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What question(s) do you have about COVID-19? How can we help you? KDE staff responseAvailable link for districts to use?Date updated
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The word “recommendation” needs to be “order” and sent from the governor or KDE.It has been a source of pride that education decisions have taken place through governor’s recommendations, which are based on the best medical expertise Kentucky has. This practice recognizes local control. The Kentucky School Boards Association (KSBA) will hold a virtual meeting for local board members to explain the decision. Districts whichdo not follow the governor’s recommendation will be asked to participate in a conference call to discuss concerns. Possible actions for defying the recommendation are the use of executive order by the governor, the Kentucky Department for Public Health's (DPH) authority to close buildings during a public health emergency, the Kentucky Board of Education's (KBE) authority to pass emergency regulations if they believe the health and safety of public school students is in jeopardy and potential local consequences such as an outbreak of COVID-19.8/31/2020
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What additional measures are the governor planning to take in addition to shutting down schools? The decision on bars and restaurants seems to contradict the decision on schools, and consistency is important.That is false equivalence. Events and restaurants are not the same thing as a classroom or school hallway. 8/31/2020
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What is the status of athletics? It does not look good to continue with sports when it is recommended to delay in-person classes.The Kentucky High School Athletics Association (KHSAA) has planned for several scenarios, depending on the data. Decisions about any changes to their current plan, which have run parallel to education decisions, will likely be made at the Aug. 20 KHSAA Board of Control meeting. Alternative sports calendars are under review currently.8/31/2020
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Why is the governor recommending delaying in-person learning when every county in Kentucky is below 5% positivity except for three? Kentucky is a state in which people cross county lines frequently. 8/31/2020
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Are regional metrics available? Working as a region to meet reopening goals would motivate people to follow the rules.The possibility of obtaining regional data is being explored currently.8/31/2020
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Please clarify the guidelines around the size of gatherings. Are schools limited to 50 or 10 people?Related to the education setting, if schools are not having in-person classes, they may bring groups of 10 or fewer together for specific needs, such as counseling or picking up materials. The Healthy at School guidance will be updated with details. A link to small group guidance is adjacent.https://www.kentuckyteacher.org/news/2020/08/kde-releases-covid-19-guidance-on-tracking-participation-and-small-groups-for-in-person-targeted-services-and-orientation/8/31/2020
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What is an acceptable number of students to report for in-person learning? The governor shared that engaging "small groups" is encouraged.Further guidance will be provided. Districts should keep in mind staffing needs and equity. A link to current small-group guidance is adjacent.https://www.kentuckyteacher.org/news/2020/08/kde-releases-covid-19-guidance-on-tracking-participation-and-small-groups-for-in-person-targeted-services-and-orientation/8/31/2020
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What is the expectation for staff working in school buildings during non-traditional instruction (NTI)?The overall goal is to reduce the capacity of buildings and increase social distancing when possible. Districts are encouraged to allow staff to work from home if they can perform their job duties from home. 8/31/2020
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There at least 20,000 university students returning to campus within our school district. Why are universities open and K-12 are not?There are huge concerns around the reopening of colleges and universities, and the lieutenant governor is working with the Council on Postsecondary Education (CPE) to work through the issues. Colleges and universities face different challenges than K-12 schools. Please remember that Kentucky is not the only state dealing with this issue. All 50 states have made the decision to delay the start of school and/or begin instructional virtually.8/31/2020
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We are potentially providing suicide prevention training for students when they are off campus and could be in a non-safe place. Will the deadline be extended to accommodate in-person training?Delaying the training is potentially putting kids contemplating suicide in danger, even though the circumstances of virtual training may not be ideal.8/31/2020
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How will districts provide suicide training virtually for students who have no device or internet connection?A plan will have to be developed. It is possible that regional prevention centers could assist by providing training for groups of 10 students per session. The discussion guides may also be helpful, as well as making sure students have access to the crisis prevention numbers. Districts were reminded that from the public health perspective, suicide is the second leading cause of death for children ages 10-14, behind accidental injuries.8/31/2020
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If districts do not start school at all until Sept. 28, how will that affect the Sept. 15 deadline for providing suicide prevention training?Districts can meet most students virtually. In the coming weeks, guidance is needed from the Department for Behavioral Health about documentation that could be mailed to students. Districts who plan to begin instruction on Sept. 28 need to contact Kelly Foster to determine next steps. 8/31/2020
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How should districts document having had the suicide training with students? Can they come in small groups of 10 or less numerous times for those without internet?That will be addressed in the forthcoming guidance, but there is a certificate students and staff can forward after the virtual training has been completed. A link to suicide training guidance is adjacent.https://education.ky.gov/school/sdfs/Documents/BHDID%20Fall%202020%20Guidance%20on%20Suicide%20Prevention%20Delivery.pdf8/31/2020
