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Everett Public Schools is anticipating a tricky, upcoming school year amidst COVID restrictions and recently signed mandates. With new developments almost daily, the district is providing parents and students updated resources and information to help get by this school year.

Parents with questions on COVID-related issues, and how they will impact the upcoming school year, can find answers via a FAQ provided on the school district site.

Q: Are masks required for school this year?

A: Yes, per state guidance, masks are mandates for all K-12 students and staff when indoors. Masks can be removed when outdoors.

Q: What happens if my child gets sick at school?

A: If your child appears sick or has a fever at school, they will be taken to the CARES room, where a health room assistant or nurse will take their temperature and isolate them away from others. They will call the parent/guardian on file and ask that your child be picked up from the school immediately. The nurse will give further instructions if a COVID test is recommended.

Q: What about social distancing for choir, band, and PE?

A: We want to ensure all students have access to their chosen performing arts course and PE. Space constraints should not limit access to these classes. Distancing will be at least 3 feet, if possible, and more if space permits. Distancing of at least 3 feet is also recommended outdoors.

More questions and answers: http://www.everettsd.org/Page/39689

The district has also finalized and uploaded a school calendar for 2021-22. The At-a-Glance calendar is available online: https://bit.ly/3kuWjl4

A printed version featuring student art will be distributed in September.

Additional information regarding COVID safety protocols that will be in effect this year:

Masks

With the increasing number of COVID cases and the highly transmissible delta variant of the virus, the governor and state superintendent of schools have mandated masks be worn in school.

This is a requirement for all students and staff who are working where children are present, regardless of vaccination status. This is enforced by state law and is not at the discretion of local school boards, local superintendents or principals. Therefore, Everett Public School students and staff (while children are present) will be wearing masks. Similar to last year, there will be accommodations made if a student has a disability that prevents them from masking.

Social Distancing

While students are at school, there will be social distancing protocols in place. The requirement for schools is to "maintain physical distance of 3 feet or more between students in a classroom setting to the degree possible and reasonable, that allows for full-time, in-person learning for all students" (Department of Health requirements for K-12 schools). Classrooms will be set up to provide three (3) feet social distancing at a minimum.

Extra safety measures

Per requirements for all school districts, school ventilation systems are inspected, cleaned, and repaired as needed. Restrooms have increased exhaust ventilation as well. There are hand sanitizing options available throughout schools, and protocols in place in case a child gets sick at school. More details will be available before school starts.