* Approve the district’s transition to Stage 2; up to 10 percent in-person instruction would move to Stage 2 Reopening after the following is met:

  -  Target date for reopening for students would be Monday, April 12, 2021, based on meeting the reopening criteria:

     o  Two weeks after the district has sustained the following metrics for two weeks across the average of district zip codes: 1) 14-day case rate of less than 200; and 2) positivity rate of below eight percent.

-  Given the rapidly evolving landscape, and recently announced vaccination plans for educators by the San Diego County Office of Education, establish an additional check point to assess case rates and positivity rates to make a final determination about a return date; this checkpoint would be on Thursday, March 18, 2021.

Until these metrics are met, in consultation with medical professionals, the district shall continue in Stage 1, and provide in person small group supports in accordance with the California Department of Public Health Cohort Guidance.

On November 24, 2020, the board reviewed and approved the revised reopening metrics in the district’s Reopening Plan. The document provided a general overview of the instructional and operational components for reopening schools, including plans and preparations for reopening schools once the state and local health conditions allow.  Within the plan, the district established check-in points for the assessment of community metrics to determine the timeline for transitioning from distance learning towards a reopening of campuses via various Phases of Reopening.  

In advance of the March 1, 2021, decision point, staff will provide the board an update on: 1) current community, state and local health conditions, 2) distance learning, 3) small group cohorts and athletic conditioning, 4) safety protocols, and 5) additional resources being utilized to provide additional supports to mitigate learning loss and better assess distance learning. Recommendations regarding academic and athletic reopening will be made.

For questions regarding this board item, please contact Dr. Moises Aguirre at 619/585-6060 or moises.aguirre@sweetwaterschools.org.