OMCS Return to School Plan 2020-2021 | 2

Table of Contents
Introduction and District Priorities   
Feedback & Input: Surveys, Task Force & Advisory Groups   
Fall 2020: Instructional Information for Families   
Instructional Roles & Learning Tools for All Learning Environments   
Return to School Protocols   
Protocols for Screening and Isolation   
Protocols for Personal Protective Equipment   
Protocols for Campus Visitors   
Protocols for Disinfecting and Hand Sanitizing   
Protocols for Campus Cleaning and Disinfecting   
Protocols for Common Areas and Meetings   
Protocols for Positive COVID-19 Cases on Campus   
Campus Health & Safety Protocols   
Training   
Emergencies and Drills 
School Arrival & Dismissal   
Cafeteria - Breakfast and Lunch   
Standard Classroom Procedures   
Recess/Playground   
Elementary Specialized Classrooms/Areas   
Secondary Specialized Classrooms
School Events and Activities   
On- and Off-Campus Student Activities   
Hallways and Lockers   
  
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Introduction and District Priorities 

The Odessa-Montour Central School District looks forward to welcoming students back to school in September
2020. Despite the challenges with COVID-19, our district will continue to provide an excellent education to our
students, which will include both in-person and remote learning environments. As the public health crisis
continues, we have been planning for the opening of the 2020-21 school year with a focus on the health, safety
and well-being of our staff, students and community.

While Odessa-Montour CSD is planning for three different instructional environments, we are following
recommendations for school opening and operations provided by the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC), the New York State Education Department, and state and local health officials. 

The situation with COVID-19 is continuously changing, as are the protocols and measures needed to keep
students and staff safe. Plans will remain flexible to accommodate potential changes and these guidelines may
be modified as needed. As adjustments may be necessary throughout the coming school year, it will be our
priority to keep the community informed of those changes and updates. The Odessa-Montour CSD website and
Facebook page will provide you with the most up-to-date information. 

Our planning process has continuously evolved around new information and guidance that we receive from the
state. Our Steering Committee and Advisory Groups have planned with the following key priorities and focus
areas in mind:

Key Priorities and Focus Areas

 Health and Safety

 Social Emotional Learning
 Instructional Continuity
 Communication
 Innovation
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Feedback & Input: Surveys, Task Force & Advisory Groups

In preparation for effective planning in each key area of work, it was critical to receive feedback from our
families and teaching staff regarding their experiences during school closure in the spring as well as concerns
and needs as we plan for the fall with a lens of continuous improvement. 

O-M Community Survey – focused on seeking feedback on their overall learning experience,
connectivity/technology, student engagement, social emotional well-being and feedback on what improvements
could be made for the fall, as well as sharing concerns with returning to school for the 2020-21 school year.

O-M Parent Advisory Group – focused on reentry feedback with social emotional needs, instructional
continuity, health and safety needs and feedback on improvements to remote learning.

Faculty and Staff Survey – focused on seeking feedback on instructional barriers and obstacles faced during
the closure, student engagement, student instructional support, communication with students, staff and
leadership, additional professional development needs and overall well-being. 

STEERING COMMITTEE MEMBERS

District High School Elementary

Christopher Wood Jane O’Neil Jen Hoose

Skip McCarty Judy Kastenhuber Angie Cartwright
Rob Francischelli Dan Batchelder Beth Ruocco
Jim Nolan Colleen Coolican Jordan Mensch
Roni Lewis Holly McNelis
Lisa Kuhnel Anna Scheffey-Hohle
Kelly Cain
Rob Cole
Michelle Clark
Jen Mosher
Karen Rock
Will Shrout
Mary Crippen
Joey Collins

Fall 2020: Instructional Information for Families

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This fall, Odessa-Montour CSD will implement instructional practices to provide consistency across learning
environments and ensure the safety of students and staff.

In- Person Hybrid Remote Classrooms

 In this model, O-M  In this model, O-M  In this model, O-M
students will report to students will receive students will receive
school daily. instruction both remotely remote instruction.
and in the classroom.
 Staff and students will  The District (PK-12) will
wear masks (when unable  Staff and students will use Microsoft Teams as the
to appropriately social wear masks (when unable primary educational
distance). to appropriately social platform for learning.
distance).
 Scheduling and classroom
set-up will take into  All in-person regulations,
account the need for social cleaning schedules and
distancing and disinfecting social distancing apply
staff/student work and when students are in the
personal spaces. school buildings.

Regardless of learning environment, the Odessa-Montour CSD is committed to ensuring that students have an
equitable experience and access to high-quality instruction: 
 Odessa-Montour CSD will utilize the strategies and best practices in the classroom and using technology
associated with blended learning to design learning activities for all students. 
 Learning experiences are designed to meet the needs and environment of the learner where they are. 
 Students, regardless of learning environment, will engage in high-quality learning experiences aligned to
Odessa-Montour curriculum and NYS Next Generation Standards. 
 Students who begin the year in face-to-face learning at school may move into remote learning for a
period of time if needed for school closure due to student/staff illness or county or state regulations.
 Both the remote and face-to-face experience will utilize Microsoft Teams as the primary platform in the
District, which will provide similar expectations around coursework and follow the same grading
guidelines.

