To help prevent the spread of COVID-19 and reduce the potential risk of exposure to our employees and students, employees are required to complete and sign the HCISD Checklist for Employees Physically Working on HCISD Property Form.

The Employee COVID Exposure Process Chart provides the guidance for actions to take in different COVID-related circumstances with employees. 

In the event that an employee reports any of the following situations, the administrator should consult with Human Resources if possible. The administrator will advise the employee to immediately complete the HR Notification Form: HR Notification Form and follow Employee COVID-19 Exposure Process flowchart or instructions from HR.  

• Employee is experiencing COVID-like symptoms
• Employee with confirmed positive COVID-19 test results or diagnosis
• Employee with off-campus close contact with a COVID-positive individual

Staff will be utilized to maintain a line of sight in hallways and adequate distancing of students in the hallway for arrival, dismissal, and transitions. 

ARRIVAL PROCEDURES

• Any students dropped off before the building is open will not be allowed inside the building and should remain in their vehicle.
• Separate entrances will be utilized for car riders, bus riders, walkers, and daycare children when possible.
• Sanitizing stations will be placed at all entrances/exits and students and staff will sanitize hands upon entry.
• Campus specific procedures will be developed and communicated to parents and students for each group arriving at the school (car riders, bus riders, walkers/bike riders).

DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

• Campuses will designate staggered dismissal groups and/or times. Staggering the times and groups of walkers, car riders, bus riders, and daycare children will help manage student movement in the building and decrease the risk of potential crowding outside at dismissal time.  
• Separate exits will be utilized for car riders, bus riders, walkers, and daycares when possible.
• There will be bus procedures based on campus specific needs.
• Early pickup will not be allowed within one hour of dismissal. If parents need to pick up their child early from school, they will need to properly self-screen, wear a mask, etc. 

MOVEMENT IN THE BUILDING – TRANSITIONS

• During passing periods or when multiple student groups are moving in shared hallways, one-way traffic flow is recommended whenever possible. Walking pathways throughout the building will be designated “stay to the right.” This includes the entrance and exit doors.
• When possible, it is recommended that students make transitions outside of the building.
• Doors must be kept locked for security. Campus staff should be assigned locations such as exterior exits during transitions. 
• Consider campus bathroom practices to minimize the number of students in the bathroom at the same time.
  • Place posters at handwashing stations near restrooms.
  • Minimize the amount of students handwashing at the same time. 
• Transitions to and from breakfast and lunch should be staggered to ensure social distancing within lines and at tables. This may require some students to have lunch in the classroom or outside.

Risk Mitigation for Athletics and Fine Arts

The policies in our plan are designed to minimize risk. It is vital to health and safety that our students/staff are fully conscious of this at all times and take responsibility for following these guidelines.  The following information is excerpted from the fine arts and athletic plans as a quick resource:

  Face masks:

• Hays CISD strongly urges that masks be worn.

  Cohort/Companions: 

• Whenever possible, students will be assigned a partner (cohort/companion) for class, practice and transportation in an effort to mitigate any potential exposure risks.

  Transportation:

• Hays CISD strongly urges students and staff to wear face masks while on buses.
• The district will provide bus transportation based on district guidelines in the Hays CISD District COVID-19 Response Plan.
• Students should practice social distancing as they approach and board the bus and as well as when unloading.  Bus seating charts will be maintained.
• Cohorts/companions will be utilized, whenever possible.
• Students and staff will sit one to a seat, whenever possible.
• In the event that seating needs dictate more than one person to a seat, windows will be opened to assist in air circulation to mitigate exposure risk.
• Personal transportation will be allowed with the appropriate permissions on file with the district. (Contact your respective campus coach, director or designee for more information.)

   COVID-19 Screening:

• All students, staff and coaches MUST pre-screen before attending or participating in any activities.  A current list of the symptoms can be found in the Hays CISD District COVID-19 Response Plan.
• Any COVID-positive student/staff who has been in close contact with a campus member (cumulative time of 15 minutes or greater, with or without a mask in the 48 hours prior to the onset of symptoms) MUST report their status to their respective campus.
• Any student/staff who has been in contact with a COVID-positive person MUST report their status to their respective campus.
• All staff and students are expected to abide by quarantine guidelines and remain off district property during their quarantine period.

  Spectator Procedures:

• Any individuals who are confirmed to have, suspected of having, are experiencing symptoms of, or have been in close contact with an individual who has been confirmed to have COVID-19 should not enter the facility. 
• Spectators are strongly encouraged to wear a mask.
• Spectators should abide by social distancing guidelines that are currently established as a minimum of six feet.

Although the district is implementing the safety protocols and disinfecting efforts described below, families are encouraged to drop students off, carpool or walk with their students to school to reduce possible exposure on buses.  Students using school bus transportation services will follow revised protocols. 

Bus Stop Expectations

• Students should practice social distancing, whenever possible (if there is adequate space and it is safe to do so) while waiting for and approaching the school bus. 
• Students should arrive at the bus stop with their campus ID readily accessible to board the bus.

