| State and Additional District Tracking if Available | Has the state released plans or guidance to reopen K12 schools? | Has the state released recommendations/guidance on school calendars? | Has the state released guidance/recommendations to support students? | Has the state released guidance/recommendations to support staff? | Has the state released guidance/recommendations on how to maintain safety and sanitation standards and prevent/react to the spread of COVID-19? | |||||
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Alabama District Reopening & Instructional Delivery Information Alabama's COVID-19 Schools K-12 Dashboard | Roadmap to Reopening Schools, ALSDE, June 2020 (revised August 2020). The Roadmap is a guidance document based on evidence and expertise meant to be part of a continuum of school decision making. | No specific guidance found. | Yes, the ALSDE provided guidance for vulnerable student populations around using indirect talent development services to support gifted education students, re-identifying the individual needs of English learners, and supporting special education services. | Loan reimbursement was provided for teachers in math and science by implementing the Alabama Math and Science Teacher Education Program (AMSTEP). A Digital Learning Repository was provided to teachers at the beginning of the school year. "Just-in-Time" professional learning sessions were provided through the Office of Student Learning to support remote instruction. | Yes, the state requires that school-based custodial and infection control staff implement recommended cleaning guidelines issued by OSHA. | |||||
Alaska School District Restart Plans | Alaska Smart Start 2020, DEED and Health and Social Services, August 2020. A restart and re-entry framework guidance for K-12 schools. | No specific guidance found. | Yes, the DEED has been hosted weekly Special Education webinars to support students in receiving educational services closest to their IEPs. Trauma-informed school strategies have begun to be deployed in line with the Transforming Schools Framework and Toolkit. | Yes, the DEED has released a teaching & learning support site for teachers and school leaders to provide information and resources. eLearning training courses have also been made available to educators. | Yes, DEED framework guidance includes toolkit that includes a risk mitigation checklist, sample outbreak scenarios, and PPE guidelines and supplies. Health and Social Services additional provided guidelines for children and schools that include details on social bubbles, circles of support, and detailed guidance and support on health and safety protocols. | |||||
Arizona Statewide Tracker: School Learning Models | Roadmap for Reopening Schools, DOE, June 2020. Roadmap includes a series of recommendations for LEAs to prepare for re-entry into the 2020-2021 school year. | Yes, the DOE released a school decision tree in line with guidance provided by the CDC. Three scenarios were provided based on National Institute for Excellence in Teaching and the number of local/community cases of COVID-19. The continuum of school learning scenarios move from all students distance learning to a hybrid combination, and finally all students in the physical building | Yes, the DOE released a document focusd on student considerations in reopening schools. The variations in student learning experienced in various learning scenarios is explored and there is a focus of trauma-sensitive strategies and social emotional learning. | Yes, the DOE released considerations for both teachers and school leaders. Strategies around professional expectations, curriculum planning, professional development, and social-emotional learning for teachers are included in the document. Strategies are provided on school culture, instructional leadership, staffing, and operations for school leaders. | Yes, the DOE released an updated roadmap for reopening schools which focuses on the health protocols which includes screening, distancing, and behaviors that reduce spread. | |||||
Arkansas District Ready for Learning | Arkansas Ready for Learning: Planning for Re-Engagement, ADE, August 2020. Accompanying guides on social-emotional supports and healthy schools were provided. | Yes, the ADE released guidance in regards to student enrollment and has extended the period for keeping students enrolled despite not attending school for 10 school days in Executive Orders. Four student codes for attendance are being used for instructional methods: onsite/traditional learning, virtual/remote learning, hybrid/blended learning, no show/no activity. | Yes, the ADE has released a kid-friendly coronavirus information portal for students. It has focused on providing guidance for services continuation for special education, career technical education, school counseling, gifted education, and English learners. English for speakers of other language resources have been provided to communicate with families and meet various levels of language proficiency. ADE has focused on building a COVID-responsive classroom and trauma informed care are included in the guidance for reopening, with an emphasis on recognizing and responding to additional needs, including disparities and mental health. | Yes, schools recommended to create work and duty schedules consistent with ADE guidelines, survey teachers about their needs for professional development around COVID-19, and orient all school staff through virtual office hours. AR Ready for Digital Learning is a online learning resource released during the school year for all schools. It includes teacher tutorials and a digital library for content. In November, the ADE surveyed over 10,500 teachers. | Yes, the DESE released a document, Response Levels for On-Site Learning, which outlines the response that should be taken in each situation of community spread and includes a flow chart on COVID-19 related communications. Additional guidance was provided regarding PPE requirements based on personnel, quarantine guidelines, and school nurse actions when in contact with positive case. | |||||
California Safe Schools Reopening - School Districts | Stronger Together: A Guidebook for the Safe Reopening of California's Public Schools, DOE, June 2020. An additional plan, Safe Schools for All, has been released to support a return to in-person instruction. | Yes, the instructional schedule model options include: (1) two-day rotation blended learning model, (2) A/B week blended learning model, (3) looping structure, or (4) early/late staggered schedules. LEAs can choose to implement another schedule pending DOE approval. Requirements for the operations related to before and after school programs were waived in Senate Bill 98, as well as attendance and pupil-to-staff ratios. | Yes, reopening plans must be inclusive of the needs of diverse learners in regards to health and safety policies and academic needs. Initial screening/diagnostic assessments and formative assessments/progress monitoring to identify student learning needs. In August, LEAs were permitted to offer in-person specialized support and services in stable cohorts in alignment with the CDPH's guidance. | Yes, LEAs should implement a quality professional learning system for a positive transition to the new instructional program model; provide trainings on secondary traumatic stress and self-care; use restorative circles. Teacher candidate examination requirements were temporarily suspended in Executive Order N-56-20. | Yes, LEAs should designate a COVID-19 coordinator. Appendix A lists the CDE Health and Safety Checklist with resources. | |||||
Colorado School District Reopening Plans | Reopening Schools: Health Guidance by COVID-19 Phase, CDPHE, CDE and the Governor's Office, November 2020. Additional resource provided to schools on the Planning the 2020-21 school year website. | Yes, consideration has been shared regarding adding days to the school calendar including using flexible approaches (adding days vs. minutes to a school day), funding sources, and feasibility of using professional development days for instructional days. | Yes, a mental health education literacy resource bank focused on the needs of students has been shared with educators. | Yes, the CDE provided recommendations for teacher and staff preparation for the 2020-2021 school year which included offering mentoring to new teachers and utilizing retired teachers and/or immune compromised teachers for virtual tutoring and remote learning. Also, the state recommends stipends for staff to build instructional planning infrastructure. | Yes, state guidance provides a decision tree when considering school reopening and how to provide ongoing health monitoring of students and staff. Screening will be occurring on a continuum beginning at home, continuing on school transportation, and ending at school. Face masks and coverings are being required at schools. | |||||
