Masking

At this time, mask wearing is a voluntary decision for individual stakeholders.

Social Distancing

One of the key recommendations of the Shelby County Health Department and Center forDisease Control (CDC) is to provide 3-6 feet of social distancing when possible. 

COVID-19 Notifications

Parents, students, and staff members can view our COVID-19 Dashboard for information about reported positive cases by date by school location.  View the Dashboard.

COVID Related (Student) Absences

When a student is identified as a direct contact to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or has tested positive and needs to quarantine according to the TN Health Department or Shelby County Health Department, absences will be excused.  Teachers will offer access to lessons and materials to keep students on track during their absence.  This access can include Schoology assignments, printed assignments, and/or video-recorded lessons.  

Students may participate in learning activities each day while quarantined to remain on track with lessons/curriculum; however, they may also wait to submit assignments upon returning according to the GMSD Grading Policy 4.600: 

In the event of an excused absence, students are expected to make up missed work within a reasonable amount of time as determined by the school policy, with a minimum of one day allowed for each day absent.

Technology

For password resets, general troubleshooting, or technology questions email helpdesk@gmsdk12.org  or call (901)756-2323.

If the device is stolen: 

• Off campus – A police report must be filed by the student’s parent/guardian in the city where the device was stolen, and school administration must be notified immediately. In addition, the District may require restitution of property and damages, where appropriate.

• On campus – School administration should be notified immediately. 

If the device is lost or misplaced:

• Please report lost or misplaced devices immediately to your school for assistance in recovering the device.

• Restitution will be required for the full replacement value of the device.

Reach out to a school nurse

Forest-Hill Elementary: Alison Herrington, Mary.herrington@gmsdk12.org 

Dogwood Elementary: Madhuri Srinivasan, Madhuri.srinivasan@gmsdk12.org 

Farmington Elementary: Melissa Eskins, Melissa.eskins@gmsdk12.org

Riverdale Elementary (K-8): Julie Bebawy, Julie.bebawy@gmsdk12.org 

Houston Middle School: Kristen Oster, Kristen.oster@gmsdk12.org

Houston High School: Celeste Waldrup, Celeste.waldrup@gmsdk12.org

GMSD Lead Nurse: Colleen Cheatham, Colleen.cheatham@gmsdk12.org 

GMSD School Health Supervisor: Andrew Martin, Andrew.martin@gmsdk12.org 

Building Sanitization and Cleaning Procedures

Increased cleaning efforts have been outlined with our custodial service provider, SKB, to include multiple daily cleanings of common areas and increased efforts in each classroom.

GMSD will continue the employment of day porters at each school building to both clean and monitor the increased cleaning effort protocols and ensure that their building is in alignment with district standards.

GMSD has purchased eight Clorox Total 360 Cleaning Systems.  These systems are often used in hospitals to mitigate the spread of germs. High traffic areas will be disinfected on a regular basis, and classrooms on a case-by-case basis.

All school HVAC systems have been upgraded with High-MERV filters.  The MERV-13 filters are the industry standard in reducing particles and bacteria in the air.  Our HVAC systems also have the ability to circulate fresh air in programmed bursts through the building.  GMSD has programmed fresh air in short, frequent bursts.

Schools will provide opportunities for all students to take regular breaks to wash their hands throughout the day.  Restrooms will be regularly checked for necessary materials.  Hand sanitizing stations have been placed throughout each building.  

After School Activities, Arts, & Athletics

After school activities, athletics, and fine arts are an important part of the social emotional well-being of students.  GMSD has prioritized that these activities will continue with protocols and safety guidelines. Athletics will follow TSSAA & TMSAA guidelines.   

R.E.A.C.H.

For many working parents, our partnership with the City of Germantown Parks and Rec Department R.E.A.C.H. Program is essential.  R.E.A.C.H. will be permitted to provide this service on our campus and will follow all school procedures and safety measures. Questions about R.E.A.C.H. need to be directed to Germantown Parks and Recreation.

Transportation

Our transportation provider, Durham, will provide information about their safety procedures on buses.  Social distancing may not  be possible on buses and mask wearing will be required.