Unloading, loading, and transit expectations

• Hays CISD strongly urges students and staff to wear face masks while on buses.
• Students should practice social distancing as they approach and board the bus as well as when unloading.
• Hand-sanitizer will be provided in the seat behind the driver.  Each student will utilize the sanitizer prior to sitting in their assigned seat.
• Bus capacity will be reduced as much as possible for COVID.
• When permissible, seating will be “one to a seat”, next to the window.
• When capacity requires multiple students to a seat, windows will be opened, weather permitting. 
• Students living in the same household will be seated together. All other students will have assigned seats and written seating charts will be maintained.
• In the event that a written seating chart is not maintained,  it may affect the entire bus population for quarantine guidelines.
• Unloading will start from the front to the back when possible.

Disinfecting Protocol

• Bus seating areas will be disinfected frequently,  particularly high-touch surfaces such as bus seats, steering wheels, knobs and stairway handrail.
• Weather conditions permitting, various bus windows/roof hatches may be vented to allow outside air to circulate the bus. 
• Deep cleaning will occur daily.  

Campus administration will determine areas that may be utilized for lunch based on building capacity and student enrollment. These areas could include classrooms, cafeterias, outdoor areas, the library or other large areas within the school building.

• Hand sanitizing stations will be available at entrances and exits of the cafeteria.  Students will wash/sanitize hands before entering the cafeteria and after breakfast/lunch.
• Staggered mealtimes will be utilized to accommodate the number of students entering the area to abide by social distancing guidelines. 
• No visitors will be allowed during mealtimes and third-party food deliveries will be at the discretion of the campus administrative team.  Check with the individual campus for specific information criteria.  This is subject to change at any time based on local conditions and local health authority recommendations.
• Posted signage and staff will reinforce social distancing and traffic patterns in the cafeteria. 
• Staff will maintain the same class group for “in person” lunches daily.

CAMPUS COVID-19 RESPONSE TEAM PROTOCOLS

SYMPTOMATIC STUDENT/STAFF ON CAMPUS PROTOCOL - CAMPUS

• When a student displays symptoms of COVID-19, the school nurse will assess the students and determine if and when a student needs to be sent home.  In the event the student requires isolation, the school nurse will activate the COVID Response Team to begin case review and determine if close contact has occurred. (exception: If an individual develops a fever during the 24-72 hours after receiving dose 2 of the COVID vaccine they may not have to be considered to have a COVID-like illness. All students and staff must remain home while they have a fever (temperature of 100.0 F or more). The presence or absence of other symptoms will be considered in determining when the person may return to work/school.)
• Students who are determined to be ill will be moved to the isolation room,  and should be picked up within 30 minutes and no later than 1 hour from the time the campus contacted the student’s parent/guardian. The parent/guardian or staff member should be encouraged to contact their primary care provider for guidance on testing or followup. 
• Staff/teacher displaying COVID-19 symptoms which are not related to an underlying condition will immediately notify an administrator, complete the HR Notification Form and leave the campus. The staff member will be contacted by a representative of HR as soon as possible. This will typically be in the form of an email NOT a phone call. The call-backs are done in order of receipt of the HR Notification Form.  Please be patient, especially during peak community exposure increases  that may affect the number of affected staff.  The staff member will submit follow-up questions, test results, etc via the following email: HRCovid@hayscid.net.
  • The HRCovid@hayscid.net email is NOT to be used for initial notification; it is only for follow-up purposes.
  • Please review your HR reply email and communication carefully before you make additional email inquiries. Often, your questions or concerns are already addressed in your response email. Additional, unnecessary emails hinder timely response to all of our employees.
• In the event a student or staff member displays highly symptomatic (two or more symptoms with at least one being COVID-like respiratory symptoms (coughing and sneezing etc)) and is sent home during the school day, the campus COVID-19 response team will be activated and the space(s) HEAVILY used by the affected individual will be disinfected as soon as possible.

CONFIRMED POSITIVE COVID-19 TEST RESULT PROTOCOL - CAMPUS

If a HCISD student/employee/volunteer has tested positive for COVID-19, the campus COVID response team will be activated to determine if the individual had close contact with any other individuals on campus. (Close contact is defined as being within 6 feet for a cumulative duration of 15 minutes or more within the 48 hours prior to the person becoming symptomatic or testing positive. It also includes being directly exposed to infectious secretions (e.g. being coughed on while not wearing a mask or face shield).

• Must be reported to the health department immediately 
• A notification that a COVID-positive person was on campus will be sent to all student families and staff.

CAMPUS COVID RESPONSE TEAM ACTIVATION PROTOCOL 

The following steps may be completed simultaneously by different team members. 

