Williamsville Central School District

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Plan to Pivot and Implementation Timeline for Updated NYSDOH Guidance

Williamsville Central School District

Plan to Pivot

*This is a working document and subject to change according to pending stakeholder feedback[1] *





On Monday, June 7, 2021, Governor Cuomo announced new mask guidance for schools.  The District is adopting this new guidance on Tuesday, 8, 2021. For more information on this change in guidance, click here: 06-07-21 Mask Guidance Update

Introduction:

The District's `Plan to Pivot' allows for the ability to pivot safely, effectively, and swiftly upon receiving updated school guidance from New York State, the New York State Department of Health, and/or the New York State Education Department.

The District provided information on the `Plan to Pivot' to all stakeholders including our bargaining units on an on-going basis. The District discussed our `Plan to Pivot' with bargaining units on receipt of updated school guidance and will convene the District Leadership Roundtable with leadership from all seven bargaining units to ensure collaboration and successful implementation.

Summary of Key Elements of the Plan to Pivot:

The length of time needed to complete each step is based on guidance received from the New York State Department of Health on April 9, 2021. The following information represents a brief highlight of the District's `Plan to Pivot.' The detailed `Plan to Pivot' is available in the corresponding pages.

Step 1:

  • Send out preliminary Instructional Model Information Gathering Survey on February 25, 2021 to determine who plans on keeping their child(ren) in one of the following models if the guidance changes:
    • Fully remote
    • Full time, in-person
    • Survey goes on District website, out to all parents via text, and promoted in weekly superintendent's video, along with District Newsletter, all School - Specific Newsletters, Twitter and Facebook page

Step 2:

  • Meet with Reset, Relaunch, Return Committee and expand with elementary
    • Unite elementary as part of committee
    • Restructure them into Elementary, Middle and High School committees
    • Utilize level coordinators
    • Initial meeting — Monday, March 1st at 3:30pm
    • Second meeting — Wednesday, March 3rd at 9:00am
      • Meet as needed to continue discussion on logistics and planning with regular updates during K-12 and leadership meetings
  • Brainstorm and discuss additional members to committees
  • Develop building specific Plan to Pivot coordinated by building administrators
  • Committees will focus on logistics, communications, and safety protocols
  • Develop communications to share with community regarding re-entry

Step 3:

  • Review data from informational survey
    • Level breakdown/analysis at Elementary, Middle, and High School
      • Classroom analysis at Elementary

Step 4:

  • Inform staff and families of changes to state guidance regarding social distancing when guidance is updated
    • Letter drafted/approved by leadership team, K-12 principals, and Board of Education on March 25, 2021

Step 5:

  • Send out instructional survey to families asking them to choose an instructional model for the remainder of the year
    • This question will be available on WITS for families to respond to
    • Survey goes on District website, out to all parents via text, and promoted in weekly superintendent's video, along with District Newsletter, all School - Specific Newsletters, Twitter and Facebook page

Step 6:

  • Reconfigure classrooms and other areas within school building to meet updated guidance utilizing building-based Plan to Pivot

 

AS OF APRIL 13, 2021, THE DISTRICT IS AT THIS STEP 

Step 7:

  • Share instructional survey results and next steps with staff and families
    • Share instructional information with staff and families regarding any changes for students/teachers
    • District level presentation (Zoom Webinar/YouTube) to school community on guidance and information
    • Building specific presentations (Zoom Webinar/YouTube) to school community for new health/safety protocols and any additional changes within the building

Step 8:

  • Begin implementation of new guidance

 

STEP 1:

  • Send out preliminary Instructional Model Information Gathering Survey on February 25, 2021 to determine who plans on keeping their child(ren) in one of the following models if the guidance changes:
    • Fully remote
    • Full time, in-person
    • Survey goes on District website, out to all parents via text, and promoted in weekly superintendent's video, along with District Newsletter, all School ­Specific Newsletters, Twitter and Facebook page

SURVEY:

1) If there is a change in State guidance allowing for increased capacity for full-time, in-person

instruction, which instructional model would you choose?

  1. Full-time in-person instruction
  2. Fully-remote instructional model

RESULTS:

Total Responses: 8,172

Full-time, in-person instruction: 6,695

Fully-remote instructional model: 1,477

This information was shared publicly with all stakeholders through WITSMai1, text messages, weekly video update and at the Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, March 9, 2021.

NOTE: The WITS Instructional Model Information Gathering Survey allowed the District to examine and analyze data more thoroughly at each level and each school. At the elementary school level, based on the instructional models (hybrid/fully-remote), we were able to review data and information at the classroom level to have a better understanding of the potential impact classrooms due to the students returning to school. At the middle and high school levels, based on the hyflex instructional model and the fact that students follow their normal bell schedule and would require no change in teacher/class, we were able to review data and information based on grade level and building basis.

 

STEP 2:

  • Meet with Reset, Relaunch, Return Committee and expand with elementary administration and staff
    • Unite elementary as part of committee
    • Restructure them into Elementary, Middle and High School committees
    • Level coordinators
      • Elementary School: Charlie Smilinich
      • Middle School: Jeff Jachlewski and Pete Dobmeier,
      • High School: Keith Boardman
      • Initial meeting — Monday, March 1st at 3:30pm
      • Second meeting — Wednesday, March 3rd at 9:00am
        • Meet as needed to continue discussion on logistics and planning with regular updates during K-12 and leadership meetings
        • Brainstorm and discuss additional members to committees
        • Develop building specific Plan to Pivot coordinated by building administrators
        • Committees will focus on logistics, communications, and safety protocols
          • Review:
            • Furniture (desk/chairs/tables) in storage and begin staging them in schools
            • Classroom capacity at 3 ft and 6 ft
            • Transportation
            • Large gathering spaces (lunchrooms, gyms, auditoriums)
            • Space
              • Measuring each classroom based on guidance recommendations
              • Determine desk and chair / furniture needs
              • Staffing
                • Scheduling
                • Social workers/counselors on staff to help
                • Adjustments to staff as needed
                • Back-ups/subs on call if numbers increase and guidance changes
                • Cleaning
                  • Review protocols
                  • Staffing
                  • Products
                  • Scheduling
                  • Bus / Transportation
                    • Staffing
                    • Scheduling
                    • Cafeteria / Food
                      • Staffing
                      • Scheduling
                      • Technology
                        • Equipment adjustments / needs
                  • Develop communications to share with community regarding re-entry

 

REVIEW AND SPACE

As the District continued to proactively plan and prepare for any changes in school guidance, the leadership team created building specific "Plan to Pivot" templates for each school to complete and submit prior to the Spring Recess. In addition, buildings were asked to submit specific classroom breakdowns. This is the template provided all 13 building.

I. Plan for Classrooms

  1. Number of students per class (if 3 feet of social distancing): XX
  2. Number of desks/tables/furniture (if 3 feet of social distancing): XX
  3. Do you need more desks?

i.      How many: XX

  1. Do you need more chairs?

i.      How many: XX

  1. Please provide any additional information regarding your classroom plans:

  2.   Plan for Cafeteria (if 6 feet of social distancing)

  1. Number of students that can fit: XX
  2. Please provide additional information of space considerations for meals (i.e. classroom/gym/outside) if social distancing remains at 6 feet in cafeterias:

  3.   Plan for Cafeteria (if 3 feet of social distancing)

  1. Number of students that can fit: XX
  2. Please provide additional information of space considerations for meals (i.e. classroom/gym/outside) if social distancing changes to 3 feet in cafeterias:

  4.   Plan for Physical Education (if 6 feet of social distancing)

  1. Locations:
  2. How will you ensure adequate social distancing?

  5.   Plan for Music and Music Spaces (if 6 feet of social distancing)

6. Plan for Art Room/Art

7. Plan for Library/Media Center/Auditorium

8. Transportation

  1. How will you handle students who arrive late on buses?
  2. How will you handle students who may depart late on buses in the afternoon?
  3. How are you addressing student drop off in the morning?
  4. How are you addressing student pickup in the afternoon?

 

9. Health and Safety

  1. Which entrances are you considering to use to help facilitate the increase in student population and completion of health/temperature screening in the morning?
  2. What additional support (aides/teachers) do you have in place to help with the increase in student population and successful completion of the health/temperature screening in the morning?

 

STAFFING

The District has reviewed overall staffing needs for K-12. It is important to note the District has maintained its staffing levels at each building, based on full, in-person enrollment for the 2020­2021 school year. We added some additional staff members to accommodate hybrid and remote learners. At this time, there is adequate staffing to meet the demands of the Plan to Pivot to full-time, in-person instruction. Following the Instructional Model Survey, which will be provided to families following any changes in guidance, the District will adjust and redeploy specific staff due to the number of students who choose remote or in-person instruction.

Regarding social workers, psychologists, and counselling staff, the current model, which provides support in each building five days per week, should meet the needs of our current number of students in each instructional model. If a particular school needs additional support, staff can be redeployed to assist and support as necessary.

The District currently employs:

14 psychologists

15 social workers

14 counselors (middle school)

15.5 counselors (high school)

ADDITIONAL STAFFING SUPPORT

The District has allowed more flexibility than usual to meet the demands of the COVID-19 global health pandemic.

In addition, we have offered each school the ability/option to have five (5) building based substitutes available to help and support as needed on a daily basis. We have also provided additional teaching assistants and teacher aides to support as necessary. The District has allowed part-time teaching assistants, who are able to stay for a full-day, to remain after their shift and substitute as needed. We have also revised our policy regarding substitute teachers to expand our pool of eligible substitute teachers and to help address the substitute teacher shortage. All new substitute teachers are vetted through the existing hiring process, including the verification of qualifications and background checks. These changes have provided a great deal of additional support to our buildings during these unprecedented times and will help us meet any future staffing needs while implementing the Plan to Pivot.

 

CLEANING

The Williamsville Central Schools Facilities Department is aware of the critical role they play in the support of education for all students. The availability of a clean, well lit, and properly ventilated educational environment is proven to increase learning and overall occupant comfort and satisfaction. In the era of this Global Pandemic, the safe and effective cleaning of occupied spaces is critical to ensuring the confidence of parents and staff in the return of in-person instruction in the District. This re-opening plan follows all current New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), Center for Disease Control (CDC), and New York State Education Department (NYSED) guidelines at the time of creation, and will be reviewed as pertinent guidance relevant to this work changes.

The information in this report provides is presented in two sections. The first section summarizes the Facilities Department's compliance with the New York State Education Department's COVID-19 mandatory Facilities requirements. The second section provides additional details on procedures and processes that the department will implement toward meeting these compliances. At the end of the report is information concerning current facts on cleaning and other facility related information.

 

It is important to state that there is no change in CDC, NYS Department of Health, or NYS Education department guidance on cleaning to date as applicable to a change in social distancing from 6 feet to 3 feet. Therefore, the information in this document represents the most current cleaning and maintenance protocols related to the facility department currently available.

(Section 1- Summary)

Compliance with Mandatory Reopening Requirements

  1. General Health and Safety Assurances

The Facility department will follow NYSED guidance related to school health and safety which includes assisting school administrators in structuring their instructional areas to meet social distancing requirements as well as the completion of enhanced cleaning processes in each school.

  1. Fire Code Compliance/Doorways/Emergency Drills

Each school and/or district reopening which include changes or additions to facilities must comply with the requirements of the 2020 New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (BC) and the State Energy Conservation Code and submit all changes to the New York State Education Department Office of Facility Planning (OFP).

The District Facilities Department understands the fire prevention and building code requirements. The District 's Safety Risk officer will distribute a suggested list of drills and evacuation exercises and will be available to explain the requirements to each school building principal as needed. The importance of the execution of these drills while complying with current social distancing guidelines will be emphasized.

 

  1. Inspections

 

Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure compliance with the 2020 Building Condition Survey and Visual Inspection, where applicable.

The District Facilities department is aware of the need to complete an "Annual Visual Inspection" this year, and is coordinating that work with Erie 1 BOCES Safety and Health division. This work will be completed as per NYSED guidance and submitted on schedule as required.

  1. Required Lead Testing Requirement for Schools

Each school and/or district reopening plan must provide provisions to conduct the Lead-In-Water Testing as required by NYS DOH regulation 67-4.

The District Facilities Department is aware of the "Lead in Water" testing requirements and has an action plan to complete such along with any remediation as soon as the buildings return to an "occupied" state to allow testing as per NYSED guidance.

  1. Meet NYSED requirements for hand sanitizers

Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure all existing and new Alcohol-based Hand-Rub Dispensers which are installed in any locations is in accordance with FCNYS 2020 Section 5705.5.

The District Facilities Department has reviewed the alcohol-based hand sanitizer requirements and will install such as per FCNYS 2020 Section 5705.5

  1. School Space Expansion including use of tents

Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure that all new building construction and temporary quarter project will be submitted to OFP for a full code review. If space is leased by the District it will consult with OFP.

The District Facilities Department understands the new building construction and temporary project review requirement. There are no plans by the District to complete this type of work in any part of the school reopening plan. The District Facilities Department understands the lease of space OFP review requirement. There are no plans by the District to enter into a lease of space in our school reopening plan. The District Facilities Department understands that the use of temporary or permanent use of tents must adhere to BCNYS. There are no plans by the District to use temporary or permanent tents in our school reopening plan.

  1. Maintain Plumbing Facilities and Fixtures

Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure that the existing or altered number of toilet and sink fixtures meet the minimum standards of the BCNYS. The District Facilities Department understands the need to meet BCNYS's minimum standards for toilet and sink fixtures. Appropriate counts have been completed in each school that confirm it is meeting these standards.

