COVID-19 Information

In-Person

Elementary students who choose the in-person learning option will attend school five days a week following the typical school day schedule. Students will be expected to follow safety recommendations explained within the plan.

Virtual

A virtual learning option will be available for students with underlying health issues that will prohibit them from attending in-person and families who are concerned about their children returning to an in-person school environment. 

Virtual instruction may be conducted using synchronous or asynchronous methods. Students engaging in synchronous instruction will participate in the lesson with the teacher and other students in real time. For example, students might be instructed to login to Zoom at 9:00 a.m. to participate with other students in a reading lesson facilitated by the teacher. Asynchronous instruction takes place when the student chooses the time that he/she will access the virtual content. For example, a student watches the recorded math lesson and then completes the assignment at a time the student chooses.

Elementary students who choose the virtual learning option will be enrolled in an online virtual section facilitated by a Carmel Clay Schools teacher. The virtual content will focus on essential standards in literacy, math, science, and social studies. Students will receive synchronous and asynchronous virtual instruction and opportunities for independent practice using online software. Students will be engaged in learning for 5 hours daily. Students must commit to the virtual learning option for the entire 9-week grading period.

In-person

Carmel middle schools will offer a “Hybrid” or “Blended” in-person/virtual learning option for students in grades 6-8. Students will be split into two cohort groups and attend school in-person and virtually on alternating days. Approximately ½ of the student body will attend each day. Students will be expected to follow safety recommendations on “in-person” days explained within the plan.

Virtual

A virtual learning option will be available for students with underlying health issues that will prohibit them from attending in-person and families who are concerned about their children returning to an in-person school environment. 

Virtual instruction may be conducted using synchronous or asynchronous methods. Students engaging in synchronous instruction will participate in the lesson with the teacher and other students in real time. For example, students might be instructed to login to Zoom at 9:00 a.m. to participate with other students in a reading lesson facilitated by the teacher. Asynchronous instruction takes place when the student chooses the time that he/she will access the virtual content. For example, a student watches the recorded math lesson and then completes the assignment at a time the student chooses.

Students in grade 6-8 that choose the virtual learning option will be enrolled in online virtual sections facilitated by a Carmel Clay Schools teacher. Students will receive synchronous and asynchronous virtual instruction with the majority of the course content delivered using an online software program. Student progress will be monitored by the teacher. Some in-person courses may not be available online in the virtual option. Students will work with their counselor to determine an appropriate class schedule for virtual instruction. Students will be engaged in learning for 6 hours daily. Students must commit to the virtual learning option for the entire 9-week grading period.

In-person

Carmel High School will offer a “Hybrid” or “Blended” in-person/virtual learning option for students in grades 9-12. Students will be split into two cohort groups and attend school in-person and virtually on alternating days. Approximately ½ of the student body will attend each day. Students will be expected to follow safety recommendations on “in-person” days explained within the plan.

Virtual

A virtual learning option will be available for students with underlying health issues that will prohibit them from attending in-person and families who are concerned about their children returning to an in-person school environment. 

Virtual instruction may be conducted using synchronous or asynchronous methods. Students engaging in synchronous instruction will participate in the lesson with the teacher and other students in real time. For example, students might be instructed to login to Zoom at 9:00 a.m. to participate with other students in a reading lesson facilitated by the teacher. Asynchronous instruction takes place when the student chooses the time that he/she will access the virtual content.  For example, a student watches the recorded math lesson and then completes the assignment at a time the student chooses.

Students in grade 9-12 that choose the virtual learning option will be enrolled in online virtual sections facilitated by a Carmel Clay Schools teacher. Students will receive synchronous and asynchronous virtual instruction with the majority of the course content delivered using an online software program. Student progress will be monitored by the teacher. Some in-person courses may not be available online in the virtual option. Students will work with their counselor to determine an appropriate class schedule for virtual instruction. Students will be engaged in learning for 6 hours daily. Students must commit to the virtual learning option for an entire semester.

Screening

• Students who are sick or displaying symptoms must stay home. Daily coursework will be provided through Canvas. All attendance incentives K-12 are discontinued for the 2020-2021 school year. 
• UPDATED 8/4/2020 - Students should also remain home if anyone in the household has COVID-19 symptoms or is being tested for COVID-19. Please do not send your student to school until test results are received. The school will work with all students on assignments and this will be an excused absence..
• Students/parents are to report a COVID exposure using the 24 hour/7 days a week CCS COVID-19 Hotline: 317-571-4630. 
• UPDATED 8/28/2020 - Prior to attending school each day, students should answer the following questions in their home:

1. In the last 24 hours have you had a fever or chills and/or taken medication for a fever? (If you are unsure, please utilize a thermometer for an accurate reading.  A temperature of 100.4 or higher constitutes a fever according to medical professionals)
2. Do you have COVID-19 symptoms such as new, uncontrolled cough that causes difficulty breathing, sore throat, diarrhea/vomiting, or loss of taste or smell?
3. In the past 14 days have you been in close contact (was within 6 feet for longer than 15 minutes total in a 24 hour time period) with a person known/suspected to have COVID-19 and/or have you been diagnosed with COVID-19?
4. Have you or anyone in your household been tested for COVID-19 and are still awaiting test results?