Step 1 - Health Information Review - Nurse 

• STUDENT CASE - Ask the following questions of the positive person or their family member:
• When did symptoms start? (Infectious period begins 48 hours prior to the time of symptom onset through last date on campus.)
• If asymptomatic, what date was the date of the positive test (not the date of result but date of test)?
• Date last on campus and locations (determine dates on campus during infectious period)
• Did the positive individual wear a mask at all times?
• Did the student ride the bus?
• Does the student participate in extracurriculars?
• Do they know they were within 6 feet of anyone for more than 15 minutes (if so with whom)?
• Verify attendance dates for the sick student.
• STAFF CASE - Ask the following questions and ensure the campus administrator notifies HR on the same day with the following information:
• When did their symptoms start? (Infectious period begins 48 hours prior to the time of symptom onset)
• If asymptomatic, what date was the date of the positive test (not the date of result but date of test)?
• Date last on campus and locations (determine dates on campus during infectious period)
• Do they know they were within 6 feet of anyone for more than 15 minutes (if so with whom)?
• Instruct the staff member to complete the HR Notification Form: HR Notification Form 
• Please complete the form and wait for a call from a representative from HR.  It may take up to 48 hours.  It is not necessary for you or your supervisor to telephone HR.  You will receive an automatic notification that we received your email with instructions for what you need to do until HR contacts you.
• Document the case in the appropriate location on the Campus Tracking Sheet

Step 2 - Close Contact Identification - Administrator or COVID Team Member

• Gather classroom attendance rosters and transportation seating charts, etc. as applicable
• Consult attendance rosters and transportation seating charts, if applicable, to determine any known close contacts. Please remind the teacher of FERPA and direct them not to release any identifying information about the student/staff. 
• Quarantine: Students and staff who remain asymptomatic after a close contact are encouraged to wear a face mask or quarantine using the following guidelines:
• If an individual is unvaccinated and has had close contact with a COVID-positive person, it is recommended they quarantine for five (5) days and take a COVID test on day 5. They may then return with a negative COVID test result.
• If an individual is fully vaccinated and has had close contact with a COVID-positive person, but remains asymptomatic, there is no need to quarantine. It is recommended they take a COVID test on day 5.
• It is recommended that all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, who have had close contact with a COVID-positive individual wear a well-fitting mask and monitor themselves for symptoms for 10 days.
• Unvaccinated people who share a home with a COVID-positive person MUST quarantine.
  • Quarantine begins after the COVID-positive person’s infectious period ends. Contact the nurse or HR for details.
  • Once the quarantine period begins, the close contact may return after:
    • 5 days if the individual remains symptom-free and has a negative COVID-19 test that was collected on or after day 5 of quarantine.
      OR
    • 5 days if the individual does not take a COVID-19 PCR test, remains asymptomatic, and is willing and/or able to wear a well-fitting mask for at least 5 days after their return. OR
    • 10 days if the individual chooses not to take a COVID-19 PCR test and does not wear a mask for 5 days after their return.

Exception: the unvaccinated person can fully isolate from the COVID-positive person in that home.

Step 3 - Determination of Cleaning and Disinfection - Administrator or Nurse

• If a student or staff member with confirmed COVID positive test is CURRENTLY ON CAMPUS OR a student or staff member displays highly symptomatic COVID-like symptoms (two or more symptoms with at least one being respiratory (coughing and sneezing etc) and is sent home during the school day, the Custodian should be activated to complete the disinfection process. 

Step 4 - Notification - COVID Team Member

NOTIFICATION WILL NOT BE SENT UNLESS A CONFIRMED POSITIVE TEST RESULT IS RECEIVED. 

• Once a confirmation of a positive test result is provided for any individual on campus (student/staff/volunteer), a Campus COVID Team member will compile a list of any close contacts. 
• A Daily Campus COVID-19 Update will be sent for each campus.
• This daily notification will include total positive cases and groups affected by close contact.
  

Step 5 - Case Follow Up and Guidelines for Return - Nurse / HR

Human Resources is responsible for follow up with any staff members related to COVID. Campus nurses are responsible for any follow-up with students related to COVID.

• Each day the nurse will review the COVID tracking form in order to determine students who are nearing the end of any self-isolation or self-quarantine time frame. In the two school days prior to the student’s earliest return date, the nurse should contact the parent/guardian(s) to ensure the student will meet requirements for return. Specifically, the student must be fever free for at least 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medications) and confirm an improvement in symptoms. 
• Once confirmation is received that the student is eligible to return, the nurse may provide the exact return date to the parent according to the requirements below. 
  
  
• RETURN AFTER COVID-LIKE SYMPTOMS  COMBINED EXPOSURE FLOWCHART/Employee & Student  
  Students and staff sent home with COVID-like symptoms shall not return to campus until all of the following criteria are met:
  • 5 days have passed since symptoms onset and they are willing and/or able to wear a well-fitting mask for the 5 days after they return OR 10 days if the individual is not willing and/or able to wear a well-fitting mask upon their return,
    AND
  • 24 hours fever, diarrhea, and vomiting free  (without the use of  medication),
    AND
  • Significant improvement in symptoms 
    OR
  • They provide documentation of an alternate diagnosis or clearance to return to school from a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant.
    OR
  • The student/staff has a negative PCR test result indicating symptoms were not due to COVID-19. A rapid antigen test will not be accepted. 

• RETURN AFTER COVID POSITIVE TEST CONFIRMATION COMBINED EXPOSURE FLOWCHART/Employee & Student   
  Students and staff isolating after COVID positive test result shall not return to campus until all of the following criteria are met:
  • 5 days have passed since symptom onset or date positive test was collected, whichever came first,
    AND
  • 24 hours fever, diarrhea, and vomiting free (without the use of medication),
    AND
  • Significant improvement in symptoms,
    AND
    
  • Willing and/or able to wear a mask for an additional 5 days
    • If the student or staff member is unwilling and/or unable to wear a mask for an additional five days, they will remain out for 10 days.

