Monroe Fall 2020 School Plan

*If you have children attending ICS, please also refer to the ICS plan. 

As what we know about COVID-19 keeps changing, the following is an initial plan for Fall 2020. Our plan and regulations may change as we near the start of school, August 17.  CSF will do our best to communicate clearly and consistently over the course of the next month.

When drafting our initial school plan, the administrative team consulted local doctors, evaluated numerous school re-opening scenarios across the country and the world, and took the time to process your feedback and comments in the Fall 2020 survey. We found the following resources especially helpful in our planning: COVID-19 Planning Considerations: Guidance for School Re-entry from the American Academy of Pediatrics and CDC's reports and resources.

Our overall plan for fall includes the following three scenarios: 

• 100% of teachers and students back in the school building
• 50% in-person, 50% distance-delivery (known as A/B) for all students and faculty
• 100% distance-delivery 

At this time, we intend to welcome all students and faculty back into the school building on August 17 with the following COVID-19 mitigation measures.

Masks
Students and staff will be required to wear a mask when social distancing is not possible. Masks will be provided by the school but students and staff can bring and wear their own if they’d like.  We are continuing to look into opportunities for students and staff to have breaks from wearing masks throughout the day while maintaining social distancing.

Extension of the School Day to Allow for Flex Time
The school day will be extended from 2:20 to 3 p.m. The extra time will allow for flex time and movement during the day (bathroom breaks, travel between classes, and more). More details to follow.

4X4 Class Model
Students will take four classes per quarter, and eight per semester. Each class period is 90 minutes. Longer classes, and fewer content areas over the course of a semester, have been shown to decrease stress for both students and teachers. In addition, longer classes will help us increase opportunities for social distancing.

Lunch Time Precautions
Lunch will be closed campus and students will be socially distanced.

Sick Policy 
Students or staff exhibiting fever or symptoms not associated with allergies or other pre-existing conditions will not be able to attend in-person school until they are cleared by a medical provider. Distance-delivery of education will be available. 

Visitors 
As recommended by the CDC and American Association of Pediatrics, visitors will be restricted from entering the building. 

Classroom Mitigation Measures
To include sanitizing, hand-washing, and social distancing whenever possible. Enhanced cleaning procedures will be in place throughout the building.

Travel
Anyone who is traveling is asked to wear eye protection (goggles or a face shield) in addition to a face mask while traveling by plane, train, or bus. This will reduce the risk of COVID-19 being contracted while traveling. Upon returning to Alaska, travelers must follow current state mandates for interstate travel.  See https://covid19.alaska.gov/travelers/ for details.  Please contact Lorna Illingworth at 907-388-9696 if you need a face shield. 

PE, Band & Orchestra
Given our large gymnasium and access to outdoor spaces, we will continue to provide opportunities for physical education. Information about band and orchestra to come.

As a Catholic school, we are dedicated to educating the whole child. Interpersonal interactions are an integral part of our educational philosophy. That said, as more information becomes available in regards to COVID-19, the regulations above may evolve and our plans may need to change. We ask that you, our families, join us in being flexible and open to change. It's not an easy task for any of us, but given current times, it's necessary. 

These regulations and expectations are a work in progress. Your feedback is welcome as we work together to ensure the safety and well-being of our students, faculty, and staff.