Connecticut School Districts 2020-2021 Reopening Plans | Adapt, Advance, Achieve: Connecticut’s Plan to Learn and Grow Together, CSDE, June 2020. This guidance document is meant to help LEAs plan for on-site instruction during the 2020-21 school year. | Yes, LEAs should plan to have all students return to in-person instruction at the beginning of 2020-21. LEAs must be prepared to modify their plans to support partial reopening or scaling back at a future date if the public health data changes. | For special education students, guidance for IEP meetings, evaluation, and services are provided to schools based on learning model (full in-school, hybrid, full remote). Arts instruction considerations and requirements were also shared. Additional PPE requirements need to support the in-person return of high needs students is outlined to be able to deliver the necessary supports and services. | Executive Order 10 protected paid leave requirements and additional paid leave received through the Emergency Paid Sick Leave Act of the Families First Coronavirus Response Act for educators. | teachers and Contact tracing scenarios and considerations were shared as an addendum to the re-opening plan. teachers and COVID-19 scenarios and considerations were shared as an addendum to the re-opening plan with specifics on isolation/quarantine needs based on the testing results. | |||||
Delaware In-Person Contagious School Cases Dashboard | Returning to School: Planning a Safe, Efficient, and Equitable Return to School for Students and Staff, DDOE, updated January 2021. | Yes, the DDOE details three general scenarios to guide LEAs: (1) minimal community spread where schools are open for in-person instruction, (2) minimal-to moderate community spread where schools may use a hybrid model of instruction, and (3) significant community spread where there is no on-site instruction, only remote learning. The school year calendar has been updated through the year frequently due to COVID-19 restrictions. Schools were urged to return to hybrid learning on January 11th. | Yes, LEAs should monitor school community mental health, offer expanded access to resources, implement a mental health screening for all students, and maintain mental supports through on-going wellness assessments. Schools should monitor and assess student access and materials, attendance, grading and credits, and postsecondary considerations. | Yes, LEAs should monitor school community mental health, offer expanded access to resources, and maintain mental supports through on-going wellness assessments. LEAs should support schools to sustain professional learning structures and create plans for intentional professional learning and participation in professional learning communities. Educated-related personnel were include in phase 1B of the vaccination administration. | Yes, staff and students grades 4-12 must wear face coverings in the school building, students grades P-3 should wear face coverings. Districts and schools should ensure access to hygiene and sanitation supplies, maximize social distancing, and support health status monitoring through health screening protocols. Antigen testing has been made available for schools through the 2020-2021 school year. | |||||
District of Columbia | Recommendations to the Re-Open DC Advisory Group, Education and Childcare Committee, May 2020. | Yes, the city recommends coordinating with multiple sectors (citywide interdependency) to determine best practices for transportation, instruction, and in general, streamlining a number of the city's services. | Yes, the city recommends a focus on trauma-responsive engagement, structures, practices and supports for all students. LEAs were encouraged to implemented 11 actional strategies to support English language learners that included training teachers in culturally responsive approaches, communicating with families in their preferred language, and refine EL programs, instruction, and assessment. An immunization policy for in-person attendance, no shots, no school, was established. | Yes, the city recommends an ongoing development opportunities and forums. Staff should be educated on COVID-19 prevention and response protocols. | Yes, the city recommends the centralized procurement and distribution of PPE and cleaning supplies for all public schools. The city provides guidelines on prevention and response, including: communications, vaccines and health forms, physical social distancing, daily health screenings, face coverings, hygiene, cleaning and sanitization processes, and exposure reporting. Exclusion and dismissal criteria for students, staff member, or essential visitors for schools have been recommended, along with return to school criteria for staff and students based on COVID-19 status. Specific related details on school transportation, buss cleaning and staff safety, were shared. | |||||
Florida District Spring 2021 Education Plans | Reopening Florida's Schools and the CARES Act: Closing Achievement Gaps and Creating Safe Spaces for Learning, FDOE, July 2020. | Yes, Commissioner Corcoran ordered schools to open five days a week. Enhanced outreach was used to identify students not attending schools and ensure transition to the appropriate learning modality. | Yes, the FDOE is guaranteeing full services for at-risk kids and requiring interventions for students falling behind. | Yes, Commissioner Corcoran ordered which assured teachers receive professional development, focused on innovative and virtual learning, student interventions, and technology, during Spring 2021. | Yes, FDOE is following CDC guidance for K-12 schools regarding handling of sick students and symptom evaluation. Case investigators are being used to conduct contact tracking in K-12 schools. | |||||
Georgia | Guidance for Georgia K-12 Schools and School-Based Programs, GaDOE and DPH, December 2020. replaced the Georgia's Path To Recovery For K-12 Schools (GaDOE and DPH, July 2020) document. | No specific guidance found. | Yes, the Mental Health and Wellness working group release resources and recommendations to be taken at the school and district level to support the mental health and wellness/physical health of students. Guidance provided for collaborate and communication for special education services. Working group focused on supplemental learning for students provided recommendations for outside of school supports for students. | Yes, staff wellness appendix shared for every staff members to help meet physical, mental, and emotional needs. Additionally the state has released multiple virtual professional development sessions for teachers that includes providing support diverse learners, synchronous vs. asynchronous learning, etc. Guidance was released for recruiting and retaining teachers during COVID-19. | Yes, test-based strategies aren't recommended by both the CDC and state DPH and isolation and quarantine criteria for both vaccinated and nonvaccinated persons shared. Guidance was released for cleaning and maintenance of school facilities, equipment, and transportation based on school instructional mode. | |||||
Hawaii DOH Learning Model Recommendations | Return to Learn: School Reopening Plan - Health & Safety Handbook, HIDOE, effective February 2021. | Yes, HIDOE converted there multi-track schools to a single-track schedule temporarily so that the first day of instruction and fall break will be the same for all schools. School models vary by elementary (face-to-face learning, blended rotation, hybrid), middle (face-to-face learning, A/B two-day rotation learning, combination rotation learning), and high school (face-to-face learning, A/B two-day rotation learning, hybrid). | Yes, out-of-school-time programs are able to continue with programming, not limited to virtual spaces, and students are being prioritized based on unique circumstances. Supports are in place for vulnerable students including IEP/Section 504 meetings. | Yes, HIDOE shared a principal's handbook for reopening. Staff are expected to physically report to worksite unless an expectation is granted or a telework request is made. | Yes, HIDOE stakeholders must complete the Return to School/Work Criteria and the Daily Wellness Check at Home every morning before school. PPE (i.e. gloves, masks, eye protection.) has been distributed to schools and masks are being required. Staggered transitions are being coordinated and cleaning schedules are being determined based on CDC and HIDOE guidance. | |||||
