The state department of education released guidance for schools operating in purple Level 4 counties under the state’s health advisory system.
“As conditions change, the decision to hold classes in person, remotely or through a hybrid approach remains a local decision,” the Ohio Department of Education said. “Decisions should be informed in consultation with local health departments.”
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The state said there have been questions around the implications of the purple level’s guidance to “only leave home for supplies and services.” The department said education qualifies as a service.
Under the purple level, there is no state mandate that schools operate exclusively in a remote manner, according to ODE.
The department is urging districts to remain flexible and responsive to COVID-19.
“Schools have done well through the reset and restart phase of returning to in-person settings, and there has been little documented spread of COVID-19 attributed directly to the classroom setting,” the state department of education said. “It bears recognizing that, by most indications, while in school buildings, Ohio students and educators are doing an effective job of complying with recommended health practices, especially mask-wearing guidelines.”
ODE said its important for school leaders and students to be voices in the community to reinforce the importance on mask wearing, social distancing and not holding gatherings.
The state said it recognizes the “polarized opinions” about what is right and safe when it comes to handling the pandemic.
“It is important to maintain respectful, collaborative relationships especially with staff and parents – while navigating the many decisions required through the changing landscape,” ODE said.
Included in the guidance (read it in its entirety here), were mitigation strategies to prevent spread in schools, transmission risk based on style of learning and risk of youth sports.