besides maintaining 6 feet of space between students and
staff in the area.

Lockdown

During a Lockdown, there will be a violation of the 6 foot recommendation between people. In
order to protect life safety, lockdown protocols will be mostly the same process as they have
been conducted in the past.

 Evaluate, in advance, if there is room to physically distance without being in the line of
sight
 Face coverings should be worn during the event at all times
 Plan to have extra face coverings on hand in the event that a person does not have one
 Instruct anyone that does not have a face covering to use their shirt to cover their nose
and mouth during the event.

8/4/2020 30
Facilities

Required Elements
School and District Reopening Plans must include information on how the school will:

 Comply with requirements of the 2020 New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and
Building code (BC) and the State Energy Conservation Code and submit all changes or
additions to the facilities to OFP.
 Ensure compliance with the 2020 Building Condition Survey and Visual Inspection,
where applicable.
 Provide provisions to conduct the Lead-In-Water testing as required by NYS DOH
regulation 67-4.
 Ensure all existing and new alcohol-based hand-rub dispensers which are installed in any
location are in accordance with FCNYS 2020 Section 5705.5.
 Include the installation of dividers in classrooms, libraries, cafeterias, auditoriums,
gymnasiums, doors and other points of congregation to ensure the submission of detailed
floor plans to OFP for review.
 Ensure that all new building construction and temporary quarter projects will be
submitted to OFP for a full code review.
 Provide a plan to consult with OFP for a preliminary evaluation on any new facilities for
leasing.
 Provide plans adhering to the BCNYS for the use of temporary or permanent use of tents.
 Ensure that the existing or altered number or toilet and sink fixtures meet the minimum
standards of the BCNYS.
 Ensure that each building provides one drinking fountain per one hundred occupants or
provide a written plan for a reasonable alternate source of drinking water.
 Provide written plans on how to maintain adequate, code required ventilation (natural or
mechanical) as designed.
 Ensure that all project submissions only dedicated to “COVID-19 Reopening” will be
labeled as such.
 Include the use of plastic separators that comply with 2020 BCNYS Section 2606.

In-Person Instruction
 The Director of Facilities will ensure that the district will comply with requirements of
the 2020 New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building code (BC) and the State
Energy Conservation Code and submit all changes or additions to the facilities to OFP.
 The Director of Facilities along with the BOCES Health and Safety Specialist will
perform the Visual Inspection in 2020 and 2022. The Building Condition Survey will be
completed in 2023.
 The Director of Facilities will perform the Lead in Water testing in the fall of 2020.
 The Director of Facilities with guidance from the BOCES health and Safety Specialist
will ensure hand sanitizer stations are installed in compliance with the fire code.
 The Director of Facilities along with the district architect will ensure the submission of
detailed floor plans to OFP for review that include the installation of dividers in

8/4/2020 31
classrooms, libraries, cafeterias, auditoriums, gymnasiums, doors and other points of
congregation.
 The Director of Facilities along with the district architect will ensure that all new building
construction and temporary quarter projects will be submitted to OFP for a full code
review. At this time there are no plans to perform any building construction or add
temporary quarters.
 The Director of Facilities along with the district architect will provide a plan to consult
with OFP for a preliminary evaluation on any new facilities for leasing. At this time
there are no plans to lease any additional facilities.
 The Director of Facilities along with the BOCES Health and Safety Specialist will ensure
that the existing or altered number or toilet and sink fixtures meet the minimum standards
of the BCNYS. They currently do meet the minimum standards and there are no plans to
reduce the number of fixtures.
 The Director of Facilities will ensure that each building provides one drinking fountain
per one hundred occupants or provide a written plan for a reasonable alternate source of
drinking water. Most drinking fountains in corridors have attached bottle fillers. We will
encourage the use of the bottle fillers and each student carries a personal water bottle.
 The Director of Facilities will provide written plans on how to maintain adequate, code
required ventilation (natural or mechanical) as designed. Currently the district uses a
Preventative Maintenance Scheduler to accomplish regular maintenance of the ventilation
equipment at each building. We will continue to use that system and before reopening
check each piece for proper operation and ventilation.
 The Director of Facilities along with the district architect will ensure that all project
submissions only dedicated to “COVID-19 Reopening” will be labeled as such.
 The Director of Facilities will include the use of plastic separators that comply with 2020
BCNYS Section 2606.

Hybrid Instruction
 This plan will match the plans above for in-person instruction

Remote Instruction
 This plan will match the plans above for in-person instruction with the exception of Lead
in Water testing. Testing is not to be performed unless a building is fully occupied under
normal circumstances. More guidance will be needed if the district is performing remote
instruction for the remainder of 2020.

8/4/2020 32
Child Nutrition

Safety and Sanitation


Waste and Laundering
Single-use items and used disinfection materials will be treated as regular waste, following food
safety guidelines.

Laundry for clothing, towels, linens and other items


 Cloth materials (i.e., linens, aprons, etc.) will be washed and dried on the highest
temperature setting allowable for the fabric.
 Items will be laundered according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
 Employees will wear disposable gloves when handling dirty laundry.
 Employees will not shake dirty laundry
 Employees will clean and disinfect clothes hampers.
 Employees will remove gloves and wash hands immediately.

Cleaning/Disinfecting Protocols

General Cleaning
 Cleaning protocols will be reviewed for cafeteria furniture, meal preparation and serving
areas, point-of-sale transactions and kitchens and dining areas.
 All staff will be trained on any new PPE, cleaning products and techniques.
 The facility will be cleaned and disinfected per current NYSDOH/CDC protocols.
 The District will maintain logs including the date, time, and scope of cleaning and
disinfection.
General Disinfecting
 Areas or items will be cleaned with soap and water or another detergent. Cleaning agent
will be replaced frequently. Once clean, areas or items will be disinfected.
 District will develop protocols and procedures that ensure that common areas are cleaned
and disinfected prior to the next group of students arriving for meals. For those students
learning remotely district will provide guidance to families on how to properly clean and
disinfect their eating area.
 Soft Surfaces – Surfaces will be cleaned using soap and water or with other appropriate
cleaning agents.
 EPA-registered disinfectants will be used. Staff will follow the instructions on the label
to ensure safe and effective use of the product. Many products recommend:
o Keeping surfaces wet for the entire contact time (see product label)
o Precautions such as wearing proper PPE and ensuring proper ventilation
during use of the product.
o Diluted bleach solutions may also be used if appropriate for the surface.
o Unexpired bleach will be effective against coronaviruses when properly
diluted.
o Leave bleach solution on the surface for at least 1 minute.

8/4/2020 33
Food Service Staff

Training Department Specific


In addition to the required annual trainings the Attica Central School will require Food
Service Staff to do the following trainings:

 Coronavirus Awareness (Full Course)


 Coronavirus: CDC Guidelines for Making & Using Cloth Face Coverings (Full Course)
 Coronavirus: Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Workplace (Full Course)

Required PPE
 Gloves
 Face Covering/Mask

The District will purchase face coverings/masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer. Staff will properly
use and dispose of PPE.