IN-PERSON LEARNING
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Students and teachers will attend class in-person, five days a week, with additional safety measures in alignment
with state and federal guidelines and recommendations.
 In this setting, teachers will provide face-to-face instruction, learning resources and support in utilizing
the designated educational platforms for each building. (Microsoft Teams)
 Teachers will plan instruction that is quickly and easily transferable from face-to-face to remote in the
event of a temporary school closure due to COVID-19 spread.
 District-directed and building-designed safety procedures will be implemented. 
 Gr. 7-12 students will be assigned schedules based on their course selections made last spring and the
availability of courses.

OMCSD REMOTE LEARNING @ HOME 

OMCSD REMOTE LEARNING @ HOME  is a remote learning opportunity that will allow students to
engage in high-quality learning experiences, utilize instructional resources and meaningfully connect with their
teachers and other students. All activities will be designed to meet the needs of the student in the online
environment through differentiated experiences that are consistent with those of their grade-level peers who are
attending school face-to-face. 

 Teachers will teach remote students from their classrooms or other assigned OMCSD facilities. 
 In this setting, teachers will also provide instruction, learning resources and support through the use of
Microsoft Teams or other platforms as required by colleges/universities. 
 Parents will support students as a “learning coach” and ensure they have access to a device, a place to
work and are engaged in virtual learning activities. 
 We will ensure open lines of communication between teachers, students and parents as we work together
to ensure each student is academically and socially-emotionally future ready. 
 Teachers will utilize the same curriculum as students who attend face-to-face instruction and will design
strategies for learning in the remote environment. 
 Grading will be consistent with the guidelines and practices used in all face-to-face instruction. 

Remote Synchronous Learning is defined as two-way, real-time, live instruction between teachers and
students through the computer or other electronic devices.
OMCSD student expectations for synchronous learning:
 Students attend class on time, per their class schedule.
 Students will follow OMCSD code of conduct.
 Students will be ready to engage and learn.
 Students should have a designated, distraction-free workspace to engage in learning.
 Students will show their face on the screen to engage with the teacher virtually.
 Students will participate in the class activities, discussions and assignments.

Remote Asynchronous Learning is a curricular experience where students engage in the learning materials on
their own time, interacting intermittently with the teacher via the computer or other electronic devices. In this
setting, teachers will provide instruction, learning resources and support through the use of Microsoft
Teams. Asynchronous Learning will be utilized when Synchronous Learning is not possible.
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OMCSD student expectations for asynchronous learning:

 Students will complete asynchronous activities assigned each day.
 Students show proof of participation in daily virtual instruction by satisfactorily completing assignments
to demonstrate evidence of student learning, e.g., video, picture or activities submitted as lessons and/or
completing assignments. 
 Students and parents will communicate with the teacher when needing additional assistance, tutoring,
etc.

Schedule for OMCSD REMOTE LEARNING @ HOME

While in a remote learning environment, time management is critical to success. Students and teachers must
remain in communication regarding daily schedules and assignments. As with any traditional course, there is a
risk of receiving a lower grade if a student falls behind. If students are struggling with time management, then
the parent or student should contact the teacher for additional assistance. 

Attendance for OMCSD REMOTE LEARNING @ HOME

OMCS teachers will record attendance through our SchoolTool Student Management System (SMS).
Regardless of in-person, hybrid, or remote learning systems, teachers will set clear expectations to record
student participation in all settings.

Parents and students will receive absence notifications commensurate with District protocols.
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Instructional Roles & Learning Tools for ALL Learning

Environments
Although students may be learning in different environments, OMCSD is committed to providing consistency
in high quality instruction and learning tools for all students.

INSTRUCTIONAL ROLES FOR ALL ENVIRONMENTS

Preparation for Learning

Student  Be prepared for learning each day and have work and assignments completed and ready.
 Complete coursework by deadline set by teachers.
 For face-to-face learning: Take all materials and devices home each day in order to be
prepared for possible school closure. 

Parent  Access parent resources to learn how students will navigate Microsoft Teams.
 For face-to-face learning:  Encourage your child to have their things in their backpack and
be ready for school the night before.
 For OMCSD REMOTE LEARNING @ HOME:  Create a designated place in your home
for your student to use as their remote classroom. 

Teache  Meet weekly with collaborative team to plan instruction for all students. 
r  Utilize the district and state curriculum documents and follow core curriculum standards.
 Upload “Week at a Glance” for parents and students in Microsoft Teams.
 Upload weekly instructional materials into Microsoft Teams.
 Be prepared to teach daily lessons.
 Take all materials and devices home each day in order to be prepared for possible school
closure. 

Learning & Teaching Expectations

Student  Attend classes according to school schedule (either face-to-face or remotely) and give your
best efforts in your school assignments.
 Participate in face-to-face learning activities or live synchronous remote sessions as
instructed by teachers.
 Be organized in your work and in getting projects completed.
 Ask questions and communicate with your teacher.
 Be aware of what you should be learning each day.
 Become familiar with the structure of your educational learning platform and how your
teacher organizes information.
 Turn in assignments on time.
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Parent  Access Parent Portal (grades 7-12) to view student grades.

 Check in with student(s) to monitor completion of homework and assignments.
 Discuss your child’s favorite part of his/her day and what he/she learned in school.
 Facilitate academic support and encouragement as a learning partner to motivate and guide
your child throughout the school year in your role as a learning coach.
 Provide your child with assistance on their day-to-day activities with the exception of
designated independent work.
 Consider creating a designated learning/study space for your child at home to learn
comfortably.
 Maintain communication with your child’s teacher by phone, email and/or online meetings
to create a learning partnership.
 Monitor and ask for evidence that your child is on track with assignments and coursework.