If your child answers “YES” to any of these questions, he or she should remain home. 

Face Coverings (Masks/Face Shields)

• UPDATED 8/4/2020 - All students, staff, vendors, volunteers, and visitors to CCS are required to wear a face covering or face shield while physically present in our buildings.
• Brief 5-10 minute “mask breaks” will be permissible under certain conditions at the direction of teaching staff or administration.
• Students at the secondary level are also expected to wear their CCS Identification Card where it can be easily seen.
• CCS is planning to provide each student with one cloth mask from the Governor’s Office this fall. We are recommending that parents plan on adding cloth face masks and personal hand sanitizer to your back-to-school supplies as you prepare for the fall. Contact your school counselor/social worker if you need assistance in obtaining face coverings.
• Tips for wearing a mask
• Mask Up 101

Social Distancing

Social distancing will be used to the greatest degree possible and areas in our buildings will be maximized for spacing, but it will be difficult to meet the recommended 6 feet of social distancing in classrooms and many learning spaces. This makes the wearing of face coverings essential to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. 

Hand Washing and Hand Sanitizer

Students will have frequent opportunities for hand washing and hand sanitizer stations will be located in several locations such as, the cafeteria, recess, etc.

Facility Cleaning

• The district continues to utilize products confirmed by the manufacturer and EPA to kill human Coronavirus and other viruses. CCS will continue to clean and disinfect school facilities and equipment in alignment with guidance from the CDC.
• Custodial staff at all schools are focusing extra attention on sanitizing high traffic areas and commonly used surfaces including counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, light switches, keyboards, and tablets.
• Custodial staff will be constantly checking to make sure hand washing and hand sanitizer supplies are checked, restocked and refilled.   
• Custodians, teachers and staff will work together to help prevent the spread of germs by continuously disinfecting classrooms and reminding students about the importance of proper hygiene.

Ventilation

• Ventilation systems have been evaluated to ensure proper central filtration
• CCS has been updating current ventilation systems to MERV 13 pre-filters as recommended
• MERV 13 filters are recommended by ASHRAE guidelines for response to COVID
• Portable equipment in classrooms is not being implemented at this time.

• CCS staff members will report personal exposures/positive tests to Human Resources. 
• Students/parents should report an exposure to their attendance line (during the school day), or should use the CCS COVID phone line after hours: 317-571-4630. This phone line will send an automated notification to the Director of Student Services.
• For one positive student, it is recommended that contact tracing be done for that student only, and close contacts (students or staff) should quarantine for 14 days from the date of last exposure. An exception may occur when cohorting or assigned seating may not be feasible. In those cases, the entire classroom may need to quarantine.
• ‘Close contact’ is defined by the local health department as within 6 feet for 15 cumulative minutes during a day. 
• The local health department will be consulted for guidance related to quarantine or closing areas of school, and other necessary measures based on CDC guidance at the time of the exposure.
• In situations where a class contains two or more exposures, that class and teacher will be recommended for quarantine.
• There is no threshold for closing the entire school. Determinations for full school closures will be determined after consulting the health department, Superintendent, and building Principal.  
• School Messenger will be utilized to send after hours messages regarding closings.
• Impacted student families and staff will notified immediately of possible exposure. However, any individuals who test positive will not be identified in communications to the school community.

Classroom Scenario

Bus Scenario

Classroom Management and Preparation

• Based on current social distancing guidelines, and in order to accommodate more students in the classroom, teachers now have the option of reconfiguring desks in groups of two or three, and not threaten further exposure than from the current arrangement.
• All student desks shall remain facing forward whenever possible to prevent possible transmission of COVID virus.
• Clean all work surfaces, student desks, tables and teacher’s desk at the end of each day and more often as needed.
• Students will have assigned seats.

Morning Arrival

• Students can bring backpacks to school. 
• Teachers and staff will be monitoring the halls and will encourage students to drop off their items in the cubby area and proceed to class promptly.
• When students enter the classroom, they will be asked to wash or sanitize their hands.
• Students may be asked to wipe down their desks each morning. 

Restrooms

• Teachers will limit the number of students in the restroom at one time.
• Teachers will remind students to stand at a distance and educate students about the importance of effective handwashing.