  1. Drinking Water Facilities

Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure that each building provides one drinking fountain per one hundred occupants or provide a written plan for a reasonable alternate source of drinking water.

The District Facilities Department has bottle filler units installed that meet the drinking water availability requirement per occupant count. All bubblers will be removed from service (disconnected electrically or physically turned off) and appropriate signage installed directing users to bottle filling locations.

  1. School Building Ventilation

Each school and/or district reopening plan must provide written plans on how to maintain adequate, code required ventilation (natural or mechanical) as designed.

The District Facilities Department is aware of the code required ventilation requirements. In preparation for the re-opening of school the District has thoroughly cleaned and inspected each operating unit, replaced filters with the appropriate MERV rating while still maintaining the required airflow. Mechanical components (motors, fans, bearing) were checked and replaced as needed to maintain reliable operation. All Building Management Systems (BMS) have been reviewed for setpoint variation, and all operable parameters maximized to bring in excess outside air while maintaining setpoints in the space. Outside air inlets have been inspected and cleaned as needed to provide unobstructed flow.

  1. Adherence to Special Reporting Requirements to the Office of Facility Planning

Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure that all project submissions only dedicated to "COVID-19 Reopening" will be labeled as such.

The District Facilities Department does not have a project submission to the OFP. However, if this were to occur it would label them "COVID-19 Reopening".

  1. Adherence to 2020 BCNYS Section 2606 for the use of plastic separators.

The District Facilities Department will comply with 2020 BCNYS Section 2606 should plastic dividers be acquired in the future.

 

(Section 2 - Additional Information on Procedures)
General Health and Safety Assurances

The District will follow the New York State Education Department (NYSED) re-opening guidance. If the District makes any building space changes that require review and approval by the NYSED it will follow the applicable guidance necessary to implement the changes.

Fire Code Compliance

All buildings will be maintained according to all codes established from New York State (NYS)

and NYSED.

Hand Dryers in Restrooms

All hand dryers will be disconnected and hand towel dispensers will be placed in those locations.

HVAC System

  • Switching operating schedules to meet needs of the space
  • Building ventilation systems have been evaluated and adjusted to run according to operational parameters.
  • Occupied areas are being provided with mechanical ventilation of at least 15 cfm per occupant of outside air during periods of occupancy

Special Re-opening Procedure for Water Systems

The building water distribution system and all outlets will be flushed for at least 10 minutes before our school buildings are re-occupied by students. This information will be documented. As stated in the Drinking Water Facilities section of this report the District Facilities Department has added bottle filler units that meet the drinking water availability requirement per school occupant count in compliance with the NYSED requirements.

Training Facilities Staff

The District provides all staff with annual trainings on safety items. There will now be special trainings for staff that address COVID-19 awareness. The specific training items are listed below.

  • Hazard Communication/Right-To-Know (annual)
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  • Exposure Control/Blood borne Pathogen (BBP)
  • COVID Awareness
    • New cleaning Protocols
    • Hand washing
    • Face Covering (sizing, use, wear & care)
    • Personal Health and Hygiene
    • Respiratory Etiquette
    • Special working conditions with face coverings (strenuous activity)

Required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The usage of PPE by staff is of the highest priority. The District is providing all staff with the required PPE below. Additionally, the facility department will coordinate the ordering of PPE for school usage applicable to students and staff These orders will be inventoried by the District until needed for distribution by our schools. Reorder levels have been established for PPE that will minimize the possibility of shortages of these important items.

 

  • Disposable gloves
  • Face Covering
  • Face Shield (if required)

Personal Protective Equipment Needs and Expenses

The chart below shows the PPE items the District purchased over the summer and into the fall. Our inventory is available for staff and students as needed for the rest of the 2020-2021 school year. Through continued discussion and evaluation of inventory the District is confident it has sufficient PPE to accommodate all students and staff upon implementation of the Plan to Pivot.

Date

Item Purchased

Cost

 

Initial Budget General Fund

Potential Allocation FEMA Grant

 

Potential Allocation CARES ACT

3/4/20

114 cases Diversy wipes (one minute kill claim)

$          5,700

$

5,700

$

5,700

 

 

3/17/20

13 handheld sprayers for disinfection

$          7,735

$

7,735

$

7,735

 

 

4/14/20

1760 K-95 face masks

$          1:760

$

1,760

$

1,760

 

 

4/17/20

1000 Disposable face masks

$          1,000

$

1,000

$

1,000

 

 

4/17120

3500 cotton face masks

$          5,075

$

5,075

$

5,075

 

 

5/11/20

30 boxes (3000) vinyl gloves

$          1,017

$

1,017

$

1,017

 

 

5/19/20

1500 cotton face masks

$          2,400

$

2,400

$

2,400

 

 

5/19/20

Clear acrylic for dividers

$          2,200

$

2,200

$

2,200

 

 

6/1/20

6 bottle fillers to replace fountains

$          6,815

$

6,815

 

 

$

6,815

6/9120

120 cases Facilpro hand sanitizer foam

$         21,480

$

21,480

$

21,480

 

 

6/9/20

1900 Ecolab hand sanitizer dispensers

$         13,680

$

13,680

$

13,680

 

 

6/9/20

2500 Ecolab refillable sanitizer bottles

$          6,250

$

6,250

$

6,250

 

 

6/15/20

1500 face shields

$          4,500

$

4,500

S

4,500

 

 

6115/20

3000 cotton face masks

S         4,260

$

4,260

$

4.260

 

 

6/16/20

2000 medical masks with nose clip

$        35,900

$

35,900

S

35,900

 

 

7/1/20

60000 latex gloves (various sizes)

S         1,482

$

1,482

S

1,482

 

 

7/2/20

13 ecolab hand sanitizer fill stations (remote use)

$          1,794

$

1,794

 

 

$

1,794

7/10/20

20 sheets of polycarbonate for clear dividers

5          5,315

$

5,315

 

 

$

5,315

7/16120

500 spray bottles

$            319

$

319

 

 

$

319

7117/20

3 bottle fillers to replace fountains

$          2,861

$

2,861

 

 

S

2,861

7/24/20

3000 face shields

$          3,000

$

3,000

 

 

$

3,000

7/20120

Signs - fountains are not in service

$             270

$

270

 

 

 

 

7/21120

20000 Youth (child size face masks) cotton

$          6,000

$

6,000

 

 

$

6,000

7/24/20

20000 Youth disposable face masks

$          6,800

$

6,800

 

 

S

6,800

7124120

70 cases of foam hand sanitizer

$        10,157

$

10,157

 

 

S

10,157

7124/20

180 gallons of hand sanitizer (mixing for refill)

$          9:638

$

9,638

 

 

$

9:638

7/29/20

20 bottle fillers to replace fountains

$        17,438

$

17,438

 

 

S

17,438

8/6/20

900 Disposable medical masks 3 ply

$          7,200

$

7,200

 

 

$

7,200

8/6/20

1200 kid face shields

$          2,040

$

2,040

 

 

$

2,040

8/7/20

140 classroom desk (clear dividers)

$        10,547

$

10,547

 

 

$

10,547

8/7/20

24 self-supporting clear dividers

$          1,359

S

1,359

 

 

5

1,359

817/20

80 Temperature sensors for entrances

$       116,000

$              116,000

 

 

$

116,000

Total To Date

$      321,992    $              321,992  $

114,439        $

207,283

 

 

 

 

 

Specific Facility Department COVID-19 Roles and Responsibilities 
District Level Supervisors

  • Create plans for staff per applicable guidance
  • Inventory necessary materials and supply chain for cleaning, disinfecting, and preventing spread of disease
  • Conduct a facility walk throughs to ensure that the classrooms, offices, common spaces, and the exterior are ready for staff and students
  • Coordinate training to staff members on operating procedures, proper cleaning techniques, proper use of chemicals and personal protective equipment
  • Provide ongoing communication and feedback to staff on the quality of their work as it pertains to meeting COVID-19 requirements.
  • Work with District and School level Administrators regarding COVID-19 planning
  • Maintain a log of all cleaning activities including the following information; date, location of work, scope of work, staff involved in completing work.

Cleaning & Maintenance Staff

  • Maintain social distancing as much as possible from students and staff
  • Wear face coverings at all times when students are in the school unless there is a special work situation that does not allow for this to occur. In these situations, social

distancing will be maintained and or other safety measures implemented that may include closing an area from student access until the work is completed.

  • Use all chemical cleaners and disinfectants in the manner recommended by the manufacturer and your supervisor
  • Wear all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when cleaning and using chemicals
  • Follow US CDS Guidelines for Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019- ncov/community/disinfecting-building-facility.html

Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropyl alcohol.

Cleaning/Disinfecting Procedure (Compliance with Center of Disease Control (CDC)

Guidelines

Usage of appropriate cleaners (Correct chemical content that is permitted in schools and will

address the COVID-19 disease)

Specific Supplies Used

  • Surface cleaner
    • Spray bottle
    • Bucket
    • Soap & water
      • Spray bottle
      • Bucket

* Spray bottle recommended to minimize cross contamination

Cleaning/Disinfecting (Deep Cleaning) Procedure

Step 1. Cleaning

  • Staff must wear disposable gloves and/or any other required PPE to clean and disinfect areas
  • Clean surfaces using an appropriate cleaner making sure you produce friction on the surface
  • Verify the usage parameters for the cleaning solutions
  • Cleaning process will reduce the number of germs, dirt and impurities on the surface.
    Friction action breaks biofilm on any virus allowing disinfectant to contact the area
  • Usage of cleaning cloths (microfiber) often or use disposable products to minimize cross contamination of cleaned areas
  • Plan to complete routine cleaning of frequently-touched surfaces. This cleaning will occur at periodic times during the time students and staff are in the school for instruction purposes. Specific high touch cleaning items include door handles, sink handles, drinking fountains. Other high touch items that are directly related to instruction such as classroom student learning tools, physical education equipment and music equipment will be cleaned in conformance with the District's instructional program plan for these items.

Step 2. Disinfect

  • Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces
  • Ensure the area or item is cleaned with a cleaning agent before disinfecting
  • Then disinfectant can be used
  • Take all precautions on the label such as PPE, and safe handling procedures
  • Consider changing out cleaning cloths (microfiber) often or use disposable products
  • Use EPA-registered disinfectant. Follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the product. Many products recommend:
    • Keeping the surface wet for the entire contact/dwell time (see product label)
    • Precautions such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product

Daily Classroom Cleaning

  • Classrooms will be cleaned and disinfected by the custodial staff at the end of each day. The District will essentially complete a deep cleaning of these areas each night.
  • The facility department will work with each school to request that teachers and staff remove classroom materials from desks, chairs, and areas that students may touch each day thereby allowing them to be cleaned and disinfected possible

Special Cleaning of Schools prior to reopening after a school closure

Following an extended school closure for the continued levels of cleanliness and disinfection required to meet federal and state mandates.

Classroom

  • Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces (but not limited to):
    • Classroom desks and chairs
    • Door handles and push plates
    • Bathroom faucets
    • Light switches
    • Shared telephones (with assistance from other district staff)
    • Shared desktops (with assistance from other district staff)
    • Shared computer keyboards and mice (with assistance from other district staff)
    • All trash receptacles emptied and trash removed from the room
    • Floors swept and dust mopped
    • Floors spot mopped or full mopped
    • Wipe clean: Tables, furniture and counter tops
    • Make sure all windows are locked
    • Clean/Disinfect classroom sink and toilet area (if applicable)
    • Vacuum carpet daily if applicable
    • Re-stock all paper and soap products

Restrooms and Locker Rooms

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

Clerical/Admin Offices

  • Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces:
    • Door handles and push plates
    • Bathroom faucets
    • Light switches
    • Shared telephones
    • Shared desktops
    • Shared computer keyboards and mice
    • All trash receptacles emptied and trash removed from the room
    • Floors swept and dust mopped
    • Floors spot mopped or full mopped
    • Wipe clean: Tables, furniture and counter tops
    • Walls are spot cleaned
    • Carpets are spot cleaned
    • Make sure all windows are locked
    • Clean/Disinfect shared sink and toilet area if applicable
    • Vacuum carpet daily if applicable
    • Restock all paper and soap products

School Cleaning Inspection

  • The facility department supervisor will inspect each school prior to opening. After they have completed their inspection they will discuss any concerns with the school's head custodian.
  • The facility department supervisor will communicate with the appropriate school building administrator and review their school inspection report with them. They will further address any school building administrator questions or concerns prior to the school being reopened to student occupancy.

TRANSPORTATION

The Williamsville Central School District understands that the safe transportation of students to and from school is a critical part of returning students to the classroom. Williamsville continues to work with our contractor, Student Transportation of America (STA), to make sure that we follow all the mandatory requirements and guidance that we receive from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) as well as considering all recommendations from Federal and State agencies. This plan provides information on how the Williamsville Central School District is complying with the NYSED COVID-19 reopening requirements as they related to school bus transportation.