• RETURN AFTER CLOSE CONTACT COMBINED EXPOSURE FLOWCHART/Employee & Student   
  Close contact is defined as being within 6 feet of a COVID-positive person for a cumulative 15 minutes over the 48 hours before the COVID-positive person’s COVID test was collected or they became symptomatic, whichever came first. 
• If a person has had close contact with a COVID-positive person:
• Hays CISD recommends that a person who has been in close contact with a COVID-positive person wear a face mask or quarantine for:
  • 5 days if the person remains asymptomatic and does not take a COVID PCR test and is willing to wear a mask for an additional 5 days
    OR
  • 5 days if the person remains asymptomatic and they receive a negative COVID PCR test that was collected on or after day 5 of quarantine
• Fully vaccinated individuals may remain in school/at work after close contact if they remain symptom-free
• If a person develops any symptoms of COVID-19 within 10 days after being in close contact with a COVID-positive person they MUST isolate, regardless of vaccination status
  • They may return after they satisfy the COVID-like symptom return criteria (see above)
• Unvaccinated people who share a home with a COVID-positive person MUST quarantine.
  • Quarantine begins after the COVID-positive person’s infectious period ends, contact the nurse or HR for details.
  • Once the quarantine period begins, the close contact may return after:
    • 5 days if the individual remains symptom-free and has a negative COVID-19 PCR test that was collected on or after day 5 of quarantine.
      OR 
    • 5 days if the individual does not take a COVID-19 PCR test, remains asymptomatic, and is willing and/or able to wear a well-fitting mask for at least 5 days after their return.
      OR
    • 10 days if the individual chooses not to take a COVID-19 PCR test and does not wear a mask for 5 days after their return.

Exception: the unvaccinated person can fully isolate from the COVID-positive person in that home. This will be evaluated on a case by case basis by the campus nurse (students) or HR staff (employees).

Counting of Days

• First day of symptoms or day positive COVID test was collected (whichever came first) is Day 0
• The next day is Day 1 for counting purposes
• Should return AFTER the designated number of days
  • For example, if a person needs to be out for 10 days, Day 11 is the first recommended return date.

At this time, visitors and volunteers are allowed on campus. All visitors and volunteers must check in at the front office and follow district guidelines, which can be found in the HCISD 2021-2022 Student-Parent Handbook.

There is no current restriction on events.

• Students will receive support as outlined in their IEP, 504 plan, or RtI plan to the fullest extent possible. We will work with families to communicate plans for service delivery and to seek feedback about services. Services may be provided virtually when possible to limit exposure between groups. 
• Staff will follow CDC and HCISD safety guidelines and be mindful of limiting contact, sanitizing procedures, and social distancing.  
• Students should be cohorted when pulling from class if at all possible. Groups should remain consistent to decrease cross exposure between students. Ideally students should be pulled from the same classrooms where possible or from the same grade level. 
• If consistent groupings are not possible, students should maintain 3 to 6 feet, whenever possible. 
• Support staff will sanitize in between groups/classrooms.  The use of a face mask is strongly encouraged.

The safety and health of our employees and students is our top priority. Sanitation of classroom and workspaces will take place throughout the school day and each evening after dismissal of students. The cleaning steps are to be instituted to disinfect workplace surfaces, chairs, tables, etc. to protect employees and reduce the risk of spread of infection. To mitigate the spread of the virus, everyone must manage their immediate area and employ good habits including wiping of surfaces, frequent hand washing and disinfecting an area whenever possible.  Reminder signage should be prominently displayed regarding cleaning, sanitizing and disinfecting measures. 

General cleaning measures should be followed regularly. The custodial staff will clean all instructional, restroom and common areas frequently.  The cafeteria will be cleaned between lunch periods. Custodial staff will disinfect every night, starting right after the building becomes unoccupied.  However, keep in mind that they will not be able to get to all areas without help from the team.  Your willingness to aid in the mission will mitigate the spread of germs in your campus community.  

Employees will disinfect their own personal workspaces (handles, switches, counter/desk, phone, etc.) throughout the day, giving special attention to commonly touched surfaces.  Staff and students will have access to disinfecting supplies to aid in cleaning after use and during breaks in instruction. 

All supplies utilized for the cleaning of surfaces will be provided by the district and adhere to all required school safety standards.  All bottles MUST be labeled with the chemical contained within.  If you have a bottle with no label, immediately seek assistance from custodial services for a replacement.

PREVENTIVE MATERIAL INVENTORY

• District leaders have provided supplies in preparation of anticipated needs.
• Each Head Custodian will establish a protocol to ensure their campus (faculty, students and staff) has an adequate supply of soap, disinfectant, hand sanitizer and paper towels in the necessary areas. 
• The campus protocol must include a process for campus restocks from existing stock AND making orders to the central warehouse in anticipation of inventory needs.
• This process should also include an adequate supply of personal protective equipment including masks to be available upon request.

Continuity of Services

Hays CISD will ensure continuity of services to support the academic needs of students, as well as staff and students’ social, emotional, mental health and other needs.