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Where can districts access the county positivity rates? County rates are not easily accessible because laboratories are only required to report positive cases and not total tests, which makes it impossible to determine the county positivity rate. All testing laboratories are now completing daily surveys with the information required to determine county positivity rates, so more information may be available soon. Other county data is available on Kentucky’s COVID-19 page, such as the number of confirmed cases and death rate. The Harvard Global Health Institute created a map with color-coded risk levels which shows the number of new daily cases per 1,000 people at the county level. Links to relevant resources are adjacent.https://govstatus.egov.com/kycovid19 and https://globalepidemics.org/key-metrics-for-covid-suppression/8/31/2020
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If positivity rate is the "metric" then districts need that information.The positivity rate is not the “metric,” and it is not possible to determine county positivity rates currently. The statewide positivity rate is one metric, along with information about travel between counties and travel to out-of-state hotspots. That was the reasoning behind the governor’s recommendation. 8/31/2020
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Is the reference to small groups of 10 or less related to only students in schools, or adults too?The group of 10 refers to social gatherings or activities that do not have guidance. The Healthy at Schools document outlines the expectations and best practices for conducting in-person learning, and the Healthy at Work guidelines will cover staff activities.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Safety%20Expectations_FINAL%20DOC.pdf and https://govstatus.egov.com/ky-healthy-at-work8/31/2020
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To clarify, may districts have more than 10 students in before Sept. 28?Guidance will be provided. The governor mentioned that it may be possible to have 10 or few students in school for specific purposes, such as collecting Chromebooks and providing specialized services. This will not be a work-around for bringing large groups of students into buildings for regular instruction. If small groups of students are in the building for specific purposes, attention must be given to issues of equitable access and the number of staff in the building. https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Orientation%20And%20Targeted%20Services%20FINAL.pdf8/31/2020
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Some local doctors are saying that local health departments are not accepting numbers of negative tests. Is this artificially inflating the positive rate?Inaccurate reporting of negative test results is a problem. The laboratories processing the tests have the most accurate data, and DPH is now coordinating with the laboratories to obtain complete data and hopefully determine positivity rates by county.8/31/2020
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How do districts record participation for NTI during these weeks?Guidance has been released on this topic. Record participation as you would for students who already planned to receive virtual instruction.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Participation Guidance FINAL.pdf8/31/2020
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Must districts still administer the Brigance kindergarten screener?The KBE waived the timelines associated with administering the Brigance screener, so districts will administer the screener when they are able to.8/31/2020
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Does the governor’s recommendation apply to private schools?KDE does not regulate private schools, but private school and archdiocese school representatives have been included in communications. They have followed governor’s recommendations thus far, but it is unknown if they will adhere to the most recent recommendation.8/31/2020
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We need clear guidance on having teachers in the buildings. Can they work with the Healthy at Work guidelines, being 6 feet apart and masking when necessary?Yes, districts may have staff in buildings following Healthy at Work guidelines. Accommodations for staff with conditions related to COVID-19 must be considered. Districts are encouraged to bring staff in for reasons of improving instruction and not only because they can. Teleworking is encouraged when possible, especially while Kentucky is in the apex of the virus.8/31/2020
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What is the recommendation for engaging classified staff during remote learning?Additional guidance is forthcoming, as this is a different situation for districts than it was in the spring. Possibilities include assigning classified staff as assistants to certified staff and assigning classified staff to answer the extra telephone calls that will be received due to current circumstances. Districts are encouraged to submit their own creative ideas for using classified staff for use in guidance documents.8/31/2020
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Can teachers bring their own children to work with them?That is a local decision for superintendents and building leaders. If staff bring their children to work, the children should follow the Healthy at School guidelines.8/31/2020
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Many school districts have a fall break planned at the end of September/early October. People are going to take off for Florida, etc. during fall break and then we are right back where we started.Districts can adjust their calendars as needed. Fall breaks may be canceled if instruction does not start until Sept. 28, but this will most likely be an issue if families choose to travel to states where there is a high positivity rate.8/31/2020
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May districts provide in-person services to special education students during virtual instruction before Sept. 28?Giudance on that question was released Aug. 20. A link is adjacent.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Reopening%20Considerations%20for%20Exceptional%20Learners%20and%20Preschool%20FINAL.pdf8/31/2020
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Should districts anticipate the recommendation for in-person opening to be cancelled again on Sept. 28?Everyone hopes that in-person instruction can resume, and that school can stay in session, beginning Sept. 28, but decisions are made based on the information that is available at the time. There are no promises that can be made, but everyone hopes for in-person instruction to resume on Sept. 28.8/31/2020