Food

• Students who pack their lunch will keep their lunch in their backpack or cubby until lunch time as in the past. 
• Students should not bring food into the classroom unless approved by the classroom teacher or an administrator.
• School breakfast and lunch will be available as in the past. Students will eat in the school cafeteria.

Water

• Drinking fountains will be shut off per health department recommendations. Water will be provided for students as needed.
• Students will be allowed to bring their own water bottles to school and opportunities to refill bottles will be available.

Shared Supplies

• As much as possible, teachers will distribute supplies so that each student uses his or her own supplies. 
• In the event supplies are shared, staff or students will wipe down the supplies or set them aside for 24 hours. 

Small Groups

• When working with small groups, teachers will wear a face covering or shield.
• Students will be spaced out in these small groups as much as possible. Teachers will determine if students will be required to wear face coverings based on the seating arrangements and spacing.

Elementary Music

• Students will be seated/standing in straight rows, facing the same direction, and as distantly spaced as room sizes allow. It is recommended that music classes take place in their dedicated rooms to aid in equipment preparation and disinfection. 
• Rooms will be prepared with traffic flow and seating patterns clearly marked. If multiple entry/exit doors exist in the facility work to create one-way traffic flow.
• Limit shared materials/instruments as much as possible. If materials/instruments must be shared, they must be properly disinfected between each use with an EPA approved product. Recorders, if used, must be given to each individual and cleaning instructions should be clearly communicated to parents and reinforced regularly.
• Group singing activities will be eliminated or extremely limited and replaced with alternate modalities. If singing is employed, face coverings must be in place.
• Movement activities will employ the same distancing as regular classroom activities. No partnering or close contact group movement activities. Games and activities that require touch or passing objects will be suspended.
• Elective/Club ensembles such as choir, Orff ensemble, Ukulele ensemble, etc. are permitted and will be held in the largest spaces available in order to distance the students properly. Choir ensembles should be limited in size (consider splitting by grade level and even within grade level) and will require face coverings.

Recess

• Students will attend recess with their grade level.  
• Students will wash their hands or use hand sanitizer prior to recess and when returning to the classroom.

Classroom Materials

• Students will be able to use class sets of books. Students will use the same book each time. 
• Books cannot be shared on the same day.   
• Books will need to be set aside for 24 hours or wiped down before distribution to other students. 
• Students will be assigned to use the same computer, as much as possible. If a computer is shared, staff or students will wipe down the computer between uses.
• Teachers will use hand sanitizer before passing papers out to students.
• Special programs and celebrations inviting parents into the classroom will be temporarily suspended.

Dismissal

• Students may be asked to wipe down their desks at the end of each day.
• Teachers will dismiss small groups of students to gather their belongings from the cubbies and return to class promptly.
• Dismissal procedures will include as much spacing as possible

Classroom Management and Preparation

• Teachers will assign seats to students and document the seating arrangements for contact tracing purposes.
• Restrooms – students will be expected to maintain social distancing in the restrooms as much as possible.
• Students will disinfect any shared supplies, including computers, after use.
• Each student will be assigned a locker and sharing lockers will not be permitted.
• The teacher and/or students will disinfect desktops at the end of each class period before dismissing to their next class.
• Teachers have the flexibility to move classes outside to maximize distance between students. 
• Teachers will sanitize hands before passing out papers. Students will not distribute papers to other students. Students will turn in paper assignments or tests to a central location.
• The CHS “Skip a Final” attendance requirement is suspended for the 2020-2021 school year.
• Special programs and celebrations inviting parents into the classroom are suspended until further notice. 

Instrumental Music

• Students should be seated in straight rows, facing the same direction, and as distantly spaced as room sizes allow.
• Sectional/split rehearsal groupings should be employed as space allows.
• Instruments should not be shared. If sharing is absolutely necessary (e.g. large percussion instruments), proper disinfection should be completed between each use with an EPA approved product.
• Masks are expected for entry/exit to spaces and when not engaged in direct participation with instruments.
• Rooms should be prepared with traffic flow and seating patterns clearly marked. Consideration should be given to assignment of locker spaces to mix classes to avoid collection points. If multiple entry/exit doors exist in the facility work to create one way traffic flow.
• Music stands should not be shared and all stands must be disinfected between each use/class.
• Students should not share sheet music and must have their own copies.
• Participation in auditions, contests, festivals, and other events is permitted. Students are expected to be aware and follow the safety measures at these venues.

