School district fine-tunes plan for fall classes

The Northern Ozaukee School District released more details of its plans for the fall semester, including requiring all students and staff 5 years or older to wear masks in school, as required under Gov. Tony Evers’ recent mask mandate. 

In a message to parents, district officials said a five-day-a-week, in-person plan is “preferred” but parents will be allowed to keep their children at home and attend classes remotely.

The communication with parents also included a survey, which parents have until Aug. 14 to complete.

District Supt. Dave Karrels said he expects about 90% of parents will have their children attend school in person.

Online attendance is primarily intended for students who have Covid-19 symptoms, need to be quarantined or have significant medical needs, the district plan states.

The remote option will include live-streaming of in-class instruction. Attendance will be taken of students participating remotely from home.

Children will be assigned seats on buses to maintain social distancing. Routes are still being finalized, Karrels said, but parents are being encouraged to find transportation alternatives.

The district has updated the campus’ air filtration system and is increasing the flow of outdoor air. It also will use ultra-violet light sterilizers in buildings at night and increase the frequency of cleaning and sanitizing classrooms and high-touch areas.

Some of those added expenses will be paid for through state and federal reimbursements, Karrels said.

In classrooms, students will be assigned seats to maintain social distancing and follow hygiene procedures and safety protocols, including frequent handwashing. Students will assist in cleaning their desktops and work areas.

Students may also be arranged in “cohort groups” to limit exposure to each other. Lunch groups will be reduced in size and will be assigned seats in the cafeteria.

Students who test positive for Covid-19  “should stay at home” for 10 calendar days and remain symptom free for 24 hours before they can return to school, the plan states.

Anyone exposed to someone who tests positive “should stay at home” for 14 days.