COVID Response Plan: Returning to Campus 2020-2021

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COVID Response Plan: Returning to Campus 2020-2021

COVID Response Plan:
 Returning to Campus

     2020-2021

                       4

TABLE OF CONTENTS
                                Click on any of the topics to go directly to that section.

Introduction
Reference Guide
Implementation
Learning Models
      Yellow Model: On-Campus Learning
      Yellow Model: Virtual Learning Option
      Orange Model: Blended On Campus and Virtual Learning
      Red Model: Virtual Learning
Uniforms
Social-Emotional Support
Considerations for Parents
Mitigation Strategies
      Handwashing
      Respiratory Etiquette
      Face Coverings
      Cleaning, Disinfecting, and Ventilation
      Physical Distancing and Plexiglass Barriers
      Staggered Arrival and Dismissal Locations
            Arrival
            Dismissal
      Contact Groups and Large Group Gatherings
      Health & Temperature Screening
            Screening Before Coming to Campus
            Temperature Check upon Arrival
      Reporting Illness and Returning to School
            Student is Positive for COVID-19
            Student has Household Member who is Positive for COVID-19
            Student has had Close Contact with an Individual who is Positive with
            COVID-19
            Student has One or More COVID-like Symptoms
            Student Becoming Sick at School
            Considerations
            Non-COVID Illnesses

As the global pandemic continues to evolve, so will these plans. As such, Saint Patrick Catholic School will
continue to make adjustments that align with best practices to support the School’s overall health and safety.   5

Campus Access and Deliveries
      Shared Materials and Water Fountains
      Campus Access and Deliveries
      Shared Materials and Water Fountains
      Travel
Safety Drills and Security
Extended Care
      Before Care
      After Care
      Non-School Day Care
Extracurricular Activities
      After School Clubs
      Music Lessons
      Theatre Program
      Athletics
Communications
Training and Preparedness
Parent Acknowledgement of Risk
Updates

As the global pandemic continues to evolve, so will these plans. As such, Saint Patrick Catholic School will
continue to make adjustments that align with best practices to support the School’s overall health and safety.   6

INTRODUCTION

Saint Patrick Catholic School is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all its students, parents,
employees, and guests. We have developed this COVID Response Plan: Returning to Campus for the 2020–2021
school year that will guide our decisions regarding the reopening of our campus to students and employees as well as
our overall program. We recognize that through the implementation of the following coordinated efforts, we can
greatly reduce, not eliminate, the risk of COVID-19 transmission in our school community. We strive to balance our
mitigation strategies with the known benefits of children experiencing in-person learning at school. We also recognize
that we are a critical community institution serving teachers, staff, children, and families. The threat of a highly
infectious outbreak in our school could be detrimental to the community. By following this COVID Response Plan:
Returning to Campus, we are dedicated to reducing possible miscommunications and establishing guidelines, in
advance, for potential challenges with a collective, community approach.
Saint Patrick will update the COVID Response Plan: Returning to Campus as federal, state, and local guidelines and
regulations change. It will also be included as a temporary addendum to the School's Wolfhound Ways Handbook and
Employee Handbook. Until communicated otherwise, the rules and guidance in the COVID Response Plan: Returning
to Campus control to the extent that there is any inconsistency between it and the existing Wolfhound Ways or
Employee Handbook. If you have any questions regarding current policies or procedures, parents should contact their
child’s division director, and employees should contact their supervisor.

REFERENCE GUIDE
Resources and Guiding Entities

Saint Patrick Catholic School’s COVID Response Plan: Returning to Campus is based on recommendations
from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Virginia Department of Health, American
Academy of Pediatrics, federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards related to
COVID-19, and Virginia Governor Ralph Northam’s executive orders as they pertain to COVID-19. In
addition, a committee of Saint Patrick’s community members with varied expertise worked together to
develop this plan.As part of our planning, the School has taken into account the mounting evidence regarding
COVID-19 in children and adolescents, including the role they may play in the transmission of the infection.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, COVID-19 appears to behave differently in children and
adolescents than other common respiratory viruses, such as the flu, on which much of the current guidance
regarding school closures is based. Although children and adolescents play a major role in amplifying
influenza outbreaks, to date, this does not appear to be the case with COVID-19. Although many questions
remain, the preponderance of evidence indicates that children and adolescents are less likely to be
symptomatic and less likely to have severe disease resulting from SARS-CoV-2 [COVID-19] infection. In
addition, children may be less likely to become infected and to spread infection.

As the global pandemic continues to evolve, so will these plans. As such, Saint Patrick Catholic School will
continue to make adjustments that align with best practices to support the School’s overall health and safety. 7

IMPLEMENTATION
To be effective, Saint Patrick Catholic School’s CRP depends upon and requires the full cooperation of all
community members, and everyone is responsible for implementing and complying with the School’s CRP.
This plan includes steps—such as signage placement, face coverings, physical distancing, screening
procedures, contact tracing, enhanced cleaning, and frequent HVAC filter changes—that the School is taking
to mitigate COVID-19 contagion.

The COVID Response Plan: Returning to Campus addresses the health and safety procedures that Saint
Patrick has implemented and the responsibilities of the School and its community members, including:

a. Personal prevention procedures, including hygiene and respiratory etiquette
b. Physical distancing practices,
c. Limiting visitors on campus,
d. Cleaning, sanitizing, and ventilation information,
e. Screening procedures,
f. Policies for anyone exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms,
g. Identification and isolation of sick individuals and protocols for contact tracing,
h. Adjusted procedures for student arrival and dismissal, and
i. Employee training and ongoing communications.