Choral Music

• Students will be seated/standing in straight rows, facing the same direction, and as distantly spaced as room sizes allow. Consideration should be given to utilizing the largest spaces possible (e.g. auditoriums).
• Face shields are strongly recommended for use when singing to allow for proper visualization of the singer while still maintaining coverage. Face masks are strongly recommended for use whenever not directly engaged in singing (this may require an alternating or dual usage).
• Sectional/split rehearsal groupings will be employed as space allows.
• Choreography may be taught and utilized but should continue to employ the same distancing procedures. No partner dancing. Instruction will occur in smaller groups whenever possible.
• Rooms will be prepared with traffic flow and seating patterns clearly marked. If multiple entry/exit doors exist in the facility work to create one way traffic flow.
• Students will not share sheet music and must have their own copies.
• Participation in auditions, contests, festivals, and other events is permitted.  Students are expected to be aware and follow the safety measures at these venues.

Physical Education

• CCS uniforms will not be required, however students must wear appropriate clothing for active participation in class, whether indoors or outdoors. This would include shirts with sleeves, loose fitting pants or appropriate length shorts, and tie tennis shoes. 
• Students will not be assigned lockers. 
• Locker rooms should be used minimally. If the locker room is used for restroom use, washing hands, etc.), students will follow proper social distancing in that space.
• Students should not bring anything of value to class. If students bring backpacks to class, each school will develop a plan where  backpacks will be securely stored during class.
• Students will follow social distancing recommendations in fitness rooms as much as possible. 
• CPR instruction will practice Hands-only (no breathing) instruction.

High School Physical Education

• Weight room use during the academic day will be in accordance with IHSAA guidelines.
• PLC teams, along with the department chair will determine which activities best meet curriculum needs (health and physical education). 
• In classes such as IB Sports, Exercise and Health Science and Sports medicine, etc., students must wear face coverings at all times when doing lab work (taping, etc.).
• Students will store their equipment in their own box/bag. 
• Students will stay in their assigned attendance area at the end of class and each class will be assigned a door to exit the gym.
   

The IHSAA released a schedule for a 3 Phase entry back to Education-Based Athletics.

• Phase 1: July 6 - July 19 (Emphasis on strength and conditioning; no contact in contact sports)
• Phase 2: July 20 - August 14 (Normal Summer Rules with some limitations)
• Phase 3: Begins August 15 (Back to Full Contest Schedules with no restrictions)

Preparing to Train - Protect Against Infections

• Should an athlete or coach exhibit symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or be diagnosed with COVID-19, he/she must see a physician and be cleared for training prior to attending practice.
• Any athlete or staff who feels ill in any way, or has any of the following symptoms: subjective fever or actual fever (greater than 99.5 degrees Fahrenheit), cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, loss of taste or smell, diarrhea, known close contact with a person who is lab-confirmed, suspected, or under medical evaluation pending results for COVID-19 should stay home.
• Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or longer, or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not readily available, before beginning your session. Showering is best. Come to practice clean.
• All athletes will be screened prior to entering the facility area. All athletes will need to wear a mask or face covering upon arrival and attest to a Self-Evaluation Affirmation. The questions will be posted as signage at the entry points to the facility to assist with entry in an efficient manner.

1. In the last 24 hours have you had a fever or chills and/or taken medication for a fever? (If you are unsure, please utilize a thermometer for an accurate reading.  A temperature of 100.4 or higher constitutes a fever according to medical professionals)
2. Do you have COVID-19 symptoms such as new, uncontrolled cough that causes difficulty breathing, sore throat, diarrhea/vomiting, or loss of taste or smell?
3. In the past 14 days have you been in close contact (was within 6 feet for longer than 15 minutes without protective equipment) with a person known/suspected to have COVID-19 and/or have you been diagnosed with COVID-19?
4. Have you or anyone in your household been tested for COVID-19 and are still awaiting test results?

A staff member will ask athletes health and risk questions prior to facility entry. We will immediately send home those athletes who report feeling ill, who are experiencing symptoms, or who had a high risk exposure to COVID-19.

• Attendance of student-athletes will be kept by each coaching staff for each session of training.
  • Athletes will need a mask or face covering coming into the facility and when they are screened by the Self-Evaluation Affirmation.
  • Maintain social distancing on entry and exit and please avoid lines and congregating at entry and exit. Entry points will be scattered into facilities based on last names to create smaller groups.
• Arrive as close as possible to when practice begins and try to be timely when picking up your athlete. Athletes may enter 10 minutes prior to practice and will enter in a social distance manner.
• No parents will be allowed access to the practice facility in accordance with IDOE/IHSAA guidelines in Phase 1 and 2. Please maintain social distance while on the property for drop-off and pick-up.  
• All athletes will arrive dressed for practice. There will be no changing in bathrooms or locker rooms at the facility.
• Locker rooms will remain closed through July 19. Starting July 20, certain programs will have access to locker room facilities at 50% capacity. 
• The Athletic Training Room facilities will be available. All staff and student-athletes in the Training Rooms will be required to wear masks.
• We will limit bathroom use to one athlete at a time. 
• Equipment used during practice will be cleaned with an approved EPA disinfectant. 
• The staff will:
  • Wear masks or face coverings unless addressing a group using social distancing.
  • Maintain six-feet spacing with athletes during practices when practical.
  • Document attendance. 