Roles and Responsibilities

Supervisor
 Create weekly/bi-weekly plans per guidance to ensure compliances with Child Nutrition
Program Requirements
 Inventory necessary materials and supply chain for cleaning, disinfecting, and preventing
spread of disease
 Provide training to staff members on operating procedures, proper cleaning techniques,
proper use of chemicals and personal protective equipment
 Provide ongoing communication to staff and feedback to staff on a weekly basis
 Participate in planning meetings as needed

Food Service Staff


 Maintain physical distancing to the greatest extent practicable
 Wear cloth face coverings at all times unless the employee is not in the food preparation
area or in the serving area
 Use all chemical cleaners and disinfectants in the manner recommended by the
manufacturer and your supervisor
 Wear all required personal protective equipment (PPE) when cleaning and using
chemicals
 Follow US CDC Guidelines for Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility:
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/disinfecting-building-
facility.html
 Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are
not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
or 70% isopropyl alcohol

8/4/2020 34
Food Preparation Areas and Contact Surfaces
 Shared workspaces will be minimized
 Employees will be dedicated to certain tasks, at separate workstations
 Exposed clean silverware, dishes, glasses, pots and pans will be covered
 Plasticware will be wrapped
 Condiments will be pre-packaged
 Disposable napkins will be used

Contact Vendors and Suppliers

The District maintains two (2) weeks-worth of inventory at any given time during the school
year. This does not include some non-perishable items. The District has direct contacts with its
local, regional and government vendors and is able to source needed products or
substitutes. During the 2019 – 20 mandated school closure the District was able source all items
for its Food Plan. The District will continue to monitor its inventory and engage its vendors
accordingly.

USDA Waivers Approved for the National School Lunch Program and School
Breakfast Program, July 1, 2020 – June 30, 2021

The District will apply for the following waivers:


 Non-congregate feeding
 Meal service time flexibility
 Bulk meals
 Parent/guardian Meal Pick Up
 Meal Pattern Flexibility
 “Offer Versus Serve” Flexibility for Senior High Schools

Meal Service

The following changes will be implemented during meal service:

 There will be no self-serve food items.


 Napkins and plastic ware will be provided directly by staff.
 The District will use disposable utensils.
 There will be no serving line.
 Meals will be delivered to students on carts either in the cafeteria or classroom.
 Other spaces will be used for cafeteria overflow: band/chorus rooms, gymnasiums, etc.
 Choices will include one (1) hot meal option and one (1) cold meal option.
 Choices will continue to meet meal pattern requirements.
 The District will continue to meet the dietary needs of its students.
 Cohorts will be divided in eating spaces.
 Physical distancing will be enforced in all eating areas.
 Food-sharing is prohibited.
 Small appliances will be discontinued.
8/4/2020 35
 Pot lucks will be discontinued.
 Condiments will be prepackaged.
 Students may eat outside with their classes so long as there is adequate supervision,
physical distancing, and appropriate weather.
 A la carte items and vending machines will be discontinued.
 Breakfast will be a grab-and-go option for students heading to their classrooms.
 Staff will use adequate PPE when delivering food and interacting with students.
 Parents/guardians will be provided with information on MySchoolBucks.
 Payment for meals will occur through MySchoolBucks and teacher collections in
homerooms/classrooms.
 The District will send Free and Reduced Price lunch applications to all families with a
cover letter encouraging completion.
 The District will continue to use its counting logs for individuals eating offsite.

Meals Consumed Onsite

The following changes will be implemented for meals consumed onsite:

 Remove or suspend the use of share tables, salad bars and other self-service refrigerators
and buffets for food and condiments.
 Meals will be delivered to students on carts either in the cafeteria or classroom.
 Other spaces will be used for cafeteria overflow: band/chorus rooms, gymnasiums, etc.
 Choices will continue to meet meal pattern requirements.
 The District will continue to meet the dietary needs of its students.
 Cohorts will be divided in eating spaces.
 Physical distancing will be enforced in all eating areas. Signage will be installed to
promote physical distancing.
 Food-sharing is discouraged.
 Condiments will be prepackaged.
 Students may eat outside with their classes so long as there is adequate supervision,
physical distancing, and appropriate weather.
 Breakfast will be a grab-and-go option for students heading to their classrooms.
 Windows and doors will be opened as much as possible to promote outdoor air
circulation. Windows and doors will not be opened if they pose a safety or health risk
(e.g., allowing pollen in or exacerbating asthma symptoms) to children using facilities.
 Students will be required to wash hands before and after meal service.
 Hand sanitizer stations will be established in cafeterias and all alternate eating spaces.
 Meal times and locations will be staggered to ensure physical distancing.
 District will review current procedures to identify students with food allergies.
 Consider the special need of students with disabilities
 Provide physical distancing guides in food service areas such as:
o Tape on floors
o Signage
o Increase table spacing, remove tables, mark tables as closed, or provide a
physical barrier between tables

8/4/2020 36
Meals Consumed Offsite (with election of waivers)
The following changes will be implemented for meals consumed offsite:
 Meals will be available for pickup from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM at a designated location as
a drive-thru format.
 A staff member will deliver meals directly to the vehicle.
 Staff members delivering meals will wear appropriate PPE.
 District will review current procedures to identify students with food allergies.
 District will send flyers home to families to promote proper handwashing hygiene before
and after eating
 District will provide guidance to families on how to properly clean and disinfect their
eating areas
 Families will contact the Food Service Director (Email:[email protected], Phone:
(585) 591– 0400 ext. 1195) if they are having difficulty accessing the school meal
distribution site.

Communication to Parents:
District will follow food service policies to communicate about school meal service, eligibility
options and changes in operations. District will provide these communications through multiple
means and in the languages deemed necessary by families.

8/4/2020 37
Transportation

The Attica Central School District will coordinate its reopening plan with its contract service
providers: Attica Bus Service, Inc., Student Transportation of America, and McDonald’s Bus
Service, Inc.

The School Bus


Density Reduction, Physical Distancing, Bus Capacity
 Children will sit one (1) child per seat ensuring the seat behind the driver is empty as
denoted in the following diagram (21 students total per bus*).

* Diagram shows large bus

 Siblings or those that live in the same household will sit together.
 Decals or some other method will be used to indicate where students may sit.
 Students will wear face coverings while in transit unless medically unable.
 The District will remind students/parents/guardians that physical distancing requirements
extend to the bus stop.

School Bus Contractors

District will collaborate with all transportation companies to ensure we are in compliance with
New York State Education Departments requirements under the reopening plan.

District will require all transportation contractors to provide a safety plan that they will be
following for the upcoming school year. Such plan will be reviewed by the District to ensure all
guidelines are being followed.

Roles and Responsibilities


Owner/Manager

8/4/2020 38
Cleaning and Disinfecting
 Buses and other transportation vehicles will be cleaned and disinfected daily and in
between runs if scheduled for multiple routes.
 Daily Cleaning will be done in accordance with New York State Education guidelines
with a focus on:
 High Touch Surfaces
o Bus seats and seat backs
o Seat belts
o Door handles, handrails
o Driver operator area
 EPA approved cleaning and disinfecting products will be used. Labels will be read and
directions will be followed. Appropriate PPE will be worn by staff who are cleaning and
disinfecting transportation.
 Proper ventilation will be ensured during cleaning.
 Windows, and roof hatches will be opened, and fans will be turned on during route
operation when weather permits.
 No hand sanitizer will be permitted on buses.
 Eating and drinking is prohibited on the bus.
 All cleanings and inspections will be documented.
 District will emphasize to parents/guardians and students prior to reopening schools that
it has thoroughly disinfected all buses and student transportation vehicles.
 Ensure employees are equipped with appropriate PPE (masks and gloves) and will take
protective measures to keep them safe
 Employees will be trained on how to properly wear PPE and physical distance
 Ensure employees maintain annual training requirements. Update employees on new
policies and/or procedures adopted during COVID-19 pandemic.
 Encourage physical distancing, density reduction, bus capacity, routing issues, cleaning
and disinfection procedures and practices.
 Ensuring availability of PPE (masks and gloves) with sufficient lead time for use when
schools open for your employees
 Regularly inspect busses and other transportation vehicles for cleanliness.
 Provide ongoing communication and feedback to administration on a regular basis.
 No student can be denied transportation for not wearing a mask.
 Employees must be trained on how to recognize COVID-19 signs and symptoms

Employees
 Self-screen before coming to work. Daily temperature checks and self-assessments. Do
not come to work if sick.
 Maintain physical distancing.
 Wear an appropriate face covering that covers the mouth and nose.
 Use all chemical cleaners and disinfectants in the manner recommended by the
manufacturer and your supervisor.
 Wash hands when available

8/4/2020 39
Students
 Students will be trained on how to properly wear PPE and how to recognize the signs and
symptoms of COVID-19.