Teache  Teach students how to access learning materials through designated educational platform. 
r  Provide face-to-face or live synchronous instruction and facilitate learning throughout the
day.
 Manage online and offline resources to provide consistency and routines for students. 
 Provide clear learning goals for students.
 Follow the expectations established across the district for Microsoft Teams.
 Check student assignments in a timely manner and give feedback in verbal or written form
at minimum weekly to provide next steps or necessary academic intervention/extension. 
 Post grades at minimum bi-weekly according to district grading guidelines.

Support and Intervention

Student  Attend intervention/tutorial sessions as established by your teacher or school.

Parent  Allow your child to remotely attend intervention/tutorial sessions as needed.

 Assist in supporting your child’s needs by establishing and managing the daily schedule
communicated by the teacher.
 Help your child own his/her learning. Provide support and encouragement and expect your
children to do his/her part.

Teache  Provide intervention or tutorial sessions as needed.

r  Follow student IEPs/504 accommodations in all learning environments. 
 Use data to pinpoint students’ specific needs for enrichment and intervention.
 Monitor student progress with fidelity according to recommendations.
 Provide and communicate office hours or conference period for student/parent support. 
 Attend and participate in professional learning.
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LEARNING TOOLS FOR BOTH ENVIRONMENTS

Information

Device To the extent possible, the District will address the need to provide devices and internet
access to students and staff who currently do not have sufficient access. In addition, the
District will provide alternative ways to participate in learning.

Instructional  All teachers in grades PK-12 will use Microsoft Teams as their primary learning
Platform management system and communication tool for the 2020-2021 school year. 
 Assignment submissions: For both environments, student assignments will be
submitted (as much as possible) through online platforms to eliminate
unnecessary contact and shared materials. 

Information

Online  All teachers in grades PK-12 will enhance instruction through the use of online
Resources resources to engage students in high-quality learning experiences. 
 Students will have access to online resources.
 No resources, platforms or apps requiring student fees or an associated cost to the
family will be required at any time. 

Communication  Communicating with teachers: 

 All teachers will establish and communicate office hours or conference
times when they are available to meet with parents and answer student
questions. 
 Contact information will be provided at the beginning of each semester
and posted in building designated educational learning platforms. 
 Use of student network access: 
 Students in grades 4PK -12 will be provided a district-managed email
account and Microsoft 365 account beginning in the fall of 2020. 
 These accounts should be utilized for all communication directly between
teachers and students. 

Technology Odessa-Montour CSD recognizes the need to ensure all students have reliable access to
adequate technology resources on and off campus in order to fully participate in
academic programming. OMCSD is preparing for OMCSD REMOTE LEARNING @
HOME and possible school closures due to COVID-19 as follows:
 OMCS is partnering with community agencies to provide WiFi availability
throughout the community.
 Students and families are expected to follow network user policies in order to
ensure these public resources are effectively maintained.
 Relevant notifications, instructions, procedures, policies and processes are
available on the OMCSD website. 
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Return to School Protocols

Following are the return to onsite work protocols for OMCSD buildings. Since this is an ever-changing
situation, the District may need to change protocols at any time to address specific needs and circumstances in
order to protect the health and safety of students, employees and the community. Please note, health guidance
cannot anticipate every unique situation. As a result, OMCSD will continue to consult available guidance
through governmental agencies and other information deemed relevant to monitor the situation. The District
will comply with applicable federal and state employment and disability laws, workplace safety standards and
accessibility standards to address individual needs.
 
It is important to remember the virus that causes COVID-19 can be spread by infected persons who have few or
no symptoms. Even if an infected person shows no symptoms or is only mildly ill, the people they spread it to
may become seriously or fatally ill, especially for persons 65 years of age or older with pre-existing health
conditions who are at higher risk. Because of the hidden nature of this threat, OMCSD expects all employees,
students and families to rigorously follow these practices.

Preparation for the Opening of School 

OMCSD will ensure all staff, resources and supplies are prepared for opening school, including but not limited
to assigning sufficient staff to carry out re-opening, ensuring proper training and stocking inventory of
necessary supplies, such as personal protective equipment (PPE).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides guidance, recommendations and resources to
assist with plans and protocols for health and safety. Before schools re-open, OMCSD will implement health
and safety plans that include:
 Ensuring adequate supply inventory (e.g., PPE, cleaning supplies, hand sanitizer, etc.)
 Cleaning with products approved by governing authorities and per guidelines from the Environmental
Protection Agency
 Ensuring compliance with CDC, Health and Human Services, the NYSED and Department of Health
and other jurisdictional policies
 Providing communication of procedures and expectations upon entering facilities and throughout
buildings.

Protocols for Screening and Isolation 

General
All students and staff will be screened for COVID-19 symptoms daily and individuals with symptoms will be
separated and sent home.

