New Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Mask Guidance

Earlier today, the CDC updated its guidance regarding masks and other face coverings. For many counties in the state, CDC is no longer requiring universal indoor masking in public settings, including schools. Although masks are no longer required in certain counties, CDC notes that people should wear them if they have symptoms, a positive test result, or exposure to someone with COVID-19.

Overview of current federal and state COVID-19 guidance and orders

Over the last few weeks, as more people across the country are getting vaccines, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), states, and local governments have revised their guidelines for citizens. School district should also be aware of their city and county health department guidelines. In some cases, local guidelines are more restrictive than either state or federal provisions.

School Staff Vaccination News

On Feb. 2, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) released updated guidance on the K-12 School Staff Vaccination Program. The new guidance includes an updated K-12 school vaccination timeline as well as more specific definitions as to which K-12 personnel are eligible for the vaccinations.

More specifically, ODH states the following in the new guidelines:

A Shot in the Arm

Over the last few weeks, it seems like everyone is talking about vaccines. "Have you gotten it?" "Are you a 1a or a 1b?" "How do I get my shot?"

ODH order permits school sports

Last week, the Governor announced that the Interim Director of the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) would be issuing an order permitting all sports practices and competitions.

School Reset and Restart Guidance

The Ohio Departments of Health (ODH) and Education (ODE) have prepared guidance documents for school districts to use as they plan for the 2020-21 school year. One question that has been raised about the documents is whether school districts are required to implement the elements discussed or whether they are merely recommendations.

PERRP Proposes New Rules

The Public Employment Risk Reduction Program (PERRP) recently adopted revisions to a number of rules, some of which directly impact public school districts. The 14 revisions become effective Jan. 1, 2019. While some of the changes are minor, a couple may directly impact district obligations.