LEARNING MODELS

Saint Patrick Catholic School has created color-coded learning models to reduce the disruption to student
learning should the School be required to pivot between models. Safeguarding the health of our community
members is our top priority, and we are prepared for a delayed campus opening and/or will switch to a
different learning model at any time in the school year if public health guidelines require us to do so.

Each of the models has its uses and desired outcomes, and no individual model will satisfy all parent needs.
However, with the health and safety of students and our School community being our first priority, the school
has studied each of these models in the event any one might be needed at some time across the school year.

Our current plan is to start the 2020-2021 school year in the Yellow Model with on-campus learning and
according to these Important Dates.

During any period of virtual learning, Saint Patrick remains committed to delivering on our mission; providing
students with a high quality and student-centered learning experience; and ongoing communication with
families. Saint Patrick is prepared to evaluate fees related to on-campus programs and activities and prorate
such fees during such times that we must pivot to an Orange or Red Learning Model.

Saint Patrick Catholic School Learning Models
                                        GREEN                YELLOW               ORANGE               RED

         Schedule                       On Campus            On Campus*           Blended              Virtual

         Physical Distancing            No                   Yes                  Yes                  Not Applicable

         Arrival/Dismissal              Normal               Modified             Modified             Not Applicable

         Chapel/Mass/Assembly           Yes                  Live Streamed        Live Streamed        Live Streamed

         Specials Classes               Yes                  Yes, Modified        Yes, Modified        Yes, Modified

         Lunch                          Family Style         In Classrooms        In Classrooms        No

         Uniforms                       Yes                  Yes, Modified        Yes, Modified        No

         Extended Care                  Yes                  Yes, Modified        Yes, Modified        No

        Yellow Model: On-Campus Learning

        We are excited to welcome students back to Saint Patrick Catholic School for on-campus learning, and we will
        offer a full-day schedule that includes Before Care, lunch service, specials classes, and After Care. Saint
        Patrick’s physical and human resources enable us to provide an on-campus, in-person education under new
        health and safety guidelines. Some program modifications that you may see will include additional
        classrooms/spaces for student grouping; limiting student travel during the day; a daily schedule that allows for
        pivoting to a different learning model quickly, if necessary; elimination of in-person, large group meetings and
        activities; limited off-campus travel; increased use of outdoor spaces for student learning and socialization;
        and enhanced technology allowing for digital access to the classroom.

        Yellow Model: Virtual Learning Option*

        We recognize that there is likely to be an increase in absenteeism due to the stringent criteria for staying home
        with symptoms, close contact with individuals with COVID-19, and/or a diagnosis of COVID-19.
        Additionally, we know that some families may not feel comfortable with their student returning to campus for
        a variety of reasons. In an effort to minimize the impact on learning due to absenteeism as well as provide a
        learning option for families who choose to participate from home, Saint Patrick has invested in the technology
        to support a virtual learning option while on-campus learning is happening.

As the global pandemic continues to evolve, so will these plans. As such, Saint Patrick Catholic School will
continue to make adjustments that align with best practices to support the School’s overall health and safety.          9

Students who participate in virtual learning while the School is in the Yellow Model will have the option to
view instructional times live, according to the classroom schedule, or view recordings of instruction at a
different time. Virtual Learning in the Yellow Model will be different from Virtual Learning in the Red Model,
in that the camera will be focused on the teacher’s live, in-classroom instruction rather than the teacher sitting
alone in front of the camera looking at his/her virtual class. While the teachers will be available to the
student/parent at specific, scheduled times to answer questions regarding instruction and assignments, the onus
will be on the parents, or individual supporting virtual learning from home, to assume the teacher-facilitator
role to ensure student understanding and accountability. In the Yellow Model: Virtual Learning Option, daily
attendance will be taken - more information will be forthcoming. The School will utilize a number of digital
tools — including Google Educational Tools and SeeSaw — for learning, engagement, and assessment.

Please contact the Director of Academic Operations or Director of Studies if you would like to discuss virtual
learning in the Yellow Model for your student.

Orange Model: Blended On-Campus and Virtual Learning

The Orange Model is a combination between on campus and virtual learning. In the Orange Model some
cohorts of students will attend on campus while other cohorts of students would work virtually from their
homes. Although Saint Patrick Catholic School is not anticipating the use of this approach, it could serve a
purpose if circumstances warrant. For example, if a partial school shutdown was required for certain grade
levels because of health, safety, or precautionary reasons, students in those grades would continue learning
virtually while students in the non-affected grade levels would continue on campus.

Another example of the potential need for the Orange Model, would be for the school or a division to attend
on an alternating A/B schedule. That is, students would attend school on campus on A days and have virtual
learning at home on B days. The schedules could be developed in any sequence or pattern.
Reasons for using an Orange Model approach would be due to adhere to local or state requirements, to
minimize exposure to the virus for students or staff, a better utilization of staffing resources, or to create a
better means of differentiation of instruction. In the Orange Model, daily attendance will be taken.

Red Model: Virtual Learning

We learned a lot through our virtual learning experience in the spring of 2020, and if we are required to move
to fully virtual learning again, our students will continue to experience meaningful and joyful learning that is a
hallmark of the Saint Patrick Catholic School education. Students will participate in
developmentally-appropriate schedules that are a balance of live and recorded content. In the Red Model,
daily attendance will be taken. The School will utilize a number of digital tools — including Google
Educational Tools and SeeSaw — for learning, engagement, and assessment.

UNIFORMS
● During the Yellow and Orange Learning Models, student uniform requirements will be amended to eliminate
the dress uniform weekly requirement.
● Click here to view the uniform requirements in Yellow and Orange Learning Models.
● PE Uniforms for 6th-8th grade students will not be worn in the Yellow or Orange Models because students
will not have access to the locker rooms.

SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
Supporting our students’ social-emotional development is more important than ever during these trying and
uncertain times.

In addition to your child’s teachers and division director, the school counselors will be available to help
parents regarding their children’s adjustment back to school and any other related concerns. Please contact
your child’s division director with questions.

The counselors will be available to meet with children individually and support teachers once school resumes.
They are also great resources for families who want outside support for children if more help is needed
transitioning back to school.

CONSIDERATIONS FOR PARENTS
Children are looking to their parents to let them know how they should be feeling about things. As much as
possible, parents should try to be a non-anxious presence in their children’s lives and communicate their
confidence in their children’s ability to cope with stressful situations, including going back to school.

Parents are encouraged to help children re-establish routines at home that will help prepare them for coming
back to campus. This article from Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta has some great suggestions to prepare for
reentry. The CDC also has information about how to talk to your children about COVID-19.

Once parents read through the School’s COVID Response Plan: Returning to Campus and understand more
about the 2020–2021 school year, they are encouraged to communicate clearly with their children about the
return to campus as a way to prepare them for how things are going to look different this school year. Frequent
brief conversations — e.g., “See how the mailman has a mask on? You and your teachers will wear masks at
school, too!”— are recommended, instead of one or two long conversations that lay out all of the changes.

Parents are encouraged to reinforce the idea that children have agency in keeping themselves safe and healthy
rather than emphasizing the many unknowns. Although no one knows exactly what the school year will bring,
it is important that children feel a sense of comfort and control knowing that there are specific things they can
do (e.g., hand washing, masking, and physical distancing) to help keep themselves and others healthy.

Ample evidence shows that maintaining balanced nutrition, getting moderate exercise, practicing mindfulness,
establishing good sleep habits, and having adequate social support are the best ways to counteract the effects
of stress on children (and adults). Little things can help to make big improvements in the reduction of stress!

There will be varying expectations in the manner families personally approach the COVID-19 pandemic. In a
time when people can be less than generous in approaching the differences in others, we, at Saint Patrick,
understand that disconnecting habits such as criticizing, blaming, and complaining do no real good and break
down a community rather than lift it up. Let us, in true Wolfhound fashion, address problems as they arise, and
do so in a way that our faith-learning community becomes better and stronger as a result.

MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Saint Patrick Catholic School has implemented a number of mitigation strategies to increase safety and health.
Protocols and schedules have been adjusted to allow for the implementation of prevention measures, physical
distancing, and cohorts. Continual on-campus learning will only be possible with all of us working together to
follow health and safety guidelines while on campus and CDC guidelines while off campus.

HANDWASHING

Frequent handwashing and hand sanitizing is critical in preventing the spread of COVID-19 and other
infectious diseases.

● Hand sanitizer dispensers (containing sanitizers ≥ 60 percent alcohol) are placed at School entrances
and other key locations throughout the School building.
● Students, faculty, staff, and essential visitors should wash or sanitize their hands upon entering the
building.
● Hand washing will be built into the daily routine to help students establish good habits.
● School community members should wash their hands frequently throughout the day for at least 20
seconds with soap and water, but especially at the beginning and end of their time on campus; before
and after meals and snacks; after using the restroom; after using a tissue; after touching a high-touch
surface; and after touching their faces.

RESPIRATORY ETIQUETTE

Students, faculty, staff, and essential visitors should practice good respiratory etiquette to reduce exposure to
COVID-19 and other germs.

● Cover mouth and nose with elbow/sleeve or a tissue when coughing or sneezing
● Dispose of tissues in trash receptacles, then wash or sanitize hands
● Avoid touching your face, in particular the mouth, nose, and eyes.
● Students will be taught about respiratory etiquette in their classrooms.
● Respiratory etiquette signage will be displayed throughout the School.

FACE COVERINGS

Face coverings are shown to help limit the spread of COVID-19 to others. According to public health officials,
individuals can spread COVID-19 to others even if they do not feel sick. While not a substitute for physical
distancing, the use of face coverings is an important way that we, as a school community, can protect each
other.

CDC guidelines provide general considerations for wearing and maintaining a face covering, including that
the mouth and nose are fully covered; the face covering fits snugly against the sides of the face so there are no
gaps; and the face covering can be tied or otherwise secured to prevent slipping.

● All faculty, staff, and essential visitors will be required to wear face coverings while on campus.
● All students will be required to wear face coverings upon arrival to school, while moving throughout
campus, and during dismissal.
● Kindergarten through Eighth Grade students will be required to wear face coverings while in their
classrooms.
● Teachers will plan “mask breaks” for students during the school day - times when students can remove
their face coverings in a safe place for brief periods of time. Students will be taught procedures in their
classrooms about how and when to take a mask break in a safe manner. Masks are not substitutes for
social distancing.
● Pre-Kindergarten students will not be required to wear face coverings while in their classrooms but
may choose to wear a face covering.
● Parents are expected to provide clean face coverings for their students daily.
● Students should have at least two, clean face coverings available each day at school.
● Students may choose any face covering that is appropriate for school - no inappropriate slogans,
pictures, or graphics.
● Kindergarten students will not be required to wear face coverings during rest time while on their rest
mats as long as they can maintain a physical distance of 6 feet. If a student cannot maintain 6 feet of
physical distance or needs to move about the classroom, they will be required to put a mask back on.
● Students will not be required to wear face coverings during recess or other outdoor learning times, as
long as physical distancing is practiced. Students will wear masks when traveling to and from these
times in their day.
● Students will not be required to wear face coverings during physical education classes, as long as
physical distancing is maintained.
● Exceptions to the face-covering requirement may be made for documented medical reasons. Parents
must contact the School Nurse for an exception to the face-covering requirement.