Idaho School District Status Dashboard | Idaho Back to School Framework 2020, the Office of the Governor, DOE and IDHW, October 2020. The framework provides expectations, guidelines and best practices for the 2020-21 school year. | Yes, Governor Little has said the state is prioritizing on-site instruction. LEAs should still consider A/B schedules and hybrid instructional models to implement. | Yes, districts should implement standard operating procedures for assessments, develop a plan for assessing blended and remote learning modalities, ensure equitable access to resources for all students, provide instructional support to parents for virtual learning, allow for individualization in work completion, and establish targeted interventions and supports. Specific special education guidance was provided. | Yes, districts should identify staff needs for professional development and develop these trainings for staff. Districts should also development telework policies. | Yes, districts should coordinate with local health officials to develop prevention and mitigation plans, implement standard operating procedures, and conduct deep cleaning of schools prior to students/staff returning and during weekends or school breaks. Guidance has been release for mask wearing in schools with safety measures for "mask breaks". | |||||
Illinois Dashboard: How Illinois Districts are Providing Instruction: Virtual, In-Person, and Blended Learning | Starting the 2021 School Year Part 3 - Transition Joint Guide, ISBE and IDPH, June 2020. This document is Part Three of the Transition Advisory Workgroup’s recommendations for transitioning to in-person instruction. | Yes, districts may consider amending school calendars to include earlier start dates so the first term can be completed by the end of November. Districts can also establish a Calendar Committee to discuss potential calendars. | Yes, the state recommends schools implement virtual vertical grade-level articulation to support student transitions, develop plans to address student learning loss, and revise instructional best practices for maintaining social distancing. Blended Remote Learning Plans must address the unique needs of students with disabilities. In-person instruction should be prioritized for English Learners and schools should provide language support to help students and families access resources for remote instruction. Schools and districts should provide students with the technology devices and internet access necessary to participate in remote learning. Districts should develop student mental health and counseling plans. | Yes, virtual training on supporting the mental health and resilience of children and youth was provided with the Center for Childhood Resilience for license clock hours. A Virtual Instructional Coach and Building Mentor Program was established. | Yes, ISBE and IDPH, released Revised Public Health Guidance for Schools providing requirements around face masks, social distancing, cleaning, hygiene, and contact tracing. | |||||
Indiana | Indiana's Considerations for Learning and Safe Schools (IN-CLASS), archived July 2020. Lastest guidance now being provided through the State Department of Health. | Yes, districts are to plan for a 180-day year of instruction and build contingencies for in-person, online, and hybrid instruction. | Yes, the state recommends in-person instruction for student in elementary school, while increasing distance between students in secondary grades. districts should also consider student need when deciding to use in-person or remote learning. | Yes, the state recommends districts plan and schedule relevant professional development for staff including delivering remote-learning, providing remediation, and trauma-informed practices. The state published remote learning resources website that includes a principal toolkit and general resources. Turnkey course were provided for high school educators through partnership with Indiana University. A Teaching in the Digital World webinar series was provided in the Fall. | Yes, CDC and EPA guidance shared regarding symptoms identification, face masks, cleaning building and hand washing. | |||||
Iowa Remote Learning Requests | Released: Return-to-Learn Guidance and Support Document, DOE, May 2020. The documents establish guidelines for districts to submit Return-to-Learn applications to the DOE. | Yes, schools are allowed to start the fall semester early, prior to Aug. 23. | Yes, a resource hub was shared with families for educational enrichment to supplement temporary classroom learning disruptions. | Yes, a three-part mental health webinar series occurred with a focus on responding and promoting resiliency and creating systematic improvements. | Yes, guidance has been released regarding evaluating sick students and staff. | |||||
Kansas | Navigating Change: Kansas' Guide to Learning and School Safety Operations, KSDE, October 2020. and a prioritized guide was released for the end of the 2020-2021 school year Navigating Next, KSDE, March 2021. | Yes, districts may choose to implement a (1) on-site learning environment, (2) hybrid learning environment, or (3) remote learning environment. Districts may consider adopting an alternate calendar for the school year and have multiple calendars ready for several scenarios. Districts are encouraged to consider alternating schedules, including half days, block scheduling, alternating days, and other hybrid models for on-site instruction. | Yes, the state includes guidance broken down by grade band on: access and equity, competencies, assessments, grading considerations, personalized learning, blended learning, and cooperative learning. | Yes, an an action plan has been released that includes vaccinating staff and addressing social-emotional needs of staff. | Yes, districts and schools should implement daily temperature checks for staff members, adopt social distancing policies, and implement heightened cleaning procedures. The state recommends masks for visitors, staff and students, especially where social distancing cannot be maintained. | |||||
Kentucky K-12 School COVID-19 Self Reported Data | Initial Guidance for Schools and Districts document, DOE, May 2020. | Districts are advised to consider early and/or late starts. | Yes, non-traditional instructional programs as forms of intervention which are targeting diverse learning groups and support the whole child are being encouraged to continue on non-traditional instruction days. | Yes: training to support the reopening of schools on "Healthy at Work" policies, cleaning procedures, proper use of PPE, and protocols for reporting on the mental and physical students. In-person professional development was replaced with online Kentucky Academic Standards Professional Learning Modules. Limit of three emergency leave suspended for the 2020-2021 school year. | Yes, guidance has been released by the KDE on safety expectations and best practices that addresses social distancing, PPE, screening, sanitation, and contact tracing. | |||||
Louisiana Digital Learning Models - Schools System Reopening Plans | Strong Start 2020 School Reopening Guidelines & Resources, updated March 2021. The LDOE also released the Strong Start 2020 Planning Guide, LDOE, updated June 2020. | Yes, the state has issued guidance under three phases of reopening: phase 1 (max 10 students), phase 2 (max 25 students), and phase 3 (max 50 students). LEAs should plan for instruction in a traditional, hybrid or virtual setting. | Yes, all school systems must have a plan to provide continuous learning. School system planning priorities include: addressing the needs of all students, developing workforce talent, establishing a plan for high-quality core academics, and conducting a compensatory education reviews of all students with disabilities. A guide for student well-being vendors was released. | Yes, a school improvement library has been released with virtual instruction workshops for both school leaders and teachers. | Yes, districts should implement policies and protocols to ensure healthy personal hygiene, intensify cleaning and disinfecting efforts, and ensure healthy food preparation and meal service. | |||||