Loading/Unloading & Pickup/Drop-off


 Students will be loaded based on route makeup.

Transporting to BOCES
 The District will keep a log of attendees on the trip in both directions from the BOCES
building. Upon request, the District will supply the log of passengers in addition to
cleaning logs in the event BOCES must assist in contact tracing due to exposures either at
the BOCES buildings, or during transportation.

Communication to Parents
 District will follow transportation policies to communicate about transporting of students
eligibility options and changes in operations. District will provide these communications
through multiple means and in the languages deemed necessary by families.

8/4/2020 40
Social Emotional Well-being

Mental Health and Trauma-Responsive Practices


Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and trauma can have a negative impact on young
people’s social emotional well-being, and consequently, their capacity to learn. Students and
adults are grappling with new and exacerbated traumas that can have far-reaching impacts on
health and educational outcomes. In addition, anxiety and depression may present or worsen in
response to these additional stressors and traumas.

Trauma-responsive practices help shift negative reactions to inappropriate student behavior to


thoughtful responses that consider the root causes of behavior and help to support individual
student needs to address those causes.

The District currently participates in the Genesee Valley BOCES Trauma, Illness and Grief
cooperative service. Trained personnel are available in all buildings.

Multi-tiered Systems of Support (MTSS)

8/4/2020 41
Instructional Support teams (IST) Roles within MTSS
The building principals have established Instructional Support Teams. The teams consist
of:
 Building Principal
 School Psychologist
 School Counselors
 Teachers
 Licensed Clinical Social Worker
 School Nurse
 School Resource Officer
 Child Protective Service Workers (By invitation)
 Probation Officers (By Invitation)

The team meets weekly to discuss tiered interventions and supports for students.

At the Tier 1 level, the school counseling/social work department implements strategies to
support the learning environment for everyone in the school community. The District’s
Comprehensive School Counseling Program may be found at:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hl0hfPJQf2c6ri9DTyjgYXgyDhqY9zb4tH07n1RvJMY/ed
it?usp=sharing

At the Tier 2 and 3 levels, the school counseling/social work department provides targeted
interventions and supports for groups and individual students.

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and Transformative SEL


Technical Assistance Centers
 NYS Community Schools Technical Assistance Centers - These regional centers provide
technical assistance, professional learning, and communities of practice around family
and community engagement, collaborative leadership, expanded learning, and integrated
student supports.
 NYS Mental Health Education Resource & Training Center - Offers support to schools
around mental health instruction, including assistance to identify resources and develop
lesson plans/curriculum, develop and implement plans for professional development,
establish community partnerships and services, and engage and support families.
 NYS Safe and Supportive Schools Technical Assistance Centers - Schoolwide SEL helps
students excel academically, build stronger relationships, and lead happier, healthier,
more fulfilling lives.

Supporting Young People and Families


 Memo RE: Resources for Mental Health and Talking to Young People About COVID-
19 – NYSED
 New York State Parent Portal - The Parent Portal includes tips for staying safe and
healthy as well as ways to have fun during self-isolation. Other resources include

8/4/2020 42
parenting in a pandemic, activities to do inside and outside, such as participating in daily
video chats with families, recording yourself reading a favorite book or message, and
more.
 Talking to Children About COVID-19 (Coronavirus): A Parent Resource - National
Association of School Psychologists
 A Trauma-Informed Approach to Teaching Through Coronavirus - National Child
Traumatic Stress Network
 Addressing Grief and Addressing Grief: Tips for Teachers and Administrators- National
Association of School Psychologists
 Coalition to Support Grieving Students - provides resources to school communities in the
ongoing support of their grieving students
 When School Starts Back: Supporting Grieving Students During a Pandemic – webinar
series with Dr. David Schonfeld presented by the Georgia Department of Education
 How can educators and families support students’ mental health and social emotional
needs? - Institute of Education Sciences

Self-Care
 CDC Guidance for Managing Stress and Anxiety – Tips for supporting adults during a
crisis
 SAMHSA: Coping With Stress During Infectious Disease Outbreaks – Fact sheet on the
signs of stress in yourself or others
 CDC Guidance for Emergency Responders - Tips for taking care of yourself as an
“emergency responder” during this time

Supporting Adults
 SEL Signature Practices Playbook – CASEL offers protocols for use during team
meetings to “check-in” on emotions and set the stage for shared learning and work
 National Child Traumatic Stress Network: Coping with Stress – For use in supporting
your team to support field-based teams
 Advancing Adult Compassion Resilience: A Toolkit for Schools from WISE Wisconsin
and Rogers InHealth - This toolkit offers information, activities, and resources for school
leadership and staff to understand, recognize, and minimize the experience of compassion
fatigue and to increase compassion resilience perspectives and skills

Online Learning
 A New Realm: IFSEL’s Tips for Distance Learning - The Institute for Social and
Emotional Learning has a number of ideas and practices specifically designed to help
teachers navigate online teaching, but can easily help parents encourage SEL with their
students.
 Taking School Online with a Student-Centered Approach - Facing History and Ourselves
provides resources for navigating new technologies and ways of teaching during an
immensely challenging and uncertain time in our communities, when students’ (and
teachers’ own) social-emotional needs are just as critical as academic goals.

8/4/2020 43
Supporting School Transitions
 Leveraging the Power of Social and Emotional Learning as You Prepare to Reopen and
Renew Your School Community - In response to COVID-19, school leaders can take
action now using CASEL’s guide to co-create supportive learning environments where
all students and adults can enhance their social and emotional competencies, feel a sense
of belonging, heal, and thrive.

District Resources
 CASEL’s District Resource Center - The District Resource Center helps school districts
make social and emotional learning (SEL) an integral part of every student's education.
Find research, knowledge, and resources curated from school systems across the U.S. to
support high-quality, systemic implementation of SEL.
 The CASEL Guide to Schoolwide Social and Emotional Learning - Schoolwide SEL
helps students excel academically, build stronger relationships, and lead happier,
healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Additional Resources
 Social Emotional Learning Benchmarks, Guidance, and Resources from the New York
State Education Department
 Teaching Tolerance - Speaking Up Against Racism Around the New Coronavirus
 America’s Promise - A compilation of resources from America’s Promise Alliance
 The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning - CASEL has curated a
helpful list of guidelines and resources for parents, caregivers, and teachers to promote
SEL while schools are closed.
 The National Association of School Psychiatrists - health crisis resources
 Resources for Schools and Districts Responding to the COVID-19 Crisis - REL Northeast
& Islands
 Children’s Institute - The Children’s Institute offers a list of resources to help parents
alleviate children’s stress over school closures and another set of resources with activities
for children, both on and offline.
 New York State Network for Youth Success - resources the Network has been curating
regarding the COVID-19 pandemic

Restorative Practices

Regardless of which restorative practice that may be used to address an incident of misconduct,
each practice is based upon students’ voluntary participation, willingness to take responsibility
for one’s actions, and readiness to repair harm so that the students involved and the school
community as a whole can move forward feeling safe and respected.