School Bus Ridership — Parents Responsibilities

  1. School buses are considered and extension of the classroom by the New York State Education department. Therefore, all items outlined in the Health and Safety section of the District's reopening plan apply to the school bus.
  2. All parents and guardians will be required to ensure that their child or children are not experiencing any signs and symptoms of COVID-19. This includes that they do not have a fever of 100 degrees or more prior to boarding the bus. (Temperature checks of their child or children are required to be performed by parents each morning. Parents must follow the District process stated in the health and safety section of the reopening plan to affirm that a fever is not present in their child or children prior to them boarding a school bus)

Student Bus Ridership — On the Bus

  1. All students are required to wear a face protection at all times when they are a school bus.
  2. If a student arrives at the bus stop without face protection, face protection will be provided by the bus driver to the student to wear prior to boarding the bus.
  3. Students will not be allowed on the bus without face protection. The District will apply the Student Code of Conduct to students who do not wear face protection on buses.
  4. If a student qualifies for special transportation services, they will still be required to wear face protection. Specific questions on student PPE requirements that are to be worn on buses should be directed to our Transportation department. If the question is related to a student's medical condition, please contact the District's Student Service department.
  5. Bus loading — Buses will be loaded at approximately 50% of their capacity. Students will be seated one per seat. Students from the same family will share a seat. Students will be in alternating left and right positions. Seating locations will be marked. The first students boarding a bus will sit at the back of the bus. Bus seats will be filled-in from the back to the front unless there is a special circumstance pertinent to a student or students.
  6. If an alternate seating plan is needed to address social distancing requirements, bus loads will be further reduced to approximately eleven students per bus.

Bus Schedules

  1. Student bus information will continue to be available in the District's WITS online system.
  2. New students and students enrolled in private nonpublic schools will continue to receive a letter from the school bus transportation department at the end of August with their bus information.

Bus Schedule Impact Items — (Bus seating per current guidelines 1 student per seat)

  1. The implemented District's reopening of school model will impact bus schedules.
  2. The number of parents who choose to drive their child or children to school will lessen bus ridership and positively impact bus times.
  3. A full student in-school reopening plan without social distancing, full bus loads (48-60 students per bus based on school level), will result in a normal bus schedules.
  4. 4.     Reduced bus loading requirements (50% bus capacity with face protection) with a  full in-school reopening plan (change from 6 feet to 3 feet in classrooms) will likely result in multiple bus runs for each bus route per school. This would result in each school having an average of three different bus runs each morning and afternoon that would normally be completed in one bus run. As an example, bus run number one picks up students up to their student capacity limit of 24 students, it then drops them off at their school and returns to the neighborhoods to complete run number two and possibly run number three. A similar process occurs in the afternoon. This would result in varying school arrival and departure times for students at each school. The same buses that perform multiple runs for the first tier of schools (high schools) must then do the same multiple runs at the second tier of schools (elementary) and again at the third tier of schools (middle schools). The number of extra runs (late buses) will be dependent on  the number of students who choose to ride buses.
  5. 5.     The District will send out a bus use survey to all parents as part of the change in  social distancing and the increase in school enrollment. Results of this survey will require two weeks of work by the transportation routing area to create revised bus routes.
  6. Bus loading requirements for District hybrid in-school reopening including the change from 6 feet social distancing to 3 feet social distancing plan will have a significant impact on bus schedules and may result in multiple hours for bussing at all schools.

Williamsville's bus load capacity plan will start with a load capacity of 24 students, one per seat with siblings being able to share seats. This information is considered in our bus capacity modeling. The District is also removing students from our bus routing model for children who are enrolled in the 100% remote learning option. Once actual ridership is received by the transportation department there will be adjustments made to bus routes to lower the students on buses as much as possible while meeting each school's arrival times.

Adding Buses and Bus Drivers

The District through its bus contractor has no ability to add physical buses. The availability of buses is not an option due to order timelines and cost of purchase. Used buses are not available. Even if there would be an option to purchase buses, there are not enough drivers to drive the buses. COVID-19 has depleted our normal driver pool by 35 drivers. Many drivers from the last school year have decided not to drive due to health concerns of their own or for other personal circumstances. Therefore, there is no opportunity for the District to add buses and drivers to the fleet to temporarily address the COVID-19 social distancing requirements applicable to student seating on buses.

School Bus Cleaning Requirements

  1. Drivers are instructed on how to clean/disinfect the driver compartment and high-contact points using approved cleaning materials in accordance with Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines after each a.m. and p.m. run.
  2. All buses will be cleaned/disinfected per the required guideline, once per day after all school runs have been completed.
  3. In the event of a bus swap due to a breakdown, drivers must clean the driver's compartment and all high-touch surfaces on the bus prior to students being transferred onto the bus.

School Bus COVID-19 Safety Requirements

  1. School buses will not have combustible hand sanitizers.
  2. School bus drivers and monitors are instructed that they may not carry personal bottles of hand sanitizer on school buses.
  3. All school bus drivers and monitors or other bus company employee will wear a CDC approved face covering when students are on the bus.

Face protection - Drivers/Monitors: To be worn at all times when students are on the bus. To be worn when on duty and where practical, when operating a vehicle. To be worn at all times when interacting with coworkers or the general public if social distancing is not possible.

PPE gloves - Drivers/Monitors will wear PPE-gloves for use whenever they have direct physical contact with a child.

  1. Face protection will be worn by other Transportation staff such as dispatchers,

mechanics, monitors, cleaners, and attendants when they are in their transportation bus garage locations and within the minimum social distancing guidelines.

Bus Garage Cleaning

  1. All maintenance areas that have shared surfaces / tools will be cleaned/disinfected prior to use by another employee. In certain situations, gloves will be worn by employees when using shared tools.
  2. All bus garage breakrooms, dispatch offices and dispatch areas where bus drivers meet will be cleaned / disinfected per CDC guidelines on a daily basis.

STA Bus Garage Driver and Staff Training Program

  1. Both initial and ongoing safety training are pivotal for the type of work that STA performs daily. This is why it is critical that they have implemented preventive measures that can reduce the risk of exposure during the various phases of their training programs. In addition to a standard training program, it is their goal to ensure employee comprehension and understanding on how employees may be exposed to infectious disease, what their responsibilities are, and what protective measures they can take.
  2. All bus personnel have been trained and will receive periodic refresher training on proper use of personal protective equipment, proper social distancing, and proper cleaning/disinfecting of buses.
  3. Prior to staff reporting for training, staff are instructed on the process to self-assess themselves for COVID-19 symptoms.
  4. Training programs include classroom, behind-the-wheel, and various other methods of hands-on training for both new hires and existing employees. The following measures are considered for every training.

STA - Bus Contractor — COVID-19 Classroom In-service meeting Protocols

Because classroom training and in-service meetings primarily consists of employees engaged in

large groups and in-person sessions, a greater degree of focus must be placed on PPE and social

distancing. The following is implemented for all group classroom/in-service

training sessions:

  1. To limit exposure, make use of blended in-person and distance training models (such as online learning and pre-recorded sessions) for the delivery of training.
  2. Online learning must be conducted via Company-approved technology and in accordance with Company policy and regulatory requirements.
  3. Established social distancing requirements are based on the size of the training facility and enforced for in-person class sessions. Increasing the number of in-service training sessions may be necessary to account for social distancing. Classrooms will be disinfected before and after each use with Company-approved cleaning products.
  4. PPE must be worn by all trainers, trainees and staff in accordance with the company's PPE guidelines.
  5. Avoid cross-contamination of materials by prohibiting the sharing of pens, paperwork, or other materials.
  6. STA requires employees to self-screen for symptoms prior to coming to work on

 

each workday. Before coming to work, employees must assess whether they have had any of the following symptoms in the 72 hours prior to the self-screening:

1. A temperature over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit

2. Dry repeated cough

3. Shortness of breath

4. Difficulty breathing

5. Chills

6. Muscle pain

7. Sore throat

8. New loss of taste or smell

STA's Employee Return to Work Protocol

Employees who answer "yes" to the above should contact their supervisor immediately and self-isolate (i.e., not report to work) until:

  1. The employee's fever, if any, has subsided for 72 hours (three full days) without the use of medicine that reduces fever; AND
  2. Other symptoms have improved; AND ten (10) days have passed since the employee's first symptoms.
  3. Additionally, employees may be required to self-isolate if:

The employee has been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the last 10 days;

The employee has been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 in

the last 14 days;

The employee has been exposed to COVID-19 in the last 14 days; or

The employee has traveled on a cruise ship or by air in the last 10 days.

Employees who meet any of the above criteria should contact their supervisor

immediately to request guidance and instruction on whether to self-isolate.

Non-public School Transportation

If the Williamsville Central School District is in remote learning session for students; this does not impact how it will provide bus transportation to non-public school students. However, if the school district is on recess, all normal recess transportation procedures are in effect for that period of time.

Student Entitlement to Bus Transportation

The District is committed to providing school bus transportation to all students who qualify for this service by all governing laws. This specifically applies to foster care children, homeless or students attending private and charter schools. The COVID-19 bus safety procedures used by the Williamsville Central School District will pertain to all of these students.

CHILD NUTRITION

The Williamsville Central School District understands that a school nutrition program is a key component to a successful educational environment. Children cannot focus on learning when they are hungry. School meals boost learning, and studies show that students perform best academically when they are well nourished. In the 2020-21 school year our Child Nutrition department provided free meals to our students and community through Federal and State programs. This allowed our department to feed all students who required food assistance.

As a School Food Authority (SFA) as deemed by New York State, it is essential that we consider the resources and flexibilities that are necessary to transition food service operations to an on-site or off-site student meal delivery system or operate both at the same time. This includes utilizing state or nationwide waivers and updating school policies, standard operating procedures, and trainings to ensure compliance with Child Nutrition Program requirements in conformance with New York State and Department of Health guidelines.

The information in this plan is presented in two sections. The first section summaries the Child Nutrition Department's understanding and compliance with the New York State Education Department's COVID-19 mandatory food service requirements. The second section provides additional details on procedures and processes that the program will implement toward meeting these compliances.

(Section 1 - Summary)

Compliance with Mandatory Reopening Requirements

1. Access to School Meals - Each school and/or district reopening must provide all students

enrolled in the SFA with access to school meals each school day. This must include students in attendance at school and students who may be learning remotely.

The District Child Nutrition program understands and will meet the student meal requirements for in-school and when and if there are remote learning student situations. The program is prepared to offer meals that meet the applicable Federal and State meal guidelines.

a)     The District will use its COVID-19 communication plan to provide parents and students with information on meal service, eligibility, payment and no cost options. A parent may use the following weblink to access a Free and Reduced meal application.

https://www.williamsvillekl2nutrition.com/index.php?sid=149668 5407405&pag e=lunchapps

b)     To protect students and staff, the use of cash for the purchase of lunches will be strongly discouraged. All parents will receive information on how to establish a pre-paid account for their child or children prior to the start of school. This

 

information is available through the Child Nutrition section of the District's website. The following weblink provides direct access to this information.

https://www.williamsvillekl2nutrition.com/index.php?sid=1496685407405&pag e=prepaidacct

2.           Health and Safety Guidelines - The District will continue to meet all applicable health and safety guidelines.

The District's Child Nutrition program will meet all applicable health and safety guidelines that pertain to food preparation and cafeteria cleaning/disinfecting. The specific procedures in use follow the New York State Education Department's requirements. Below is the weblink to this information.

http://www.cn.nysed.gov/content/food-safety-and-sanitation

Please refer to section 2 for specific information on cleaning protocols.

  1. 3.           Food allergy protection for students - Each school and/or district reopening plan include measures to protect students with food allergies. The District and the Child Nutrition department understands the importance on implementing safety measures that address food allergies. The COVID-19 pandemic does not change how the lunch program will work with school administrators and parents to prepare safe menu alternatives for students who have food allergies. The Child Nutrition department will coordinate the distribution of lunches for food allergy students with school building administrators according to the lunch seating plan that is implemented by administrators in their schools.
  2. 4.           Student Hand Hygiene Procedures - Each school and/or district reopening plan must include protocols and procedures on how students will perform hand hygiene before and after eating, as well as how appropriate hand hygiene will be communicated to students. Hand hygiene information and procedures will be posted throughout each school. This will include hand hygiene postings in cafeterias and at all food serving lines. Students will have access to hand sanitizer stations throughout the school and special hand sanitizer stations will be located near the entrances of all cafeterias. All students will be instructed by district staff to complete hand hygiene before and after eating using the handwashing/hand sanitizer options that are available to them.
  3. 5.           Students Sharing Food - The District will inform students that they should not be sharing food with other students. This message will be provided directly to students and will appear in cafeteria signage so that students are reminded of this guidance. Students are allowed to bring in lunches from home.
  4. 6.           Lunch table cleaning/disinfecting - The District cafeteria cleaning process requires that all cafeteria student lunch tables are cleaned and disinfected between student use. The

 

cleaning process will follow the approved CDC guidance as it pertains to use of disinfectants. The process will be a coordinated effort between the Child Nutrition Department staff, Facility Department Staff, and School Administrator as it pertains to student lunch schedules and time of cleaning coordination. The cafeteria cleaning process is a high priority for the District. If an alternate feeding area is used by a school there will be a special plan created to allow for the cleaning/disinfecting of the area or desks to occur before another student is permitted to use the space for their lunch or instructional class work.

  1. 7.           Compliance with New York State Child Nutrition program requirements – Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure compliance with Child Nutrition Program requirements (if the school is its own SFA — for charter schools that are part of a district's SFA, the plan must ensure communication with the district regarding food serve requirements.

The District's re-opening plan will comply with the normal New York State Education Department Child Nutrition program requirements. It will follow SFA policies and communicate school meal service, lunch eligibility options, and changes in operations to parents through the District's normal communication processes.

The Child Nutrition program will comply with all public health emergency meal benefit requirements that are or become available to students. The availability of free meals will be determined by New York State laws and/or Executive Order. If there are no special laws or orders governing the distribution of free meals, then our meal program will follow the laws and regulations that are applicable to the District's status as an SFA. Questions concerning our meal lunch program may be directed to our Child Nutrition Department at 716-626-8870.