Maine | Working Draft: Framework for Reopening Schools & Returning to In-Person Instruction, DOE, updated August 2020. | Yes, school systems should have three plans for the fall: (1) in-person instruction, (2) hybrid instruction, and (3) remote instruction. | Yes, the state recommends a multi-tiered system of supports for social/emotional needs; for ensuring differentiation, IEP implementation, and equitable access for special populations; and a plan to equitable provide students with necessary materials and resources to support engagement in lessons. | Yes, the state recommends staff are engaged in professional development over the summer in preparation for remote, in-person, and blended learning models; schools increase custodial staff; additional social work or counselor; and nurse or other staff trained by a nurse. Student to teacher ratio not to exceed 10:1. FrontLine WarmLine is available for school staff where volunteers provide mental health support. | Yes, six requirements for safe reopening: symptom screening, physical distancing and facilities, masks/face covering requirements, hand hygiene, PPE, and isolation return to school criteria. Schools are being categorized based on their risk for spread (red, yellow, and green) to determine whether in-person instruction is advised. Public health guidance has also been released. | |||||
Maryland Current Status of School Systems | Maryland's Recovery Plan For Education, DOE, June 2020. The plan addresses processes and procedures to address the needs of all students, families, staff and school communities in the process of reopening schools. | Yes, on March 1st there was a call to return to in person learning which 18 of the 24 school systems have done. | Yes. Options for the fall: start earlier in the summer, extended days or nights, facility usage scheduling. One-Day Rotations each week. Two-Day Rotation each week. A/B Weekly rotation. Elem. face-to-face and Sec. distance education. Lastly, Grade band phase-in to all face-to-face. Districts are updating the 2020-2021 school calendar. | Yes, consider partnering with colleges/universities for classes and training for staff. | Yes, guidance has been released by the MSDE and MDE with reopening guidance and additional guidance, answering questions related to the pandemic and reopening. | |||||
Massachusetts | Initial Fall School Reopening Guidance, DESE, June 2020. This initial guidance prioritizes back to school in person, but districts are also required to plan for remote learning and a hybrid school model. | Yes, as of January hybrid leaning models were to provided students with at least 35 hours of "live instruction" over a 10-school day period. Remote learning models must provide access to synchronous instruction each day and at least 40 hours of synchronous instruction over a 10-school day period. | Yes, guidance has been released on engaging students and families and supporting their learning wellbeing and safety in both remote and hybrid settings. Students are being provided with an opportunity to interact with educators every school day. | Yes, district and school supports should address technology needs and training. Districts should plan for in-person, hybrid, and remote learning. Weekly open educator preparation meetings are being held. | Yes, educators, staff and students in grade 2 and above are required to wear face coverings, social distancing practices should be followed, and students should remain in the same cohort throughout the day. A pooled testing initiative is available for all interested schools. | |||||
Michigan | Governor Whitmer signed an executive order which provide a structure to support all schools in Michigan as they plan for a return of P-12 education in the fall. Gov. Whitmer also released the MI Safe Schools: Michigan’s 2020-21 Return to School Roadmap is a comprehensive document to help districts plan for in-person learning in the fall. | Yes, depending on the status of the MI Safe Start Plan, there are four scenarios for school opening in fall 2020: (1) schools do not open for in-person instruction and instruction is provided remotely (phases 1-3), (2) schools open for in-person instruction with stringent required safety protocols (Phase 4), (3) schools open for in-person instruction with moderate required safety protocols (phase 5), or (4) schools open for in-person instruction with minimal required safety protocols (phase 6). | Yes, schools should implement a mental health screening for all students, establish a comprehensive crisis management plan, compile and regularly update comprehensive lists of wellness resources available to students, develop a district technology plan, activate hybrid learning programs, secure supports for students transitioning to postsecondary, and monitor and assess connectivity and access. Michigan Cares portal offered for students to help develop skills related to social, emotional, and mental well-being. | Yes, the state has provided an online instructional resources hub. MDE also provided support for transitioning from tradition to distance instruction with resources from educational technology learning partners. | Yes, the state is providing a voluntary staff/student testing program. Guidance has been released for the operations of schools. Masks are being required in schools. | |||||
Minnesota Safe Learning Model Dashboard | 2020-21 Planning Guidance for Minnesota Public Schools, MDE, updated February 2021. Additionally, the MDE released a safe learning plan for the 2020-2021 school year. | Yes, in partnership with Minnesota Department of Health and the Governor's Office, the MDE will announce which one of three models will be in the best interest of the health and safety of students and staff for the 2020-21 school year by July 27th: (1) in-person learning for all students, (2) hybrid-learning with strict social distancing, (3) distance learning only. | Yes, the state recommends purposeful family engagement, trauma-informed care, restorative practices, mental health supports, and social and emotional learning. The state also provides guidance specifically for supporting American Indian students, English Learners, migrant students, students experiencing homelessness, and students with disabilities. | Yes, the state recommends the provision of mental supports by activating school counselors, social workers, psychologists and nurses to develop individual and group supports; additional virtual professional development and support; training for substitute teachers. Community vaccination program for educator and school staff being piloted. | Yes, the state requires health practices outlined in the MDH 2020-21 Planning Guidance for schools be implemented by all MN public schools. | |||||
Mississippi Restart & Recovery Plans, July 2020 | Considerations for Reopening Mississippi Schools: June-August 2020, DOE, June 2020. The document outlines a three-month timeline of strategies to consider as leaders plan for the start of the 2020-21 school year. | Yes, the state identifies three different schedules districts can choose to implement: a traditional schedule, hybrid schedule (e.g. A/B days, elementary face-to-face and secondary distance learning, and elementary face-to-face and secondary A/B days), or virtual schedule. Required instructional hours decreased from 5.5 to 4 hours per day and instruction hours for high school course waived with approved plan. School districts must operate for 180 days but may waive 10 of the required days and the school year must end by June 30. The start of the school year was delayed until August 17th in certain districts. | Yes, the state recommends districts implement a diagnostic screener for all students to assess grade-level readiness; provide real-time tech support; provide Wi-Fi access maps; and establish an academic hotline/email for support. SBE suspended strict compliance related to gifted education and kindergarten readiness and K-3 deadlines. | Yes, the state recommends ongoing professional development on distance learning/engagements; set up web conferencing platforms and meet frequently with faculty/staff; establish a system for educators to collaborate; | Yes, the state recommends districts develop plans for meal service and transportation with social distancing considerations; develop a daily screening process for all who enter buildings; communicate opening protocols to staff, families and students. MSDH is requiring all school report weekly COVID-19 data. Public health guidancereleased for k-12 school that includes information for vaccinated individuals. | |||||
