COVID-19 Phase 3 Guidelines

Sydenstricker School is resuming operations albeit on a limited basis. We do have a summer program, but will not reach full capacity. The guidance we are given to proceed regarding COVID-19 and MIS-C (Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children) is provided by Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS), Virginia Department of Health (VDH), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), along with State and Federal input. (We do not fall under FCPS, so their guidance does not directly affect us.) These resources will provide us the information necessary to continue our best safe practices.

 

Some families are choosing to keep their children home under isolation, and others are ready to move forward, albeit cautiously. We recognize that not all parents have the ability to stay home with their children as they slowly return to work. We completely understand and support all of you and your decisions. As the country starts to move towards a new normal, we are doing the same at Sydenstricker. We will continue to provide a clean, safe and healthy environment for our children and staff. 

 

 These guidelines cover Phase 3 for re-opening. These guidelines will be updated as needed.

 

The Infection Control Form that was part of the enrollment packet has been updated to reflect VDSS guidance regarding COVID-19 language and scenarios for exclusion at our center. You will be required to read, sign, date and submit this form when your child returns or attends Sydenstricker School.

 

Travel during pandemic

· If you travel outside of the state or to a known hotspot, you will be asked to notify us so we are aware.

· If you travel outside of the country, your child can return after the appropriate isolation period.

 

Positive COVID-19/MIS-C Procedures (VDSS Guidelines)

· We will notify the local health department, our licensing inspector and follow all recommendations if there is confirmation of a positive case of COVID-19/MIS-C. We will make sure to keep a list of all individuals who may have come in contact with the infected person if notifications are needed. The epidemiology department within the VDH will take the lead on guidance as far as a potential closure, duration of closure; whether it means the class of the infected person/staff or the entire school.

· Staff or children with fever of 100.4° F or higher, cough, or shortness of breath must be excluded from child care facilities and isolated from others. Children with household members who are known to have COVID-19/MIS-C should be excluded from the child care facility until they are cleared to return by a medical doctor.

· If children, staff, or parents develop COVID-19 symptoms, VDSS recommends that child care programs follow the guidance of the CDC, VDH, and federal and state officials.

 

Arrival:

· Parents will be asked about any illnesses in the home or any recent travel

· Drop-off will take place on the front porch

· Parents will not be allowed in the building unless there is an emergency

· All staff and children will have their temperature taken before entering the building

· Every child will wash their hands before entering the classroom

· Face coverings for children are optional. They will not wear them outside while playing.

 

Staff changes:

· Staff members will wear face coverings per the Governor’s guidance.

· Staff will be re-trained on new health and safety protocols that are specific to Sydenstricker.

 

Classroom setting changes:

· 12 people per room ages 3 and under, maximum 16 people per room for ages 4 and above to include the teacher(s). Sydenstricker will never reach maximum allowance of 22 people per room. Adult:child ratios will be maintained (Phase 3 VDSS guidance).

· Access to toys will be limited, rotated and cleaned more frequently

· Access to books will be limited, rotated and cleaned more frequently

· All soft toys (baby dolls/stuffies) will be eliminated

· Children will remain in their assigned rooms for the day, to include the extended care portion of the day.

· Children will participate in smaller groups within their whole classroom group

· Children will be reminded about personal space and staying in their bubbles. Something we have always worked on.

· It may not always be possible to be 6’ feet apart and guidance recognizes this difficult task while working with young children.

· Children may bring a water bottle that is clearly labeled with their name. The water bottle will be returned each day to be properly cleaned at home in a dishwasher.

 

Playground setting changes:

· The playground will be divided in half to allow play of multiple classes. The children will be required to play with the children assigned to their class only. Outside time will remain the same. They will wash hands before and after play.

 

Hygiene:

· This practice will be maintained as we have always done in the past. Frequent hand washing is the key to good health! The use of gloves by staff for food related tasks will remain in place. We will continue to teach how to cover a cough, no touching of faces and fingers in the nose and mouth; how to use a tissue to blow our nose. The list goes on, but we can’t do it without your support.

 

*These policies and practices are subject to change*