Screening Protocols
 Staff will be required to complete a self-screening process prior to entering an OMCSD building, and
the district may require further screening of employees at any time based on current state and federal
guidelines. Staff are expected complete a daily survey on the website any time they are accessing a
District facility/building. 
 OMCS will temperature screen every student each day prior to boarding school buses or entering school
buildings. Parents are encouraged to take their child’s temperature daily prior to the start of the school
day, however the school’s temperature reading will be the official screening for entry to all school
facilities. Additional screening may be conducted during the school day. 
 Parents must ensure they do not send a child to school on campus if the child has COVID-19 symptoms
(as listed in this document) or is lab-confirmed with COVID-19, and instead should opt to receive
remote instruction until the below conditions for re-entry are met.
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 Staff and students should not enter campuses or district buildings if any of the following apply. The
individual is:
 Sick or has been sick in the past 14 days. Symptoms to watch for: fever (100°F or higher),
cough, shortness of breath/difficulty breathing, chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, new
loss of taste or smell.
 Has a confirmed case of COVID-19 or has been in close contact with a person with a confirmed
case of COVID-19. These individuals must follow all isolation and quarantine guidelines from
the local health authority or their physician.
 Has a household member who is awaiting COVID-19 test results, or who is awaiting their own
test results due to symptoms of COVID-19, exposure to a positive case, or travel to one of the
affected states. Parents should contact the school nurse if they have any questions on this criteria.
 Has traveled to a restricted state listed on the NYS COVID-19 travel advisory list or
internationally on a cruise in the past 14 days. These individuals must follow current CDC self-
quarantine recommendations: View current CDC recommendations.
 Teachers will monitor students and refer them to the nurse if symptoms are present.

Isolation Protocols
 For students who are displaying symptoms of COVID-19 or are feeling feverish, the school nurse will
provide a clinical assessment to determine if and when a student needs to be sent home. 
 Students who are ill will be separated from their peers and should be picked up within 30 minutes and
no later than 1 hour from the time the campus has contacted the parent/guardian.
 Other students will be removed from the classroom and taken to an alternate location on campus (go on
a walk outside, move to a different classroom, etc) so that the classroom can be disinfected.
 If an individual who has been in a school is lab-confirmed to have COVID-19, the school must notify its
local health department, in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations,
including confidentiality requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Family
Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
 Schools must close off areas that are heavily used by the individual with the lab-confirmed case
(student, teacher, or staff) until the non-porous surfaces in those areas can be disinfected.
 District communication will be provided to the students who came in contact with a student or staff
member displaying COVID-19 symptoms. 
 Staff members displaying COVID-19 symptoms will follow district protocols including isolation from
students and other staff members.
 Students and staff who have tested positive for COVID-19 will be permitted to return to school when:
 They are 3 days (72 hours) fever-free without using fever-reducing medication;
 Symptoms (cough, difficulty breathing, etc.) are improved;
 10 days have passed since symptoms began.
 Has been released from Health Department isolation order.

Protocols for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Schools are required to comply with the governor’s executive order regarding the wearing of masks. Students
and staff are expected to wear face coverings during school hours. This requirement is subject to change.
 Masks include non-medical grade disposable face masks or cloth face coverings (over the nose and
mouth). 
 Staff and students will appropriately wear face coverings at all times except when appropriately socially
distanced and/or for mask breaks. 
 Students in grades PK -12 will wear face coverings in hallways, common areas and during arrival and
dismissal.
 Students will not be required to wear face coverings while eating but will be socially distanced.
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 Individual needs regarding face coverings will be addressed on a case-by-case basis. Requests for
accommodations should be submitted to administration. 
 Additional protective equipment will be provided to school nurses for use in the clinic. 
 Students and staff will be provided with a reusable face covering. Families will be responsible for daily
cleaning and are requested to supply a student face covering should the one provided by the school
become unusable or lost. 

Protocols for Campus Visitors

Campus staff will utilize virtual meetings to avoid campus visitors. If visitors are allowed to enter the building,
they will be required to wear a face covering and those who proceed beyond the reception area will follow
specific guidelines for visitors.

Visitor Screening/PPE Requirements

 Parents are discouraged from entering the campus and will not be allowed beyond the front office area. 
 Volunteers are not allowed to visit campuses at this time (including mentors, college representatives,
guest speakers, etc.).
 All visitors will be subject to completing a symptom screening form before entering any building; any
individuals permitted to proceed beyond the reception area must follow all safety and district protocols. 
 If visitors have COVID-19 symptoms, or are lab confirmed with COVID-19, they must remain off
campus until they meet the criteria for re-entry. 
 All individuals entering the building will be required to wear face coverings.

Protocols for Disinfecting and Hand Sanitizing

Frequent disinfection and hand sanitization will ensure health and wellness of students and staff. 

Hand Washing/Sanitizing Expectations

 Hand sanitizer will be available at the main entry to the campus and in common areas throughout the
campus.
 Staff and students will be expected to regularly wash or sanitize their hands.
 Requirement for hand washing and/or use of OMCSD-provided hand sanitizer:
Elementary & Secondary
 Provide hand washing opportunities periodically throughout the day.
 Habitual and thorough hand washing after recess, before eating and following restroom breaks.

Disinfecting Expectations
 Staff will have access to disinfectant solutions to sanitize high-touch and working surfaces and shared
objects frequently.
 Staff will limit the use of shared supplies when possible. 
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Protocols for Campus Cleaning and Disinfecting 

Frequent cleaning and disinfection will support a healthy learning and work environment for students and staff. 