8.       Communication protocols for Child Nutrition — The Child Nutrition department will provide parents/students with meal and related program items through the District's established COVID-19 communication process. This will include multiple communication platforms including WITS, website, email, and social media. Detailed information on the communication process may be found in the District's Communication section of its School Reopening plan.

9.       Social distancing students during meal consumption - The District will provide the necessary social distance space for students when they are consuming meals. The District will utilize appropriate methods per New York State and Department of health guidelines that are currently applicable to meal consumption. Since the exact distance necessary for social distancing when consuming a meal in school may change throughout the school year, this measurement statistic is not listed here.

 

Section 2 — Additional Information on Procedures and Processes
Safety and Sanitation

  • The Child Nutrition program will follow the standard operating procedures for sanitation of school kitchens, cafeterias, food warehouses, and central production kitchens. The procedures have been updated and reviewed by our District's Safety and Health officer. It is important to state that the Erie County Department of Health does have authorization to review, monitor, approve and enforce food safety and sanitization measures for school districts.
  • The Child Nutrition program has completed a process to identify the need for additional equipment and/or supplies. An example of items ordered are thermometers, disinfecting wipes, remote food heating stations and supplies such as disposable lunch serving tableware that considers food and health safety.
  • Appropriate items have been ordered to allow us to complete our cleaning/sanitization process in compliance with Department of Health guidelines. The specific cleaning/sanitization process is not listed here because the guidelines may change as the impact from COVID-19 changes.
  • The Child Nutrition program will have adequate supplies of face masks, soap, hand sanitizer, and tissues in food service areas (see the Health and Safety section). Additionally, there will be a supply of face coverings available for distribution to students if they lose their face covering on their way to the cafeteria or if their face mask becomes unusable when they are in the cafeteria.
  • A clean and disinfecting process will occur on all high-touch surfaces including tables, chairs, carts and point-of-service touch pads.
  • A no-touch process will be implemented for student PIN number input for the purchase of lunches. The PIN number input will be completed by cashiers.
  • The Child Nutrition program is discouraging the use of all cash transactions in the cafeteria. It is recommended that all parents who want their child or children to purchase a lunch have a Nutri-Kids account. Account set-up is found on our website at the link previously stated in this document.

Specific Food Safety Preparation Practices

  • Use timers for cleaning reminders; cleaning in kitchen is continuous;
  • Wear single-use gloves when handling or delivering all foods;
  • Wear a disposable apron when handling or delivering foods;
  • Only allow program staff, custodial staff, and approved school staff to be in eating areas.
  • Temporarily suspend the use of parent volunteers in cafeterias

Availability of Drinking Water

The District has disconnected the bubblers on school drinking fountains. To address the need to provide student access to drinking water, bottle fill water stations are available for student use at various locations in the school. The quantity of bottle fill stations in each school meets the New York State Education Department's requirement for access to drinking water. Additionally, the cafeteria will provide for the safe distribution of cups to students if they wish to obtain drinking

 

water in the serving lines. The availability of water in the serving line fulfills a USDA requirement.

Meals Serving Locations

  • The preferred meal serving location at all schools is their cafeteria. If meals need to be served in alternate locations, all of the necessary SFA sanitization and safety standards will be implemented by the program. Lunch serving locations may differ by school due to the need to reallocate space for other uses. Parents should consult with their school for the exact locations or locations for meal consumption.
  • The use of share tables, salad bars and other self-service refrigerators and/or buffets for food and condiments will not be available to students. (Condiment single use packets will be provided for students who choose to use them)
  • All students will be strongly discouraged to share food with other students. Monitors will reinforce this practice with students.
  • The need to social distance students in a lunch line requires that a customized plan be created for each school based on their lunch schedules. This plan may include additional serving stations, varied lunch times, boxed lunches and similar options like a "grab n' go" kiosk.
  • Physical distancing students at their lunch tables will occur per the NYSED guidelines. This may include tape on floors, signage, table spacing, seating restrictions being noted on tables and school staff guidance to students on their appropriate seating locations.
  • The Child Nutrition program may also implement a lunch pre-order process for students. This process may take on different forms based on grade levels. It could result in the ability for parents to provide online orders and/or orders to be gathered from students prior to them entering the cafeteria or assigned meal eating space.
  • The Child Nutrition program will coordinate with school personnel special meal orders that are needed to meet the feeding of students with disabilities. This process does not change from prior school years.
  • All non-food service staff will be provided training for any meal service-related activity that they may be asked to perform.
  • COVID-19 safety and hygiene posters will be placed in meal locations.

Meals Consumed Offsite

The Child Nutrition department is prepared to provide students/parents with several options to obtain meals for offsite consumption. The qualification to receive these meals will follow New York State and Federal guidance. The guidance information will be communicated to parents through the District's COVID-19 communication processes. The offsite meal program will include bulk meals packaged in boxes or containers for multiple days (Number of meals distributed at one time will be dependent on the status of students in either an in-school, out-of-school or some hybrid combination program. All meal guidance will follow the latest applicable New York State guidelines.

If the District were to implement a hybrid in-school teaching model sometime in the 2020-21 school year students are entitled to receive meals for the days they are not in school. The Child

 

Nutrition department will communicate options to parents on how they may choose to receive these meals for their child or children.

The anticipated meal delivery options are expected to include:

1. Grab and go;

2. School curb-side pick-up;

3. Predetermined school distribution area;

4. Regional district distribution locations when school is not in session or there is a school closure.

Program Requirements per Social Distancing

Current student lunch COVID-19 guidelines require 6 feet of space between students when they are eating. Each school administration understands this requirement and they have developed individual student eating plans to meet this requirement. Their plans utilize spaces other than cafeterias. It is necessary to use alternate eating locations in order to feed the number of students in lunch periods while meeting the social distancing guidelines. Examples of alternate eating locations include classrooms, gyms, and multi-purpose spaces that may be available in a particular school.

Additional Food Service Resources

The NYSED Child Nutrition Office

http://www.cn.nysed.gov/national-lunch-program

USDA Food and Nutrition Service
https://www.fns.usda.gov/

Institute of Child Nutrition
https://theicn.org/

New York State Department of Health Food Safety Guidance
https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/indoors/food safety/

 

TECHNOLOGY

Extensive technology was put into place to support students, support staff, and teachers this school year as a significant component of our District's instructional models. Technology tools such as laptops, web cameras, and document cameras were provided to each teacher, and students received Chromebooks upon request. Loaner devices and WiFi were provided to students and families as needed through the district's request processes. Upon return to a five-day schedule for students, and while maintaining a remote option, the District will continue to provide any necessary supports to students and staff.

With respect to student devices, communication will be provided to families in order to address any student needs with regard to technology, particularly if a change in instructional model. Families may continue to utilize the District's request process to access any necessary supports.

With a change in model to return to school on a five-day schedule, in classroom technologies will continue to be utilized. At each school, a review of all technical components would be completed by technology staff including computer support technicians to confirm student supports in school and at home. This would include review and implementation of any device carts that may be necessary. In addition, technology integrators and facilitators would provide necessary support to staff, students, and parents, as appropriate. The District has already increased its staffing levels for buildings to include a computer support technician, technology integrator, and technology facilitator at each school. This would provide adequate support for our plan to pivot.

Measures as described above are in alignment with New York State Education Department mandatory assurances submitted in August 2020 and provide additional non-mandatory supports to enhance our educational programs.

 

COMMUNICATIONS

The District utilizes numerous communication channels to inform parents, students, teachers, administrators, support staff, and the community in general of procedures and protocols with respect to the COVID-19 pandemic. As new information and directives are received from New York State, the District will continue to provide ample communications to all stakeholders.

The District has been communicating regularly with stakeholders through WITSMail, text messages, weekly video and newsletter updates, social media, Board of Education meetings, Superintendent Community Council, and PTSA meetings regarding the Plan to Pivot. Since March 5, 2021, weekly updates have been filmed at a different school each week, showcasing the work being done within the building and to hear directly from school principals regarding specific actions schools are taking to pivot.

District communications regarding the change in guidance was provided based on the April 9, 2021 New York State Department of Health updated school guidance. We created a communications plan and have also prepared correspondence to share with staff and families.

The following is the 6-Step Communication Plan

Communications Plan

School Guidance Changes Allowing for

Increased Capacity for Full-Time, In-Person Instruction

  • Step 1:
    • Notify families of updated guidance
      • When it was received
      • What guidance is changed
      • When the updated guidance goes into effect
      • What the next steps are for the District
      • Notify staff of updated guidance
        • When it was received
        • What guidance is changed
        • When the updated guidance goes into effect
        • What the next steps are for the District

 

  • Step 2:
    • Survey to families regarding updated guidance and the instructional model they will choose
      • What is the question(s)?
        • "With a change in State guidance allowing for increased capacity for full-time, in person instruction, which instructional model do you choose?"
        • What are the options based on updated guidance?
          • Full-time, in-person instruction
          • Fully remote instruction
          • Timeframe for families to respond
            • 48 hours (2 days)
            • Is their selection set in stone for the remainder of the year? YES
            • Outline ECDOH quarantine guidelines? YES
            • Survey also asked about bus transportation needed in the morning and afternoon for planning purposes

 

  • Step 3:
    • Communication to families and staff on survey results and next steps
      • Survey results
        • Total responses
        • Total for full-time, in-person instruction
        • Total for fully remote instruction
        • Grade level breakdown? YES
        • School breakdown? YES
          • How does this impact elementary school differently than middle and high school?
            • In-person teachers?
            • Remote teachers?
            • Next steps for the District
              • Implementation
              • How can they ask questions?
                • Principals/APs?
                • Health and safety protocols that will continue
                  • Daily COVID-19 Questionnaire
                  • Health screening as students enter the schools
                  • Masks
                  • Other mitigation practices
                  • Daily COVID-19 Report
                  • Step 4:
                    • Communication to staff and families on the impact of student/teacher changes (elementary level) based on whether they're switching remote to in-person or in-person to remote — this could lead to a potential teacher change.

 

AS OF APRIL 13, 2021, THE DISTRICT IS AT THIS STEP 

 

  • Step 5:
    • District holds informational forum (Zoom Webinar/YouTube) to school community on guidance and information
    • Building specific presentations (Zoom Webinar/YouTube) to school community for new health/safety protocols and any additional changes within the building

 

  • Step 6:
    • Implement and follow updated guidance

 

STEP 3:

  • Review data from informational survey
    • Level breakdown/analysis at Elementary, Middle, and High School
    • Classroom analysis at Elementary

 

The information gathered from the Instructional Information Gathering Survey allowed each building to review and prepare their school buildings for a change in school guidance.

 

 

STEP 4:

  • Inform staff and families of changes to state guidance regarding social distancing when guidance is updated
    • Letter drafted/approved by leadership team, K-12 principals, and Board of Education on March 25, 2021

STEP 5:

  • Send out instructional survey to families asking them to choose an instructional model for the remainder of the year
    • This question will be available on WITS for families to respond to
    • Survey goes on District website, out to all parents via text, and promoted in weekly superintendent's video, along with District Newsletter, all School ­Specific Newsletters, Twitter and Facebook page

Step 4 and Step 5 will be completed concurrently with the District's Plan to Pivot.

Upon receipt of updated guidance, the District will send communication to families and staff informing them of the changes. In addition, families will have access and be asked to submit the Instructional Model Survey, which includes instructional and transportation questions, within 48 hours.

 

STEP 6:

  • Reconfigure classrooms and other areas within school building to meet updated guidance utilizing building-based Plan to Pivot

The data from the Instructional Survey will be analyzed from a District and building perspective. Each school will utilize their specific building Plan to Pivot to meet the requirements of any updated school guidance. Following the analysis of the survey, parents at the elementary school level will be notified of any changes in teacher assignments. Whether a student is in-person or remote in the concurrent hyflex model at the middle school and high school levels, these students should not be impacted by any teacher changes since they follow their normal bell schedule on a daily basis.

 

STEP 7:

  • Share instructional survey results and next steps with staff and families
    • Share instructional information with staff and families regarding any changes for students/teachers
    • District level presentation (Zoom Webinar/YouTube) to school community on guidance and information
    • Building specific presentations (Zoom Webinar/YouTube) to school community for new health/safety protocols and any additional changes within the building

 

STEP 8:

  • Begin implementation of new guidance

Due to the District's proactive planning since February, the detailed Plan to Pivot will allow the District to move swiftly and effectively regarding the implementation of any new guidance for schools.

In conclusion, please note that District has taken every possible effort to plan proactively, keep our school community informed, and advocate on behalf of the important effort to return our students to full-time, in-person instruction. We understand that this school year has been challenging for our families and staff members, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to support our school community while remaining in compliance with appropriate health and safety protocol as well as the mandatory directives and guidance from the New York State Department of Health and the New York State Education Department. The District has made efforts to maintain open lines of communication with families and staff, and will continue to do so going forward.



[1] Per “Interim Guidance For In-Person Instruction at Pre-K to Grade 12 Schools During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency” published by the New York State Department of Health on April 9, 2021, school districts are required to design a reopening plan after obtaining local community feedback from parents, community members, teachers, staff and local health departments.

Williamsville Central School District

Plan to Pivot

*This is a working document and subject to change according to pending stakeholder feedback[1] *

Introduction:

The District's `Plan to Pivot' allows for the ability to pivot safely, effectively, and swiftly upon receiving updated school guidance from New York State, the New York State Department of Health, and/or the New York State Education Department.