CLEANING, DISINFECTING, AND VENTILATION

Saint Patrick Catholic School uses CDC-approved, eco-friendly, medical-grade disinfectants and has
implemented updated cleaning, disinfecting, and ventilation practices that include:

● Daily cleaning and disinfecting throughout the campus.
● Frequent cleaning and disinfecting of high-touch areas and items, such as toys, manipulatives, door
handles, elevator panels, railings, copy machines, and water fountains throughout the day

● Nightly use of electrostatic sprayers to disinfect classrooms, common areas, classroom materials, and
equipment,
● HVAC system that allows for the maximum amount of incoming fresh air and limited air recirculation,
● Proper use and maintenance of the ventilation system, including maintaining the aggressive filter
replacement schedule to support the best air quality, and
● Keeping classroom windows and doors open when possible to assist with fresh air ventilation.

PHYSICAL DISTANCING AND PLEXIGLASS BARRIERS

All individuals at Saint Patrick Catholic School will maintain a physical distance of six feet when possible.
Classroom furniture will be arranged to allow maximum physical distancing. Signage throughout the School
will reinforce physical distancing.

Mobile plexiglass barriers will be used throughout the campus, such as on the reception desk, on necessary
classroom furniture, and in learning resource rooms.

STAGGERED ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL LOCATIONS

Arrival

Student arrivals will occur from 7:30 - 8:00 AM in the locations below. Each arrival location will close at 8:00
AM. If you arrive after 8:00 AM, parents must park and walk their student(s) to the front doors of the School
for screening.

Car Riders

● Lower School car riders should use the side loop off Westmoreland Avenue.
○ After temperature screening, Lower School students will walk directly to their classroom upon
arrival.
○ If the classroom has a door to the Green, the students will utilize that door. Other Lower School
students will enter through the Lindsay Art Connector and travel down the lower school
hallway to their respective classrooms.
○ Teachers will be in the classrooms to welcome students.
○ Non-teaching staff and Teacher Assistants will be stationed throughout campus and in hallways
to help students move to their classrooms safely.
● Middle School car riders should use the front loop off Bolling Avenue.
○ After temperature screening, Middle School students will enter through the Lobby, travel up the
stairs in the Lobby, and walk directly to their classrooms.
○ Teachers will be in the classrooms to welcome students.
○ Non-teaching staff and Teacher Assistants will be stationed throughout campus and in hallways
to help students move to their classrooms safely.

Car Riders (continued)

● Mixed Lower School and Middle School car riders should use the appropriate loop according to the
following schedule:
○ Last names A - J use the side loop off Westmoreland Avenue.
■ After temperature screening, Lower School students will walk directly to their
classroom.
■ If the classroom has an external door to the Green, the students will utilize the external
door. Otherwise, Lower School students will enter through the Lindsay Art Connector
and travel down the lower school hallway to their respective classrooms.
■ After temperature screening, Middle School students will enter the Lobby, travel up the
stairs in the Lobby, and walk directly to their classrooms.
■ Teachers will be in the classrooms to welcome students.
■ Non-teaching staff and Teacher Assistants will be stationed throughout campus and in
hallways to help students move to their classrooms safely.
○ Last names K - Z use the front loop off Bolling Avenue.
■ After temperature screening, Lower School students will walk through the Lobby the
Green and walk directly to their classrooms.
■ If the classroom has an external door to the Green, the students will utilize the external
door. Otherwise, Lower School students will enter through the Lindsay Art Connector
and travel down the lower school hallway to their respective classrooms.
■ Middle School students will enter through the Lobby, travel up the stairs in the Lobby,
and walk directly to their classrooms.
■ Teachers will be in the classrooms to welcome students.
■ Non-teaching staff and Teacher Assistants will be stationed throughout campus and in
hallways to help students move to their classrooms safely.

Walkers and Bike Riders

● Walkers and bike riders will enter campus using the Gym Connector.
○ Walkers arriving from Bolling Avenue or Westmoreland Avenue should utilize the sidewalk to
the Gym Connector.
○ Bike riders should lock their bikes at the bike racks and utilize the sidewalk to go to the Gym
Connector.
● Temperature screenings will occur at the door to the Gym Connector.
● Students should wear a face covering and maintain physical distance from others while waiting for
their temperature screening. Markings will be on the concrete to help students’ awareness of
maintaining a 6-foot physical distance.
● After temperature screening, Lower School students will walk directly to the Lower School hallway to
their classrooms, and Middle School students will use the stairs in the Gym Connector and go directly
to their classrooms.
● Teachers will be in the classrooms to welcome students.
● Non-teaching staff and Teacher Assistants will be stationed throughout campus and in hallways to help
students move to their classrooms safely.

Late Arrivals

If students arrive at school after 8:00 AM, parents will be required to park and walk their student(s) to the
front doors. Parents and students should be wearing face coverings. A staff member will meet parents and
students at the front door, do a temperature screening, sign the student in, and give the student a pass. PreK,
Kindergarten, and 1st Grade students (for at least the first quarter) will be escorted by a staff member to their
respective homerooms. 2nd through 8th grade students will go directly to their homerooms.

Dismissal

Lower School Car Riders

● Students in grades PreK and Kindergarten will be escorted to the Dining Hall for dismissal.
○ Students will wear masks and sit so that physical distancing is maintained.
● Students in grades 1st through 4th will dismiss from their classrooms.
○ When called over the walkie talkie, students will either use their classroom’s external door to
the Green or exit through the lower school hallway and Art Connector to come to the side loop
for dismissal.
○ Students will wear masks until they are in their cars.
○ Non-teaching Staff and Teacher Assistants will be stationed in the hallways, Art Connector, and
Green to assist students in traveling to the side loop.