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Districts will need to provide transportation for students to pick up Chromebooks and have orientation. Will that be permissible following guidance?That issue was addressed in guidance released Aug. 17. A link is adjacent.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Orientation%20And%20Targeted%20Services%20FINAL.pdf8/31/2020
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What guidance should districts follow for staff that are high risk?This has been addressed in previous guidance documents. A relevant link is adjacent. Districts should determine whether the employees qualify for leave under the Americans with Disabilities Act and allow teleworking if possible. Specific questions not covered in previous guidance should be addressed to Kay Kennedy.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Reopening%20Considerations%20Workplace%20Health%20and%20Safety%20FINAL.pdf8/31/2020
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What is Dr. Stack's recommendation around athletics? The Kentucky High School Athletics Association (KHSAA) and the Board of Control are making a recommendation on Thursday. Are they following the governor’s recommendation?DPH is relying on KHSAA to develop thoughtful guidelines. DPH provides guidance to those who lead their areas. KHSAA is supportive of the recommendations about public health. Several plans are being developed, allowing flexibility. They are committed to providing sports seasons, if possible, though the seasons will look different. Each sport is different and guidance for each is customized. A link to KHSAA guidance is adjacent.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/KHSAA%20Complete%20Guidance%20Document%20Administrative%20for%20Resumption%20of%20Fall%20Sports.pdf8/31/2020
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Since the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has said masks can be worn by children 2 years old and older, will KDE’s guidance on students wearing masks change?KDE guidance states the expectation for masks to be worn by students in first grade and older. It is OK for students over age 2 to wear masks and is encouraged as best practice. Adults should model mask wearing and help children understand the new normal. The expectation was set for first grade and up due to feedback from education partners and to mirror Kentucky’s childcare guidelines8/31/2020
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If there is a positive COVID-19 case, are districts expected to tell every household in the district or work with the local health department and follow contact tracing protocols?Districts must work with the local health department so contact tracers can begin their work of contacting those who are at high-risk of exposure. Districts should notify families and communities when positive cases have been identified in a school.8/31/2020
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Does the higher rate of testing skew the infection rate data?It could if testing were rapidly increased by a large percentage. Kentucky’s testing rate has been fairly consistent, but the number of cases keeps rising. 8/31/2020
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Do other states have these same issues with reporting regional metrics? They seem to be able to provide these. Are they not accurate?It depends on how their laboratories are reporting data. Without an electronic data system reporting where each negative test occurred, Kentucky cannot accurately report county-level positivity rates.8/31/2020
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Is the DPH looking at a model like West Virginia regarding opening schools? While it may be too late to apply to reopening, it would help when determining intermittent closures.The West Virginia model indicates a low statewide positivity rate, less than 5% to implement the model. We are trying to impose an objective framework onto a dynamic situation, so flexible human judgement is needed during decision-making by experienced educators and local health departments. 8/31/2020
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If students have a medical exemption from wearing a mask, can districts require them to participate in virtual-only learning?The school should communicate with the family and honor legitimate medical conditions that prevent masking. The first step would be to accommodate the student through social distancing instead of forcing the online option, though some parents may be amenable to online instruction. Each student’s situation will be unique.8/31/2020
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When positive cases are reported by DPH for school communities, will individual schools be identified?Possibly, by the number of positive cases identified in staff and students at each school. No personally identifying information would be reported. The reporting policy is currently under review with the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to ensure the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is not infringed upon, especially in small programs where any positive case could result in possible identification of individuals.8/31/2020
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Why is it recommended that every district in the state be closed when the range for daily COVID-19 cases varies significantly from 23% to 0.01%?The virus is fluid and spreads so quickly and easily.8/31/2020
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Why is it the school’s responsibility to announce public health notifications?The school will have time to make an advance announcement before cases are reported on the state website. Districts may want to develop their own messaging before their communities check the website.8/31/2020
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Has the mortality rate of COVID-19 increased or is it still 0.026%?Our death rate has not yet increased. That is usually seen in the data two weeks after positive cases. The death rate is not the only metric to consider, as there are hospitalizations, admittance into intensive care units and intubations. Additionally, long-term effects of this virus are still unknown. This virus attacks multiple organs in the body, not just the lungs. Many people dying from COVID-19 are dying from kidney or renal failure and long-term effects of the disease are of great concern. Using the death rate is a low bar for determining success. 8/31/2020
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Is the expectation in Infinite Campus (IC) that kids who are completing a course by a digital provider be moved in and out of a course marked for digital learning provider if they start one way and change?Yes, it is the expectation that IC reflects what is happening in school as much as possible. Self-paced courses created by a provider are quite different from other forms of virtual learning.8/31/2020