The District provided information on the `Plan to Pivot' to all stakeholders including our bargaining units on an on-going basis. The District discussed our `Plan to Pivot' with bargaining units on receipt of updated school guidance and will convene the District Leadership Roundtable with leadership from all seven bargaining units to ensure collaboration and successful implementation.

Summary of Key Elements of the Plan to Pivot:

The length of time needed to complete each step is based on guidance received from the New York State Department of Health on April 9, 2021. The following information represents a brief highlight of the District's `Plan to Pivot.' The detailed `Plan to Pivot' is available in the corresponding pages.

Step 1:

·       Send out preliminary Instructional Model Information Gathering Survey on February 25, 2021 to determine who plans on keeping their child(ren) in one of the following models if the guidance changes:

o   Fully remote

o   Full time, in-person

o   Survey goes on District website, out to all parents via text, and promoted in weekly superintendent's video, along with District Newsletter, all School - Specific Newsletters, Twitter and Facebook page

Step 2:

·       Meet with Reset, Relaunch, Return Committee and expand with elementary

o   Unite elementary as part of committee

o   Restructure them into Elementary, Middle and High School committees

o   Utilize level coordinators

o   Initial meeting — Monday, March 1st at 3:30pm

o   Second meeting — Wednesday, March 3rd at 9:00am

nMeet as needed to continue discussion on logistics and planning with regular updates during K-12 and leadership meetings

·       Brainstorm and discuss additional members to committees

·       Develop building specific Plan to Pivot coordinated by building administrators

·       Committees will focus on logistics, communications, and safety protocols

·       Develop communications to share with community regarding re-entry

Step 3:

·       Review data from informational survey

o   Level breakdown/analysis at Elementary, Middle, and High School

o   Classroom analysis at Elementary

 

Step 4:

·       Inform staff and families of changes to state guidance regarding social distancing when guidance is updated

o   Letter drafted/approved by leadership team, K-12 principals, and Board of Education on March 25, 2021

Step 5:

·       Send out instructional survey to families asking them to choose an instructional model for the remainder of the year

o   This question will be available on WITS for families to respond to

o   Survey goes on District website, out to all parents via text, and promoted in weekly superintendent's video, along with District Newsletter, all School - Specific Newsletters, Twitter and Facebook page

Step 6:

·       Reconfigure classrooms and other areas within school building to meet updated guidance utilizing building-based Plan to Pivot

 

AS OF APRIL 13, 2021, THE DISTRICT IS AT THIS STEP 

Step 7:

·       Share instructional survey results and next steps with staff and families

o   Share instructional information with staff and families regarding any changes for students/teachers

o   District level presentation (Zoom Webinar/YouTube) to school community on guidance and information

o   Building specific presentations (Zoom Webinar/YouTube) to school community for new health/safety protocols and any additional changes within the building

Step 8:

·       Begin implementation of new guidance


STEP 1:

 

·       Send out preliminary Instructional Model Information Gathering Survey on February 25, 2021 to determine who plans on keeping their child(ren) in one of the following models if the guidance changes:

o   Fully remote

o   Full time, in-person

o   Survey goes on District website, out to all parents via text, and promoted in weekly superintendent's video, along with District Newsletter, all School ­Specific Newsletters, Twitter and Facebook page

SURVEY:

1) If there is a change in State guidance allowing for increased capacity for full-time, in-person

instruction, which instructional model would you choose?

a.      Full-time in-person instruction

b.     Fully-remote instructional model

RESULTS:

Total Responses: 8,172

Full-time, in-person instruction: 6,695

Fully-remote instructional model: 1,477

This information was shared publicly with all stakeholders through WITSMai1, text messages, weekly video update and at the Board of Education meeting on Tuesday, March 9, 2021.

NOTE: The WITS Instructional Model Information Gathering Survey allowed the District to examine and analyze data more thoroughly at each level and each school. At the elementary school level, based on the instructional models (hybrid/fully-remote), we were able to review data and information at the classroom level to have a better understanding of the potential impact classrooms due to the students returning to school. At the middle and high school levels, based on the hyflex instructional model and the fact that students follow their normal bell schedule and would require no change in teacher/class, we were able to review data and information based on grade level and building basis.

 

STEP 2:

·       Meet with Reset, Relaunch, Return Committee and expand with elementary administration and staff

o   Unite elementary as part of committee

o   Restructure them into Elementary, Middle and High School committees

o   Level coordinators

n  Elementary School: Charlie Smilinich

n  Middle School: Jeff Jachlewski and Pete Dobmeier,

n  High School: Keith Boardman

o   Initial meeting — Monday, March 1st at 3:30pm

o   Second meeting — Wednesday, March 3rd at 9:00am

n  Meet as needed to continue discussion on logistics and planning with regular updates during K-12 and leadership meetings

·       Brainstorm and discuss additional members to committees

·       Develop building specific Plan to Pivot coordinated by building administrators

·       Committees will focus on logistics, communications, and safety protocols

o   Review:

n  Furniture (desk/chairs/tables) in storage and begin staging them in schools

n  Classroom capacity at 3 ft and 6 ft

n  Transportation

n  Large gathering spaces (lunchrooms, gyms, auditoriums)

o   Space

n  Measuring each classroom based on guidance recommendations

n  Determine desk and chair / furniture needs

o   Staffing

n  Scheduling

n  Social workers/counselors on staff to help

n  Adjustments to staff as needed

n  Back-ups/subs on call if numbers increase and guidance changes

o   Cleaning

n  Review protocols

n  Staffing

n  Products

n  Scheduling

o   Bus / Transportation

n  Staffing

n  Scheduling

o   Cafeteria / Food

n  Staffing

n  Scheduling

o   Technology

n  Equipment adjustments / needs

·       Develop communications to share with community regarding re-entry


REVIEW AND SPACE

As the District continued to proactively plan and prepare for any changes in school guidance, the leadership team created building specific "Plan to Pivot" templates for each school to complete and submit prior to the Spring Recess. In addition, buildings were asked to submit specific classroom breakdowns. This is the template provided all 13 building.

I. Plan for Classrooms

a.      Number of students per class (if 3 feet of social distancing): XX

b.     Number of desks/tables/furniture (if 3 feet of social distancing): XX

c.      Do you need more desks?

i.      How many: XX

d.     Do you need more chairs?

i.      How many: XX

e.      Please provide any additional information regarding your classroom plans:

  2.   Plan for Cafeteria (if 6 feet of social distancing)

a.      Number of students that can fit: XX

b.     Please provide additional information of space considerations for meals (i.e. classroom/gym/outside) if social distancing remains at 6 feet in cafeterias:

  3.   Plan for Cafeteria (if 3 feet of social distancing)

a.      Number of students that can fit: XX

b.     Please provide additional information of space considerations for meals (i.e. classroom/gym/outside) if social distancing changes to 3 feet in cafeterias:

  4.   Plan for Physical Education (if 6 feet of social distancing)

a.      Locations:

b.      How will you ensure adequate social distancing?

  5.   Plan for Music and Music Spaces (if 6 feet of social distancing)

6. Plan for Art Room/Art

7. Plan for Library/Media Center/Auditorium

8. Transportation

a.      How will you handle students who arrive late on buses?

b.     How will you handle students who may depart late on buses in the afternoon?

c.      How are you addressing student drop off in the morning?

d.     How are you addressing student pickup in the afternoon?


9. Health and Safety

a.      Which entrances are you considering to use to help facilitate the increase in student population and completion of health/temperature screening in the morning?

b.     What additional support (aides/teachers) do you have in place to help with the increase in student population and successful completion of the health/temperature screening in the morning?


STAFFING

The District has reviewed overall staffing needs for K-12. It is important to note the District has maintained its staffing levels at each building, based on full, in-person enrollment for the 2020­2021 school year. We added some additional staff members to accommodate hybrid and remote learners. At this time, there is adequate staffing to meet the demands of the Plan to Pivot to full-time, in-person instruction. Following the Instructional Model Survey, which will be provided to families following any changes in guidance, the District will adjust and redeploy specific staff due to the number of students who choose remote or in-person instruction.

Regarding social workers, psychologists, and counselling staff, the current model, which provides support in each building five days per week, should meet the needs of our current number of students in each instructional model. If a particular school needs additional support, staff can be redeployed to assist and support as necessary.

The District currently employs:

14 psychologists

15 social workers

14 counselors (middle school)

15.5 counselors (high school)

ADDITIONAL STAFFING SUPPORT

The District has allowed more flexibility than usual to meet the demands of the COVID-19 global health pandemic.

 

In addition, we have offered each school the ability/option to have five (5) building based substitutes available to help and support as needed on a daily basis. We have also provided additional teaching assistants and teacher aides to support as necessary. The District has allowed part-time teaching assistants, who are able to stay for a full-day, to remain after their shift and substitute as needed. We have also revised our policy regarding substitute teachers to expand our pool of eligible substitute teachers and to help address the substitute teacher shortage. All new substitute teachers are vetted through the existing hiring process, including the verification of qualifications and background checks. These changes have provided a great deal of additional support to our buildings during these unprecedented times and will help us meet any future staffing needs while implementing the Plan to Pivot.

 

CLEANING

The Williamsville Central Schools Facilities Department is aware of the critical role they play in the support of education for all students. The availability of a clean, well lit, and properly ventilated educational environment is proven to increase learning and overall occupant comfort and satisfaction. In the era of this Global Pandemic, the safe and effective cleaning of occupied spaces is critical to ensuring the confidence of parents and staff in the return of in-person instruction in the District. This re-opening plan follows all current New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), Center for Disease Control (CDC), and New York State Education Department (NYSED) guidelines at the time of creation, and will be reviewed as pertinent guidance relevant to this work changes.

The information in this report provides is presented in two sections. The first section summarizes the Facilities Department's compliance with the New York State Education Department's COVID-19 mandatory Facilities requirements. The second section provides additional details on procedures and processes that the department will implement toward meeting these compliances. At the end of the report is information concerning current facts on cleaning and other facility related information.

 

It is important to state that there is no change in CDC, NYS Department of Health, or NYS Education department guidance on cleaning to date as applicable to a change in social distancing from 6 feet to 3 feet. Therefore, the information in this document represents the most current cleaning and maintenance protocols related to the facility department currently available.

(Section 1- Summary)

Compliance with Mandatory Reopening Requirements

1.     General Health and Safety Assurances

The Facility department will follow NYSED guidance related to school health and safety which includes assisting school administrators in structuring their instructional areas to meet social distancing requirements as well as the completion of enhanced cleaning processes in each school.

2.     Fire Code Compliance/Doorways/Emergency Drills

Each school and/or district reopening which include changes or additions to facilities must comply with the requirements of the 2020 New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (BC) and the State Energy Conservation Code and submit all changes to the New York State Education Department Office of Facility Planning (OFP).

The District Facilities Department understands the fire prevention and building code requirements. The District 's Safety Risk officer will distribute a suggested list of drills and evacuation exercises and will be available to explain the requirements to each school building principal as needed. The importance of the execution of these drills while complying with current social distancing guidelines will be emphasized.

 

3.     Inspections

 

Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure compliance with the 2020 Building Condition Survey and Visual Inspection, where applicable.

The District Facilities department is aware of the need to complete an "Annual Visual Inspection" this year, and is coordinating that work with Erie 1 BOCES Safety and Health division. This work will be completed as per NYSED guidance and submitted on schedule as required.

4.     Required Lead Testing Requirement for Schools

Each school and/or district reopening plan must provide provisions to conduct the Lead-In-Water Testing as required by NYS DOH regulation 67-4.

The District Facilities Department is aware of the "Lead in Water" testing requirements and has an action plan to complete such along with any remediation as soon as the buildings return to an "occupied" state to allow testing as per NYSED guidance.

5.     Meet NYSED requirements for hand sanitizers

Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure all existing and new Alcohol-based Hand-Rub Dispensers which are installed in any locations is in accordance with FCNYS 2020 Section 5705.5.

The District Facilities Department has reviewed the alcohol-based hand sanitizer requirements and will install such as per FCNYS 2020 Section 5705.5

6.     School Space Expansion including use of tents

Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure that all new building construction and temporary quarter project will be submitted to OFP for a full code review. If space is leased by the District it will consult with OFP.

The District Facilities Department understands the new building construction and temporary project review requirement. There are no plans by the District to complete this type of work in any part of the school reopening plan. The District Facilities Department understands the lease of space OFP review requirement. There are no plans by the District to enter into a lease of space in our school reopening plan. The District Facilities Department understands that the use of temporary or permanent use of tents must adhere to BCNYS. There are no plans by the District to use temporary or permanent tents in our school reopening plan.

7.     Maintain Plumbing Facilities and Fixtures

Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure that the existing or altered number of toilet and sink fixtures meet the minimum standards of the BCNYS. The District Facilities Department understands the need to meet BCNYS's minimum standards for toilet and sink fixtures. Appropriate counts have been completed in each school that confirm it is meeting these standards.

8.     Drinking Water Facilities

Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure that each building provides one drinking fountain per one hundred occupants or provide a written plan for a reasonable alternate source of drinking water.

The District Facilities Department has bottle filler units installed that meet the drinking water availability requirement per occupant count. All bubblers will be removed from service (disconnected electrically or physically turned off) and appropriate signage installed directing users to bottle filling locations.

9.     School Building Ventilation

Each school and/or district reopening plan must provide written plans on how to maintain adequate, code required ventilation (natural or mechanical) as designed.