Student-Athletes Should Bring

• A mask, to be worn by student-athletes upon entry and exit of the facility, as well as anytime vigorous activity is not being performed.
• A full water bottle to avoid touching a tap or water fountain handle. 
• A clean beach towel to each practice to be used individually by the student-athlete for perspiration. Do not share towels.
• Hand Sanitizer for individual use if possible.

During Practice

• Maintain appropriate social distancing from other athletes when possible. 
• Do not engage in celebratory acts such as hugging, shaking hands, or giving a high five. Air knuckles or unique changes to celebratory acts to eliminate touching are encouraged.
• If you need to sneeze or cough, do so into a tissue or upper sleeve/arm area. (Wash hands after or use hand sanitizer). 
• Athletes must listen carefully and follow all coach directions.

After Practice

• The locker room or changing area will not be available when re-opening activities on July 6th. Shower and change at home for the foreseeable future.
• Athletes will be dismissed in smaller groups. Leave the facility as soon as reasonably possible after practice. No congregating or social activity should take place.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for 20 seconds or longer, or use a hand sanitizer after leaving the practice field, court or location.

Procedure in Case of Positive COVID-19 Test

• The individual should let the head coach of their sport know immediately.
• Students/parents are to report a COVID exposure using the 24 hour/7 days a week CCS COVID-19 Hotline: 317-571-4630. 
• The Hamilton County Health Department will be contacted by Carmel Clay Schools for additional guidance.

Changes for 2020-2021 School Year

• All student-athletes are required to complete a Supplemental Consent Form and Health History Update Form from the IHSAA. Student-athletes can use the approved physical from the 2019-2020 school year unless they answer YES to any of the 7 questions on the Health History Update form.
• Signage will be posted with the 3 Self-Evaluation questions at the entrance to all athletic facilities. 
• All events will now be cashless and paper money will not be accepted. Tickets may be purchased ahead of the event online or on the ticket app. Credit card access to purchasing tickets can also be made at the event.
• Transportation to contests - Student-athletes will be provided one seating chart to be used for each bus trip for contact tracing purposes.
• Students participating in the virtual option are eligible to participate in sports/extracurricular activities at parent’s discretion.
• If Carmel Clay Schools has partial days or a hybrid schedule, student-athletes would be eligible to attend practice or a contest if their cohort does not have in-person class on that specific day.

COVID-19 Special Education Considerations

Students receiving special education services will adhere to the safety protocols deemed necessary in their building of attendance. Additional safety precautions may be considered by the Case Conference Committee contingent on the individual programming needs of the student. Such additional considerations would be identified and documented in the student’s individualized education plan.

Curriculum Modifications and Adaptations

Where social distancing cannot be honored, adaptations/modifications to required components of curriculum may be deemed appropriate by Carmel Clay Schools administration and/or the case conference committee. In some instances, Carmel Clay Schools administration and/or the case conference committee may deem that students will receive an exemption from the required components of curriculum when adaptations/modifications cannot be made.

Community Based Instruction (CBI) and Vocational Training (C3/Vital 4): Bus seating procedures will follow morning and afternoon guidelines for all community experiences. Students are expected to wear a face covering during the community experience when social distancing cannot be maintained. Parents will have full discretion if their student attends a community experience. If parents are uncomfortable with community-based experience or vocational training, the student’s IEP will need to be revised to reflect these changes. Teachers will develop alternative lessons for students who do not attend community experiences.

Students will continue to participate in transition activities, internships and jobs, as long as health and safety protocols can be followed. The school will make contact with the student’s place of employment to be aware of their COVID procedures and what protections are required of employees.

Students may continue with their jobs if employers are allow. If parents do not agree with continued participation, the student’s IEP will need to be revised to reflect the change in services. Bus cleaning protocols will be followed.

Resource Programs and Therapies

Services will continue to the fullest extent possible in the general education classroom. For services provided outside of the general education classroom, students will be grouped with their current cohort group.

All teachers and staff working with individual or small groups of students will be required to wear a face covering. Social distancing will take place as much as possible.

Personal Protective Equipment

All students are required to follow the reopening plan guidelines. In the event that a student may not be able to wear a mask in accordance with the guidelines set forth by Carmel Clay Schools, parents will need to determine with their healthcare provider if their student is able to attend school onsite. If not, virtual learning should be considered.

If the student is able to attend school, but sometimes may not be able to wear a mask, a discussion should be had with regard to recommendations from the healthcare provider as to why the student is unable to wear a mask with building staff and whether a face shield is a better alternative for the student.

