Reminder: CDC is not providing a legal directive – just recommendations.

CDC says its “considerations are meant to supplement—not replace” local laws and guidance.

CDC suggestions include disclaimers such as “when practical” and “if feasible” – we didn’t include these everywhere (redundancy!) but they’re used often.

• Temperature & symptom checks daily.
• Hand washing or sanitizing frequently.
• Masks for everyone as much as possible.*

*CDC acknowledges this is difficult for younger students, and says masks should be worn when social distancing isn’t possible. Question: How does this apply to small groups of young students in a contained classroom? TBD.

• Seating: Students should face forward – not facing each other – and sit separated if sharing tables.
• Hallways: “One-way” routes in hallways should be implemented to keep children/staff from passing each other face-to-face.
• New Design: Physical barriers or “sneeze guards” should be installed between bathroom sinks and in high-traffic areas.

Limit sharing – from books to balls to crayons to toys. Students should have their own assigned “gear” and not share.

“Cohorts” – this is a key word found in the guidance. The CDC suggests limiting the widespread mixing of students and staff, and emphasizes keeping people in the same small groups (as a way to limit interactions, therefore preventing or slowing transmission of disease).

• “Close communal use shared spaces such as dining halls and playgrounds with shared playground equipment if possible; otherwise, stagger use.”
• Avoid spirit nights, assemblies, field trips and opt for virtual activities.
• Eating: Serve meals in classrooms rather than cafeterias.
• Sports: CDC advises to “minimize risk” with no specific guidance for different sports. More info. on our source page.

Staggered seating on buses.

Staggered pick-up and drop-off times.

Staggered schedules or rotating schedules (virtual school some days, in-school classes other days).

Staggered use of shared spaces, like playgrounds.