Community Building Circles: Community building circles provide a forum through which
students can bond with one another and with caring adults. As a prevention strategy, the circle
process enables a group to get to know one another, build relationships, establish understanding
and trust, create a sense of community, learn how to make decisions together, develop
agreements for the mutual good, and resolve difficult issues, etc. Especially important, when

8/4/2020 44
schools use the circle process with adults in the school community, the practice provides a vital
opportunity for school personnel and parents to build relationships with one another.

Collaborative Negotiation: Using the collaborative negotiation process enables an individual to


talk through an issue or conflict directly with the person with whom they disagree to arrive at a
mutually satisfactory resolution. Training in collaborative negotiation includes learning active
listening and other conflict resolution communication skills.

Peer Mediation: An impartial, third party student peer mediator facilitates the negotiation process
between peers who are in conflict so that they can come to a mutually satisfactory resolution.
Mediation recognizes there is validity to conflicting points of view the disputants bring to the
table and helps disputants work out a solution that meets both sets of needs.

Restorative Circles: When used as an intervention measure to address inappropriate student


behavior, restorative circles empower community members to take responsibility for the
wellbeing of others; prevent or deal with conflict before it escalates; address underlying factors
that lead youth to engage in inappropriate behavior and build resiliency; increase the pro-social
skills of participants, particularly those who have harmed others; and provide wrongdoers with
the opportunity to be accountable to those they have harmed and enable them to repair the harm
to the extent possible. A circle can also be used in response to a particular issue that affects the
school community. Formal Restorative Conference: A trained facilitator brings together
individuals who have acknowledged causing harm with those who have been harmed. Both sides
may bring supporters to the circle who have also been affected by the incident. The purpose of
the conference is for the harm-doer and the harmed to understand each other’s perspective and
come to a mutual agreement that will repair the harm as much as it is able to be repaired.

Planning and Capacity Building

The District’s Comprehensive School Counseling Program may be found at


https://docs.google.com/document/d/1hl0hfPJQf2c6ri9DTyjgYXgyDhqY9zb4tH07n1RvJMY/ed
it?usp=sharing

Adult SEL & Well-being

The District will provide training for all staff in the following areas:
 Models of quarantine and why peers and/or staff may be absent for days or weeks
 Realistic guidelines for teachers to limit pressure of curriculum
 Appropriate responses to anxiety

8/4/2020 45
 Hotline trainings and/or clear understanding what crises may rise to that level of
intervention
 Social distancing and feelings of rejection and disappointment
 Self Care

Staff will be provided with Employee Assistance Program contact information and menu of
supports.

Student SEL & Well-being

Staff has been directed to focus on relationship building and establishing classroom
communities.

Students will be provided instruction in the following areas:


 Models of quarantine and why peers and/or staff may be absent for days or weeks
 Explicit instruction on who the available staff is if students are feeling like they need
help.
 Ensuring students know PPE is available and provided by the District in the event they do
not have or forgot their personal PPE.
 Why Peers may be Exempt from PPE
 Social distancing and feelings of rejection and disappointment
 Self Care
 Social Stories

Students will have the opportunity to seek help from a counselor, psychologist or social worker
in each building as needed.

8/4/2020 46
School Schedules

In-Person Instruction:
In-person instruction will follow the regular bell schedule for each building.

Hybrid Model:

Split Week Schedule:

Separate cohorts of students (To be determined by District administration) will be


established.

Cohorts will attend in-person instruction on an alternating (A/B) schedule. When not
attending in-person, students will receive remote instruction.

All A/B days will be placed on a calendar and shared with all employees and families. In
the event of an emergency day or other unforeseen interruption, the schedule will remain
unchanged rather than being adjusted to make up for the lost day.

Instructional Strategies:

Strategy 1 – Classes/sections may be live-streamed and, to the greatest extent practicable,


students will maintain the same schedule as if in-person.

Strategy 2 – Focus on priority standards while in-person. While learning remotely,


students are engaged in independent learning activities aligned to priority standards.

Remote Instruction

Instructional Strategies:

 A teacher of record will be assigned to students. Instruction for students will be


accomplished through:
 Synchronous Google Meets or similar platform
 Recordings watched via Google Classroom or similar platform
 To the greatest extent practicable, students will adhere to the same schedule as if in-
person.

8/4/2020 47
Attendance and Chronic Absenteeism

Attendance for Reporting Purposes


The District will use Schooltool for tracking in-person, hybrid and virtual learning attendance.

Student interactions/engagement are tracked using the following methods for attendance
purposes:

 Call logs with parents/guardians and students.


 Email correspondence.
 Google Classroom assignment completion.
 Google Meet participation.
 Castle Learning reports.
 iReady reports (Math and ELA Grades K-8)

Attendance for State Aid Purposes


School districts report certain enrollment, attendance, and school calendar information through
the State Aid Management System (SAMS). While this data submission process differs from
other procedures, the underlying data provided should be consistent with all other attendance
reporting and requirements.

As discussed elsewhere in this guidance, the minimum annual instructional hour requirement and
180 days of session requirement are also both reported through SAMS. For both the 2019-20
and 2020-21 school years, school districts will be required to continue to submit the same
information through SAMS that has been required in previous years, namely aggregate
instructional days and hours, as well as daily calendars. Under regulatory changes adopted as an
emergency rule by the Board of Regents on July 13, 2020, school districts may be eligible to
apply for a waiver from the minimum instructional hour requirement for both the 2019-20 and
2020-21 school years to the extent that “the district is unable to meet such requirement as a result
of an Executive Order(s) of the Governor pursuant to the State of emergency declared for the
COVID-19 crisis, or pursuant to Education Law §3604(8), as amended by Chapter 107 of the
Laws of 2020, or reopening procedures implemented as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.”
Successful application of the waiver will shield school districts from a reduction in aid for failure
to meet the minimum instructional hour requirement. However, the 180 days of session
requirement is in statute, and for the 2020-21 school year there are currently no statutory
provisions that would allow a school district to provide fewer than 180 days of instruction over
the course of the full school year.

Chronic Absenteeism
Extensive research indicates that missing ten percent of school days tends to be the “tipping
point” when student achievement declines. Chronic absence, or absenteeism, is defined as
missing at least ten percent of enrolled school days, which in New York State is eighteen days
per school year, or two days per month.

8/4/2020 48
Classroom teachers, building principals and the attendance officers are responsible for
identifying students who are not participating. Interventions are scaffolded as follows:

 Google Meet to establish face-to-face contact.


 Phone call to parent/guardian.
 Email to student and parent/guardian.
 Home visitation (Exercising physical distancing protocols)

When contact is established by the aforementioned parties, a plan is developed to overcome any
learning barriers. If students cannot access virtual instruction, hard-copy materials are made
available to households and collected when assignments are completed.

Educational Neglect

The District will collaborate with the Wyoming County Department of Social Services when it
has questions regarding educational neglect. The Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and
Neglect will only be contacted as a last resort. An allegation of educational neglect may be
warranted when a custodial parent or guardian fails to ensure a child’s prompt and regular
attendance in school or keeps the child out of school for impermissible reasons resulting in an
adverse effect on the child’s educational progress, or imminent danger of such an adverse effect.

Persons in Need of Supervision (PINS)

The District will collaborate with the Wyoming County Department of Social Services when it
has questions regarding PINS and before taking action.

Under the Family Court Act Article 7, a PINS proceeding may, in certain circumstances, be
initiated to have a person under eighteen years of age, who does not attend school, is
incorrigible, ungovernable, habitually disobedient and beyond the lawful control of a parent, or
other person legally responsible for such child’s care, or appears to be a sexually exploited child,
adjudicated by the Family Court as a PINS.