If a student does not have a medical reason and is not able to be compliant with wearing a face covering, the Case Conference Committee will determine if the student is in need of social stories, practice sessions to desensitize them to wearing a face covering or a specific behavior intervention plan regarding the wearing of a face covering.

For situations that fall outside of the two examples listed above, building administrators will work with the Office of Special Services to determine what steps need to be taken.

Clear facial shields/modified masks will be utilized by the district for speech and language pathologists and teachers/interpreters for students who are deaf/hard of hearing in situations where staff cannot social distance from students.

Standard protocols routinely practiced for assisting students with toileting, personal hygiene and or feeding/drinking support will continue.

Nursing Services

Students who have regular nursing services will continue to have access to services included in their Individual Education Plan and/or Indiana Health Plan. Any adaptations or changes to either the IEP or the Health Plan will be discussed in a case conference committee meeting. 

Equipment and Environment Cleaning Protocol

In order to comply with safety precautions to the maximum extent possible, students will be frequently reminded to wear protective equipment and wash their hands thoroughly. Special education classrooms will adhere to the same equipment and environment cleaning protocol as required in their school of attendance.  

Teachers/staff will limit the use of equipment that would be passed between or shared by multiple students throughout a class period. In the event of sharing supplies, adaptive equipment, or assistive technology, staff or students will wipe down the supplies between use with an EPA approved disinfectant. 

Items that are not easily cleaned will be removed (i.e. upholstered furniture, pillows, bean bags, etc.).  It is recommended that each student have their own basket of sensory items and that those items should be cleaned by staff or student after each use.

Special Transportation

Special transportation continues to be offered for students who require this related service. Facial coverings will be required on school buses for both students and staff. Buses will utilize assigned seats for each student and will be maximized to provide student spacing when possible. Parents and students must be aware, space on our buses is not conducive to provide 6’ social distancing on each bus. Buses will be disinfected after both the morning and afternoon routes.

Case Conference Committee Meetings

Due to Carmel Clay Schools’ safety precautions, case conference participants are encouraged to access Zoom or other virtual meeting capabilities.

If a case conference is held in a Carmel Clay School the following visitor protocols will be followed: 

• After being visually identified, all visitors must wear a protective facial covering and answer the following questions prior to being granted access to a school building:

1. In the last 24 hours have you had a fever or chills and/or taken medication for a fever? (If you are unsure, please utilize a thermometer for an accurate reading.  A temperature of 100.4 or higher constitutes a fever according to medical professionals)
2. Do you have COVID-19 symptoms such as new, uncontrolled cough that causes difficulty breathing, sore throat, diarrhea/vomiting, or loss of taste or smell?
3. In the past 14 days have you been in close contact (was within 6 feet for longer than 15 minutes without protective equipment) with a person known/suspected to have COVID-19 and/or have you been diagnosed with COVID-19?
4. Have you or anyone in your household been tested for COVID-19 and are still awaiting test results?

Visitors who are entering a school beyond the front office must sign a waiver to be kept on file in the main office. A new waiver is required for every visitor upon every visit.

Educational Evaluations

Educational evaluations will be conducted meeting social distancing expectations to the greatest extent possible. When social distancing is not possible, evaluation team members will wear personal protective equipment that may be modified to ensure test validity.

In the event in-person educational evaluations are not possible, alternative methods of evaluation may be determined by Carmel Clay Schools administration and/or the case conference committee.

The Role of Families

As we plan for a return to school, students may feel a bit of anxiety or fear about all of the changes. Teachers and staff will do their best to make sure that families are aware of the procedures and safety protocols to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. Listed below are some resources that may be helpful and be on the lookout for videos and new information as we get closer to the start of school:

• Begin talking with your child about what some of the changes might be when they return to school.
• Be mindful of how you talk about the return to school. The words you use can either heighten or reduce your child’s stress, fear or anxiety.Try to stay calm and be positive to help increase their outlook and offer time for them to talk to you about their concerns and/or questions.
• Talk with your child about the different strategies they can practice that will help keep them safe.  Explain social distancing, they why behind wearing a mask and hand washing.
• Resources from Conscious Discipline:
  • The Task of the Mask
  • Social Distancing
  • Handwashing
• Help your child increase their comfort level around wearing a face covering by having them practice at home. Start out by having them wear the mask for short periods of time and gradually increase this.
• Help your child get back into a regular school routine by instituting earlier bedtime and wake time routines at least one week before school starts.
• It would not be unusual for your child to display some out of characteristic behaviors. These behaviors could look regressive in nature or like behavior concerns. Do your best to approach these behaviors in a supportive, yet consistent manner.

As always, we are here to support you and help make this a smooth transition, please reach out to your child’s school counselor if you have concerns or questions.