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Academic Needs

In addition to daily instruction and supports required by IEP, Section 504, and RTI plans, Hays CISD will ensure that students have access to supplemental services to meet their academic needs (learning loss) as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic.   This additional support may be in the form of tutoring support provided before or after school, additional academic intervention provided during the regular school day, or intensive intervention provided during summer school. 

Technology

All students in grades 6-12 will have the opportunity to access a Chromebook device during the school year to support learning both in school and at-home.  For students without access to internet at home, a limited number of internet-enabled devices will be available for loan during the school year.  Teachers will continue to receive professional development related to the use of instructional technology and blended learning. 

Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Needs

Hays CISD continues to implement a Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework that focuses on intervention best practices within the areas of academics, behavior, and social/emotional support for the whole child.  The district is adding an additional staff person at each elementary campus for the purpose of supporting general education students with Tier 2 standardized behavioral interventions (check in/out mentors, daily behavior report card with teacher feedback loop, and social skills instruction) through Emergent Tree Education Services.  The district employs a districtwide Social Emotional Learning Coordinator to support campuses in implementing SEL programs that meet the needs of students.

Mental Health Needs

Hays CISD employs at least one School Counselor on each campus.  Across the district, Hays CISD contracts with Communities in Schools to provide additional support on 13 campuses.  Additionally, Hays CISD operates the Hays Hope Line to report bullying, harassment, safety concerns, and personal crisis.  Hays CISD is also adding additional Mental Health Professionals to address the mental health needs of staff and students due to the impact of the COVID 19 Pandemic. 

Food and Clothing Related Needs

Hays CISD operates the Clothes Closet to support the clothing related needs of students and partners with Hays Hope to Go to provide supplemental nutrition to students.  All students and families are able to access these supports at no cost to the families via their campus counselor.  Hays CISD will offer free breakfast and lunch to all students across the district during the 2021-2022 school year; eligible families will also be notified of an P-EBT or summer programs as the information becomes available. 

District COVID Response Team

• Team Members - team members should consist of the following departments or positions:
• Human Resources
• Chief Operations Officer or Designee 
• Chief Communications Officer
• Director of Student Health Services or Designee - will serve as the District COVID-19 point of contact
• Director of Safety & Security 
• Director of Custodial Services 

Campus COVID Response Teams

• Team Members - team members should consist of the following positions:
• School Nurse - will serve as the campus COVID-19 point of contact
• COVID Response Nurse - close contact investigation and communication
• Custodian - to clean and disinfect area
• Principal or Assistant Principal
• Administrative Staff member who will assist with notifications

These are general guidelines for campuses to utilize for Specials rotations. 

Music

• Music specials can be held in the music room or other area of the building as designated by the administrator. 
• Appropriate social distancing measures will be followed where possible.
• Musical instruments, mallets and other equipment will be sanitized and wiped down after each use.
• Students who wear masks to school must not be required to remove their mask to participate.

Physical Education (PE)

• Whenever possible, physical education classes will be held outside to allow for maximum physical distance between students. 
• Any activities bringing students into close physical contact, or requiring multiple  students to touch or handle the same equipment should be limited.
• PE equipment will be disinfected regularly.
• Students should avoid touching their face at all times, but especially while playing games.
• Sanitizing areas and access to handwashing will be provided.
• If enrolled in a PE class, students should bring tennis shoes to participate in class activities. Whenever possible, physical education classes will be held outside to allow for maximum physical distance between students.
• Utilize outside space, as weather appropriate, to increase spatial distancing.
• Promote games and activities which do not require physical contact with other students.
• If balls/equipment is used, sanitize after use prior to a new group.
• Students who wear masks to school must not be required to remove their mask to participate.

Art

• Art specials can be held in the art room or other area of the building as designated by the administrator. 
• Individual art supplies should be utilized whenever possible to minimize exposure.
• In the event that art materials must be shared, they will be sanitized regularly.
• Administrators should build in extra time to ensure teachers have time to appropriately clean between student groups.

Library

• Elementary school librarians may allow students to travel to the library to provide curriculum based lessons/book checkout in the classroom. 
• Students should maintain spatial distancing whenever possible.  
• Students and staff will wash/sanitize hands upon entering and after visiting the library.
• High-touch surfaces (e.g., table tops, chairs, door handles, etc.) will be disinfected regularly.

Computer Lab

• Students will travel to computer labs for technology. 
• Computer labs will be reconfigured to promote spatial distancing of 3-6 feet whenever possible. 
• Require students to wash hands or use hand sanitizer before and after specials.
• High-touch surfaces (e.g., table tops, chairs, door handles, etc.) and computer keyboards/mouses will be disinfected regularly. 

All campus and district field trips will be considered on a case by case basis and follow district guidelines that are established at the time of the scheduled event. Campus administrators are responsible for developing a safety plan for the field trip.  This is subject to change at any time based on local conditions and local health authority recommendations. 

UIL and competition travel are not considered field trips and will be allowed.