Lower School Escorted Walkers

● Lower School escorted walkers will line up along the brick wall outside the Lobby (weather
permitting). Physical guides/markers will help students maintain physical distancing.
○ In inclement weather, escorted walkers will wear masks and sit in the theater while maintaining
physical distance.
● Parents should come to the front of the School to request their students from the staff member on duty.
● Parents will wait outside for their students.
● When students are called, they will enter the lobby and go directly to the adult at the front doors to be
dismissed to their parents.

Lower School Unescorted Walkers & Bike Riders

● Students in 4th grade with a waiver on file are permitted to be Unescorted Walkers and/or Bike Riders.
● Fourth grade Unescorted Walkers will sign out with their homeroom teachers and exit the building
through the Gym Connector.
● Students should utilize the sidewalks on campus to get to their bikes and when leaving campus.
● Lower School students in grades below 4th may be Unescorted Walkers or Bike Riders only with a
Middle School sibling and must have a waiver on file.
○ Lower School Unescorted Walkers and Bike Riders will report to the staff member on the
concrete pad by sports fields to wait for their Middle School sibling. Physical distance will be
maintained.
○ Students should utilize sidewalks when leaving campus.

Mixed Lower School & Middle School Car Riders

● Students will dismiss from their classrooms.
○ When called over the walkie talkie, Lower School students will either use their classroom’s
external door to the Green or exit through the Art Connector and go through the Library
connector to the front loop.
○ Middle School students will exit through the Art Connector, and go through the Library
connector to the front loop.
○ Students will wear masks until they are in their cars.
○ Non-teaching Staff and Teacher Assistants will be stationed in the hallways, Art Connector, and
Green to assist students in traveling to the front loop.

Middle School Escorted Walkers

● Middle School escorted walkers will line up along the brick wall outside the Lobby (weather
permitting). Physical guides/markers will help students maintain physical distancing.
○ In inclement weather, escorted walkers will wear masks and sit in the theater while maintaining
physical distance.
● Parents should come to the front of the School to request their students from the staff member on duty.
Parents will wait outside for their students.
● When students are called, they will enter the lobby and go directly to the adult at the front doors to be
dismissed to their parents.

Middle School Unescorted Walkers & Bike Riders

● Middle School unescorted walkers and biker riders will sign out with their last bell teacher and exit the
building through the Gym Connector.
● Students should utilize the sidewalks on campus to get to their bikes and when leaving campus.

Early Pick-Ups

● Parents needing to pick-up their student early from school will need to do so before 2:30 PM.
● Parents should call the front office when they arrive on campus, park, and wait outside the front doors
for their student.
● The student will be called to the Front Office, signed out, and escorted to the front door to meet his/her
parents.

Late Pick-Ups

● Students who are not picked up by 3:45 PM will be seated outside (weather permitting) with a staff
member while parents are contacted.
● We are unable to have Drop-Ins for After Care at this time.
● If parents are not able to arrive at School by 4:00 PM, the School will call the student’s emergency
contacts.
● Parents will be billed a $13 fee.

CONTACT GROUPS AND LARGE GROUP GATHERINGS

Saint Patrick Catholic School has adjusted student schedules and procedures in an effort to limit the number of
contacts that students have while on campus. We are reimagining how we come together as a community for
events like Chapel and Mass, and we will continue to emphasize public speaking in virtual and small-group
settings.

● Large group gatherings eliminated
○ Students will go directly to classrooms upon arrival.
○ Assembly, Chapel, and Mass will be live streamed to classrooms.
● Lunch will be served in the classrooms.
● Travel will be minimized throughout the building whenever feasible.
● Traffic patterns will be established to allow for physical distancing.
● The number of students sent to the bathroom at a time will be limited.
● Field trips will be restricted.
● Teachers will take advantage of the outdoor learning spaces when possible.
● Lower School
○ Students will participate in Art, Music, and Spanish classes in small groups.
○ PE will take place outside whenever possible
○ Students will participate in Religion class
○ Prayer Buddy interactions will be modified.
○ Recess will be scheduled to minimize cross-group contact.
○ Click here to see a sample Lower School Schedule.

● Middle School
○ Each grade level will be split into three homeroom groups.
○ Students will stay with their homeroom group for as many classes as possible.
○ Teachers will travel to students in their homerooms when feasible.
○ Block scheduling will be in place to reduce the number of contacts daily.
○ Lockers and locker rooms will not be used until further notice
○ Students will not dress out for physical education classes.
○ Homerooms will be utilized in place of Advisory Groups.
○ Prayer Buddy interactions will be modified.
○ Click here to see a sample Middle School Schedule.

HEALTH & TEMPERATURE SCREENINGS AND REPORTING

Saint Patrick Catholic School will work diligently to help ensure all school community members are protected
against contracting COVID-19. We will continue to inform and encourage families and employees to
self-monitor for signs and symptoms of COVID-19. According to the CDC, individuals with COVID-19 may
have any of the following symptoms:

● Cough
● Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
● Fever ≥ 100.4º Fahrenheit or chills
● Muscle or body aches
● Sore throat
● Fatigue
● Congestion or runny nose
● New loss of taste or smell
● Headache
● Nausea or vomiting
● Diarrhea

Also according to the CDC, this list of symptoms does not include all possible symptoms. Please contact your
healthcare provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.