Daily Campus Cleaning

 Each classroom and restroom will be cleaned and disinfected.
 All high-touch areas will be disinfected throughout the day. 
 Custodians will be expected to wear PPE (masks and gloves) during work hours.
 Cafeterias will be disinfected between lunch periods.
 Staff and students will have access to disinfecting items to sanitize working surfaces, shared objects and
high-touch areas after use and during breaks in instruction.

Restrooms
 Staff should supervise and limit the number of students that enter the restroom at one time to comply
with health agency recommendations and social distancing.  
 The scheduling of whole class restroom breaks is recommended to eliminate co-mingling of students
across various classes and to ensure teacher monitoring of social distancing guidelines.
 Increased disinfecting will occur throughout the school day. Staff and students must wash hands with
soap and water prior to exiting the bathroom. Proper handwashing techniques will be taught to all
students and consistently reinforced. 

Protocols for Common Areas and Meetings

Common areas include spaces that are used for meetings and collaboration. This includes computer labs,
flexible spaces, conference rooms and other meeting rooms.
 All students and staff will be required to use hand sanitizer when entering and exiting common areas. 
 Classes/grade levels will sign up to reserve common areas.
 Campuses will develop schedules and follow protocols for the use of common areas, including how to
sanitize the space between use(s). When needed, students will bring personal supplies from the
classroom. 
 There will be procedures for students to sanitize their spaces before and after usage.
 Number of students in a common area will be based upon social distancing practices.
 Visual reminders will be displayed for social distancing throughout common areas. Informational
graphics and markers will be posted to help with 6 ft. social distancing.
 The use of virtual meetings/videoconferencing is preferred when possible
 If meetings must be held in person, all social distancing protocols will be implemented:
o Facial coverings
o Six-feet social distancing when possible
o Limiting the sharing of materials/supplies

Protocols for Positive COVID-19 Cases on Campus

 If a classroom or facility is closed due to COVID-19 spread, approved disinfectants will be used to
defog and disinfect.
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 Custodial staff will defog and disinfect classrooms, restrooms, buses, athletics, fine arts areas and all
additional areas throughout the school facility.
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Campus Health & Safety Protocols

Training
On the first day a student attends school on campus, school systems must provide instruction to students on
appropriate hygiene practices and other mitigation practices adopted in the local school system. Schools will
post CDC recommendations on proper hygiene techniques around the school buildings. Instruction will include
the practice of covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue, and if not available, to cover cough or sneeze with
their elbows. Used tissues should be thrown in the trash, hands should be washed immediately with soap and
water for at least 20 seconds, or hand sanitizer should be used. 

Safety Training for Protocols & Procedures

Student  Students will participate in training specific to newly-adopted health and safety
protocols. 
 All students will be trained on information about COVID-19 screening, identification
of symptoms, prevention of spread and sanitation of work areas. 
 If a student is experiencing symptoms, he/she needs to immediately notify a teacher.

Parent  Parents are asked to talk to their students about COVID-19 symptoms and prevention
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strategies.

Teacher/Staf  Teachers attend training and develop classroom procedures consistent with NYSED,
f DOH, District and CDC guidance. 
 All staff will be trained on COVID screening, identification of symptoms, prevention
of spread, and sanitation of work areas. 
 All staff will monitor students that exhibit symptoms and will be required to notify
the nurse if a student is showing any symptoms.

Emergencies and Drills

OMCSD will continue to follow the Standard Response Protocol (SRP) and its emergency actions of Lockout,
Lockdown, Evacuate and Shelter.
Emergency Evacuation Protocols

 An administrator will provide instructions via intercom prior to drill, notifying staff and students that a
drill is commencing and that one designated group will delay exiting their classroom for a specific
period of time in order to allow social distancing by reducing pedestrian load in hallways and exit
points.
Note: this process can be implemented for other drills or campus activities where reducing
hallway load is needed. 

School Arrival & Dismissal

Arrival: When possible, separate entrances will be utilized for car riders, bus riders and walkers. All staff will
be utilized for duty to maintain a line of sight in hallways and distancing of hallway cohorts. Students will go
straight to the designated areas set by each campus. Parents will not be allowed to walk students to classrooms
or enter the school buildings beyond the designated area. 

Dismissal: Campus will designate staggered dismissal groups. Staggering the groups of walkers, car riders, bus
riders or grade levels will help manage student movement in the building and decrease the risk of potential
crowding outside at dismissal time. Separate exits will be utilized for car riders, bus riders and walkers. Parents
picking up students during the day will call ahead so that students can be sent or accompanied to parent vehicles
upon arrival. Parents will not be allowed to enter the school building at dismissal. All parents must stay in their
vehicles.

BUS TRANSPORTATION
As schools reopen, students using school bus transportation services will follow revised protocols. Starting at
the time when students arrive at their designated bus stop and board the school bus, the new safety and
sanitizing protocols will need to be followed. Throughout the pandemic, bus capacities will be significantly
reduced.
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Transportation COVID-19 Protocol:  Parent Information

The Odessa-Montour Transportation Department offers the following guidance to parents and caregivers
regarding school bus transportation for daily bus routes. Although the district is implementing the safety
protocols and disinfecting efforts described below, families are encouraged to drop students off, carpool or
walk with their student to school to reduce possible exposure on buses.  We are requiring all of our drivers
and students to wear masks while on the school bus. 