• Alcohol-based hand sanitizer will be available at campus entrances, in classrooms, in the cafeteria and in common areas throughout the campus.
• Staff and students will be expected to wash or sanitize their hands regularly.
• Requirement for hand washing and/or use of provided hand sanitizer:
  • Provide hand sanitizer upon entry to classroom and periodic teacher reminders during instructional day.
  • Habitual and thorough hand washing after recess, before eating and following restroom breaks.
• Hand sanitizer has been added to the school supply list and students are encouraged to bring a personal hand sanitizer.

Ensure optimal healthy hygiene practices, including handwashing or the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers, to prevent infections and reduce the number of viable pathogens that contaminate the hands. Hand sanitizing dispensers will be located throughout the campus. Students, staff, and volunteers will be encouraged to wash hands/use hand sanitizer often.

SIGNAGE - Encouraging Preventative Measures 

Preventative measures signs will be posted in high-traffic areas that will educate students and staff and serve as reminders of ways to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Schools are required to comply with the governor’s executive order regarding the wearing of masks. Students and staff are strongly urged to wear face masks during school hours. This requirement is subject to change.

• In order to protect our students and staff, the use of face masks is strongly urged for all students and staff at school where maintaining 6 feet apart is not possible. 
• The CDC recommends cloth face masks be used by the general public. Face masks should follow CDC guidance which indicates cloth coverings should be at least 2 layers. 
• Each individual is urged to provide  their own face mask and wear it for the safety of themselves and others when they are unable to maintain 6 feet. 
• The district will have face masks available upon request.
• Individuals who are required to have regular interaction with symptomatic individuals (school nurse or isolation room monitor) or to clean a COVID-positive area (custodians) should wear additional PPE.
• Mask breaks will be provided as needed for those students who opt to wear a mask. A mask break is the removal of a mask for short periods of time (for example a few minutes) while at least 6 feet from others. Ideally this would occur outdoors.  

Administrators provide training for staff on guidelines and procedures associated with outdoor play and student activities. 

• Administrators will develop a schedule for students to access the playground equipment.
• PK classrooms should be kept separate/independent at all times while on the playground/outside  (to maintain the integrity of the PK Classroom Cohort)
• All students and staff will be required to wash their hands or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer before recess.
• Teachers will monitor students to ensure safety guidelines are followed. Teachers may allow small groups of students to play together and develop structured games that take into account social distance protocols.
• Students who choose to wear masks to school may also choose whether or not to wear their mask during recess.
• Students must maintain social distancing while lining up to return to class.
• All students and staff will be required to wash their hands or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when returning to their classroom.

• All hand dryers will be disabled and paper towels will be provided.
• Campus staff should develop plans based on their individual campus needs to limit the number of students that enter the bathroom at one time. 
• Elementary campuses could consider the scheduling of whole class restroom breaks to eliminate co-mingling of students across various classes and to ensure teacher monitoring of social distancing guidelines.
• Increased disinfecting by custodial staff will occur throughout the school day. 
• Staff and students must wash hands with soap and water prior to exiting the restroom.
  • When possible, restroom doors will be propped open and paper towel dispensers and trash cans will be placed outside the door to ensure sanitary protection for all parties. \
• Visuals indicating proper handwashing techniques and social distancing will be displayed to consistently reinforce this practice.

• Staff will be required to self-screen for COVID-19 symptoms prior to reporting to work each day (including temp check) and the district may require further screening of employees at any time based on current state and federal guidelines. Human Resources will provide the “Employee Protocol for Access to District Property” to the employee. 
• Parents/guardians are expected to screen their students for COVID-19 symptoms each day prior to sending their student to school (including temp check). 
• Parents must ensure they do not send a child to school on campus if the child has COVID-19 symptoms (as listed in this document) or is lab-confirmed with COVID-19, and instead should keep them home for the applicable quarantine period until the below conditions for re-entry are met.  Student Requirements for Access to District Property / SPANISH 
• Staff and students should not enter campuses or district buildings if any of the following apply. 
• The individual experiences any of the following symptoms in a way that is not normal for them:
• Temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher when taken by mouth
• Loss of taste or smell 
• Cough
• Difficulty breathing 
• Shortness of breath 
• Fatigue 
• Headache 
• Chills 
• Sore throat 
• Congestion or runny nose 
• Shaking, exaggerated shivering or night sweats
• Significant muscle pain or ache 
• Diarrhea 
• Nausea or vomiting
• Has a confirmed case of COVID-19 or is awaiting test results.
• Has a household member who is awaiting COVID-19 test results or has tested positive for COVID-19.

PE and Extracurricular activities

• Extracurricular activities will be based on current UIL guidelines and published through the respective programs. 
• Close contact lists will not be maintained for outdoor sports and activities due to the dynamic nature of these activities.

Library

• Secondary school librarians will develop protocols to allow student access to libraries with spatial distancing guidelines and disinfection protocols.
• Visual reminders will be added and furniture rearranged to help students maintain social distancing while in the library, including computer stations.
• Students and staff will wash/sanitize hands upon entering and after visiting the library.
• High-touch surfaces (e.g., table tops, chairs, door handles, etc.) will be disinfected regularly.

Computer / Science Labs

• Computers and labs should be reconfigured to promote spatial distancing of 6 feet apart.
• A process should be established for shared equipment. 
• Require students to wash hands or use hand sanitizer before and after lab use.
• High-touch surfaces (e.g., table tops, chairs, door handles, etc.) and computer keyboards/mouses will be disinfected regularly.