8/4/2020 49
Technology and Connectivity

Required Elements

School and District Reopening Plans must include information on how the school will:

 Have knowledge of the level of access to devices and high speed broadband all
students and teachers have in their places of residence;
 To the extent practicable, address the need to provide devices and internet access to
students and teachers who currently do not have sufficient access; and
 Provide multiple ways for students to participate in learning and demonstrate mastery
of Learning Standards in remote or blended models, especially if all students do not
yet have sufficient access to devices and/or high-speed internet.

In-Person Instruction
 The district will send every family a “re-registration” form asking if students will be
returning to school and what the family has for internet access in order to create a
database of student/family needs. Current records indicate that approximately 80% of
district students and 98% of district teachers have access to sufficient internet
connectivity at home.
 All students and teachers will receive a device (iPad for K-2; Chromebook for 3-12 and
teachers). The District Device Distribution Procedure is available at this link.
 Wi-Fi is made available at the MS/HS campus and the Sheldon elementary building
parking lots for families without access at home. Options for district-operated
community-based Wi-Fi hotspots will be explored.
 The District has adjusted its calendar to frontload its Superintendent’s Conference Days.
Staff will be provided with additional support from staff experts and time to develop
remote learning resources.

Hybrid Model
 The district will send every family a “re-registration” form asking if students will be
returning to school and what the family has for internet access in order to create a
database of student/family needs. Current records indicate that approximately 80% of
district students and 98% of district teachers have access to sufficient internet
connectivity at home.
 All students and teachers will receive a device (iPad for K-2; Chromebook for 3-12 and
teachers). The District Device Distribution Procedure is available at this link.
 Wi-Fi is made available at all district campuses via building parking lots for families
without access at home. Options for district-operated community-based Wi-Fi hotspots
will be explored and shared as they are available.

8/4/2020 50
 On days that students are in school, instruction can be delivered through means not
directly involving technology or the need for internet access whenever possible.
Teachers and students will use traditional texts, hard copies of documents and oral
presentations. Additionally, students may upload/download needed materials for use in an
offline environment, using the district internet while they are in school. Lastly, students
with no internet access at home will be scheduled to attend in-person instruction more
frequently, ensuring access to the instruction.

 The District has adjusted its calendar to frontload its Superintendent’s Conference Days.
Staff will be provided with additional support from staff experts and time to develop
remote learning resources.

Remote Instruction
● The district will send every family a “re-registration” form asking if students will be
returning to school and what the family has for internet access in order to create a
database of student/family needs. Current records indicate that approximately 80% of
district students and 98% of district teachers have access to sufficient internet
connectivity at home.
● All students and teachers will receive a device (iPad for K-2; Chromebook for 3-12 and
teachers). The District Device Distribution Procedure is available at this link.
● Wi-Fi is made available at all district campuses via building parking lots for families
without access at home. Options for district-operated community-based Wi-Fi hotspots
will be explored and shared as they are available.
● In the event that students are at home with no access, instruction can be delivered through
means not directly involving technology or the need for internet access whenever
possible. Teachers and students will use traditional texts, hard copies of documents and
telephones for regular contact. Additionally, students may upload/download needed
materials for use in an offline environment, using the district internet via parking lot or
community access points.
● The District has adjusted its calendar to frontload its Superintendent’s Conference Days.
Staff will be provided with additional support from staff experts and time to develop
remote learning resources.

8/4/2020 51
Teaching and Learning

Required Elements

School and District Reopening Plans must include information on how the school will:

 Include a Continuity of Learning plan for the 2020-2021 school year. Such plan must
prepare for in-person, remote and hybrid models of instruction.
 Include an educational program that is aligned to the NYS Learning Standards regardless
if instruction is delivered in-person, remotely or in a hybrid model
 Include clear opportunities for equitable access for all students
 Include “regular and substantive interaction with an appropriately certified teacher
regardless of delivery method.”
 Include a clear communication plan for “how students and their families/caregivers can
contact the school and teachers with questions about their instruction and/or technology.”
This plan must be accessible to all, widely disseminated and include “clear and multiple
ways...to contact schools and teachers.”
 Include guidance for UPK

UPK
Health and Safety Considerations:
 Family style eating is prohibited due to physical distancing and health and safety
requirements. Given the District’s program is two (2) half-day cohorts, the students do
not eat lunch together. Students do participate in snack breaks. During these breaks,
students will be physically distanced to maintain health and safety requirements.
 The pre-kindergarten classroom has an interior bathroom. The bathroom will be
sanitized and disinfected after each use. Students may also use common restrooms. In
all instances, students will be accompanied by adults to ensure proper handwashing
protocols are followed.
 Given the District’s program is two (2) half-day cohorts, there is no need to sanitize and
disinfect napping materials.
 During center-based instruction, lessons will rotate rather than the students. Students will
continue to maintain appropriate physical distance during instruction.

Instructional Practices and Programming Considerations:

In-Person Instruction

 The regular, daily instructional schedule will be followed with physical distancing, face
coverings and PPE utilized as required
 The District’s program will refrain from strategies and practices that encourage physical
contact.

8/4/2020 52
Hybrid Model

 While technology may increase distance learning options, there are many ways students
can continue learning that do not require access to a computing device. If students are
required to participate in a remote learning option, the District’s program will limit screen
time to promote hands-on learning activities.
 Students will have regular and substantive interaction with the teacher.
 The cohorts will follow the same hybrid schedule as the rest of the elementary building.

Remote Instruction

 While technology may increase distance learning options, there are many ways students
can continue learning that do not require access to a computing device. If students are
required to participate in a remote learning option, the District’s program will limit screen
time to promote hands-on learning activities.
 Students will have regular and substantive interaction with the teacher.
 The cohorts will have their remote instruction held during the same time period as their
in-person schedule (AM and PM cohorts)

Staffing Regulatory Flexibility


 Instruction will be delivered by a certified teacher.
 The two (2) half-day sections will have eighteen (18) or fewer students. Therefore, the
District is required to have one (1) teacher and one (1) paraprofessional in the classroom
during both sections.

Budget and Fiscal Considerations


 The District is currently waiting for its 2020 – 21 universal pre-kindergarten grant
allocation and the NYSED’s 2020 – 21 universal pre-kindergarten grant application.
 When both the aforementioned items are released, the District will submit its application
to operate its universal pre-kindergarten program.
 The District will not be entering into any collaborative agreements with CBOs as there
are no eligible agencies in the district.

Considerations for Volunteers, Visitors, and Service Providers


 During the COVID-19 public health crisis, volunteers and visitors will be prohibited in
District facilities.
 Outside service providers must adhere to the health screening protocols when delivering
services in the District’s facilities.

8/4/2020 53
Grades K – 6
Per Commissioner’s regulations, all students will receive instruction that is designed to facilitate
their attainment of the State learning standards. The District’s students will receive high quality
rigorous, standards-based instruction that will meet their academic needs and allow them to
attain the learning standards in all curricular areas.

In-person Instructional Model

 Class/section sizes will be created to accommodate physical distancing (Six (6) feet of
distance between students or physical barriers).
 Students and staff will adhere to the District’s protocols regarding face covering
requirements.
 To the greatest extent practicable, special area teachers (Art, Music, and Library) will
move to classrooms to limit cross-contact.
 Diagnostics will be delayed to allow students to adjust to their environments.
 A teacher of record will be assigned to students who are unable to attend for medical
purposes. Instruction for students who are unable to attend for medical purposes will be
accomplished through:
o Synchronous lessons via Google Meets or a similar platform
o Recordings watched via Google Classroom or a similar platform.
 Classroom professionals will be provided with cleaning and disinfecting materials to
utilize during the school day.
 Classroom professionals will limit the use of communal equipment. If communal
equipment is necessary, classroom professionals will clean and disinfect equipment
between uses.
 Classrooms will be cleaned and disinfected by the Operations and Maintenance
Department during the second shift.