General Education/Special Needs Loading and Unloading Procedures  

Bus Stop Expectations

 Students should practice social distancing whenever possible (if there is adequate space and it is safe
to do so) while waiting for and approaching the school bus.
 Students should NOT share food, drinks or personal devices.
 Student temperatures will be taken before getting on the bus by a school employee.

Morning Boarding Bus Procedures

 Students should practice social distancing as they approach and board the bus.
 Bus drivers will have a small quantity of face masks available should a student arrive without one.
 Seating:  Students will be seated starting from the back seats, then toward the front.
o Considerations will be made for siblings and younger students mixed with older students
 Bus in motion rules:  Standard OMCSD bus rules apply.
 Students should NOT share food, drinks or personal devices.

Unloading at School
 Unloading will start from the front to the back.
 Students should practice social distancing and follow campus guidelines.

Afternoon Boarding Bus Procedures

 Students should practice social distancing as they approach and board the bus.
 Use hand sanitizer.
 Seating:  Students will be seated starting from the back seats then toward the front.
 Considerations will be made for siblings & younger students mixed with older students
 Bus in motion rules:  Standard OMCSD bus rules apply.
 Students should NOT share food, drinks or personal devices.

Unloading at Bus Stop

 Unloading will start from the front to the back.
 Students should practice social distancing and avoid gathering in groups of 10 or more.
 Students should NOT share food, drinks or personal devices.

Disinfecting Protocol
Between each AM & PM Campus drop-off
 School bus drivers, bus monitors and staff will spray and wipe down seats and high-touch items with
disinfecting spray.
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 Bus seating areas will be disinfected after each bus route, particularly high-touch surfaces such as bus
seats, steering wheels, knobs and stairway handrail.
 When possible, bus windows will be open to allow outside air to circulate in the bus.
 If a student is deemed to have a temperature at or above 100.0 by a school employee, he/she will be
denied access to the school bus.

Weekly Deep Disinfecting Process

 Deep cleaning:  Disinfecting misters will be used on bus interiors twice daily.  

Bus Arrival & Dismissal

Student Arrival
 Students will load and unload the bus at staggered times at the direction of the bus
driver. 
 As students depart from the bus, they should immediately walk into the building and
designated area for morning arrival. 
 Students will not congregate with other students after exiting the bus. 
 Students should maintain appropriate social distance guidelines as they enter the
building and report to designated waiting areas.
 If a student is deemed to have a temperature at or above 100.0 by a school employee,
he/she will be denied access to the school bus.

Dismissal
 Students will load onto the bus at staggered times at the direction of the bus driver. 
 Students will maintain current social distance guidelines as they load and are seated
for the duration of the bus ride home.

Parent  When possible, parents should help with student supervision at the bus stop.

Teacher/Staf  Assigned staff will supervise student arrival and dismissal, ensure that students are
f wearing masks and direct students to waiting areas.
 Staff will ensure social distancing during arrival and dismissal.
 During dismissal, teachers will supervise students waiting for the bus to arrive.

Walkers

Student  It is recommended that walkers keep social distance and use a face covering while
walking to and from school. 
 As much as possible, students will be asked to avoid large groups or gatherings with
other students on the campus before or after school.
 Students will be asked to immediately leave campus and begin walking home at the
end of the school day. 

Parent  Parents are encouraged to talk with their child about the health benefits of social
distancing.
 Parents should follow campus guidance on how to pick up their child.
 Parents are asked to not congregate in large groups with other parents as they wait for
their child to be dismissed from campus. They are encouraged to wait in their vehicle.
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Teacher/Staf  Assigned staff will supervise student arrival and dismissal, ensure that students are
f wearing masks, direct students to classrooms and encourages that students maintain
desired social distance between students.
 Teachers will assist in monitoring students to discourage large groups from
congregating.

General Building Arrival

Student  Wash hands or use hand sanitizer upon arrival.

 Campuses must plan for entry, exit, and transition procedures that reduce large group
gatherings (of students and/or adults) in close proximity.
 Students will be assigned to report to a specific area and will be expected to adhere to
schedules for morning arrival. 
 It is required that students and staff wear masks when entering the building.
 Students should choose seats that have empty space in between them. 
 Students are expected to stay seated until they are dismissed by a staff member.
 Students can utilize the bathroom, but the number of students that enter will be
limited to 2 students at a time. Students must observe social distancing while in the
bathroom. 
 Students must wash hands after leaving.

Parent  Parents are encouraged to talk with their child about the health benefits of wearing a
mask at school. 
 Parents are expected to provide their own PPE for their child. Parents are encouraged
to talk with their child about the health benefits of social distancing at school, as well
as the health benefits of washing their hands, and/or using hand sanitizer.
 Students and staff will be provided with a reusable face covering. Families will be
responsible for daily cleaning and are requested to supply a student face covering
should the one provided by the school become unusable or lost.

Teacher/Staf  Campus staff is required to complete the self-screening questions located at every
f entry point.
 Staff are required to have masks on when entering the building and ensure that
students are wearing masks in the hallways and in classrooms.
 Staff will make every effort to dismiss student cohorts using staggered student release
into halls from these areas.

Cafeteria - Breakfast and Lunch

Based on building capacity and student enrollment, campus administration will determine areas that may be
utilized for lunch. These areas could include classrooms, the library or other large areas within the school
building. 