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How many school districts have been approved to begin in-person classes before Sept. 28?Reopening plans were not submitted or approved by KDE, including start dates. KDE has conducted phone calls with districts who are choosing not to heed the governor’s recommendation and all the calls have been positive and respectful. The purpose of the calls is to have a deeper discussion about the reasons for the governor’s recommendation; the districts have their own, valid reasons for wanting to offer in-person instruction before Sept. 28. At the end of the calls, some districts have decided to revisit the data or change their re-opening plans, but many have decided to continue with their current plans. Many districts are reopening for in-person learning during the week of Aug. 24. KDE does not have a list, since districts are not required to submit their reopening plans. Through monitoring of district websites, it is estimated that 19 or 20 districts are not following the governor’s recommendation to delay in-person classes until Sept. 28. Districts will be supported by KDE regardless of when classes resume, or the method of instruction chosen.8/31/2020
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Given the feedback from Mississippi and Dr. Stack's information, is there any consideration by the governor to order, rather than recommend, that schools close?KDE cannot speak for the governor, but one of the primary difficulties is that circumstances are changing daily. That is why it is important for district leaders to continue to watch the governor’s press briefings and stay updated. Local boards may have a different opinion in two weeks than they do today. It is always possible that recommendations or orders will be revisited if circumstances change. 8/31/2020
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With the guidance related to bringing students to buildings in small groups, and keeping to 15% of the total population, does that guidance still hold for afterschool activities (athletics/band, etc)?The small group guidance allows a school to determine 15% of the student building capacity and then have small groups of nine students and one adult. In each small group. Each group must follow the Healthy at School guidelines. The small groups of students can come into the building to receive targeted services. The targeted services could include activities such as evaluation, necessary hands on experiences (labs, CTE Courses), mental health or academic counseling, occupational, physical or speech therapy, or targeted remediation or tutoring. A link to small-group guidance is adjacent.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Orientation%20And%20Targeted%20Services%20FINAL.pdf8/31/2020
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Yesterday Dr. Stack said masks AND 6+ feet of distance are necessary, not just one or the other, according to CDC/WHO. Will Healthy at School guidance be updated since it doesn’t match (e.g., students can lower masks in classrooms if distanced)?At this time the Healthy at School guidance will remain the same with students being masked and 6 feet apart "whenever possible."8/31/2020
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Can you explain why that would be the case if it's become clear to CDC and WHO that both are necessary? What you wrote here is not what the Healthy at School document actually says; on p. 10 it says students can lower masks if 6 feet apart. Should it not say that students should wear masks even when 6 feet apart whenever possible?Everything that is in thedocument is still accurate for Healthy at School. Remember that we were given as much flexibility as possible for Healthy at School. 8/31/2020
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What support is KDE offering USDA for extension of the summer food service waiver?On Aug. 8, KDE submitted a waiver request to USDA to allow districts to utilize the Summer Feeding Program after schools reopen. USDA has indicated that they do not have the ability to independently grant the waiver, as it will require Congressional action. KDE has prepared a letter to Sen. McConnell advocating for this waiver and sharing the hardships that the requirements of the National School Lunch Program impose when districts are operating under varying modes of instruction delivery. 8/31/2020
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Are we suppose to report virtual students' information until Sept. 28?DPH will be providing a response on this question and the answer will be included in the guidance to come out on this topic. 8/31/2020
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If we end up moving our in-person start date prior to Sept. 28 do we still need to schedule a call with the commissioner and KDE? No. Just send him an email letting him know your new start date.8/31/2020
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Can we get the specific link to the School Public Health Report?Yes. It is adjacent.https://chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/covid19/K-12cv19report.pdf


8/31/2020
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what regulation was Todd Allen referring to?702 KAR 1:1608/31/2020
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So if we notify the health department of positive cases and fill out the four-question daily survey, have we met our reporting requirements?These are the school reporting requirements at this time. 8/31/2020
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What do suggest schools do for long road trips with athletics?The longer the road trip, the more important it is to implement mitigation strategies in excess of what is required for daily school trips. The districts should be able to implement 6-foot social distancing (as there should be enough buses available) and require masks at all times.8/31/2020
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Should athletes sit every other seat on the bus for long bus trips? What are the recommendations?Six feet between passengers is the social distancing guideline - the "every other seat" scenario is less than 6 feet. It would probably be useful to somehow mark where you want the students to sit. If you have a good way to do that, please share.8/31/2020
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How do I access the document for daily reporting? The document for daily reporting is currently under development by the Department for Public Health. The goal is to provide access and information on how to access at next week's Superintendent's webcast. 8/31/2020