Hybrid Instructional Model

Split Week Schedule


 Two (2) cohorts of students (To be determined by District administration) will be
established.
 Cohorts will attend in-person instruction for two (2) days. One (1) cohort will attend for
two (2) days while the other cohort is learning remotely.
 Students will receive remote instruction/office hours for the other three (3) days of the
week their cohorts are not receiving in-person learning.

Instructional Strategies
 Model 1 – Classes/sections may be live-streamed and, to the greatest extent practicable,
students will maintain the same schedule as if in-person.

8/4/2020 54
 Model 2 – Focus on priority standards while in-person. While learning remotely,
students are engaged in independent learning activities aligned to priority standards

Remote Instructional Model

 A teacher of record will be assigned to students. Instruction for students will be


accomplished through:
o Synchronous Google Meets or similar platform.
o Recordings watched via Google Classroom or similar platform.
 To the greatest extent practicable, students will adhere to the same schedule as if in-
person.

Other Factors/Considerations
Learning Materials and Content
 Paper textbooks and other hard copy content as needed.
 Digital copies of textbooks
 Digital content and activities provided by the District, either free or subscription-based
 Online learning courses or course content modules

Communication Tools
 Telephone and/or video calling
 Email
 Video conferencing
 Social media
 Website
 Learning Management System (Google Apps for Education)

Teacher and Student Interaction


 Teacher office hours, virtually (online) via video conferencing and/or chat, and/or phone
 Regularly scheduled teacher/student(s) check-ins, virtual (online) and/or via phone
 Asynchronous communication, feedback, and support via email or the Learning
Management System

Instructional strategies/models
 Hard copy (paper) instructional materials provided to students as needed.
 Instructional materials provided via technology, such as posted on a teacher website or
available through the Learning Management System
 Individual or small-group synchronous instruction facilitated using technologies such as
telephone or video conferencing.
 Large-group or whole class synchronous instruction facilitated using technologies such as
telephone or video conferencing.
 Recorded instruction disseminated through technology, including via podcast, dedicated
website, or Learning Management System

8/4/2020 55
Grades 7 – 12 – Units of Study
Per Commissioner’s regulations Part 100.4 and 100.5, all students shall be provided instruction
designed to enable them to achieve the State’s learning standards. These regulations outline
specific time (unit of study) requirements for various subject areas. The unit of study (180
minutes per week or the equivalent) provides a framework for the instructional entitlement for
our students in these grades. The intention is to provide a mandated minimum amount of
instruction (contact hours) a school must provide in order to give students the opportunity to
master a body of content in a certain subject.

The definition of a “unit of study” has been revised in Commissioner’s Regulations to further
clarify what may be considered in the design of such units of study.
 Unit of study means at least 180 minutes of instruction per week throughout the school
year, or the equivalent. Equivalent shall mean at least 180 minutes of instructional time
for instruction delivered in a traditional face to face model or through alternative
instructional experiences, including but not limited to through digital technology or
blended learning that represents standards-based learning under the guidance and
direction of an appropriately certified teacher. Instructional experiences shall include, but
not be limited to: meaningful and frequent interaction with an appropriately certified
teacher; academic and other supports designed to meet the needs of the individual student
and instructional content that reflects consistent academic expectations as in-person
instruction. Any alternative instructional experience must include meaningful feedback
on student assignments and methods of tracking student engagement.

Units of Credit

The priority for the instruction is that which best prepares students to meet the learning outcomes
for the course. The design of the course, the selection of the curriculum, and the student
expectations are set locally by the District. Any student who achieves the learning outcomes for
the course will be granted the unit of credit for such course if applicable.

Science Laboratory Requirements

Per Commissioner’s Regulations, courses that culminate in a Regents examination in science


must include 1200 minutes of laboratory experiences. Due to the possibility of a hybrid or fully
remote model of instruction as a result of COVID-19, the 1200-minute lab requirement can be
met through hands-on laboratory experiences, virtual laboratory experiences, or a combination of
virtual and hands-on laboratory experiences coupled with satisfactory lab reports for the 2020-21
school year. This laboratory requirement is in addition to the course requirement and entitles a
student to admission to a culminating Regents Exam. The District is responsible for aligning
laboratory experiences specific to each science course; determining the mode or modes of
instruction; and identifying a viable vetted list of acceptable virtual labs or a combination of
virtual and hands-on labs that a student would need to complete for each science course that

8/4/2020 56
culminates in a Regents examination. Laboratory experiences will be recorded as part of the
District’s continuity of learning plan and records of satisfactory lab reports will be maintained.
Any student who has completed all laboratory experiences in accordance with teacher
expectations shall be deemed to have met the 1200-minute requirement.

In-Person Instructional Model

 Class/section sizes will be created to accommodate physical distancing (Six (6) feet of
distance between students or physical barriers).
 Students and staff will adhere to the District’s protocols regarding face covering
requirements.
 To the greatest extent practicable, special area teachers (Art, Music, and Library) will
move to classrooms to limit cross-contact.
 Diagnostic assessments/screenings will be delayed to allow students to adjust to their
environments.
 A teacher of record will be assigned to students who are unable to attend for medical
purposes. Instruction for students who are unable to attend for medical purposes will be
accomplished through:
o Synchronous Google Meets or a similar platform.
o Recordings watched via Google Classroom or a similar platform.
 Classroom professionals will be provided with cleaning and disinfecting materials to
utilize during the school day.
 Classroom professionals will limit the use of communal equipment. If communal
equipment is necessary, classroom professionals will clean and disinfect equipment
between uses.
 Classrooms will be cleaned and disinfected by the Operations and Maintenance
Department during the second shift.

Hybrid Instructional Model

Split Week Schedule


 Two (2) cohorts of students (To be determined by District administration) will be
established.
 Cohorts will attend in-person instruction for two (2) days. One (1) cohort will attend for
two (2) days while the other cohort is learning remotely.
 Students will receive remote instruction/office hours for the other three (3) days of the
week their cohorts are not receiving in-person learning.

Instructional Strategies
 Model 1 – Classes/sections may be live-streamed and, to the greatest extent practicable,
students will maintain the same schedule as if in-person.

8/4/2020 57
 Model 2 – Focus on priority standards while in-person. While learning remotely,
students are engaged in independent learning activities aligned to priority standards.

Remote Instructional Model

 A teacher of record will be assigned to students. Instruction for students will be


accomplished through:
o synchronous Google Meets or similar platform
o recordings watched via Google Classroom or similar platform
 To the greatest extent practicable, students will adhere to the same schedule as if in-
person.

Other Factors/Considerations
Learning Materials and Content
 Paper textbooks, and other content
 Digital copies of textbooks
 Digital content and activities provided by the District, either free or subscription-based
 Online learning courses or course content modules

Communication Tools
 Telephone and/or video calling
 Email
 Video conferencing
 Social media
 Website
 Learning Management System (Google Apps for Education or similar platforms)

Teacher and Student Interface


 Teacher office hours, virtually (online) via video conferencing and/or chat, and/or phone
 Regularly scheduled teacher/student(s) check-ins, virtual (online) and/or via phone
 Asynchronous communication, feedback, and support via email or the Learning
Management System (Google Apps for Education)

Instructional strategies/models
 Hard copy (paper) instructional materials provided to students
 Instructional materials provided via technology, such as posted on a teacher website or
available through the Learning Management System)
 Individual or small-group synchronous instruction facilitated using technologies such as
telephone or video conferencing.
 Large-group or whole class synchronous instruction facilitated using technologies such as
telephone or video conferencing.
 Recorded instruction disseminated through technology, including via podcast, dedicated
website, or Learning Management System.

