Covid-19 Health & Safety Protocol

Summary

Fort Bend ISD has implemented comprehensive health and safety protocols for the upcoming school year, prioritizing the well-being of students and staff. The plan includes temperature checks, strict hand-washing procedures, face coverings, social distancing, and continuous cleaning efforts. Wellness monitors will assist with these measures, and specialized teams will handle contact tracing and exposure protocols. The district will adhere to CDC, TEA, and local guidelines to ensure a safe environment, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in keeping schools safe and ensuring continued success for students.

Takeaways

• 😀 Fort Bend ISD prioritizes student and staff safety with comprehensive health and safety protocols developed in collaboration with physicians and based on CDC, TEA, and OSHA guidelines.
• 😀 The plan includes seven major components: education, wellness monitors, hand washing, face coverings, social distancing, cleaning protocols, and diagnosis/exposure protocols.
• 😀 All students, staff, and visitors will undergo no-contact temperature checks daily before entering campus.
• 😀 Wellness monitors will be available at each campus to assist with temperature checks and safety protocols, with the number of monitors depending on student enrollment and staff size.
• 😀 Strict hand-washing protocols are in place, requiring students to wash hands after common contacts, with hand sanitizer available if soap is unavailable.
• 😀 Face coverings are mandatory for all staff, students, and visitors, with exceptions only for those who are medically or developmentally unable to wear them.
• 😀 Social distancing will be enforced, requiring at least six feet of space in common areas and classrooms, and classrooms will be arranged to allow at least 45 square feet of space per student.
• 😀 High-traffic areas such as hallways and common spaces will be managed to limit congregating, with designated entrances for buildings to control traffic flow.
• 😀 Continuous cleaning will occur throughout the day, especially in high-exposure areas like work rooms, restrooms, and doorknobs, with appropriate cleaning supplies provided.
• 😀 In case of a suspected or confirmed case of illness, campuses may be closed for cleaning, and a COVID-19 response team will assist with contact tracing and follow CDC, TEA, and county guidelines for reporting and notifying the community.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the Fort Bend ISD's health and safety plan?

The primary focus is to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff through comprehensive health and safety protocols developed in collaboration with physicians and based on guidelines from the CDC, TEA, and OSHA.

How does Fort Bend ISD plan to educate its community about health and safety measures?

Fort Bend ISD plans to educate students, staff, and families through training, videos, signs, and announcements at the beginning of the school year.

What role will wellness monitors play in the district's health and safety efforts?

Wellness monitors will assist with conducting no-contact temperature checks daily for all students, staff, and visitors, and ensure that individuals who pose a risk are not allowed access to the campus.

What are the hand-washing protocols for students and staff?

All students and staff will be trained in proper hand-washing techniques and will be expected to wash hands for 20 seconds after common contacts such as touching door handles or being in common areas.

What is the policy regarding face coverings in Fort Bend ISD?

Face coverings are required for all students, staff, and visitors, except for those who are medically or developmentally unable to wear them. The district will provide face coverings, but personal face coverings are encouraged for comfort.

How will social distancing be implemented in the district's schools?

Social distancing of at least six feet will be maintained in all common areas and classrooms, and the number of students in each classroom will be adjusted to allow for 45 square feet of space per student.

What measures will be taken to control traffic flow in school buildings?

Designated building entrances will be implemented, and congregating in hallways or common areas will be prohibited to reduce unnecessary interactions and improve safety.

How will cleaning and disinfection protocols be carried out?

Continuous cleaning will be performed throughout the day, focusing on high-exposure areas and high-touch surfaces. Additional cleaning supplies will be available for immediate spot cleaning by staff and students.

What will happen if a confirmed or suspected case of illness is detected at a school?

If a case is confirmed or suspected, the affected classrooms or buildings may be closed for cleaning and disinfection. The district will also assist with contact tracing.

What is the protocol for individuals who have been in close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19?

Anyone who has had close contact with someone diagnosed with COVID-19 or is exhibiting symptoms must self-quarantine. Sick individuals are advised to stay home to prevent the spread of illness.