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The KHSAA Board of Control approved continuation of sports, without providing adequate guidance/guidelines. When will the guidance/guideline document be released to support member schools?KHSAA released guidance Aug. 25. A link is adjacent.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/KHSAA%20Complete%20Guidance%20Document%20Administrative%20for%20Resumption%20of%20Fall%20Sports.pdf8/31/2020
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Will Catholic schools/private schools also have to report their positive cases and quarantining?yes, the same reporting requirements for public schools applies to private schools. 8/31/2020
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How does reopening look specifically for high schools? Ideas/suggestions? Staying in units is much more difficult at high school level.Remote learning, especially at the high school should be project-based when at all possible and not based on time-based units. Introduce topics through video and then present a project that may take several days and possible even multiple weeks to complete. 8/20/2020
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When considering student schedules, is there a way to have all students K-12 return to school every day with the day shortened and the other portion of the day be virtual?Yes, realizing that districts will need to deliver instruction using various delivery models, KDE has attempted to remove any impediments to district flexibility. If you need assistance, contact the Division of District Support, Student Tracking and Data Branch. See also KDE's guidance document "COVID-19 Considerations for Reopening Schools: Daily Participation and Non-Traditional Instruction." A link is adjacent.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Participation%20Guidance%20FINAL.pdf8/20/2020
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What do we need to do to allow elementary schools to earn minutes virtually even for a portion of the day to get the 1,062 minutes?Infinite Campus Blended Learning functionality allows for this. You also have the additional 30 minutes you could use for a virtual session.8/20/2020
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Last week during athletics discussion, question came up about COVID-19 testing. Can it be mandated for sports since it is "privilege" vs. for school that is a "right"? Some are suggesting a strategy of COVID-19 testing when mandatory practice starts.Athletics is governed by the Kentucky High School Athletic Association. See adjacent link for KHSAA's Aug. 4 "Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Resumption of Sport and Sport Activities."https://khsaa.org/08-04-20-frequently-asked-questions-regarding-resumption-of-sport-and-sport-activities/8/20/2020
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Can elementary students gather at a carpet for whole group instruction if masks are worn and students are socially distanced to the extent possible?Any time social distancing cannot be maintained, students and teachers must be masked. Rugs should be removed. For soft (porous) surfaces such as carpeted floors and drapes, remove visible contamination if present and clean with appropriate cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces. If the items can be laundered, launder items in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions using thewarmest appropriate water setting for the items and then dry items completely. See KDE's "Guidance on Safety Expectations and Best Practices for Kentucky Schools (K-12)." A link is adjacent.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Safety%20Expectations_FINAL%20DOC.pdf8/20/2020
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Can teachers still use cooperative learning strategies, small group instruction or other instructional methods with students if students are wearing masks? Whole group instruction/lectures all day are not appropriate/effective for young children.Yes, any time social distancing cannot be maintained students and teachers must wear masks.8/20/2020
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Will KDE develop a form to document medical exemptions of students with medical needs that prevent them from wearing a mask?KDE does not plan to adopt a form at this time. Districts are free to develop their own forms.8/20/2020
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Are there any recommendations for the use of fans outside or inside the classroom or school building to assist in air circulation? Any evidence that this may improve air quality or decrease transmissibility?Kentucky’s K-12 schools have a wide variety of HVAC and control systems. Districts should evaluate the HVAC and controls systems in each building to determine the best mitigation strategy for that facility. If modifications to existing systems are needed or proposed, they may be subject to compliance with the Kentucky Building Code. Altering, modifying or changing the original characteristics of a HVAC system requires design by a licensed professional engineer
pursuant to KRS 322.360. See KDE's guidance document "COVID-19 Considerations for Reopening Schools: Facilities and Logistics." A link is adjacent.		https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Phase%20II%20Reopening%20Considerations%20Facilities%20and%20Logistics%20FINAL.pdf8/20/2020
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Gov. Beshear's executive order noted children ages 5 and older should wear masks How does that work with the current KDE guidance with 1st grade and below not being required to wear a mask?CDC guidance does not suggest masks for children under 2 years old. The current guidance takes into account that smaller children may not be able to properly wear a mask for extended periods of time. 8/20/2020
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Do we anticipate flex focus funds, SB1 facilities funding, or mental health funding amount already allocated to be decreased due to mid-year cuts?Unknown at this time. The General Assembly passed an unusual 1-year budget for 2020 rather than a biennial budget. The General Assembly will have to address any shortfall and the budget for the second year of the biennium during the 2021 legislative session. 8/20/2020
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Do all classroom rugs really have to be removed from classrooms?Yes, classroom area rugs must be removed during this time to ensure all flooring is easy to clean and disinfect. For soft (porous) surfaces such as carpeted floors and drapes, remove
visible contamination if present and clean with appropriate cleaners indicated for use on these surfaces. If the items can be laundered, launder items in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and then dry items completely.