Teachers will monitor the cafeteria and hallways to promote social distancing practices. Depending on the
number of students in the school, students may have meals in both the cafeteria and in classrooms. Cafeteria
capacity will be based on current guidelines. Physical distance will be provided around each seat. Posted
signage and staff will reinforce social distancing and traffic patterns in the cafeteria. Hand sanitizing stations
will be available at entrances and exits of the cafeteria.
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Seating & Directions

Student  Students will be expected to follow campus guidelines for cafeteria procedures. 
 Students will be seated according to a seating plan for students consistent with social
distancing guidelines
 All students are expected to wash hands or use hand sanitizer prior to entering the
cafeteria.
 Students are encouraged to read and adhere to the expectations and posted directional
prompts/signs to ensure for proper social distancing.

Parent  At this time, due to COVID-19, mealtime visitors will not be permitted in the school
cafeterias.
 Parents are encouraged to speak to their children about safety protocols and social
distancing.
 Parents are asked to read and be familiar with all school communication regarding
health and safety protocols.
 Parents should talk to their students about COVID-19 symptoms and prevention
strategies. 

Teacher/Staf  Signs will be posted on the walls and floor to ensure appropriate social distancing in
f cafeteria lines. 
 A seating plan for students will be followed for social distancing.
 Assigned staff will supervise students in cafeteria lines, direct students to open seats
and ensure that students maintain desired social distance.
 Teachers will monitor students while in the cafeteria to ensure social distancing.
 Staff will ensure to maintain a student consistent cohort for “in person” lunches. 

Standard Classroom Procedures

Classroom protocols and procedures will include expectations regarding not sharing school supplies, social
distancing, no or limited group work and hand washing or sanitizing, etc. Teachers will ensure high-touch areas
in the classroom are wiped in between classes. Each classroom will be outfitted with the following:
 Visual reminders of distancing requirements will be in all classrooms marking off areas for common
spaces and distancing best practices.
 Refillable alcohol-based hand sanitizer stations.
 Access to disinfectant to sanitize working surfaces.
 Whenever possible, students and staff will maintain consistent groupings of people to minimize the
spread of the virus. 
 Technology should be utilized when students are involved in collaborative work. 
 Group or pair work can be implemented while maintaining physical distancing. 
 In classroom spaces that allow it, consider placing student desks a minimum of six feet apart when
possible. 
 In classrooms where students are regularly within six feet of one another, schools should plan for more
frequent hand washing and/or hand sanitizing and should consider whether increased airflow from the
outdoors is possible.
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 The use of outdoor space for learning will be considered when possible. Classroom groups working
outside will maintain at least 12 feet of social distancing from other classroom groups.

Classroom Training

Student  Students should wash their hands or use hand sanitizer upon entering each classroom.
 Students will participate in training specific to newly-adopted health and safety
protocols.

Parent  Parents are asked to read all school communication regarding health and safety
protocols.
 Parents should talk to their students about COVID-19 symptoms and prevention
strategies.
 Parents are encouraged to check their child for temperature and COVID-19 symptoms
prior to sending him/her to school each day. If a child is displaying symptoms, please
do not send the child to school. Notify the school nurse or office. However, the
school will screen for temperature daily upon entry which will be the official
determination regarding student health.

Teacher/Staf  Teachers/staff should be stationed outside their door to provide adequate supervision
f of their classroom and hallway. 
 Teachers will receive training to deliver classroom lessons on health protocols.

Classroom Setup

Student  Students will be expected to adhere to class and school-wide protocols that are
consistent with DOH, NYSED, and CDC guidelines. 
 Students will avoid sharing school supplies and will sanitize shared items after each
use.
 Students that want to use hand sanitizer should use it at the beginning of class. If a
sink is available in the classroom, students should wash their hands at the beginning
of class.
 Students may bring personal classroom snacks as long as they are not shared.

Teacher/Staf  Multiple locations of hand sanitizer, tissues and trash cans will be available in several
f locations throughout classrooms and common areas to limit student and staff
movement.
 Teachers will post signs with clear class protocols that are consistent with DOH,
NYSED and CDC guidelines and school-wide.
 Teachers will limit student movement within the classroom such as turning in
assignments, materials being passed out, etc.
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 Teachers will create assigned seating arrangements to ensure social distancing.

Consistent with NYSED and DOH guidance, all student desks should face the same
direction.
 Teachers will create systems to limit the sharing of items such as school supplies so
that no more than one student is using an item. 
 Teachers should clean supplies after each use by student. 

Recess/Playground
Administrators will provide training for staff on guidelines and procedures associated with outdoor play and
student activities. Administrators will develop a schedule for students to access the playground equipment.
Teachers will monitor students to ensure safety guidelines are followed. Campuses will consider limiting the
number of students per recess group. Staggered schedules and consistent cohorts will be utilized.

Guidelines for Outdoor Play

 Students will wear masks during outdoor activity. Students must maintain social distancing while
lining up to return to class and sanitize or wash hands before re-entering. 
 All students and staff will be required to wash their hands or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer before
entering the playground and upon exiting the playground.
 While in the classroom, brain breaks and “mask breaks” will be implemented as needed, at the
discretion of the campus/teacher.

Elementary Specialized Classrooms/Areas

Elementary Specials

Music  Appropriate social distancing measures will be followed.