Parent Resources

IN-SOURCE Special Education Parent Support
 
Notice of Procedural Safeguards

Navigating the Course

Indiana Department of Education - Office of Special Education
 

Procedures

• Students and staff are required to wear a face covering upon entry to the clinic.
• Students and staff are expected to social distance while waiting to enter and inside  the clinic.
• Symptomatic students and staff will be provided with a surgical-grade mask.
• Each clinic will maintain two separate areas:
  • Regular care and operations space.
  • Separate space for students and staff who show signs or symptoms of illness.
• Nebulizer treatments will not be given in the school environment. Students with asthma should contact their physician to obtain an inhaler, spacer, and mask (if necessary) as needed for use in the school clinic.
• If a student exhibits symptoms of COVID-19, parents will be contacted to pick up the student. The student would need to stay home in quarantine for 10 days and be fever free for 72 hours without use of medication before returning to school. If a parent presents documentation of another illness from a healthcare provider the school will follow the doctor’s recommendations.

Tips to Protect You and Others from Illness

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or by coughing into the inside of the elbow. 
• Throw used tissues away in the trash.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
• Stay away from people who are sick or not feeling well and avoid close contact with others through hugging, kissing, or shaking hands.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects such as toys and doorknobs.
• Seek assistance from your doctor or a health professional if you see or experience symptoms that cause concern.
• 12 Tips to Keep Kids Germ-Free at School

• Cafeteria tables will be spaced out to the greatest extent possible. Elementary and middle schools will create seating charts for contact tracing.
• Hand sanitizer stations will be placed at the front of each serving line. Students will be expected to wash their hands or use hand sanitizer prior to entering the lunch line.
• Menu items will be individually wrapped or covered, with a modified menu selection.
• Pre-wrapped utensils and straws will be provided. 
• Parents are encouraged to pre-pay student lunch accounts online using the EZSchoolPay system to reduce the handing of money/checks. (You will need your student’s ID number found in your Powerschool account.)
• Cash will only be accepted in one serving line per cafeteria. 
• Virtual Learners Meal Program - School Year 2020-2021

• Face coverings will be required on school buses for both students and staff.
• Students will have assigned seats for contact tracing purposes.
• Students will be allowed to sit 2 per seat. Siblings will be encouraged to sit together. Further spacing of students will occur as much as possible.
• Buses will be disinfected after both the morning and afternoon routes.
• A regular ridership schedule is requested for each address in order to support our capacity and contact tracing efforts.
• Due to restricted seating capacities as well as assigned seating to allow for contact tracing, students will only be allowed to ride their own bus to which they have been assigned for home-to-school/school-to-home transport. Students will not be permitted to ride with another student on a different bus.

• We will evaluate our parent drop-off/pick-up procedures after reviewing the Parent Questionnaire data.
• Schools may change drop-off/pick locations or procedures to relieve traffic congestion and/or increase social distancing.
• Students are expected to wear face coverings and social distance as much as possible when entering the building. 

• Visitors to Carmel Clay Schools are restricted unless specific visitation is requested by building administration. The use of teleconferencing is highly encouraged.
• After being visually identified, all visitors must answer the COVID-19 screening questions.

1. In the last 24 hours have you had a fever or chills and/or taken medication for a fever? (If you are unsure, please utilize a thermometer for an accurate reading.  A temperature of 100.4 or higher constitutes a fever according to medical professionals)
2. Do you have COVID-19 symptoms such as new, uncontrolled cough that causes difficulty breathing, sore throat, diarrhea/vomiting, or loss of taste or smell?
3. In the past 14 days have you been in close contact (was within 6 feet for longer than 15 minutes without protective equipment) with a person known/suspected to have COVID-19 and/or have you been diagnosed with COVID-19?
4. Have you or anyone in your household been tested for COVID-19 and are still awaiting test results?

• All visitors must wear a protective face covering to be granted access.

• Regular attendance policies will be in place with the exception of COVID related absences that will be reviewed by building administration on a case by case basis.
• Attendance incentives will be suspended for the 2020-2021 school year. 
• Every effort will be made to accommodate virtual learning for students who may be quarantined due to their own illness or illness of a family member, or any student recommended by a medical professional or per CDC guidelines to quarantine.
• Students/parents should report absences due to quarantine or exposure to their attendance line (during the school day), or use the CCS COVID phone line after hours: 317-571-4630. This phone line will send an automated notification to the Director of Student Service.

