Dear PCSD Staff, Students & Families,
Based on today’s report by the Putnam County Department of Health, the Putnam County COVID-19 positivity rate has decreased to 8.5%, and the vaccination rate has increased to 50%. Due to this improved data, PCSD will begin the following protocols for Monday, October 4, 2021:
- All safety precautions that were implemented during the 2020-21 school year are still in place including working with public health partners to contact trace all positive cases, utilizing enhanced cleaning procedures, maintaining a COVID-19 triage health room at each school with dedicated staff, and requiring all staff and students who present with COVID-19 symptoms to stay home and follow possible case protocol.
- Face coverings for students and staff are optional, but highly recommended, in all school facilities. Face coverings are optional for those staff and students riding on PCSD transportation.
- Individuals who are experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms (cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) should not enter PCSD offices or school campuses.
- Schools may allow visitors on campus utilizing safety precautions such as a visitor questionnaire to be sure those on campus are not symptomatic. Any visitor protocols in place that are not COIVD-19 related, such as visitor screenings with Raptor and “wheels only” drop-off procedures, are not affected by this notice.
- School administrators may plan events in common areas such as Open House, dances, pep rallies, and staff trainings. All school administrators are expected to consult with the Director of Student Services and/or Health Services Coordinator prior to large events to ensure all possible safety precautions are being utilized.
Please note that we will follow the local Department of Health data each week, and, if necessary, update safety protocols based on that data. As always, we appreciate everyone’s support as we work to keep our schools and community safe.
Sincerely,
Dr. Rick Surrency
Superintendent