https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Safety%20Expectations_FINAL%20DOC.pdf8/20/2020
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For those districts offering a virtual option that spans K-12, should a new school be setup in Infinite Campus to aggregate all students/staff under one school umbrella, or should they stay enrolled in their usual primary enrollment?There are Kentucky districts that are using Campus Blended Learning to track students and others districts that are setting up virtual schools. It is a local decision as to what will work best. KDE does not recommend setting up a separate school unless teachers will be different for those in the K-12 virtual environment vs. the primary school. There can be complexities with two different teachers using the same gradebook if curriculum and assignments aren’t completely aligned. There is training available tomorrow on Blended Learning setup and student participation tracking. Blended Learning – KY Specific Training (9:00 ET) - The new blended learning functionality is recommended for all schools to maximize flexibility for changes in student participation. Even if your schools are starting virtually, blended learning should be set up before the first day of school to ensure students can be realigned as plans change and participation can be tracked for all virtual students.8/20/2020
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Where can we find the guidance for the school-based mental health services funds?HB352 provided 7.4M for mental health providers. KCSS and the State Marshal were charged with determining the allocation method for these funds. The result was to evenly distribute the funds across 172 districts, in the amount of $43,095. KCSS created a payment, sent it to KDE, and the funds were paid through on or around July 5.8/20/2020
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Districts need the authority to grant additional emergency days if needed for CV quarantine/DX. Will this be possible? Currently districts can only allow 3 max.The KBE is in the process of promulgating 702 KAR 1:190E, an emergency regulation that will enable local school boards to grant employee emergency leave days as necessary due to COVID-19.8/20/2020
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Is there any chance to get waivers for retired teachers to sub early due to limited subs available during this challenging time?It is KDE's understanding that waivers are not available at this time. Such questions should be directed to the applicable retirement system. See KDE's guidance document "COVID-19 Considerations for Reopening Schools: Flexibility in Assigning Staff in the COVID-19 Instructional Setting." A link is adjacent.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/COVID-19%20Guidance%20-%20Certification%20(002)%20TM_jg%20(003)%20(002).pdf8/20/2020
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Can elementary students attend specials classes in the specials teachers' classrooms if they are cleaned and sanitized between classes?Pursuant to KDE's Guidance on Safety Expectations and Best Practices for Kentucky Schools, districts should modify classes/activities that normally require multiple students to engage in an activity that could cause close social contact, congestion or movement in the school hallways such as choir, gym class, art,music, etc. These do not have to be canceled if distance and sanitation needs are met. https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Safety%20Expectations_FINAL%20DOC.pdf8/20/2020
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If we normally send students home with a temperature of 100 or higher, can we keep doing that even though 100.4 is mentioned as a COVID-19 symptom?The DPH guidance for excluding due to temperature is 100.4 or higher.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Safety%20Expectations_FINAL%20DOC.pdf8/20/2020
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Will employees have to quarantine if they travel out of state? If so, how long?On July 20, 2020, the DPH issued a 14 day self-quarantine advisory for travelers who went to any of eight states reporting positive testing rate equal to or greater than 15% for COVID-19. Those include include Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Nevada, South Carolina, Texas and Mississippi. This quarantine advisory is subject to change depending on the state of the pandemic. Local districts will determine employment options for teachers who have traveled, notwithstanding travel advisories.8/20/2020
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We continually are told to go to recess more often, but this does not count toward instruction. Are lunch and recess restrictions related to instructional time going to be relaxed?KDE is in the process of promulgating an emergency amendment to 702 KAR 7:140, which will permit districts to include 30 minutes of COVID-19 necessitated activities within the instructional day. This regulation is designed to provide districts with additional flexibility. The emergency regulation will become effective upon filing with the Legislative Research Commission.8/20/2020
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So we can use plexiglass dividers for lunch rooms? Does this allow students to sit closer than 6 feet without masks?Pursuant to the updated Guidance on Safety Expectations and Best Practices for Kentucky Schools (K-12), plexiglass partitions are permitted. However, partitions are not a replacement for proper social distancing. If the physical space in the school does not allow for spacing students’ desks 6 feet apart, space desks as far away as possible and require masks at all times in that classroom for students and staff. All desks should be arranged so students seats face the same direction. https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Safety%20Expectations_FINAL%20DOC.pdf8/20/2020