 Music equipment will be sanitized and wiped down after each use.
 No large group choral or band classes can take place, unless in a socially distant location or
in a situation where students are able to wear masks when social distancing is not able to
be achieved.

PE  Whenever possible, physical education classes will be held outside to allow for maximum
physical distance between students.
 Any activities bringing students into close physical contact or requiring multiple students
to touch or handle the same equipment will be avoided
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 PE equipment will be disinfected and wiped down after each use. Students should disinfect
equipment after each use. 
 Visual markers will be on the gym floor and bleachers as reminders of social distancing
rules.
 Locker rooms will not be utilized.
 Students should avoid touching their face at all times, but especially while playing games.
 Sanitizing areas and access to handwashing will be provided.

Art   Students should use their own art supplies and avoid sharing equipment, utensils and
supplies as much as possible. 
 Students should complete cleaning protocols and sanitize their areas in between use.
 Art equipment will be sanitized and wiped down after each use.

Library   Visual reminders will be added and furniture rearranged to help students maintain social
distancing while in the library.
 Students and staff will wash/sanitize hands upon entering and after visiting the library.
 High-touch surfaces (e.g., table tops, chairs, door handles, etc.) will be disinfected
regularly.
 Occupancy will be limited.

Secondary Specialized Classrooms & Extra-curricular Activities

Secondary Specialized Classrooms

Physical  Whenever possible, physical education classes will be held outside to allow for
Education  maximum physical distance between students.
 Any activities bringing students into close physical contact will be avoided.
 Visual markers will be on the gym floor and bleachers as reminders of social
distancing rules.
 Procedures will be implemented in the locker rooms to limit social distancing.
 Equipment will be disinfected after each use.
 Activities requiring multiple students to touch or handle the same equipment will be
avoided.
 Sanitizing areas and access to handwashing will be provided.
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Athletics  Subject to change pending determination

 Coaches will provide an orientation of protocols and expectations for students at the
beginning of their respective season(s).
 Specific entrances and exits of athletic facilities will be utilized by students for
appropriate separation and distancing. Signage will serve as a visual cue and reminder
for students.
 Student-athletes will be assigned to groups for the purposes of maintaining proper
distancing and capacity in locker rooms to dress before and after practice sessions.
 Athletic equipment and uniforms will be issued to athletes. These items will be taken
home each day and not left in their athletic locker. Practice uniforms will be laundered
at home. Game issued uniforms will be laundered at campus with coaching staff
following proper protocols.
 Equipment used during practices will be sanitized frequently during practice sessions.
 Athletic areas will be frequently disinfected during the week.
 Athletes will not be allowed to socially congregate before, during, or after
practices/workouts.
 Parents and students will be expected to provide timely notification of any health
concerns to their coach. Communication, quarantine and proper disinfecting will occur
in the event of a confirmed diagnosis.
 Water breaks will occur in small groups while using disposable cups.

Fine Arts  Large group practice sessions, sectionals and rehearsals will adhere to social
distancing guidelines provided by an authorized entity.
 Concerts/performances may be adjusted based on health and safety guidelines
provided by an authorized entity.
 All fine arts performances will be streamed online when possible.

On- and Off-Campus Student Activities

On/Off Campus Activities, Field Trips & School Wide Events

On-Campus  After school club information is pending.

Activities  No in-person assemblies will be held in the fall.
 Meet the teacher, open house, parent conferences, etc. will be held virtually.

Field Trips  Virtual field trips will be considered as often as possible.

Off-Campus  Work-Based Learning activities will be available to our students as needed and will
Activities follow the appropriate health and safety protocols.

School Wide  Any school-wide events that are approved to be held on campus need to adhere to
Events social distancing requirements outlined by NYSED, DOH and CDC guidelines.
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 School-wide events will be live streamed and/or occur virtually when possible.
 To limit larger gatherings, campus club meetings should be held virtually when
possible. If meeting in person is required, groups should utilize larger meeting spaces
or multiple meeting opportunities will be provided.

Hallways and Lockers

Classroom Transitions, Hallways & Lockers

Elementary   Students are encouraged to observe and follow school hall traffic flow directions while
maintaining social distancing guidelines. 
 Where possible, one-way traffic throughout campus corridors will be established.
 In two-way halls, students are expected to stay to the far right of the hall when
walking.
 When possible, it is recommended that students make transitions outside of the
building.
 Students will be permitted to bring backpacks to class.
 For grade levels that implement departmentalization of subject areas, teachers will
move to students for transitions in instruction and students will remain in their
homeroom class.
 Students and staff must wear face coverings in the halls and avoid gathering in large
groups during passing periods.

Secondary   Students are expected to observe and follow school hall traffic flow directions while
maintaining social distancing guidelines. 
 Students and staff must wear face coverings in the halls and avoid gathering in large
groups during passing periods.
 To prevent congregating during transition times, students will not be assigned an
academic locker (this will be revisited at a later date). Students will be permitted to
bring backpacks to class.
 Staggered releases from each class will be organized to limit the number of students in
the hallway during transitions, when possible.
 In two-way halls students are expected to stay to the far right of the hall when walking.
 Visual markers will be developed to help students maintain physical distances and
adhere to established campus traffic flow in hallways.
 Traffic patterns will be established throughout the campus that separates individuals to
the greatest extent possible.
 Students should immediately report to their next class and not congregate in the
hallway.