Missouri Statewide Patterns of Instruction | Pandemic Recovery Considerations: Re-Entry and Reopening of Schools, Missouri School Board Association, May 2020. DHSS and DESE released a document answering frequently asked questions about K-12 school reopening health-related guidance. | No, the state has not and will not issue guidance on the school calendar. These decisions will be up to individual counties and districts. | No specific guidance found. | Yes, DESE partnered with Alive and Well Communities to provide resources related to social-emotional learning and development for teachers. Beginning Teacher Community of Practice opportunity being sponsored to support first and second year teachers and alleviate learning losses due to COVID-19. | Yes, #HealthyatSchool Toolkit provided with communication resources for stakeholders and symptom checklist. An FAQ document released addressing proactive and reactive strategies for responding to COVID-19 in school reopening. | |||||
Montana | Reopening Montana Schools Guidance, OPI, July 2020. The guidance is the result of recommendations from the Montana Learn 2020 and Montana Flex 2020 task forces. | Yes, the state has proposed four scenarios for instruction: (1) buildings closed with all students remote learning, (2) mixed model of traditional and off-site learning, (3) mixed model of traditional and remote learning with increased number of students in schools buildings, or (4) near full capacity attendance and operations in a traditional setting, with remote learning for students not onsite. | Yes, the state provides recommendations for each instruction model, including: technology tutorials for students and families, the provision of all necessary materials for remote learning, the development of consistent and equitable expectations/policies for late work, and encouraging teachers to provide families with options to individualize learning experiences for their students. | Yes, the state provides recommendations for each instruction model, including: professional development, collaboration between leaders and educators, mentorship programs for new teachers, developing guidelines for synchronous and/or asynchronous delivery, and provide training/resources for educators on recovering from traumatic events. | Yes, the state recommends schools develop cleaning and sanitation policies, inspect all building facilities, consult with local health departments to develop an approved meal service plan, and review current operating procedures. | |||||
Nebraska District Status | Planning a Safe Return to School in Nebraska, NDE, July 2020 The Launch Nebraska website includes additional resources for districts and schools as they plan for the 2020-21 school year. | Yes, the Commissioner has offered flexibility related to instructional hours as long as it is instructed and submitted through an affidavit. Schools may reduce by up to 12 hours per quarter for additional professional learning, educator work time or consulting times with parents/caregivers. | Yes, schools should prioritize the social emotional wellbeing of students by providing intensive supports, focus on providing vulnerable students a strong foundation for instruction, implement high-quality instructional materials, and use assessments that are sensitive to subject and grade band. Emergency Meals-to-You is a program to deliver meals to students during unplanned closures. | Yes, schools should organize teacher and principal professional learning, time, and resources to support their new needs. LEAs should implement system- and school-based professional learning sessions, collaborative learning, and run an improvement cycle focused on quality. Guidance document. shared on educators and school leaders on using attendance for students remaining connected, present, engaged, and supported. | Yes, recommendations are being made based on OSHA and CDC guidance including limiting access to entrances, to limit parents entering buildings, to change air filters regularly, and to utilize signage. | |||||
Nevada District and State Public Charter School Authority Reopening Plans | Nevada's Path Forward: Framework for a Safe, Efficient, and Equitable Return to School Buildings, DOE, June 2020. | Yes, districts can code attendance either daily, one per week, or through a distance education program. Schools are expected to offer instruction in either in an in-person social distancing format, distance education format, or combination format. Governor Sisolak has directed all schools to provide at least 20 days of in-person instruction. | Yes, guidance released related to read by grade 3 requirements, students with disabilities, and providing full/partial credit for foster care and homeless youth. | Yes, the state released Nevada Digital Learning, a statewide collaborative for digital learning resources. Educators were prioritized in vaccine distribution. | Yes, PPE (gowns, N-95 masks, gloves, and sanitizer)were distributed to schools and DPBH and NDE have collaborated for rapid test rollout on BinaxNOW. | |||||
New Hampshire COVID-19 Schools Dashboard | New Hampshire Grades K-12 Back-to-School Guidance, DOE, January 2021. The document is intended to provide districts with guidance for a physical reopening of New Hampshire's K-12 schools. An additional document with guidance for transitioning between models was shared. | Yes, while the state encourages plans that center a physical reopening, ultimately it is up to districts to make these decisions about reopening. Districts can choose to offer (1) in-person instruction, (2) hybrid instruction, or (3) remote instruction. School year expectations for families was shared in line with guidance. | Yes, districts and schools should promote activities that promote social emotional learning, develop plans for outreach strategies for vulnerable student populations and their families, establish relationships with community mental health professionals, and develop an integrated plan for reopening that addresses the needs of diverse learners and students with disabilities. | Yes, districts should develop professional development on topics like social emotional learning and share information about mental health resources. Support provided for educators through Learning Designed platform which serves as an online community and professional development resource. | Yes, face coverings are strongly encouraged for teachers while students should only have to wear them when they cannot maintain social distancing such as at bus stops, classroom entrances or in hallways. The state also provides guidance on proper hygiene protocols, school cleaning and disinfection practices and additional cleaning protocols. | |||||
New Jersey | The Road Back: Restart and Recovery Plan for Education, DOE, June 2020. | Yes, Gov. Murphy announced that all districts must offer every student the choice to learn remotely. Districts have the flexibility to figure out how to fold that option into their reopening plans. | Yes, schools should implement a multi-tiered system of supports for students, wraparound services including mental health, primary health, family engagement and mentoring programs, and include social emotional learning to re-engage and support students. Districts should prioritize the provision of technology to students. | Yes, districts should provide professional learning for leaders and educators, with a critical focus on addressing the learning loss for the most vulnerable populations. Social and emotional learning models have been shared for educators. NJDOE has moved to virtual professional learning with a digital collection of webinars on best practices related to remote learning. | Yes, schools and districts must allow for social distancing to the maximum extent possible, face coverings are required for visitors and staff, districts must adopt a policy for screening students and staff, and must adhere to required facilities cleaning practices. UpdatedCOVID-19 public health recommendations were provided to K-12 schools in March. | |||||
