Frequently Asked Questions
Will I need to receive a COVID test to return?
We will follow the quarantining protocol listed above. Testing may allow individuals to have less time in quarantine if considered a close contact.
Will we use NTI for an outbreak?
We will continue to take steps to mitigate the risk, but our intentions are to be in person when possible. The use of NTI will be a last resort for us to consider.
Will teachers be required to vaccinate?
Teachers will not be required to have the vaccine, but they have the option to vaccinate.
Are there times when students will not be masked?
All students will unmask at lunch, and all students will also be able to unmask while outdoors and during rigorous physical activity.
How will lunch impact quarantining?
Students in all grades will be unmasked at lunch. However, school leaders are working on strategies to maximize space as well as the amount of time students are with their peers. There will still be a risk of exposure to a positive case while unmasked at lunch.
Will my child have to quarantine if they are masked at school and in contact with a person who tests positive for COVID?
We cannot guarantee that all students will not have to quarantine. However we will maximize distancing of individuals to the greatest extent possible. If both individuals (close contact and the positive case) wear masks, there will be no need for quarantining for the student in contact with the positive case.
When a household member is in quarantine, will siblings be required to quarantine?
If the quarantined individual shows no symptoms and does not have a positive COVID test, then others in the household do not need to quarantine.
Will students and parents be required to wear masks at Open House events?
All individuals must wear a mask regardless of vaccination status while indoors.
Will elementary students be allowed to remove masks for speech therapy?
If the speech therapist can ensure 6 ft between individuals, then students can unmask during their sessions.
Will there be mask breaks in schools?
Students will be able to remove masks when outdoors. In addition, school teams will work together to consider opportunities during the day in which students may remove their masks and not be considered in close contact with other students.
What about snack breaks in the elementary?
If snacks are a normal part of a classroom’s school day, the teacher will provide strategies to reduce the time masks will be off in the elementary. Space will be maximized as well.
Is there a remote learning option for students during the 2021-2022 school year?
There is not a remote learning option for students this year.
What should I do if my child shows one of the symptoms?
If a student is symptomatic, the parent is asked to call the school office and speak to the school nurse to discuss next steps.
Will FTIS still offer COVID testing?
Yes, for students and staff who show symptoms or are considered a close contact.
How can I set up a COVID test?
Please work with the school nurses to consider the proper appointment date and the process to arrange the test.
How will my student be serviced if in a quarantine/isolation situation and not permitted to come to school for a period of time?
Students will work with their classroom teachers to stay connected through Schoology/Seesaw related to content and assignments. Students will be able to message their teachers and make connections during that time as well.
What guidance is followed if my student is an athlete at HMS or HHS?
KHSAA has provided clear guidelines regarding Return to Play as well as steps to follow if positive or a close contact. Proactively we have asked our coaches to consider as many mitigating strategies as possible to eliminate the risk of exposure while practicing and competing. Student athletes will be required to wear a mask while on school provided transportation. When grade 6 students are participating in athletics and with their coaches, they will follow KHSAA guidelines; when grade 6 students are in the school building during a normal school day, they will mask.
Are field trips being planned at this time?
Trips are being planned with safety protocol in mind. All riders of transportation will be required to mask.
What process does a parent/guardian follow for a mask waiver consideration?
Please consult with your child’s school nurses for further information regarding the mask waiver.