The District Facilities Department is aware of the code required ventilation requirements. In preparation for the re-opening of school the District has thoroughly cleaned and inspected each operating unit, replaced filters with the appropriate MERV rating while still maintaining the required airflow. Mechanical components (motors, fans, bearing) were checked and replaced as needed to maintain reliable operation. All Building Management Systems (BMS) have been reviewed for setpoint variation, and all operable parameters maximized to bring in excess outside air while maintaining setpoints in the space. Outside air inlets have been inspected and cleaned as needed to provide unobstructed flow.

10.  Adherence to Special Reporting Requirements to the Office of Facility Planning

Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure that all project submissions only dedicated to "COVID-19 Reopening" will be labeled as such.

The District Facilities Department does not have a project submission to the OFP. However, if this were to occur it would label them "COVID-19 Reopening".

11.  Adherence to 2020 BCNYS Section 2606 for the use of plastic separators.

The District Facilities Department will comply with 2020 BCNYS Section 2606 should plastic dividers be acquired in the future.


 

(Section 2 - Additional Information on Procedures)
General Health and Safety Assurances

 

The District will follow the New York State Education Department (NYSED) re-opening guidance. If the District makes any building space changes that require review and approval by the NYSED it will follow the applicable guidance necessary to implement the changes.

Fire Code Compliance

All buildings will be maintained according to all codes established from New York State (NYS)

and NYSED.

Hand Dryers in Restrooms

All hand dryers will be disconnected and hand towel dispensers will be placed in those locations.

HVAC System

·       Switching operating schedules to meet needs of the space

·       Building ventilation systems have been evaluated and adjusted to run according to operational parameters.

·       Occupied areas are being provided with mechanical ventilation of at least 15 cfm per occupant of outside air during periods of occupancy

Special Re-opening Procedure for Water Systems

The building water distribution system and all outlets will be flushed for at least 10 minutes before our school buildings are re-occupied by students. This information will be documented. As stated in the Drinking Water Facilities section of this report the District Facilities Department has added bottle filler units that meet the drinking water availability requirement per school occupant count in compliance with the NYSED requirements.

Training Facilities Staff

The District provides all staff with annual trainings on safety items. There will now be special trainings for staff that address COVID-19 awareness. The specific training items are listed below.

·       Hazard Communication/Right-To-Know (annual)

·       Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

·       Exposure Control/Blood borne Pathogen (BBP)

·       COVID Awareness

o   New cleaning Protocols

o   Hand washing

o   Face Covering (sizing, use, wear & care)

o   Personal Health and Hygiene

o   Respiratory Etiquette

o   Special working conditions with face coverings (strenuous activity)

 

Required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

 

The usage of PPE by staff is of the highest priority. The District is providing all staff with the required PPE below. Additionally, the facility department will coordinate the ordering of PPE for school usage applicable to students and staff These orders will be inventoried by the District until needed for distribution by our schools. Reorder levels have been established for PPE that will minimize the possibility of shortages of these important items.

 

·       Disposable gloves

·       Face Covering

·       Face Shield (if required)

Personal Protective Equipment Needs and Expenses

The chart below shows the PPE items the District purchased over the summer and into the fall. Our inventory is available for staff and students as needed for the rest of the 2020-2021 school year. Through continued discussion and evaluation of inventory the District is confident it has sufficient PPE to accommodate all students and staff upon implementation of the Plan to Pivot.

Date

Item Purchased

Cost

 

Initial Budget General Fund

Potential Allocation FEMA Grant

 

Potential Allocation CARES ACT

3/4/20

114 cases Diversy wipes (one minute kill claim)

$          5,700

$

5,700

$

5,700

 

 

3/17/20

13 handheld sprayers for disinfection

$          7,735

$

7,735

$

7,735

 

 

4/14/20

1760 K-95 face masks

$          1:760

$

1,760

$

1,760

 

 

4/17/20

1000 Disposable face masks

$          1,000

$

1,000

$

1,000

 

 

4/17120

3500 cotton face masks

$          5,075

$

5,075

$

5,075

 

 

5/11/20

30 boxes (3000) vinyl gloves

$          1,017

$

1,017

$

1,017

 

 

5/19/20

1500 cotton face masks

$          2,400

$

2,400

$

2,400

 

 

5/19/20

Clear acrylic for dividers

$          2,200

$

2,200

$

2,200

 

 

6/1/20

6 bottle fillers to replace fountains

$          6,815

$

6,815

 

 

$

6,815

6/9120

120 cases Facilpro hand sanitizer foam

$         21,480

$

21,480

$

21,480

 

 

6/9/20

1900 Ecolab hand sanitizer dispensers

$         13,680

$

13,680

$

13,680

 

 

6/9/20

2500 Ecolab refillable sanitizer bottles

$          6,250

$

6,250

$

6,250

 

 

6/15/20

1500 face shields

$          4,500

$

4,500

S

4,500

 

 

6115/20

3000 cotton face masks

S         4,260

$

4,260

$

4.260

 

 

6/16/20

2000 medical masks with nose clip

$        35,900

$

35,900

S

35,900

 

 

7/1/20

60000 latex gloves (various sizes)

S         1,482

$

1,482

S

1,482

 

 

7/2/20

13 ecolab hand sanitizer fill stations (remote use)

$          1,794

$

1,794

 

 

$

1,794

7/10/20

20 sheets of polycarbonate for clear dividers

5          5,315

$

5,315

 

 

$

5,315

7/16120

500 spray bottles

$            319

$

319

 

 

$

319

7117/20

3 bottle fillers to replace fountains

$          2,861

$

2,861

 

 

S

2,861

7/24/20

3000 face shields

$          3,000

$

3,000

 

 

$

3,000

7/20120

Signs - fountains are not in service

$             270

$

270

 

 

 

 

7/21120

20000 Youth (child size face masks) cotton

$          6,000

$

6,000

 

 

$

6,000

7/24/20

20000 Youth disposable face masks

$          6,800

$

6,800

 

 

S

6,800

7124120

70 cases of foam hand sanitizer

$        10,157

$

10,157

 

 

S

10,157

7124/20

180 gallons of hand sanitizer (mixing for refill)

$          9:638

$

9,638

 

 

$

9:638

7/29/20

20 bottle fillers to replace fountains

$        17,438

$

17,438

 

 

S

17,438

8/6/20

900 Disposable medical masks 3 ply

$          7,200

$

7,200

 

 

$

7,200

8/6/20

1200 kid face shields

$          2,040

$

2,040

 

 

$

2,040

8/7/20

140 classroom desk (clear dividers)

$        10,547

$

10,547

 

 

$

10,547

8/7/20

24 self-supporting clear dividers

$          1,359

S

1,359

 

 

5

1,359

817/20

80 Temperature sensors for entrances

$       116,000

$              116,000

 

 

$

116,000

Total To Date

$      321,992    $              321,992  $

114,439        $

207,283

 

 

 

 

 

Specific Facility Department COVID-19 Roles and Responsibilities 
District Level Supervisors

·       Create plans for staff per applicable guidance

·       Inventory necessary materials and supply chain for cleaning, disinfecting, and preventing spread of disease

·       Conduct a facility walk throughs to ensure that the classrooms, offices, common spaces, and the exterior are ready for staff and students

·       Coordinate training to staff members on operating procedures, proper cleaning techniques, proper use of chemicals and personal protective equipment

·       Provide ongoing communication and feedback to staff on the quality of their work as it pertains to meeting COVID-19 requirements.

·       Work with District and School level Administrators regarding COVID-19 planning

·       Maintain a log of all cleaning activities including the following information; date, location of work, scope of work, staff involved in completing work.

Cleaning & Maintenance Staff

·       Maintain social distancing as much as possible from students and staff

·       Wear face coverings at all times when students are in the school unless there is a special work situation that does not allow for this to occur. In these situations, social

distancing will be maintained and or other safety measures implemented that may include closing an area from student access until the work is completed.

·       Use all chemical cleaners and disinfectants in the manner recommended by the manufacturer and your supervisor

·       Wear all required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when cleaning and using chemicals

·       Follow US CDS Guidelines for Cleaning and Disinfecting Your Facility https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019- ncov/community/disinfecting-building-facility.html

Wash hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% ethanol or 70% isopropyl alcohol.

 

Cleaning/Disinfecting Procedure (Compliance with Center of Disease Control (CDC)

Guidelines

Usage of appropriate cleaners (Correct chemical content that is permitted in schools and will

address the COVID-19 disease)

Specific Supplies Used

·       Surface cleaner

o   Spray bottle

o   Bucket

·       Soap & water

o   Spray bottle

o   Bucket

* Spray bottle recommended to minimize cross contamination


 

Cleaning/Disinfecting (Deep Cleaning) Procedure

Step 1. Cleaning

·       Staff must wear disposable gloves and/or any other required PPE to clean and disinfect areas

·       Clean surfaces using an appropriate cleaner making sure you produce friction on the surface

·       Verify the usage parameters for the cleaning solutions

·       Cleaning process will reduce the number of germs, dirt and impurities on the surface.
Friction action breaks biofilm on any virus allowing disinfectant to contact the area

·       Usage of cleaning cloths (microfiber) often or use disposable products to minimize cross contamination of cleaned areas

·       Plan to complete routine cleaning of frequently-touched surfaces. This cleaning will occur at periodic times during the time students and staff are in the school for instruction purposes. Specific high touch cleaning items include door handles, sink handles, drinking fountains. Other high touch items that are directly related to instruction such as classroom student learning tools, physical education equipment and music equipment will be cleaned in conformance with the District's instructional program plan for these items.

Step 2. Disinfect

·       Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces

·       Ensure the area or item is cleaned with a cleaning agent before disinfecting

·       Then disinfectant can be used

·       Take all precautions on the label such as PPE, and safe handling procedures

·       Consider changing out cleaning cloths (microfiber) often or use disposable products

·       Use EPA-registered disinfectant. Follow the instructions on the label to ensure safe and effective use of the product. Many products recommend:

o   Keeping the surface wet for the entire contact/dwell time (see product label)

o   Precautions such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product

Daily Classroom Cleaning

·       Classrooms will be cleaned and disinfected by the custodial staff at the end of each day. The District will essentially complete a deep cleaning of these areas each night.

·       The facility department will work with each school to request that teachers and staff remove classroom materials from desks, chairs, and areas that students may touch each day thereby allowing them to be cleaned and disinfected possible

Special Cleaning of Schools prior to reopening after a school closure

Following an extended school closure for the continued levels of cleanliness and disinfection

required to meet federal and state mandates.

 

Classroom

·       Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces (but not limited to):

o   Classroom desks and chairs

o   Door handles and push plates

o   Bathroom faucets

o   Light switches

o   Shared telephones (with assistance from other district staff)

o   Shared desktops (with assistance from other district staff)

o   Shared computer keyboards and mice (with assistance from other district staff)

·       All trash receptacles emptied and trash removed from the room

·       Floors swept and dust mopped

·       Floors spot mopped or full mopped

·       Wipe clean: Tables, furniture and counter tops

·       Make sure all windows are locked

·       Clean/Disinfect classroom sink and toilet area (if applicable)

·       Vacuum carpet daily if applicable

·       Re-stock all paper and soap products

Restrooms and Locker Rooms

·       Clean and disinfect toilets, sinks and shower areas

·       Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces (but not limited to):

o   Drinking Fountains

o   Door handles and push plates

o   Light switches

o   Handrails

·       All trash receptacles emptied and trash removed from the room

·       Floors full mopped

·       Clean Doors and Partitions in Restrooms and Locker Rooms

·       Walls are spot cleaned

·       Check that toilets, faucets, and drains are working

·       Check Sanitary Napkin Boxes

·       Clean Exterior of Dispensers

·       Make sure all windows are locked

·       Restock all toilet paper and soap products

Clerical/Admin Offices

·       Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces:

o   Door handles and push plates

o   Bathroom faucets

o   Light switches

o   Shared telephones

o   Shared desktops

o   Shared computer keyboards and mice

·       All trash receptacles emptied and trash removed from the room

·       Floors swept and dust mopped

·       Floors spot mopped or full mopped

·       Wipe clean: Tables, furniture and counter tops

·       Walls are spot cleaned

·       Carpets are spot cleaned

·       Make sure all windows are locked

·       Clean/Disinfect shared sink and toilet area if applicable

·       Vacuum carpet daily if applicable

Restock all paper and soap products

 

School Cleaning Inspection

 

·       The facility department supervisor will inspect each school prior to opening. After they have completed their inspection they will discuss any concerns with the school's head custodian.

·       The facility department supervisor will communicate with the appropriate school building administrator and review their school inspection report with them. They will further address any school building administrator questions or concerns prior to the school being reopened to student occupancy.

 

 


TRANSPORTATION

The Williamsville Central School District understands that the safe transportation of students to and from school is a critical part of returning students to the classroom. Williamsville continues to work with our contractor, Student Transportation of America (STA), to make sure that we follow all the mandatory requirements and guidance that we receive from the New York State Education Department (NYSED) as well as considering all recommendations from Federal and State agencies. This plan provides information on how the Williamsville Central School District is complying with the NYSED COVID-19 reopening requirements as they related to school bus transportation.

School Bus Ridership — Parents Responsibilities

1.     School buses are considered and extension of the classroom by the New York State Education department. Therefore, all items outlined in the Health and Safety section of the District's reopening plan apply to the school bus.

