February 25, 2022
Dear Escuela Families,
During the last week we have asked you for patience and understanding as we continue to evaluate our protocols. We are grateful for the time you granted and the feedback you’ve offered. As has been the case throughout the pandemic, information is changing rapidly.
Based on feedback from staff and teachers, and the letters we’ve received from our families, it is clear that there is not a one-size-fits-all answer for our community. After taking into consideration the portion of our community that is not yet eligible to be vaccinated, as well as the input from our community, we have decided to continue masking indoors. As an appropriate step toward normalcy, while still adhering to our guiding principle of community safety, we are making masking outdoors optional for all students and staff beginning Monday, Feb. 28.
Understanding the costs as well as benefits to masking, our ultimate objective is to be able to remove the mask requirement. We are waiting to make sure that case loads stay low before changing our indoor masking policy. Masks will always be a welcome option for those who prefer it. We will also continue to adhere to standard safety protocols such as filtration systems in the classrooms, the daily health screening, and surveillance testing.
Our guides have begun planning new systems to support students in keeping track of their masks and remembering to put them on when entering the indoor classroom spaces. Additionally, the temperate weather is providing guides with more opportunities to use outdoor classroom spaces for lessons. We ask that you continue to help your children dress and layer appropriately for working and playing outdoors.
We want to thank our community for your support and your willingness to come together as a QuaranTEAM to ensure the safety of students and staff throughout this endeavor. Our campus has remained safe and classrooms open due in large part to your dedication both at home and at school. If you have any questions about this new protocol, please reach out to our Covid Officer, Elizabeth Marcilla.
Regards,
Kate Chavez – Executive Director
Elizabeth Marcilla – Administrative Director and Covid Officer