New Mexico School Reentry Status | New Mexico Public Education Department Reentry Guidance, NPPED, updated January 2021. This guidance supports the state's districts, charter schools and communities in determining their plans and strategies for reopening schools in 2020-2021. The school reentry task force issued additional recommendation in June 2020. | Yes, schools that are currently in hybrid instruction will be returning to full reentry but a remote option will remain for families. This in-person start date will be determined by districts and schools. Specific guidance was released on instructional hours. | Yes, extracurricular activities, including sports, are being allowed to resume with enforced precautions. 21st Century Learning Centers received guidance for continued operations and to prioritize services for emergency workers. A family wellness toolkit was shared with resources included on child development, at-home learning environments, and behavioral health. | Yes, teachers have the right to decline the vaccine but aren't excused from returning to in-person learning when required, except for high-risk staff until fully vaccinated. Local districts are able to decide on hazard pay. Librarian's are provided specific guidance on their role as it corresponds to each instructional model. Professional development will be virtual only and a new Professional Learning Portal was released. | Yes, schools are required to notify NMPED if a confirmed case of COVID-19 is detected. Prevention strategies being deployed are social distancing, face mask requirements, and hygiene protocols. A response toolkit has been released. A Rapid Response program is being used to contain spread. School health screenings are being required. | |||||
New York Links to District, School, and BOCES Reopening Plans | Recovering, Rebuilding and Renewing: the Spirit of New York’s Schools Reopening Guidance, NYSED, July 2020. | Yes, schools must create a comprehensive plan for a schedule that includes: (1) in-person instruction, (2) remote instruction, and (3) hybrid instruction. Plans should be clearly communicated with as much advanced notice as practical to students, families/caregivers, and staff. Pilot being run for 2020-2021 snow days to be remote instruction days. | Yes, districts should plan, develop and implement a Multi-Tiered System of Supports, including: social emotional learning, mental health and well-being supports. Districts are required to provide equitable instruction for all students, maintain continuity of learning, substantive daily interaction, and clear communication plans between parents and schools. | Yes, districts and schools should provide instruction on using technology and IT support for educators and professional development for educators and leaders on designing effective online/remote learning experiences and best practices for instruction in online/remote settings. Resources have been provided on social emotional learning through technical assistance centers. | Yes, schools must develop plans to maximize social distancing, review cleaning and disinfecting procedures, require students and staff to wear face coverings, instruct students and staff in proper health hygiene, and develop health screenings per DOH guidance. | |||||
North Carolina | Lighting Our Way Forward: North Carolina's Guidebook for Reopening Public Schools, the SBE and NCDPI in consultation with the NCDHHS, June 2020. Public health guidance provided in Strong Schools NC Public Health Toolkit released on July 14th, 2020. | Yes, in March legislation was signed into law to require all elementary schools to use Plan A for in person learning and allow high school and middle schools to choose between Plan A or Plan B. | Yes, schools are recommended to conduct a needs assessment, engage in resource mapping, and develop supports for re-entry in buildings. Schools should provide equity through Parallel Instructional Plans for Offline Options for students with limited connectivity. | Yes, the state recommends schools offer professional learning increase educators' capacities to implement quality remote instructions. Schools should provide opportunities for educators to collaborate and share grade-level resources. Schools are required to provide staff with information on how to access mental health and wellness resources. | Yes. Under Plan B, face coverings are required for all K-12 students and schools must implement enhanced social distancing measures and health and safety protocols. | |||||
North Dakota | K-12 Smart Restart Guidance, NDDPI, November 2020. Includes a series of recommendations for schools and LEAs to prepare for the 2020-2021 school year. | Yes, the ND Department of Public Instruction released guidance for the 2020-2021 school calendar. School boards decide when the school year begins and ends but schools must provide at least 962.5 hours of instruction for K-8 students and 1,050 hours of instruction for 9-12 students. | Yes, online guidance on restart service to students with disabilities, social emotional learning tools and supports. A resource center with links to educational supports and resources was made available; it includes academic, counseling, intervention, re-entry support, and social emotional learning information. | Yes, the state is encouraging educators to seek professional development through the North Dakota Regional Education Association. The state also recommends that districts focus efforts on adult social emotional learning as well as mental health. The Exact Path tool was provided to support educators in creating individualized learning experiences for every student. | Yes, the state includes guidance on intensifying cleaning, disinfecting, and limiting the sharing of classroom resources. | |||||
Ohio Educational Delivery Model for School Year 2020-2021 | The Reset and Restart Education Planning Guide for Ohio Schools and Districts, DOE, July 2020. | Yes, four types of educational delivery models are being used: 5-day in-person, full access to hybrid, partial access to hybrid, and fully remote. | Yes, the state encourages schools to use locally available resources to support understanding of where students are, assess and address the needs for vulnerable youth, and identify high quality instructional materials. | Yes, the state encourages schools to assess staff capacity, training for paraprofessionals comparable to classroom teachers, and provide formal, summer professional development for educators. Resources have been shared by the DOE, additional state agencies, and external organizations to ensure student-centered approach to teaching. | Yes, the state recommends districts and schools teach students health and safety practices, provide training for employees, limit visitors, isolate students showing symptoms, and quarantine individuals diagnosed or exposed to COVID-19. Healthy and safety guidance for K-12 school has been released. | |||||
Oklahoma | Return To Learn Oklahoma: A Framework for Reopening Schools, OSDE, updated August 2020. | Yes, the state is encouraging districts to adopt multiple calendars, traditional, distance, and blended learning, each of which accounting for any sort of health related disruption and the necessary 180 days of 1,800 hours of instruction. Enrollment and attendance guidance was released to answer FAQs. | Yes, the state recommends creating a "return-to-learning" workgroup to evaluate the end of the 2019-2020 school year and determine how to best serve students when school begins again. The state is also urging districts to plan to support the social-emotional learning of students. LEAs should provide consistent services in line with IEPs for students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment possible. | Yes, the state suggests that districts should create an adaptive staff plan that includes outlining what functions are essential and what employees are needed to fill those needs. The state is also continuing to process emergency licensures. Social emotional learning and instructional support resources have been provided for educators. | Yes, the state is recommending that districts develop a plan to do health screenings of all those entering buildings and to use the RAVE panic button, a no-cost, one-touch communication tool in case of emergency. School safety protocols have been released and plans have been developed by OSDH and OSDE to provide free COVID-19 testing to teachers and support employees. | |||||