2.     All parents and guardians will be required to ensure that their child or children are not experiencing any signs and symptoms of COVID-19. This includes that they do not have a fever of 100 degrees or more prior to boarding the bus. (Temperature checks of their child or children are required to be performed by parents each morning. Parents must follow the District process stated in the health and safety section of the reopening plan to affirm that a fever is not present in their child or children prior to them boarding a school bus)

 

Student Bus Ridership — On the Bus

1.     All students are required to wear a face protection at all times when they are a school bus.

2.     If a student arrives at the bus stop without face protection, face protection will be provided by the bus driver to the student to wear prior to boarding the bus.

3.     Students will not be allowed on the bus without face protection. The District will apply the Student Code of Conduct to students who do not wear face protection on buses.

4.     If a student qualifies for special transportation services, they will still be required to wear face protection. Specific questions on student PPE requirements that are to be worn on buses should be directed to our Transportation department. If the question is related to a student's medical condition, please contact the District's Student Service department.

5.     Bus loading — Buses will be loaded at approximately 50% of their capacity. Students will be seated one per seat. Students from the same family will share a seat. Students will be in alternating left and right positions. Seating locations will be marked. The first students boarding a bus will sit at the back of the bus. Bus seats will be filled-in from the back to the front unless there is a special circumstance pertinent to a student or students.

6.     If an alternate seating plan is needed to address social distancing requirements, bus loads will be further reduced to approximately eleven students per bus.


Bus Schedules

1.     Student bus information will continue to be available in the District's WITS online system.

2.     New students and students enrolled in private nonpublic schools will continue to receive a letter from the school bus transportation department at the end of August with their bus information.

Bus Schedule Impact Items — (Bus seating per current guidelines 1 student per seat)

1.     The implemented District's reopening of school model will impact bus schedules.

2.     The number of parents who choose to drive their child or children to school will lessen bus ridership and positively impact bus times.

3.     A full student in-school reopening plan without social distancing, full bus loads (48-60 students per bus based on school level), will result in a normal bus schedules.

4.     Reduced bus loading requirements (50% bus capacity with face protection) with a  full in-school reopening plan (change from 6 feet to 3 feet in classrooms) will likely result in multiple bus runs for each bus route per school. This would result in each school having an average of three different bus runs each morning and afternoon that would normally be completed in one bus run. As an example, bus run number one picks up students up to their student capacity limit of 24 students, it then drops them off at their school and returns to the neighborhoods to complete run number two and possibly run number three. A similar process occurs in the afternoon. This would result in varying school arrival and departure times for students at each school. The same buses that perform multiple runs for the first tier of schools (high schools) must then do the same multiple runs at the second tier of schools (elementary) and again at the third tier of schools (middle schools). The number of extra runs (late buses) will be dependent on  the number of students who choose to ride buses.

5.     The District will send out a bus use survey to all parents as part of the change in  social distancing and the increase in school enrollment. Results of this survey will require two weeks of work by the transportation routing area to create revised bus routes.

6.     Bus loading requirements for District hybrid in-school reopening including the change from 6 feet social distancing to 3 feet social distancing plan will have a significant impact on bus schedules and may result in multiple hours for bussing at all schools.

Williamsville's bus load capacity plan will start with a load capacity of 24 students, one per seat with siblings being able to share seats. This information is considered in our bus capacity modeling. The District is also removing students from our bus routing model for children who are enrolled in the 100% remote learning option. Once actual ridership is received by the transportation department there will be adjustments made to bus routes to lower the students on buses as much as possible while meeting each school's arrival times.


Adding Buses and Bus Drivers

The District through its bus contractor has no ability to add physical buses. The availability of buses is not an option due to order timelines and cost of purchase. Used buses are not available. Even if there would be an option to purchase buses, there are not enough drivers to drive the buses. COVID-19 has depleted our normal driver pool by 35 drivers. Many drivers from the last school year have decided not to drive due to health concerns of their own or for other personal circumstances. Therefore, there is no opportunity for the District to add buses and drivers to the fleet to temporarily address the COVID-19 social distancing requirements applicable to student seating on buses.

School Bus Cleaning Requirements

1.     Drivers are instructed on how to clean/disinfect the driver compartment and high-contact points using approved cleaning materials in accordance with Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines after each a.m. and p.m. run.

2.     All buses will be cleaned/disinfected per the required guideline, once per day after all school runs have been completed.

3.     In the event of a bus swap due to a breakdown, drivers must clean the driver's compartment and all high-touch surfaces on the bus prior to students being transferred onto the bus.

School Bus COVID-19 Safety Requirements

1.     School buses will not have combustible hand sanitizers.

2.     School bus drivers and monitors are instructed that they may not carry personal bottles of hand sanitizer on school buses.

3.     All school bus drivers and monitors or other bus company employee will wear a CDC approved face covering when students are on the bus.

Face protection - Drivers/Monitors: To be worn at all times when students are on the bus. To be worn when on duty and where practical, when operating a vehicle. To be worn at all times when interacting with coworkers or the general public if social distancing is not possible.

PPE gloves - Drivers/Monitors will wear PPE-gloves for use whenever they have direct physical contact with a child.

4.     Face protection will be worn by other Transportation staff such as dispatchers,

mechanics, monitors, cleaners, and attendants when they are in their transportation bus garage locations and within the minimum social distancing guidelines.


Bus Garage Cleaning

1.   All maintenance areas that have shared surfaces / tools will be cleaned/disinfected prior to use by another employee. In certain situations, gloves will be worn by employees when using shared tools.

2.   All bus garage breakrooms, dispatch offices and dispatch areas where bus drivers meet will be cleaned / disinfected per CDC guidelines on a daily basis.

STA Bus Garage Driver and Staff Training Program

1.   Both initial and ongoing safety training are pivotal for the type of work that STA performs daily. This is why it is critical that they have implemented preventive measures that can reduce the risk of exposure during the various phases of their training programs. In addition to a standard training program, it is their goal to ensure employee comprehension and understanding on how employees may be exposed to infectious disease, what their responsibilities are, and what protective measures they can take.

2.   All bus personnel have been trained and will receive periodic refresher training on proper use of personal protective equipment, proper social distancing, and proper cleaning/disinfecting of buses.

3.   Prior to staff reporting for training, staff are instructed on the process to self-assess themselves for COVID-19 symptoms.

4.   Training programs include classroom, behind-the-wheel, and various other methods of hands-on training for both new hires and existing employees. The following measures are considered for every training.

STA - Bus Contractor — COVID-19 Classroom In-service meeting Protocols

Because classroom training and in-service meetings primarily consists of employees engaged in

large groups and in-person sessions, a greater degree of focus must be placed on PPE and social

distancing. The following is implemented for all group classroom/in-service

training sessions:

a.      To limit exposure, make use of blended in-person and distance training models (such as online learning and pre-recorded sessions) for the delivery of training.

b.     Online learning must be conducted via Company-approved technology and in accordance with Company policy and regulatory requirements.

c.      Established social distancing requirements are based on the size of the training facility and enforced for in-person class sessions. Increasing the number of in-service training sessions may be necessary to account for social distancing. Classrooms will be disinfected before and after each use with Company-approved cleaning products.

d.     PPE must be worn by all trainers, trainees and staff in accordance with the company's PPE guidelines.

e.      Avoid cross-contamination of materials by prohibiting the sharing of pens, paperwork, or other materials.

f.       STA requires employees to self-screen for symptoms prior to coming to work on


each workday. Before coming to work, employees must assess whether they have had any of the following symptoms in the 72 hours prior to the self-screening:

1.A temperature over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit

2.Dry repeated cough

3.Shortness of breath

4.Difficulty breathing

5.Chills

6.Muscle pain

7.Sore throat

8.New loss of taste or smell

STA's Employee Return to Work Protocol

Employees who answer "yes" to the above should contact their supervisor immediately and self-isolate (i.e., not report to work) until:

1.   The employee's fever, if any, has subsided for 72 hours (three full days) without the use of medicine that reduces fever; AND

2.   Other symptoms have improved; AND ten (10) days have passed since the employee's first symptoms.

3.   Additionally, employees may be required to self-isolate if:

The employee has been diagnosed with COVID-19 in the last 10 days;

The employee has been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 in

the last 14 days;

The employee has been exposed to COVID-19 in the last 14 days; or

The employee has traveled on a cruise ship or by air in the last 10 days.

Employees who meet any of the above criteria should contact their supervisor

immediately to request guidance and instruction on whether to self-isolate.

Non-public School Transportation

If the Williamsville Central School District is in remote learning session for students; this does not impact how it will provide bus transportation to non-public school students. However, if the school district is on recess, all normal recess transportation procedures are in effect for that period of time.

Student Entitlement to Bus Transportation

The District is committed to providing school bus transportation to all students who qualify for this service by all governing laws. This specifically applies to foster care children, homeless or students attending private and charter schools. The COVID-19 bus safety procedures used by the Williamsville Central School District will pertain to all of these students.


CHILD NUTRITION

The Williamsville Central School District understands that a school nutrition program is a key component to a successful educational environment. Children cannot focus on learning when they are hungry. School meals boost learning, and studies show that students perform best academically when they are well nourished. In the 2020-21 school year our Child Nutrition department provided free meals to our students and community through Federal and State programs. This allowed our department to feed all students who required food assistance.

As a School Food Authority (SFA) as deemed by New York State, it is essential that we consider the resources and flexibilities that are necessary to transition food service operations to an on-site or off-site student meal delivery system or operate both at the same time. This includes utilizing state or nationwide waivers and updating school policies, standard operating procedures, and trainings to ensure compliance with Child Nutrition Program requirements in conformance with New York State and Department of Health guidelines.

The information in this plan is presented in two sections. The first section summaries the Child Nutrition Department's understanding and compliance with the New York State Education Department's COVID-19 mandatory food service requirements. The second section provides additional details on procedures and processes that the program will implement toward meeting these compliances.

(Section 1 - Summary)

Compliance with Mandatory Reopening Requirements

1.Access to School Meals - Each school and/or district reopening must provide all students

enrolled in the SFA with access to school meals each school day. This must include students in attendance at school and students who may be learning remotely.

The District Child Nutrition program understands and will meet the student meal requirements for in-school and when and if there are remote learning student situations. The program is prepared to offer meals that meet the applicable Federal and State meal guidelines.

a)     The District will use its COVID-19 communication plan to provide parents and students with information on meal service, eligibility, payment and no cost options. A parent may use the following weblink to access a Free and Reduced meal application.

https://www.williamsvillekl2nutrition.com/index.php?sid=149668 5407405&pag e=lunchapps

b)     To protect students and staff, the use of cash for the purchase of lunches will be strongly discouraged. All parents will receive information on how to establish a pre-paid account for their child or children prior to the start of school. This


information is available through the Child Nutrition section of the District's website. The following weblink provides direct access to this information.

https://www.williamsvillekl2nutrition.com/index.php?sid=1496685407405&pag e=prepaidacct

2.           Health and Safety Guidelines - The District will continue to meet all applicable health and safety guidelines.

The District's Child Nutrition program will meet all applicable health and safety guidelines that pertain to food preparation and cafeteria cleaning/disinfecting. The specific procedures in use follow the New York State Education Department's requirements. Below is the weblink to this information.

http://www.cn.nysed.gov/content/food-safety-and-sanitation

Please refer to section 2 for specific information on cleaning protocols.

3.           Food allergy protection for students - Each school and/or district reopening plan include measures to protect students with food allergies. The District and the Child Nutrition department understands the importance on implementing safety measures that address food allergies. The COVID-19 pandemic does not change how the lunch program will work with school administrators and parents to prepare safe menu alternatives for students who have food allergies. The Child Nutrition department will coordinate the distribution of lunches for food allergy students with school building administrators according to the lunch seating plan that is implemented by administrators in their schools.

4.           Student Hand Hygiene Procedures - Each school and/or district reopening plan must include protocols and procedures on how students will perform hand hygiene before and after eating, as well as how appropriate hand hygiene will be communicated to students. Hand hygiene information and procedures will be posted throughout each school. This will include hand hygiene postings in cafeterias and at all food serving lines. Students will have access to hand sanitizer stations throughout the school and special hand sanitizer stations will be located near the entrances of all cafeterias. All students will be instructed by district staff to complete hand hygiene before and after eating using the handwashing/hand sanitizer options that are available to them.

5.           Students Sharing Food - The District will inform students that they should not be sharing food with other students. This message will be provided directly to students and will appear in cafeteria signage so that students are reminded of this guidance. Students are allowed to bring in lunches from home.

6.           Lunch table cleaning/disinfecting - The District cafeteria cleaning process requires that all cafeteria student lunch tables are cleaned and disinfected between student use. The


cleaning process will follow the approved CDC guidance as it pertains to use of disinfectants. The process will be a coordinated effort between the Child Nutrition Department staff, Facility Department Staff, and School Administrator as it pertains to student lunch schedules and time of cleaning coordination. The cafeteria cleaning process is a high priority for the District. If an alternate feeding area is used by a school there will be a special plan created to allow for the cleaning/disinfecting of the area or desks to occur before another student is permitted to use the space for their lunch or instructional class work.

7.           Compliance with New York State Child Nutrition program requirements – Each school and/or district reopening plan must ensure compliance with Child Nutrition Program requirements (if the school is its own SFA — for charter schools that are part of a district's SFA, the plan must ensure communication with the district regarding food serve requirements.

The District's re-opening plan will comply with the normal New York State Education Department Child Nutrition program requirements. It will follow SFA policies and communicate school meal service, lunch eligibility options, and changes in operations to parents through the District's normal communication processes.