Spatial distancing, defined as keeping a safe distance of six feet when contact is longer than 15 minutes, is an effective way to prevent potential infection. Efforts should be made to avoid close contact.

Close contact, defined as: 

• direct exposure to infectious secretions (e.g., being coughed on while not wearing a facial covering) 
  OR 
• being within six feet of the individual for a cumulative duration (meaning the total amount of time in a day that individuals are within 6 feet) of 15 minutes, within 48 hours before the individual’s onset of symptoms to the time of isolation. Close contact is regardless of mask usage. 

It is recommended that unvaccinated individuals who have been in close contact self-quarantine for:

1. At least 5 days if the individual remains symptom-free and has a negative COVID-19 test that was collected on or after day 5 of quarantine.
   OR
2. At least 10 days if the individual remains symptom-free, but does not take a COVID-19 test. 

(Exception: Fully vaccinated individuals).

Unvaccinated people who share a home with a COVID-positive person MUST quarantine.

• Quarantine begins after the COVID-positive person’s infectious period ends, contact the nurse or HR for details.
• Once the quarantine period begins, the close contact may return after:
• 5 days if the individual remains symptom-free and has a negative COVID-19 test that was collected on or after day 5 of quarantine. 
  OR
• 10 days if the individual remains symptom-free, but does not take a COVID-19 test. 

Exception: the unvaccinated person can fully isolate from the COVID-positive person in that home.

• Teachers will be provided disinfectant supplies and will ensure high-touch areas in the classroom are disinfected throughout the day.
• All classrooms will be outfitted with:
  • Visual reminders of distancing requirements will be in all classrooms marking off areas for common spaces and distancing best practices.
  • Refillable alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Whenever possible, students should maintain 3-6 feet from one another 
• Furniture in the classroom should be minimized to aid in social distancing. 
• The instructional staff should maintain a minimum of 6 feet during classroom instruction whenever possible. Staff should avoid contact within 6 feet for longer than 15 minutes.
• Whenever possible, students and staff will maintain consistent groupings of people to minimize the spread of the virus. 
• Staff should determine procedures for classroom movement. Dismissals should be orderly, using one way movement whenever possible. 
• The use of face masks which cover both the nose and mouth is strongly encouraged for all persons on campus (including students and staff) throughout the school day. 
• Technology should be utilized when students are involved in collaborative work. 
• Small group learning in the classroom should allow for at least 3 feet of spatial distancing whenever possible. Staff should plan for more frequent hand washing and/or hand sanitizing throughout the day. 
• The use of outdoor space for learning will be considered when possible. Classroom groups working outside will maintain social distancing from other classroom groups.
• Masks breaks are allowed as needed for those opting to wear a mask. A mask break is the removal of a mask for a short period of time (for example a few minutes) while at least 6 feet from others. Ideally this would occur outdoors. 
  • Teachers will identify an area of the classroom, at least 6 feet away from any individuals in the classroom, which could be utilized for mask breaks if needed. A student may also step into the hallway if a space in the classroom is not feasible. 
• At this time, no classroom parties or celebrations will be allowed with homemade food.
  • The Hays CISD Child Nutrition Department is available for food orders.

The following protocols are intended to provide guidance for care of the health needs of students during the school day. In this COVID-19 pandemic, clinic processes and flow will need to be amended to protect students and staff and decrease unnecessary exposure. These guidelines are specific to the current needs of the COVID-19 pandemic and may be amended as the recommendations or situation changes. 

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT - MEDICAL/ISOLATION AREAS

DAILY PPE RECOMMENDATIONS

Nurses are encouraged to wear KN95 masks and face shields or goggles any time they are caring for students/staff. 

• Be mindful of individuals who have been in the clinic recently with COVID-like symptoms as droplets can remain in the air after these persons exit. 

Aerosolizing procedures/nebulizers - The use of nebulizers or other aerosolizing procedures should be eliminated if at all possible and other medication administration forms considered. Parents may pick up their child and provide nebulizing treatments outside or off campus and the student may return after treatment. 

***In the event a nebulizer is medically necessary on campus, the nebulizer must be provided outside. In addition, any staff present is encouraged to wear full PPE - isolation gown, goggles, face shield, KN95 mask, and outer protective surgical mask. Upon completion of the procedure, the gown and protective surgical mask must be thrown away. The face shield and goggles must be cleaned before further use. 

VISITS TO THE CAMPUS CLINIC

In order to prevent potential exposure to infectious diseases for vulnerable students receiving other medical treatments, all student visits to the Campus Clinic will follow campus procedure. When possible, care should be provided in the classroom. 

If a staff member believes a student needs to be seen in the clinic:

• Staff will be asked to call or radio the Campus Nurse with a request for an ill student visit.
• Nurse will prioritize the student for a visit and provide further assessment in person.
• Students will independently walk to the campus clinic unless it is unsafe to do so or considered an emergency. 
• If it is an emergency, 911 should NEVER be delayed. Activate EMS and delegate as appropriate.

CLASSROOM-BASED CARE AND FIRST AID

First aid, to the degree possible, should be handled by the student and in the classroom to prevent office congregation and possible cross exposure.  