Oregon 2020-2021 School Year Blueprint Links | Ready Schools, Safe Learners: Guidance for School Year 2020-21, ODE and OHA, February 2021. Updated guidance is serving as a guide to return to in-person instruction. | Yes, school calendars and return to in-person operations are determined at the local level. Calendar adjustments could include: earlier start date, longer winter/spring/other breaks, and a later end date. There are three instructional models for the 2020-21 school year: On-Site, Hybrid, and Comprehensive Distance Learning. Districts will select an instructional model to implement and must also plan for Short-Term Distance Learning in the event of an outbreak that may impact a classroom, school, or an entire district. | Yes, districts are required to plan instructional models that support all learners in Comprehensive Distance Learning when On-Site instruction is not an option. Districts are recommended to secure partners and resources to respond to the basic needs of students and families and the needs of students and families to access online learning; provide differentiated learning opportunities; mitigate risks for immigrant students and families who may be undocumented; implement and offer continued support for programs and affinity groups that build on student strengths. | Yes, the state recommends districts create healing and relationship-building norms, such as community and restorative circles (virtual or physically distanced), mindfulness, and social emotional learning activities; invest in differentiated learning opportunities and supports for staff; and invest in professional learning for all staff in culturally responsive-sustaining instruction, anti-bias and anti-racist teaching, and trauma-informed, healing processes. A dilemma decision-making tree was provided to support the 2020-2021 school year. | Yes, districts are required to maintain a prevention-oriented health services program for all students. Licensed, experienced health staff should be included on teams to determine district health service priorities. K-12 testing program recommended to be provided on-site at hybrid and in-person schools. | |||||
Pennsylvania Level of Community Transmission Table | Preliminary Guidance for Phased Reopening of Pre-K to 12 Schools, June 2020 in line with Gov. Wolf's phases of reopening the state (red, yellow, and green phases) and includes identifying a staff member as the "pandemic coordinator." | Yes, districts are updating the 2020-2021 school calendar to provide a minimum of 900 hours of instructions for elementary and 990 hours of instruction for secondary over 180 days. Districts in counties that are in the yellow phase can choose to hold in-person classes starting July 1. Recommendations have been made for determining the instructional models during the second semester. Additional updates to phased reopening have been provided. | Yes, the state will be using three phases to determine what type of instruction will occur in schools starting with complete remote/digital instruction to traditional in-person instruction; each phase accounting for type of instruction delivery, health and safety standards, and how to continue to provide meals for students. | Yes, the state has released the Roadmap for Education Leaders to provide guidance on creating equitable school systems. Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 being provided to school staff. | Yes, each school entity must have Health and Safety plans approved by local governing boards before reopening and must submit them to the Department of Education. These plans must also be made available to the public. The state also released this Public Health Guidance. | |||||
Rhode Island Your Community's Plan | Health and Safety Guidance to Reopen Rhode Island’s Elementary and Secondary Schools, RIDE, updated March 2021. Previous guidance was provided in May 2020, Reimagining RI Education: Reopening Plan Framework. LEA's FAQs related to reopening have also been answered. | Yes, the state released the Unified 2020-2021 Rhode Island School Calendar. All public schools will begin on August 31, 2020. | Yes, Rhode Island PBS LearningMedia has provided resources for families. There is a free RI School Support Helpline. Guidance has ben published for supporting differently abled and multilingual/English learning students. | Yes, free mental health professional development opportunities are being provided to educators. A compiled list of non-cost professional development opportunities has been provided. Social emotional learning and mental health is being made a priority. | Yes, the state has established requirements and guidelines for hygiene and sanitation procedures, health screenings for students and staff, PPE for school nurses, and face coverings. RIDE has provided guidance on outbreak response protocols. A testing program is being provided for students and staff. | |||||
South Carolina Current Operational Status | DRAFT Guidance and Recommendations for 2020-21 School Year, AccelerateED Task Force, SCDE, June 2020. | Yes, according to guidance issued on July 17th, all South Carolina schools must offer the option for students to attend classes in person, though hybrid models are acceptable. | Yes, the state recommends a multi-tiered system of supports for social/emotional needs: mental health crisis response teams, triage protocol, and district-level counseling/mental health resources. The state is also prioritizing expanding access to technology to address the digital divide. | Yes, the state encourages districts to schedule time for teachers to engage in extended professional learning opportunities. This professional development should be specifically designed to help teachers meet the unique challenges of re-starting school in the fall. Remote learning suppor resources have been shared with teachers. | Yes, districts are required to release health protocol plans prior to the start of the school year and update during the school year. The CDC's operational strategy for schools is being shared as guidance. Additional guidance from SCDHEC regarding cleaning & disinfection, close contacts, social distancing, case investigations, and exclusion criteria is shared. | |||||
South Dakota | Starting Well 2020, SD DOE, September 2020. This document is designed to assist schools as they plan for the fall of the 2020-21 school year. The Department of Health provided a reopening checklist for schools. | Yes, a priority is being placed on face-to-face instruction. | Yes, a toolkit for parents to prepare students to refer to school and monitor student symptoms has been shared. | Yes, the state has released Starting Well 2020: A Guide for Teachers to provide support for teachers as they plan for the 2020-21 school year. Specific guidance was provided to school superintendents and nurses. | Yes, schools should use the COVID-19 Mitigation in Schools guidance and refer to the FAQ document provided by the Department of Health. | |||||
Tennessee TDOE COVID-19 District Information | Reopening Guidance, TDOE, updated February 2021. | Yes, the state encourages four different instructional models: (1) in-person instruction, (2) virtual and distance learning, (3) hybrid scheduling, or (4) cyclical or intermittent physical and virtual learning. A new attendance code was added for distance learning. | Yes, the state released a series of toolkits to guide districts on how to best meet the social and emotional needs of students, address the digital divide, and ways to safely re-open early childhood programs. Broadband access has been a focus. Special guidance to support the needs of special population students during school reopenings have been released. | Yes, a professional development toolkit and staffing toolkit for reopening was released. A principal virtual professional learning services has been developed to help address immediate challenges. | Yes, recommendations have been provided by the TDH for management of COVID-19 in schools. | |||||
Texas COVID-19 Support: District Reporting & Data | SY 20-21 Public Health Planning Guidance, TEA, July 2020. TEA also released an Overview of Remote Instruction Guidance for SY 20-21. | Yes, schools must reopen for in-person instruction by four weeks into the school year. Schools can request waivers for four additional weeks of virtual instruction. Specific guidance in response to questions has been provided on attendance and enrollment. | Yes, the state recommends districts develop plans to implement either synchronous or asynchronous remote instruction. LEAs must provide a daily on-site learning option and all plans must be developed with contingencies in mind. LEAs should develop student progress monitoring processes and ensure the rigor and coherence of instructional materials across options. TEA is expected to release resources to re-engineer the school experience in the coming weeks, including Texas Home Learning 3.0 and Operation Connectivity. | Yes, LEAs should build educator understanding and capacity to deliver instruction across multiple options. TEA provided resources to re-engineer the school experience in the coming weeks, including Texas Home Learning 3.0, Educator Training and Support, and Strong Start Planning Tools. An educator wellness guidance has been released. | Yes, the state has established requirements for parental and public notices, practices to prevent the virus from entering schools, practices to respond to confirmed cases in schools, and both recommended and required practices to reduce the spread inside schools. | |||||