The Child Nutrition program will comply with all public health emergency meal benefit requirements that are or become available to students. The availability of free meals will be determined by New York State laws and/or Executive Order. If there are no special laws or orders governing the distribution of free meals, then our meal program will follow the laws and regulations that are applicable to the District's status as an SFA. Questions concerning our meal lunch program may be directed to our Child Nutrition Department at 716-626-8870.

8.       Communication protocols for Child Nutrition — The Child Nutrition department will provide parents/students with meal and related program items through the District's established COVID-19 communication process. This will include multiple communication platforms including WITS, website, email, and social media. Detailed information on the communication process may be found in the District's Communication section of its School Reopening plan.

9.       Social distancing students during meal consumption - The District will provide the necessary social distance space for students when they are consuming meals. The District will utilize appropriate methods per New York State and Department of health guidelines that are currently applicable to meal consumption. Since the exact distance necessary for social distancing when consuming a meal in school may change throughout the school year, this measurement statistic is not listed here.


Section 2 — Additional Information on Procedures and Processes
Safety and Sanitation

·                 The Child Nutrition program will follow the standard operating procedures for sanitation of school kitchens, cafeterias, food warehouses, and central production kitchens. The procedures have been updated and reviewed by our District's Safety and Health officer. It is important to state that the Erie County Department of Health does have authorization to review, monitor, approve and enforce food safety and sanitization measures for school districts.

·                 The Child Nutrition program has completed a process to identify the need for additional equipment and/or supplies. An example of items ordered are thermometers, disinfecting wipes, remote food heating stations and supplies such as disposable lunch serving tableware that considers food and health safety.

·                 Appropriate items have been ordered to allow us to complete our cleaning/sanitization process in compliance with Department of Health guidelines. The specific cleaning/sanitization process is not listed here because the guidelines may change as the impact from COVID-19 changes.

·                 The Child Nutrition program will have adequate supplies of face masks, soap, hand sanitizer, and tissues in food service areas (see the Health and Safety section). Additionally, there will be a supply of face coverings available for distribution to students if they lose their face covering on their way to the cafeteria or if their face mask becomes unusable when they are in the cafeteria.

·                 A clean and disinfecting process will occur on all high-touch surfaces including tables, chairs, carts and point-of-service touch pads.

·                 A no-touch process will be implemented for student PIN number input for the purchase of lunches. The PIN number input will be completed by cashiers.

·                 The Child Nutrition program is discouraging the use of all cash transactions in the cafeteria. It is recommended that all parents who want their child or children to purchase a lunch have a Nutri-Kids account. Account set-up is found on our website at the link previously stated in this document.

Specific Food Safety Preparation Practices

·                 Use timers for cleaning reminders; cleaning in kitchen is continuous;

·                 Wear single-use gloves when handling or delivering all foods;

·                 Wear a disposable apron when handling or delivering foods;

·                 Only allow program staff, custodial staff, and approved school staff to be in eating areas.

·                 Temporarily suspend the use of parent volunteers in cafeterias

Availability of Drinking Water

The District has disconnected the bubblers on school drinking fountains. To address the need to provide student access to drinking water, bottle fill water stations are available for student use at various locations in the school. The quantity of bottle fill stations in each school meets the New York State Education Department's requirement for access to drinking water. Additionally, the cafeteria will provide for the safe distribution of cups to students if they wish to obtain drinking


water in the serving lines. The availability of water in the serving line fulfills a USDA requirement.

Meals Serving Locations

·                 The preferred meal serving location at all schools is their cafeteria. If meals need to be served in alternate locations, all of the necessary SFA sanitization and safety standards will be implemented by the program. Lunch serving locations may differ by school due to the need to reallocate space for other uses. Parents should consult with their school for the exact locations or locations for meal consumption.

·                 The use of share tables, salad bars and other self-service refrigerators and/or buffets for food and condiments will not be available to students. (Condiment single use packets will be provided for students who choose to use them)

·                 All students will be strongly discouraged to share food with other students. Monitors will reinforce this practice with students.

·                 The need to social distance students in a lunch line requires that a customized plan be created for each school based on their lunch schedules. This plan may include additional serving stations, varied lunch times, boxed lunches and similar options like a "grab n' go" kiosk.

·                 Physical distancing students at their lunch tables will occur per the NYSED guidelines. This may include tape on floors, signage, table spacing, seating restrictions being noted on tables and school staff guidance to students on their appropriate seating locations.

·                 The Child Nutrition program may also implement a lunch pre-order process for students. This process may take on different forms based on grade levels. It could result in the ability for parents to provide online orders and/or orders to be gathered from students prior to them entering the cafeteria or assigned meal eating space.

·                 The Child Nutrition program will coordinate with school personnel special meal orders that are needed to meet the feeding of students with disabilities. This process does not change from prior school years.

·                 All non-food service staff will be provided training for any meal service-related activity that they may be asked to perform.

·                 COVID-19 safety and hygiene posters will be placed in meal locations.

Meals Consumed Offsite

The Child Nutrition department is prepared to provide students/parents with several options to obtain meals for offsite consumption. The qualification to receive these meals will follow New York State and Federal guidance. The guidance information will be communicated to parents through the District's COVID-19 communication processes. The offsite meal program will include bulk meals packaged in boxes or containers for multiple days (Number of meals distributed at one time will be dependent on the status of students in either an in-school, out-of-school or some hybrid combination program. All meal guidance will follow the latest applicable New York State guidelines.

If the District were to implement a hybrid in-school teaching model sometime in the 2020-21 school year students are entitled to receive meals for the days they are not in school. The Child


Nutrition department will communicate options to parents on how they may choose to receive these meals for their child or children.

The anticipated meal delivery options are expected to include:

1.Grab and go;

2.School curb-side pick-up;

3.Predetermined school distribution area;

4.Regional district distribution locations when school is not in session or there is a school closure.

Program Requirements per Social Distancing

Current student lunch COVID-19 guidelines require 6 feet of space between students when they are eating. Each school administration understands this requirement and they have developed individual student eating plans to meet this requirement. Their plans utilize spaces other than cafeterias. It is necessary to use alternate eating locations in order to feed the number of students in lunch periods while meeting the social distancing guidelines. Examples of alternate eating locations include classrooms, gyms, and multi-purpose spaces that may be available in a particular school.

Additional Food Service Resources

The NYSED Child Nutrition Office

http://www.cn.nysed.gov/national-lunch-program

USDA Food and Nutrition Service
https://www.fns.usda.gov/

Institute of Child Nutrition
https://theicn.org/

New York State Department of Health Food Safety Guidance
https://www.health.ny.gov/environmental/indoors/food safety/


TECHNOLOGY

Extensive technology was put into place to support students, support staff, and teachers this school year as a significant component of our District's instructional models. Technology tools such as laptops, web cameras, and document cameras were provided to each teacher, and students received Chromebooks upon request. Loaner devices and WiFi were provided to students and families as needed through the district's request processes. Upon return to a five-day schedule for students, and while maintaining a remote option, the District will continue to provide any necessary supports to students and staff.

With respect to student devices, communication will be provided to families in order to address any student needs with regard to technology, particularly if a change in instructional model. Families may continue to utilize the District's request process to access any necessary supports.

With a change in model to return to school on a five-day schedule, in classroom technologies will continue to be utilized. At each school, a review of all technical components would be completed by technology staff including computer support technicians to confirm student supports in school and at home. This would include review and implementation of any device carts that may be necessary. In addition, technology integrators and facilitators would provide necessary support to staff, students, and parents, as appropriate. The District has already increased its staffing levels for buildings to include a computer support technician, technology integrator, and technology facilitator at each school. This would provide adequate support for our plan to pivot.

Measures as described above are in alignment with New York State Education Department mandatory assurances submitted in August 2020 and provide additional non-mandatory supports to enhance our educational programs.

 

COMMUNICATIONS

The District utilizes numerous communication channels to inform parents, students, teachers, administrators, support staff, and the community in general of procedures and protocols with respect to the COVID-19 pandemic. As new information and directives are received from New York State, the District will continue to provide ample communications to all stakeholders.

The District has been communicating regularly with stakeholders through WITSMail, text messages, weekly video and newsletter updates, social media, Board of Education meetings, Superintendent Community Council, and PTSA meetings regarding the Plan to Pivot. Since March 5, 2021, weekly updates have been filmed at a different school each week, showcasing the work being done within the building and to hear directly from school principals regarding specific actions schools are taking to pivot.

District communications regarding the change in guidance was provided based on the April 9, 2021 New York State Department of Health updated school guidance. We created a communications plan and have also prepared correspondence to share with staff and families.

The following is the 6-Step Communication Plan

Communications Plan

School Guidance Changes Allowing for

Increased Capacity for Full-Time, In-Person Instruction

·       Step 1:

o   Notify families of updated guidance

n  When it was received

n  What guidance is changed

n  When the updated guidance goes into effect

n  What the next steps are for the District

o   Notify staff of updated guidance

n  When it was received

n  What guidance is changed

n  When the updated guidance goes into effect

n  What the next steps are for the District

 

·       Step 2:

o   Survey to families regarding updated guidance and the instructional model they will choose

nWhat is the question(s)?

·       "With a change in State guidance allowing for increased capacity for full-time, in person instruction, which instructional model do you choose?"

nWhat are the options based on updated guidance?

·       Full-time, in-person instruction

·       Fully remote instruction

nTimeframe for families to respond

·       48 hours (2 days)

nIs their selection set in stone for the remainder of the year? YES

nOutline ECDOH quarantine guidelines? YES

nSurvey also asked about bus transportation needed in the morning and afternoon for planning purposes

 

·       Step 3:

o   Communication to families and staff on survey results and next steps

nSurvey results

·       Total responses

·       Total for full-time, in-person instruction

·       Total for fully remote instruction

·       Grade level breakdown? YES

·       School breakdown? YES

o   How does this impact elementary school differently than middle and high school?

nIn-person teachers?

nRemote teachers?

nNext steps for the District

·       Implementation

·       How can they ask questions?

o   Principals/APs?

·       Health and safety protocols that will continue

o   Daily COVID-19 Questionnaire

o   Health screening as students enter the schools

o   Masks

o   Other mitigation practices

o   Daily COVID-19 Report

·       Step 4:

o   Communication to staff and families on the impact of student/teacher changes (elementary level) based on whether they're switching remote to in-person or in-person to remote — this could lead to a potential teacher change.

 

AS OF APRIL 13, 2021, THE DISTRICT IS AT THIS STEP 

 

·       Step 5:

o   District holds informational forum (Zoom Webinar/YouTube) to school community on guidance and information

o   Building specific presentations (Zoom Webinar/YouTube) to school community for new health/safety protocols and any additional changes within the building

 

·       Step 6:

o   Implement and follow updated guidance


STEP 3:

·       Review data from informational survey

o   Level breakdown/analysis at Elementary, Middle, and High School

o   Classroom analysis at Elementary

 

The information gathered from the Instructional Information Gathering Survey allowed each building to review and prepare their school buildings for a change in school guidance.

 

 

STEP 4:

·       Inform staff and families of changes to state guidance regarding social distancing when guidance is updated

o   Letter drafted/approved by leadership team, K-12 principals, and Board of Education on March 25, 2021

STEP 5:

·       Send out instructional survey to families asking them to choose an instructional model for the remainder of the year

o   This question will be available on WITS for families to respond to

o   Survey goes on District website, out to all parents via text, and promoted in weekly superintendent's video, along with District Newsletter, all School ­Specific Newsletters, Twitter and Facebook page

Step 4 and Step 5 will be completed concurrently with the District's Plan to Pivot.

Upon receipt of updated guidance, the District will send communication to families and staff informing them of the changes. In addition, families will have access and be asked to submit the Instructional Model Survey, which includes instructional and transportation questions, within 48 hours.

 

STEP 6:

·       Reconfigure classrooms and other areas within school building to meet updated guidance utilizing building-based Plan to Pivot

The data from the Instructional Survey will be analyzed from a District and building perspective. Each school will utilize their specific building Plan to Pivot to meet the requirements of any updated school guidance. Following the analysis of the survey, parents at the elementary school level will be notified of any changes in teacher assignments. Whether a student is in-person or remote in the concurrent hyflex model at the middle school and high school levels, these students should not be impacted by any teacher changes since they follow their normal bell schedule on a daily basis.


STEP 7:

·     Share instructional survey results and next steps with staff and families

o   Share instructional information with staff and families regarding any changes for students/teachers

o   District level presentation (Zoom Webinar/YouTube) to school community on guidance and information

o   Building specific presentations (Zoom Webinar/YouTube) to school community for new health/safety protocols and any additional changes within the building

 

STEP 8:

·     Begin implementation of new guidance

Due to the District's proactive planning since February, the detailed Plan to Pivot will allow the District to move swiftly and effectively regarding the implementation of any new guidance for schools.

In conclusion, please note that District has taken every possible effort to plan proactively, keep our school community informed, and advocate on behalf of the important effort to return our students to full-time, in-person instruction. We understand that this school year has been challenging for our families and staff members, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to support our school community while remaining in compliance with appropriate health and safety protocol as well as the mandatory directives and guidance from the New York State Department of Health and the New York State Education Department. The District has made efforts to maintain open lines of communication with families and staff, and will continue to do so going forward.



[1] Per “Interim Guidance For In-Person Instruction at Pre-K to Grade 12 Schools During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency” published by the New York State Department of Health on April 9, 2021, school districts are required to design a reopening plan after obtaining local community feedback from parents, community members, teachers, staff and local health departments.