The following recommendations are:

1. All classrooms will be stocked with limited first aid supplies (bandaids, gloves, gauze, and menstrual pads). 
2. To the extent possible, students provide self-care with staff direction and physical distancing.
3. Teachers will be able to consult over the phone with the campus nurse if guidance is needed. If it's determined that care cannot be done in the classroom, the student will be sent to the designated clinic area for care. Teachers generally shouldn’t contact parents regarding health issues without the nurse. In the event a teacher believes a parent notification is warranted for care provided in the classroom, the teacher should touch base with the nurse regarding that communication. If a parent notification is warranted, the nurse may need to see the student. 

Teachers must contact the campus nurse prior to sending the student to the clinic if they are uncertain or need guidance about student care. Ideally, teachers will consult with the campus nurse over the phone prior to sending students to the clinic. If a student arrives at the clinic prior to a phone consultation, they will be expected to wait in the designated clinic waiting location on campus until the campus nurse or principal delegated trained staff member can get to them. 

Examples of Classroom-Based Care - Teacher one pager 

• Minor Toothache / Primary Tooth comes out
• Small paper cuts, abrasions, picked scabs.
• Localized bug bites. (no HX of allergy)
• Minor headache or fatigue with no other symptoms.  
• Mild stomach ache or nausea.  
• Readily controlled nosebleeds, where the student can deliver self-care.
• Anxiety/stress/psychological issue - try calming techniques and/or contact the school counselor.

Detailed guidance on the possible student situations that should be attempted to be handled in the classroom. Teachers generally shouldn’t contact parents regarding health issues. In the event a teacher believes a parent notification is warranted for care provided in the classroom, the teacher should touch base with the nurse regarding that communication. If a parent notification is warranted, the nurse may need to see the student. 

Minor Toothache / Primary tooth comes out

• Have child rinse mouth with water
• Place tooth in tooth container from first aid kit
• Wash hands

Minor cuts / scrapes, small abrasions, picked scabs

• Wash hands and scraped area with soap and water
• Assist the student to wash hands and apply band-aid if needed.
• Wash hands.

Minor headaches and/or fatigue & student is not acting ill in the classroom, especially immediately after lunch or recess

• Encourage snack or drink water.
• Apply cool water to the face and neck.
• Rest 20 minutes.
• If worsening, contact the nurse for a clinic visit.

Mild indigestion and/or upset stomach especially immediately after lunch or recess

• Allow to use the restroom.
• Drink water.
• Rest 30 minutes.
• If worsening, contact the nurse for a clinic visit.

Localized bug bite (no known Hx of allergy) 

• Apply a cool damp paper towel.

Glasses repair

• Email or call the campus clinic to determine what supplies are needed.

Clothing

• Soiled underwear or clothing
• Classroom teachers need to encourage parents to keep supplies and multiple changes of clothing in all student backpacks.
• Students may be directed to self-clean up and discard fecal contaminated clothing in a double bag by a first aid provider, paraprofessional, or instructional aid. If the student is unable to be self-directed and needs assistance, the person assisting must have another adult present. Whenever possible, accidents should be handled in the classroom to decrease the risk of exposure.
• If the student needs to be sent home for hygiene, the parent/guardian may be contacted by the teacher, staff, or campus nurse.

GUIDELINES FOR CAMPUS OR CLASSROOM COVID-19 EXPOSURE 

In the event the campus or district is notified of a student or staff member with a positive test result, the Campus Response Team will be activated to begin case review and reporting. 

STUDENT MENTAL HEALTH

As students return, the primary goal will be to support the whole child. The HCISD Health Services Department and Counseling Department will work closely together to identify ways to support students appropriately.  

MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION

To the degree possible, make every effort to identify ways that medications may be taken at home, instead of during school hours.The following steps should be taken to ensure the safety of all students and minimize office clustering.

1. Nurses should send a letter home to all parents explaining that students that must take medication during school will need to make an appointment prior to the start of school to bring the medication in so that delivery time may be staggered. 
2. NO Nebulizing treatments will be provided on campus unless the student is incapable of using an inhaler. Any nebulizer medication delivery must be converted to an inhaler with a spacer to avoid Aerosolized Transmissible Diseases (ATD) of COVID-19 (Taras, 2020). The school nurse will work with the primary care physician and parents. 
• Aerosol Generating Procedures (AGP) are those that are more likely to generate higher concentrations of infectious respiratory aerosols than coughing, sneezing, talking, or breathing.  These procedures potentially put healthcare personnel at an increased risk for pathogen exposure and infection. 
• ***In the event a nebulizer is medically necessary on campus, the nebulizer must be provided outside. In addition, anyone present is encouraged to wear full PPE - isolation gown, goggles, face shield, KN95 mask, and outer protective surgical mask. Upon completion of the procedure, the gown and protective surgical mask must be thrown away. The face shield and goggles must be cleaned before further use. 

• Water fountains will be open for water bottle filling only. Administrators will provide signage, education, and oversight to ensure safe use of water fountains for bottle filling only. 
• Reusable water bottles are encouraged to be utilized by every student and have been added to the school supply list.