Saint Patrick Catholic School has implemented the following policies and procedures to assess a person’s
health status prior to entering the School; provide guidelines for screening individuals before they are allowed
to enter the building; and to provide a process for families to report when they are sick, experiencing
symptoms, or if they or anyone in their household have come into close contact with someone who has
COVID-19.

Screening Before Coming to School

● Parents should complete a Daily Health Screening Form each morning for their students before
they arrive at school. The goal of the Daily Health Screening Form is to partner with parents in
the screening process to help mitigate risk to the School community.
○ The form will be available on parents MySTPCS accounts.
○ Only one parent needs to complete the form although it will post to all parent
MySTPCS accounts.
○ Click to see a Sample Daily Health Screening Form
● Anyone who meets the following criteria should stay home from school and contact the
School Nurse:
○ Experiencing one or more COVID-like symptoms
○ Positive for COVID-19
○ Has a household member who is positive for COVID-19
○ Awaiting test results for COVID-19
○ Been in close contact with someone who is positive for COVID-19
■ The CDC currently defines close contact as someone who was within 6 feet of
an infected person for at least 15 minutes starting from 2 days before illness
onset (or, for asymptomatic patients, 2 days prior to specimen collection) until
the time the patient is isolated.

Temperature Check Upon Arrival

● All students, faculty, and staff will have a temperature check before entering the School
buildings.
○ Student temperature checks will occur during arrival. The School has staggered the
arrival locations to allow for physical distancing and efficient temperature screenings.
○ Any student with a temperature ≥ 100.4º F will undergo re-screening by the School
Nurse with an oral thermometer and either be admitted into school or return home
immediately.

REPORTING ILLNESS AND RETURNING TO SCHOOL

Student is Positive for COVID-19

1. Parents should call the School Nurse immediately.
2. The student, siblings of the student who attend the School, and faculty, staff, and other students
who have come into close contact with the COVID-positive student are required to quarantine.
See the CDC Guidelines for quarantining.
3. The School will notify the Health Department and work under their guidance to support contact
tracing.
4. The School will notify parents of students, as well as faculty and staff, who have come into
close contact with the student by the phone messaging system, School Messenger.
Confidentiality will be carefully maintained.

5. All students, faculty, and staff who came in close contact with the COVID-positive student will
                       be required to stay home and monitor for symptoms for 14 days.
                           a. Saint Patrick defines close contact as any student, faculty, or staff member who was in
                               the same classroom of an infected person for at least 15 minutes starting from 2 days
                               before illness onset (or, for asymptomatic patients, 2 days prior to specimen collection)
                               until the time the patient is isolated.
                    6. Teaching and learning will continue virtually, according to the Red Model, facilitated by the
                       teacher, if asymptomatic, or a substitute teacher.
                    7. Any student testing positive for COVID-19 who is symptomatic will be allowed to return to
                       school according to the CDC guidelines of ending home isolation:
                           a. After at least 10 days since symptoms first appeared, AND
                           b. After 24 hours of no fever without fever-reducing medication, AND
                           c. Symptoms improve.
                           d. Depending on the student’s healthcare provider’s advice and availability of testing, the
                               student might get tested to see if he/she is still positive for COVID-19. If a student will
                               be tested, he/she may return to school after receiving two negative test results in a row,
                               at least 24 hours apart.
                           e. Please consult your family’s healthcare provider if you have specific concerns about
                               your or your child’s health or would like further medical evaluation.
                    8. Any student testing positive for COVID-19 who is asymptomatic, will be allowed to return to
                       school 10 days after the positive test result.
                           a. Depending on the student’s healthcare provider’s advice and availability of testing, the
                               student might get tested to see if he/she is still positive for COVID-19. If a student will
                               be tested, he/she may return to school after receiving two negative test results in a row,
                               at least 24 hours apart.
                           b. If you develop symptoms after testing positive, follow the guidance in #7 for knowing
                               when it is safe to return to school.
                    9. Students will be required to have a note from their health care professional to return to campus.
                       Parents should call the School Nurse the day before the student’s return and provide documents
                       from the health care professional.

                Student has a Household Member who is Positive for COVID-19

                    1. Parents should call the School Nurse immediately.
                    2. Student(s) must quarantine for 14 days after exposure and monitor for symptoms.
                    3. Student(s) will transition to the Yellow Model: Virtual Learning Option while home.
                          a. See the CDC guidance protecting the health of healthy household members.
                    4. The School will communicate with parents of students in the same group(s) as the student with
                       a COVID-positive household member to alert them to monitor their students closely for
                       symptoms.
                          a. Quarantining will not be required for students in the same group(s) unless symptoms
                              develop.
                    5. Parents should call the School Nurse the day before the student’s return.

As the global pandemic continues to evolve, so will these plans. As such, Saint Patrick Catholic School will
continue to make adjustments that align with best practices to support the School’s overall health and safety.       21

Student has had Close Contact with an Individual with COVID-19 (outside of
School)

1. Parents should call the School Nurse.
2. The student will be required to quarantine for 14 days after exposure and monitor for
symptoms.
3. The student will transition to the Yellow Model: Virtual Learning Option while home.
4. The School will communicate with parents of students in the same group(s) as the student with
a COVID-positive household member to alert them to monitor their student closely for
symptoms.
a. Quarantining will not be required for students in the same group(s) unless symptoms
develop.
5. Parents should call the School Nurse the day before the student’s return.