8/4/2020 58
Visual and Performing Arts
 Participating in the Arts, whether visual or performing, is important for our students’
health and well-being. Research indicates these activities are beneficial to students’
mental health as well as contributing to academic success. School re-opening plans
should ensure that whether in-person, remote, or hybrid models are utilized, students
should be participating in the Arts in accordance with NYS standards and required Units
of Study. Understanding that hybrid or remote schedules may limit face-to-face class
time with a certified teacher, such instructors should plan, to the best of their ability, a
menu of learning activities for students to engage in using a variety of remote
applications, tools and even hands-on resources that can be sent home whenever
practicable.

Learning Materials and Content


 Classroom professionals will limit the use of communal equipment. If communal
equipment is necessary, classroom professionals will clean and disinfect equipment
between uses.
 Classroom professionals will adapt their instruction to accommodate lack of materials in
the home environment.

Communication Tools
 Telephone and/or video calling
 Email
 Video conferencing
 Social media
 Website
 Learning Management System (Google Apps for Education or similar platforms)

Teacher and Student Interface


 Teacher office hours, virtually (online) via video conferencing and/or chat, and/or phone
 Regularly scheduled teacher/student(s) check-ins, virtual (online) and/or via phone
 Asynchronous communication, feedback, and support via email or the Learning
Management System (Google Apps for Education)

Instructional strategies/models
 Hard copy (paper) instructional materials provided to students
 Instructional materials provided via technology, such as posted on a teacher website or
available through the Learning Management System)
 Individual or small-group synchronous instruction facilitated using technologies such as
telephone or video conferencing.
 Large-group or whole class synchronous instruction facilitated using technologies such as
telephone or video conferencing.
 Recorded instruction disseminated through technology, including via podcast, dedicated
website, or Learning Management System.
8/4/2020 59
Physical Education
 Participating in Physical Education (PE) is important for our students’ health and well-
being. Not only do PE activities benefit students’ physical health, but research indicates
regular physical activity improves students’ mental health as well as contributes to
academic success. School re-opening plans should ensure that whether in-person,
remote, or hybrid models are utilized, students should be participating in physical activity
under the direction and supervision of a certified physical education teacher to the extent
practicable. Understanding that hybrid schedules may limit face-to-face class time with a
certified PE instructor, such instructors should plan, to the best of their ability, a menu of
learning activities for students to engage in under the direction of their classroom
teachers, other staff, or independently.

Instructional strategies/models

In order to satisfy the mandated minutes as specified in Part 135 of the Commissioner’s
Regulations for all three (3) instructional models, the District will incorporate the
following strategies into its PE instruction:

 Consider assigning tasks for at-home completion and then have students apply the
knowledge gained in the school setting (i.e., have students practice a skill at home and
then apply it during a class activity).
 In school, have students participate in individual physical activities (e.g., dance, yoga,
track and field, fitness stations) that comply with physical distancing guidelines and
require little or no equipment. When students are at home, have them focus on activities
for motor skill development (e.g., underhand throwing, self-toss and catch, catching with
a parent or sibling).
 Consider a flipped classroom approach where students first learn about a topic at home
and then come prepared to learn more about it in class (e.g., students watch a video about
The Haka at home, then in school the teacher answers questions and teaches in more
depth).
 Consider switching from providing direct instruction to more of a student-directed
instruction approach (e.g., project-based learning or flipped classroom).
 Provide synchronous learning opportunities (distance learning that happens in real time)
as much as possible, but record lessons to provide to students who may not have access in
real time.
 Allow for optimal student choice and provide opportunities for students to engage with
teachers directly and often. This will be crucial to keep students motivated. Additionally,
students are more interested in seeing videos created by their own teachers than shared
videos created by other teachers.

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Career and Technical Education (CTE)
Genesee Valley BOCES Introduction
The Career and Technical Education Center (CTE) is dedicated to teaching students both
industry and work-readiness skills in a variety of technical areas, as well as support academic
skills mainly in the areas of Math, Science and English. In a blended learning environment,
teachers will be on campus five days per week. Students will follow the schedule outlined
below.

In following a two day schedule students enrolled in programs that require hours for certification
will be assured that these hours can be met. Additionally, the academic credits that can be earned
by virtue of being enrolled in an approved CTE program will be preserved. This flexibility to
earn potentially up to three academic credits including Math, Science, English, PE, and/or Health
may prove to be a valuable tool to assist students meeting all CTE and academic credit
requirements for graduation.

For students in a remote high school experience CTE teachers will use Google Classroom to
connect, post assignments, and give traditional assessments (tests and quizzes). Webex or Zoom
will be used to deliver real-time lessons. All students, whether learning virtually or in-person will
take part in the live lessons. Teachers will also provide recorded lessons for students to review as
reinforcement, or if they have missed a lesson. After the live lesson, students working virtually
will complete work assigned through the Google Classroom. Students on campus will work in
shops/labs to gain hands-on experience. Teachers will assess skill attainment at this time.
Teachers will also reach out to industry partners to provide demonstrations as well as assign real-
life simulation activities provided through a variety of career and technical education publishers.
All assignments and projects will continue to align with related technical assessments and
industry certifications that will be completed while students are on campus.

8/4/2020 61
2020 – 2021 CTE Schedule
Approximate Number of Students
Districts Full Day attendance
on Campus

Batavia Campus
Alexander Batavia
Byron-Bergen
Cal-Mum Elba
Batavia Campus - 337

Mondays & Tuesdays


Mt. Morris Campus-
Warsaw
Perry Wayland Mt. Morris Campus- 300
Geneseo Avon
Letchworth

Batavia Campus
Attica
Leroy
Oakfield
Pavilion/Wyoming Pembroke
Notre Dame Batavia Campus - 334

Thursdays & Fridays

Mt. Morris Campus


Mt. Morris Campus-310
Dansville
Mt. Morris
Livonia
York
Keshequa

All Students/Districts Wednesday - Virtual 0 CTE students on campus


Learning/Planning, cleaning and
disinfecting.

8/4/2020 62
Special Education

Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)


Students with disabilities must have equal access to high-quality programs that are designed,
based on their individual needs and abilities, to enable them to achieve the desired learning
results established for all students. The District’s Special Education Plan outlines its
comprehensive approach to ensuring its students are provided a Free and Appropriate Public
Education (FAPE)in the least restrictive environment (LRE). The District’s Special Education
Plan may be found in the district CSE office and is available upon request.

LRE Documentation
The District’s Director of Special Education/504 Coordinator maintains direct contact with the
parents/guardians of students receiving special education services. The Director will contact
families regarding the District’s or their students’ private school special education placements’
continuity of instruction plans.

IEP Implementation
Until schools return to normal operating conditions, the same flexibility with respect to IEP
implementation for delivery of services during school closures due to the COVID-19 outbreak
continues to apply to the programs and services whether delivered in-person and/or remotely
(e.g., flexibility with respect to the mode and/or manner; group or individual sessions; specific
group size for related services, frequency, duration and location of related services, and special
class size ratio etc.).

Provision of Services
Consistent with previously issued OSE guidance, the District will ensure that, to the greatest
extent possible, each student with a disability can be provided the special education and related
services identified in the student’s IEP. During the 2020-21 school year, due to the health and
safety requirements that must be in place when schools resume, schools may not be able to
provide all services in the same mode and/or manner they are typically provided. The District
will determine what methods of delivery of services will be utilized to deliver special education
programs and services to meet the needs of students with disabilities as it plans its three (3)
instructional models including in-person, hybrid and remote learning. When providing remote
services, the District will continue to use the information included in OSE’s March 27, 2020 and
April 27, 2020 guidance documents.