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So, if plexiglass is not recommended, and we don't have enough individual desks, and no funds to purchase new classroom furniture, does someone have a suggestion or idea for student seating?Pursuant to the updated Guidance on Safety Expectations and Best Practices for Kentucky Schools (K-12), plexiglass partitions are permitted. However, partitions are not a replacement for proper social distancing. If the physical space in the school does not allow for spacing students’ desks 6 feet apart, space desks as far away as possible and require masks at all times in that classroom for students and staff. All desks should be arranged so students seats face the same direction. https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Safety%20Expectations_FINAL%20DOC.pdf8/20/2020
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If we only have round tables (no desks) that seat four to six students, and no way to separate students by 6 feet, if you don't recommend plexiglass is it OK to seat students facing each other?Pursuant to the updated Guidance on Safety Expectations and Best Practices for Kentucky Schools (K-12), plexiglass partitions are permitted. However, partitions are not a replacement for proper social distancing. If the physical space in the school does not allow for spacing students’ desks 6 feet apart, space desks as far away as possible and require masks at all times in that classroom for students and staff. All desks should be arranged so students seats face the same direction. https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Safety%20Expectations_FINAL%20DOC.pdf8/20/2020
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If testing results continue to be delayed for several days, does that make the contact tracing ineffective as others will already be infected?Contact tracing is overseen by the DPH. KDE's Guidance on Safety Expectations and Best Practices for Kentucky Schools (K-12) requires districts to notify local health department of any positive cases of COVID-19 and be prepared to cooperate with the contact tracing investigation with manifests of bus transportation, classroom cohorts, cafeteria setting charts, etc., that will allow quick identification of those at high risk of infection from the positive COVID-19 student/staff. Quickly initiating a 14-day quarantine of these at risk individuals is our best defense against further spread of the viral illness.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Safety%20Expectations_FINAL%20DOC.pdf8/20/2020
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What if parents want their 5-year-old or preschool student to wear a mask? We have been told they are not allowed.CDC mask guidelines do not support mask wearing by children under 2 years of age. Additionally, younger students may have a hard time with consistent and appropriate mask use. There is nothing in KDE's guidance that prohibits a 5-year-old from wearing a mask. Students in 1st grade and above are required to wear masks unless exempted. https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Safety%20Expectations_FINAL%20DOC.pdf8/20/2020
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Early childhood guidance has stated that masks are a choking/strangling hazard. Can this be clarified with Early Childhood Education?CDC mask guidelines do not support mask wearing by children under 2 years of age. Additionally, younger students may have a hard time with consistent and appropriate mask use. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/cloth-face-cover.html8/20/2020
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Do the designated "Healthy at School" persons need to wear gowns, face shields, or other PPE in addition to a face mask when they are checking temps of students and staff?Individuals taking temperatures should be equipped with touchless thermometers and adequate PPE, this includes masks for the temperature taker and the person having their temperature taken. Distance should be maintained as much as possible. https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Reopening%20Considerations%20Workplace%20Health%20and%20Safety%20FINAL.pdf8/20/2020
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If we have some students in school for in-person class and others participating in NTI, should we plan to serve food to both groups of students?Districts may provide meals to NTI students under USDA waivers. These include meal pickup, sending meals home and meal delivery models. See KDE's,COVID-19 Considerations for Reopening Schools: Waivers for USDA School Meal Programs for program requirements. https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Reopening%20Guidance%20Food%20Service%20Operations%20Part%202%20FINAL.pdf8/20/2020
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For schools that have microwaves in the classroom, can those be used safely to warm student lunches brought from home?A classroom microwave is a high-touch surface that would require frequent cleaning and disenfecting between uses. A district may want to discuss the use of classroom microwaves with their local health department.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Reopening%20Guidance%20Food%20Service%20Operations%20Part%202%20FINAL.pdf8/20/2020
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Does after-school care have to operate under a daycare license from HHS?Daycares are regulated by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Questions related to whether an aftercare program would be considered a daycare subject to licensing requirements should be directed to CHFS. 8/20/2020