Student has One or More COVID-like Symptom

1. Students who have one or more symptoms of COVID-19 will be required to stay home for at
least 10 days to monitor symptoms.
2. Parents should call the School Nurse.
3. Students will transition to the Yellow Model: Virtual Learning Option while home.
4. Any student having one of more COVID-like symptom will be allowed to return to school
according to the CDC guidelines of ending home isolation:
a. After at least 10 days since symptoms first appeared, AND
b. After 24 hours of no fever without fever-reducing medication, AND
c. Symptoms improve.
d. Please consult your family’s healthcare provider if you have specific concerns about
your or your child’s health or would like further medical evaluation.
5. Students with two or more COVID-like symptoms will be required to have a note from their
health care professional to return to campus.
6. Parents should call the School Nurse the day before the student’s return and, if required,
provide documents from the health care professional.

Students Becoming Sick at School

1. Should a student become sick at school, the student will be sent to the School Nurse to be
assessed.
a. Students with COVID-like symptoms will be treated as if the illness is COVID-19.
Assessment will occur in a room separate from the Clinic called “Wolfgang’s Waiting
Room,” which is located directly across from the Clinic.
b. The School Nurse will call the student’s parents for immediate pick-up.
■ Parents are required to pick-up their child within 30 minutes of the phone call
from the School Nurse. If this is not possible, the student’s emergency contacts
will be contacted.

■ Upon arrival, the parent/guardian should contact the school office and the
student will be escorted to the car for dismissal
c. Any student having one of more COVID-like symptom will be allowed to return to
school according to the CDC guidelines of ending home isolation:
■ After at least 10 days since symptoms first appeared, AND
■ After 24 hours of no fever without fever-reducing medication, AND
■ Symptoms improve.
■ Please consult your family’s healthcare provider if you have specific concerns
about your or your child’s health or would like further medical evaluation.
d. Students with two or more COVID-like symptoms will be required to have a note from
their health care professional to return to campus.
e. Parents should call the School Nurse the day before the student’s return and, if required,
provide documents from the health care professional.

★ In the event the sick student subsequently tests positive for COVID-19, families should
follow the procedures outlined in the “Student is Positive for COVID-19” section.

Considerations

The symptom-based, time-based, and test-based strategies may result in different timeframes for
discontinuation of isolation post-recovery. For all scenarios outlined above, the decision to discontinue
isolation should be made in the context of local circumstances.

Note that recommendations for discontinuing isolation in persons known to be infected with
COVID-19 could, in some circumstances, appear to conflict with recommendations on when to
discontinue quarantine for persons known to have been exposed to COVID-19. CDC recommends 14
days of quarantine after exposure based on the time it takes to develop the illness if infected. Thus, it is
possible that a person known to be infected could leave isolation earlier than a person who is
quarantined because of the possibility they are infected.

Non-COVID Illnesses

Parents should contact the School Nurse and Homeroom Teacher by email to report if their student has
been diagnosed with another illness not related to COVID-19. All students who have been at home
with any illness must call the School Nurse or their designee to get approval of returning to school.

CAMPUS ACCESS AND DELIVERIES

To minimize additional adult contacts on campus, we are restricting parent and visitor access to campus until
further notice.

● Parents and visitors will be met at the front door if delivering any items to the School.
● If students arrive at school after 8:00 AM, parents will be required to park and walk their student(s) to
the front doors.

○ Parents and students should be wearing face coverings.
○ A staff member will meet parents and students at the front door, do a temperature screening,
sign the student in, and give the student a pass.
○ PreK, Kindergarten, and 1st Grade students (for at least the first quarter) will be escorted by a
staff member to their respective homerooms. 2nd through 8th grade students will go directly to
their homerooms.
● If parents need to pick-up their student early, they will need to call the front office when they arrive on
campus. The student will be called to the Front Office, signed out, and escorted to the front door to
meet his/her parents.

SHARED MATERIALS AND WATER FOUNTAINS

Teachers will limit the sharing of classroom materials and workspaces between students and will sanitize
items as needed. Only items that can be easily disinfected will be shared.

No personal toys will be allowed on campus.

Students and employees should bring and use a refillable water bottle every day. Water fountains will be open
for refilling water bottles only. Please label all water bottles. Students will bring water bottles home for
cleaning every day.

TRAVEL

For the two weeks prior to the beginning of school, we strongly encourage families to diligently adhere to
physical distancing guidelines, limit contact groups for their children, and restrict non-essential travel to areas
designated by the CDC, state, or local officials as high risk.

Additionally, we are asking that once school begins, families consider limiting non-essential travel for the time
being. If a family travels to an area with a Level 3 Travel Health Notice from the CDC or to an area that local
or state officials identify, they will be required to quarantine for 14 days upon return to Hampton Roads before
returning to School. View this list of FAQs about travel restrictions for Virginians.

● If your family is traveling to one of the areas described above, parents should contact the School Nurse
in advance of the trip to alert the School of the dates of travel.
● The School Nurse will confirm if the area requires quarantine and coordinate the date that the student
may return to school.

SAFETY DRILLS AND SECURITY
Safety and security of our students, faculty, and staff continues to be the number one priority of Saint Patrick
Catholic School. While in the Yellow Model, we will practice the necessary safety drills with our students and
staff so that the School is prepared in the best way possible should an emergency occur. We will practice these
drills while utilizing the protocols of wearing face coverings, physical distancing as much as possible, and
hand washing/sanitizing upon completion of the drill. We will also have additional personnel to assist with
security during the school day because we recognize that classes will be utilizing the outdoor spaces on
campus more this year than ever before.

EXTENDED CARE
We will continue to offer Extended Care to our families. The Extended Care program will follow the same
mitigation strategies, policies, and procedures that are in place during regular school hours. Drop in use will
not be available until further notice.