• Updates will be communicated using the district’s standard channels of communication, including phone calls, emails, text messages and the CCS website.
• To ensure notifications are received, parents and guardians should verify that their phone numbers and email addresses are correct in the PowerSchool Parent Portal.
• For phone numbers registered within PowerSchool, CCS families can sign up to receive text alerts by texting YES to 67587

• As students head back to school, many may express feelings of anticipation and excitement related to reuniting with teachers and peers; however, it is expected that they may experience feelings of worry, nervousness, and fatigue. The following actions can assist with supporting your child as they transition back to school:
• Assist your child with exploring and discussing feelings related to disruptions in the last school year as well as thoughts and feelings related to the current school year. Recommended talking points include:
  • What did you miss about school during the spring?
  • What did you like about virtual learning?
  • What don’t you miss about school?
  • What don’t you like about virtual learning?
  • What are you worried/anxious about this upcoming school year?
  • What are you looking forward to this school year?
  • How can I support you in order to make this a good school year for you?

• Prior to the start of the school year, establish and practice a healthy sleep and hygiene routine in order to support your child in preparation for their return to school.
• Encourage your child to maintain peer relationships and interactions during the summer break while maintaining social distancing standards.
• Review safety protocols with your child in order to familiarize them with expectations. Reassure your child that these protocols are in place for their safety as well as the safety and health of others.
• Provide opportunities for your student to practice wearing a mask so that they become accustomed to the physical sensation of wearing a mask.
• Continue to monitor your child’s exposure to social media and news sources that may provoke anxiety and fear.
• Engage your child to engage in open conversations where they have the opportunity to ask questions and gain clarification about what to expect during the next school year. This will help in reducing worry and provide them the opportunity to process their feelings in a healthy and supportive manner.
• Remember that sharing your feelings about COVID-19 can increase or decrease your child's fear.  If your child expresses concern for their safety/health, remind your child that the school is doing everything within our power to keep students safe and well.
• During conversations, carefully listen or have them draw or write out their thoughts and feelings and respond with truth and reassurance.
• Recognize warning signs and symptoms of more pervasive mental health concerns, such as a change in habits, a decline in mood, withdrawal, decreased social and academic functioning, erratic or changed behavior, and increased physical complaints as well as  warning signs of suicidal ideation.
• Encourage your student to develop and practice coping and calming strategies that may include:
  • Meditation
  • Yoga
  • Physical exercise
  • Deep breathing
  • Gradual Relaxation
  • Journaling
• Should you have any concerns related to your child’s mental health or if you would like to request additional resources, please feel free to contact your child’s Social Worker or Counselor located at your child’s school building.

For our virtual learners, we recommend the following additional suggestions to assist with promoting mental health and wellness:

• Encourage ongoing contact with peers and healthy social supports utilizing virtual platforms
• Limit and monitor the use of screens and social media outside of virtual learning to ensure safety and well-being. For more information and support, visit www.commonsensemedia.org/
• Establish a consistent routine that incorporates breaks and unstructured “down time”
• Encourage your child to spend time outside when weather permits.
• Encourage physical activity whenever possible in order to maintain health and stamina.
• Reach out and connect with school staff if you have concerns about your child’s ability to cope and/or ability to keep up with assignments or activities.
• Work with your child to ensure that they are completing assignments and attending virtual meetings/lessons. This will assist in reducing anxiety/worry. Opportunities to connect with peers and schools staff will assist children with transitioning back to the physical school environment.
• Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about not being at school and provide hope and reassurance for their return to the school environment.

Resources

How to Talk to Your Child About COVID-19 -- A Resource For Parents
Talking With Children Tips for Caregivers, Parents, and Teachers During Infectious Disease Outbreaks
Coping With Stress During Infectious Disease Outbreaks

Social & Emotional Learning

Our Administrators and Staff recognize that social-emotional learning will be imperative as we transition into the next school year. Because of the restrictions implemented in 2020 to maintain health via social distancing, we understand that students will be coming to school with a need to connect with their peers and adults in their school building. Therefore, it is our priority to ensure that we are fostering opportunities for students to develop this crucial skill set. In order to facilitate social-emotional wellness as we plan to implement the following:

• A Transition Team at each building will plan and support social and emotional learning practices for students and staff.
• Each classroom will focus on building a Culture of Resiliency through the use of explicit and implicit SEL practices
• There will be a district-wide emphasis on building and establishing connections by spending increased time acclimating to routines and rituals as well as providing frequent social-emotional check-ins with students.
• Social Workers, Psychologists and Counselors will be focused on provided targeted groups for students experiencing difficulties transitioning back to school. 
   

Many internet providers are offering free/reduced services for families that do not have access to the internet for virtual learning. 

AT&T

• COVID-19 Response
• Internet Service Signup 
• COVID-19 Help

Comcast

• COVID-19 Response
• Internet Essentials

Metronet

• COVID-19 Response

T-Mobile/Sprint

• COVID-19 Updates
• COVID-19 Customer Updates

Verizon

• COVID-19 Response
• Waived Fees and Charges