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What are some practical ideas for serving lunch? Supervision and space are nearly impossible at a safe social distance. Is this an area where we can possibly get a "revisit" on the requirement?Lunchroom capacity is dependent on the ability to social distance. Additionally, stagger lunch times and promote social distancing at tables (include accommodation for students with food allergies). If students eat in the cafeteria, surfaces must be cleaned and sanitized between cohorts of diners. Seat assignment and a manifest will be needed to support contact tracing if the school experiences a positive case of COVID-19. If social distancing is not possible in the cafeteria, have meals served to the classroom or have students bring food from the cafeteria back to their classrooms to eat. Be mindful of those students with food allergies. See KDE's guidance document, Guidance on Safety Expectations and Best Practices for Kentucky Schools (K-12).https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Safety%20Expectations_FINAL%20DOC.pdf
8/20/2020
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It says we need to wear surgical masks when working with students hand-over-hand. Is this a N-90 mask? The gowns that are required, should these be disposable? When providing hand-over-hand assistance to a student, staff must wear gloves, surgical masks and face shields.According to the CDC, surgical masks are not the same thing as an N-95 respirator. Surgical masks provide less respiratory protection than an N95 respirator. Surgical masks provide barrier protection against droplets including large respiratory particles. Most surgical masks do not effectively filter small particles from the air and do not prevent leakage around the edge of the mask when the user inhales. Gowns should be disposable.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Reopening%20Considerations%20for%20Exceptional%20Learners%20and%20Preschool%20FINAL.pdf8/20/2020
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Could school districts receive an exemption from daycare licensing requirements to provide care for staffs' school age children that are enrolled in a different district and do not have an in-person attendance option?Daycares are regulated by the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Questions related to exemptions from daycare licensing requirements should be directed to CHFS. 8/20/2020
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Transporting four students at one time is not feasible. Would we be permitted to transport without social distancing?With adequate mitigation, districts may run buses at full capacity. These include masks, assigned seating, temperature checks, hand sanitizer, etc. See KDE's guidance document COVID-19 Considerations for Reopening Schools: Pupil Transportation.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Reopening%20Transportation%20FINAL.pdf8/20/2020
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Clarification - Will anything be reported in SharePoint for NTI days?Nothing will be reported in SharePoint for 2020-2021. 8/20/2020
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Are we limited to 50 in the cafeteria for feeding kids, or can we seat more as long as we can social distance?Lunchroom capacity is dependent on the ability to social distance. Additionally, stagger lunch times and promote social distancing at tables (include accommodation for students with food allergies). If students eat in the cafeteria, surfaces must be cleaned and sanitized between cohorts of diners. Seat assignment and a manifest will be needed to support contact tracing if the school experiences a positive case of COVID-19. If social distancing is not possible in the cafeteria, have meals served to the classroom or have students bring food from the cafeteria back to their classrooms to eat. Be mindful of those students with food allergies. See KDE's guidance document Guidance on Safety Expectations and Best Practices for Kentucky Schools (K-12).https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Safety%20Expectations_FINAL%20DOC.pdf8/20/2020
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If a students is determineD to be "in person" but must become a virtual student because of quarentine, how can we document this?Infinite Campus Blended Learning functionality allows for students to be easily moved from in-person to virtual.8/20/2020
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Will there be cap size issues if you exceed the maximum class size due to students enrolled online?Schools with an SBDM may seek a waiver from class size caps from the SBDM. For schools without an SBDM, the Superintendent may seek a waiver from the Commissioner of Education. See KRS 157.360 and 702 KAR 3:190. 8/20/2020
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Can you please explain the new 72-hour fever-free rule?If an employee with symptoms has a negative COVID-19 test, they may return to work once they are fever-free (without fever-reducing medication) for 72 hours and have no other COVID-19 related symptoms. A student sent home with COVID-19 symptoms who has a negative COVID-19 test or the symptoms have subsided may return to school once they are fever-free (without fever reducing medication) for 72 hours and have no other COVID-19 related symptoms. See KDE's Covid-19 Considerations for Reopening Schools: Workplace Health and Safety.https://education.ky.gov/comm/Documents/Reopening%20Considerations%20Workplace%20Health%20and%20Safety%20FINAL.pdf8/20/2020
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Do you anticipate that if cases continue to rise that schools will be closed? (or recommended to close by Gov. Beshear?)KDE has provided guidance for several possibilities for reopening schools. Interim Education Commissioner Kevin C. Brown told superintendents of the state’s 171 districts May 12 during a KDE webcast that KDE’s guidance will provide “a framework” for scenarios that districts might consider as they plan their calendars for the 2020-2021 school year.8/20/2020
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All six of my classes are rostered at 25-30 students and my classroom is too small to properly social distance. How can my district cancel in person meetings of 25 but still expect me to have a class of 30?District are expected to reduce class size to enhance social distancing and have students and staff wear face masks.8/20/2020