Progress Monitoring
Teachers and service providers will continue to collect data, whether in-person or remotely, and
use the data to monitor each student’s progress toward the annual goals and to evaluate the
effectiveness of the student’s special education services.

Compensatory Services
Because schools were required to provide FAPE consistent with the need to protect health and
safety in the first instance, students may have experienced a loss of skills despite best intentions,

8/4/2020 63
efforts and creative solutions when providing educational programs and services. In these
circumstances, CPSEs/CSEs must make an individualized determination whether and to what
extent compensatory services are to be provided once school reopens; how those services will be
provided in conjunction with the District’s reopening plan and continue if the school must close
again over the next school year.

Partnership and Collaboration to Reflect All Settings Where Students are Served
District administration participates in annual visits to its off-site special education placements.
The purpose of these visits is to thoroughly understand the instructional programming and
environments in which ours students are learning. To the greatest extent practicable, the District
will continue this practice.

The District will monitor, review and provide comment on all off-site continuity of education
plans.

In-person Instructional Model/Hybrid Model as Applicable


 Related service providers will collaborate with classroom teachers for scheduling push-in
and pull-out sessions.
 Students will receive instruction in physical distancing and PPE.
 Students with sensory needs may require alternative PPE.
 Classroom and related service settings will ensure physical distancing (Six (6) feet or
barriers).
 Classroom and related service settings will be provided necessary PPE and cleaning and
disinfection supplies for their instructional spaces.
 Therapy items may be limited due to cleaning/disinfection requirements.
 Testing materials, porous items, and shared items will be cleaned and disinfected.
 Material barriers, transparencies, gloves, and photocopies will be used to minimize risk
of spreading germs.

Remote Instructional Model/Hybrid Model as Applicable


 Schedule of classes will be determined requiring student participation.
 Classroom and related service provider instructional/therapy time will be respected.
 Resource room will be offered and conducted in the remote environment.
 Teletherapy services will be scheduled in the remote environment.

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Bilingual Education and World Languages

Initial Identification of Potential ELLs


NYSED has approved temporary emergency regulatory changes to the ELL identification
process to address the backlog of newly enrolled students who need to complete the ELL
identification process mandated by Part 154- 2.3(a) at the commencement of the 2020-21 school
year.

 Qualifying schools that reopen using in-person instruction or blended/hybrid instruction


will be required to complete the ELL identification process within 30 school days of the
start of the academic school year for all students who enrolled during COVID-19 school
closures in 2019-20, as well as all students who enroll during summer of 2020 and during
the first 20 school days of the 2020-21 academic school year. After this 20- day
flexibility period, all schools that reopen using in-person or hybrid instruction will be
expected to complete identification of ELLs within the required 10 school days of initial
enrollment for all students pursuant to Commissioner’s Regulations Part 154, including
the ELL screening, identification, and placement processes. The initial screening process
should be followed in person for new entrants following the district’s safety protocols to
ensure compliance with the Governor’s Executive Orders and Center for Disease Control
(CDC) health and safety guidelines after commencement of regional reopening.

Units of Study for English as a New Language (ENL) and Transitional Bilingual
Education (BE) Programs

All ELLs must be provided the required instructional Units of Study in their ENL or BE program
based on their most recently measured English language proficiency level as evidenced in their
most recent NYSESLAT or their NYSITELL assessment during in-person or hybrid learning.
Former ELLs at the Commanding level of proficiency within two years of exiting ELL status are
to continue receiving Former ELL services in the form of Integrated ENL or other Former ELL
services approved by the Commissioner under Part 154-2.3(h) during in-person or hybrid
learning.

Communications and Language Access


All communications for parents/guardians of ELLs must be in their preferred language and mode
of communication.

The District will, to the greatest extent practicable, provide interpretation and translation through
a qualified interpreter/translator in the languages most commonly spoken in the District.

Professional Learning for Educators


The District does qualify for, and has received a “School District Waiver CR Part 154
Professional Development Requirements Specific to English Language Learners (ELLs).”

8/4/2020 65
Professional Certificate Holders in the Title of English to Speakers of Other Languages
The Attica Central School District is a member of the Mid-West Regional Bilingual Education
Resource Network (Mid-West RBERN). The District currently sends its Teacher of English to
Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) to Mid-West RBERN professional development
offerings. The TESOL teacher will also participate in regional professional development
offerings hosted by the Genesee Valley BOCES.

Progress Monitoring
The District will utilize sample NYSESLAT Resources and Materials to progress monitor its
students and determine the best course of study for individuals. Resources may be found at:
https://www.engageny.org/resource/overview-new-york-state-english-a-second-language-
achievement-test-nyseslat.

Educational Technology
OBEWL has created a Resource Collection for ELLs and World Language Students to support
educators in adapting and developing lessons and units of study to meet the needs of ELLs at all
levels of proficiency and develop appropriate scaffolds for use in the virtual classroom. In
addition, the Regional Bilingual Education Resource Networks (RBERNs) have created a
repository of professional learning videos, known as RBERN on Demand, which includes a
section on technology integration for ELLs.

Students with Interrupted/Inconsistent Formal Education (SIFE)


NYSED has approved a temporary emergency regulatory change that time out of school due to
COVID closures do not count toward the 12 months that SIFE may be enrolled in US schools
prior to initial identification as a SIFE pursuant to Part 154-2.2(y), regardless of whether they
were engaged in remote schooling during that time.

NYSED recognizes the complex additional educational needs of SIFE and has created and
provided numerous resources to guide and support educators in addressing the unique needs of
these students. Tools, resources, and strategies for supporting and scaffolding instruction for
SIFE identified in previous guidance for districts to utilize during COVID-19 closures remain
relevant and useful to support SIFE instructional needs during and after the transition to reopen
schools in 2020-21.

Emergent Multilingual Learners (EMLLs) in Prekindergarten


The EMLLs profile process allows prekindergarten programs to assess the home language
exposure of children in Prekindergarten. EMLLs are identified by the Profile as having exposure
to a language other than English but are not assessed for English proficiency (which occurs in
kindergarten when the ELL identification process is conducted).

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8/4/2020 67
Family Partnerships and Communication
All communications for parents/guardians of ELLs must be in their preferred language and mode
of communication.

The District will, to the greatest extent practicable, provide interpretation and translation through
a qualified interpreter/translator in the languages most commonly spoken in the District.

Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Education Framework


NYSED has created the Culturally Responsive-Sustaining (CR-S) Education Framework to help
educators create student-centered learning environments that affirm racial, linguistic and cultural
identities, prepare students for rigor and independent learning, develop students’ abilities to
connect across lines of difference, elevate historically marginalized voices, and empower
students as agents of social change. The Framework provides guidelines that address
contributions to be made by multiple stakeholders—including teachers, administrators, students,
and community partners—in developing a strong CR-S education. Districts are encouraged, to
the greatest extent possible, to continue to apply the principles of the CR-S Framework in
planning for the reopening of schools in 2020-21.

Teacher and Principal Evaluation System

Education Law §3012-D/APPR


Pursuant to Education Law 3012-d, the District will fully implement its currently approved
APPR plans in each school.

Certification, Incidental Teaching, and Substitute Teaching

Education Law §3001


Pursuant to Education Law 3001, individuals employed by the Attica Central School District will
hold a valid certificate. Substitute teachers will either be certified or employed following NYS
laws and regulations for substitute teachers.

8/4/2020 68

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