Utah Utah School Reopening Plans 2020-2021 | Districts Utah School Reopening Plans 2020-2021 | Charters | Planning Requirements and Recommendations for K-12 School Reopening, SBE, updated August 2020. Governor Herbert approved the State Board of Education's plan for reopening schools. Additionally, a school reopening planning handbook resource was released. | Yes, districts are updating the 2020-2021 school calendar, using the Board of Education recommendations. Districts must publish plans by August 1st that include the option for in-person instruction. LEA's are allowed to receive waiver for the 990-hour instruction hour requirement. | Yes, statewide connectivity and learning resources have been shared for students. | Yes, a resource guide for school counselors was released. Strategies for personal self-care were also released. | Yes, districts and schools are required to develop protocols for implementing an increased cleaning and hygiene regimen, faculty and stuff are required to wear face coverings, and districts are required to provide cleaning and hygiene supplies. | |||||
Vermont Reopening Status of Vermont Public Schools | A Strong and Healthy Start: Hybrid Learning During the 2020-2021 School Year, Vermont Agency of Education, July 2020. | Yes, Governor Scott announced that schools will reopen for in-person instruction this fall. Decision making guidance related to operations was released. | Yes, the state recommends schools coordinate families, school staff, and community and state resources to assess and assist in the psychological and emotional recovery of students. Schools should also establish clear, consistent and regular communication with students, families, and community members. | Yes, the state recommends schools coordinate resources between families, school staff, community, and the state to assess and assist in the psychological and emotional recovery of staff. Schools should also establish clear, consistent, and regular communication with staff. | Yes, the state requires daily health screenings, stay home when sick exclusion/inclusion policies, and facial coverings and PPE policies when physical distancing cannot be maintained while in the school building. School staff surveillance COVID-19 testing is being offered. Health and safety guidance was released for schools. | |||||
Virginia State Snapshot: Virginia School Operational Status | Revised Interim Guidance for PreK-12 School Reopening, VDH, March 2021. Additionally, the VDOE released Recover, Redesign, Restart 2020, a guiding document for Virginia school divisions, revised July 2020. | Yes. Re-opening timeline options: (1) traditional summer programs reopen date, (2) fall on-time reopen date or early calendar start, or (3) fall late reopen date/extended out-of-school learning. Schools are being called to provide in-person learning by March 15th. | Yes, school divisions should implement policies that provide for remote learning exceptions for students at higher risk of severe illness; focus on social emotional learning to re-engage students; proactively identify and prioritize acceleration needs for vulnerable learners; proactively identify and support students in need of mental health supports. | Yes, school divisions should implement policies that provide for teleworking for staff at higher risk of severe illness and provide mental health supports and training for staff. Well-being of staff policies are recommended. | Yes, the state recommends a variety of mitigation strategies, health screenings, generous sick and leave policies, and policies to accommodate students and staff who are safer at home. | |||||
Washington School Reopening Data | Reopening Washington Schools 2020-21 District Planning Guide, OSPI, June 2020. Additional guidance released related to preparing for expanding in-person instruction and services. | Yes, the state recommends districts that are unable to provide in-person instruction consistent with health and safety needs implement one of the following modes of instruction: (1) split/rotating schedules with continuous remote learning, (2) phased- in opening with continuous remote learning, or (3) continuous learning 2.0. | Yes, the state encourages districts to create conditions for each student to be educated in racially literate, culturally sustaining, positive, and predictable environments that intentionally prioritize the instruction and development of social-emotional skills, and mental health. | Yes, the state recommends that districts train teachers to provide students opportunities to reflect on and evaluate their own learning and plan/schedule relevant professional development for staff including delivering remote-learning, providing remediation, and trauma-informed practices. 'Get Ready' plan released to vaccinate school employees | Yes, the state has provided health and safety guidance including: health screenings, mandatory face coverings in the K-12 setting, and training staff in health and safety protocols. School scenarios and PPE requirements have been released. | |||||
West Virginia County Recovery Plans COVID Recovery Timeline | Roadmap to Recovery, WVDE. | Yes, the state suggests three different schedule models: (1) four day school attendance and one day of remote learning (2) blended learning delivery models, or (3) full remote delivery. The Board of Education released a motion for in-person instruction , with virtual learning options remaining for families. | Yes, physical, social-emotional, and mental health recommendations and planning have been released for students. | Yes, instruction and learning recommendations and planning have been released. | Yes, the state recommends LEAs consider: developing health protocols and health screenings, applying social distancing guidelines by student populations, and utilizing nurses to monitor the health of students and staff. | |||||
Wisconsin | Education Forward: Operating Schools During a Pandemic, DPI. | Yes, the state suggests four different, but not exhaustive, schedule models: (1) four-day week, (2) two-day rotation, (3) A/B week rotation, or (4) elementary face-to-face and secondary virtual learning. | Yes, districts should share resources with Early Learning partners and use partners as a resource to identify interventions and extensions for children and families; create a plan for continued instruction for youth placed in a delinquent institution. | Yes, districts and schools should collaborate to provide professional learning for assessing student learning, to learn about curricular resources, best practices in Universal Design for Learning, social emotional learning, interventions and extensions to ensure high-quality instruction. | Yes, the state recommends districts develop a continuum of strategies for implementation of physical distancing and create plans to limit spread of the virus. Schools should develop attendance policies and facial coverings and PPE policies. | |||||
Wyoming | Smart Start Guidance, DOE, July 2020. | Yes, the state has identified three different tiered models to guide instruction: (I) Open - in-person classes and activities resume, as appropriate, (II) Hybrid - combination of in-person and adapted learning, and (III) Closed - school districts will follow provisions in the approved adapted learning plan. | Yes, districts must be able to provide off-site instruction, provide high quality standards for all students, provide all specially designed instruction as indicated by student IEPs, and maintain technology accommodations. | Yes, districts should provide professional development for teachers to support learning outside the classroom and train staff to understand distance learning. Distance learning guidance was released for districts. | Yes, the state recommends schools develop a plan for arrivals, screening processes, separations, and policies for attaining and distributing PPE. Districts should maximize social distancing, enhance sanitation and cleaning measures, and inform students and families of requirements and protocols. |