● Before Care 6:30 - 7:30 AM
● After Care 3:15/3:30 - 5:45 PM

Before Care

Before Care will take place in the Dining Hall where students can maintain physical distance.

● Parents will come through the side loop off Westmoreland Avenue and be greeted by a staff member at
the car.
● Students’ temperatures will be taken utilizing touchless thermometers. Any student with a temperature
≥ 100.4º F will not be permitted to stay.
● Face coverings will be required for staff and all students in Kindergarten through 8th Grade.
● Materials will not be shared between students or will be cleaned between student use.
● There will be plenty of activities available to all students.
● At 7:30 AM, Middle School students will be dismissed to their classrooms, and Lower School students
will be escorted to their classrooms.

After Care

Students participating in Aftercare will be divided by grades to limit mixing of students. If the numbers
support students being grouped by class, this grouping method is preferred. Groups will have assigned spaces
on campus and staggered schedules to minimize mixing of groups.

● Extended Care staff will sanitize tables and desks of assigned classrooms at the beginning of After
Care.
● Students will wash their hands at the beginning of Extended Care, before and after snack time, and
after using the restroom. Increased hand washing routines will be built into the daily routine.

● Face coverings will be required for staff and all students in Kindergarten through 8th Grade when
moving through campus and when inside the building.
● Students’ temperatures will be taken at the beginning of After Care utilizing touchless thermometers.
Any student with a temperature ≥ 100.4º F will not be permitted to stay.
● Physical distancing will be practiced in Extended Care.
● Outside toys will not be permitted in extended care.
● Students’ belongings will remain separate in designated areas to minimize contact.
● Outdoor activities will be scheduled as is appropriate and possible. Multiple groups of students can
play outside at the same time by utilizing different areas on the campus. Mixing of After Care groups
will be avoided whenever possible.
● If a student or staff develops COVID-19 symptoms, Extended Care will follow the procedures stated in
the Students Becoming Sick at School.
● Snacks are provided each day. A healthy pre-packaged snack is available along with a choice of fresh
fruit, and drink: milk, juice, or water. Extended care staff will hand out snacks. Tables and desks will
be wiped down before and after snack time.
● Limited toys, equipment, and supplies will be shared. If sharing occurs students will be reminded to
not touch their faces and to wash their hands after using these items. Limited shared materials will be
cleaned and disinfected between uses if possible, and at the end of the day.
● All locations and supplies used during Extended Care will be cleaned and sanitized as per procedures
mentioned above.
● Pick up from After Care will occur from the Lobby. More specific details will be forthcoming.

Non-School Day Care

Non-School Day Care will be available to all students according to the dates on this calendar. Small groups
will be maintained throughout the day to ensure physical distancing while still including fun outdoor play and
entertaining indoor activities. A separate registration link will be sent out about two weeks prior to each
Non-School Day.

● The hours of Non-School Day Care are 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM.
● A charge of $65 will be billed to the student’s account.

EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Saint Patrick Catholic School recognizes the value and importance of extracurricular activities in our students’
total formation. In order to eliminate the need to bring visitors, outside coaches, and outside instructors onto
campus, minimize the number of contacts students and staff will encounter, and to remain consistent with
daily procedures of the school during this time, we will delay all in-person extracurricular offerings until at
least the second quarter. All extracurricular programs will be re-evaluated in October to determine if, when,
and in what capacity it is safe to begin these activities.

After School Clubs
After school clubs will not be offered in the first quarter. The School will re-evaluate this policy in October for
the second quarter to determine if, when, and in what capacity it is safe to begin these activities.

Music Lessons
Music lessons will not be offered in-person during the first quarter. However, we are looking into the
possibility of virtual lessons being offered during the first quarter. The School will re-evaluate this policy in
October for the second quarter to determine if, when, and in what capacity it is safe to begin these activities in
person.

Theatre Program

The Theatre Program will not be offered in the first quarter. The School will re-evaluate this policy in October
for the second quarter to determine if, when, and in what capacity it is safe to begin these activities.

Athletics

Athletic teams will not be offered in the first quarter. The School will re-evaluate this policy in October for the
second quarter to determine if, when, and in what capacity it is safe to begin these activities. Possible athletic
models being considered are interscholastic athletics on a quarterly basis and compressed seasons. During the
first nine weeks, we will look to create additional opportunities, outside of PE, for our students to be involved
in the Physical Life throughout the school day.

COMMUNICATIONS
Accurate and timely communication is paramount to the success of the Saint Patrick Catholic School COVID
Response Plan: Returning to Campus. Methods of communications will include biweekly emails, videos from
Steve Hammond, social media posts, updates to website and COVID-19 Updates page on website,
SchoolMessenger, the Wolfhound Wire and, in August, virtual Town Hall meetings. Parents will receive
additional communications if there are updates to the COVID Response Plan: Returning to Campus. The
School must protect the medical and privacy rights of our community members and is unable to disclose the
identity of any student or staff member who tests positive for COVID-19. However, the School will support
the local health department in contact tracing so individuals who may have been exposed to the virus may be
notified. Those who are identified as having been in close contact with the individual who is COVID-positive
will be advised to quarantine for 14 days from the date of the last exposure and monitor for symptoms. Those
who have not been in close contact, but have been in contact, will be advised to monitor for symptoms.

If the decision is made to modify the school schedule or move from the Yellow Model to the Orange or Red
Models, families will be notified in the following ways:

● Phone: SchoolMessenger broadcast system, our school’s telephone phone message, as well as personal
phone calls to parents when necessary.
● Website: Notice will be posted on the Saint Patrick website and new information will be added to the
COVID-19 Updates page
● Social Media: Facebook and Instagram will be changed to reflect the School’s status

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