Forward: Priorities for Fall 2020 Reopening  

A Message from the Superintendent of Schools

Dear Parents, Guardians, Students, Staff, and Community Members,

Baldwin Union Free School District prides itself on providing a unique and rewarding educational experience for every student within our K-12 school system. While we are excited for our students to begin the 2020-2021 school year, we intend to reopen our buildings with the health and social-emotional wellbeing of our students, parents, and staff as our number one priority. Based on feedback from our parents, students, teachers, administrators, union leadership, and Board of Education, coupled with guidance from the New York State Governor, New York State Education Department, New York Department of Health, and Center for Disease Control (CDC), our district’s Reopening Taskforce has developed a plan that focuses on the following:

• The health and safety of the entire Baldwin community, with special emphasis on our students, faculty, and staff
• The importance of learning
• The social-emotional wellbeing of our school community

Every decision behind reopening has the best interest of every member of our school community as the focal point.

Flexibility will be the key to success this year. We are prepared and committed to making sure this year goes well and that we continue to maintain the highest level of excellence and equity for all our children. The safety of students and staff is a primary consideration for making flexible arrangements in the areas of instructional scheduling, virtual learning, and transportation.

Please keep the following in mind as you review our Fall 2020 Reopening Plan:

1. Our reopening plan is to provide guidelines for the reopening of schools and district office into safe environments by working collaboratively with the state and local health departments, the NYS Department of Education, NYS Governor’s Office, staff, students, families, and community members. 
2. Due to the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, where things can change at a moment’s notice, this plan will be updated as needed.
3. Remember to reference district communications as your most credible source of information. We have created a website (www.baldwinschools.org/reopening) dedicated to the fall reopening. If you have a question or need further information, please contact your child’s principal. 
4. All of us play a role in ensuring the health and safety of ourselves and others. Please serve as an example and follow the health and safety precautions outlined in this document, on our website, district communications, and/or in our buildings. Remember to educate your family to do the same.

As always, your patience and support are greatly appreciated. Remember that Baldwin is a strong community and our district looks forward to working with everyone to provide our students with another extraordinary academic year.

Sincerely,

Dr. Shari L. Camhi

Superintendent of Schools

On Monday, July 13, Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that school districts in New York can follow plans to reopen for in-person schooling in September if COVID-19 infection rates stay at 5% or lower in a given region.

Determinations will be made by region about opening and closing schools as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. If a region is in Phase 4 and has a daily infection rate of 5% or lower over a 14-day average, schools in that region could hold in-person instruction. If daily infection rates exceed 9% over a seven-day average, however, schools in that region would not reopen. Similarly, should a region see such an average after reopening, schools in that region would also be directed to close.

While districts have been instructed to prioritize efforts to return all students to in-person instruction, the district is also planning for remote/distance learning as well as a for a hybrid model that combines in-person instruction and remote learning. Parents have been given the choice to remain in the remote learning model. An initial survey went out to all parents, followed by a commitment letter for the 2020-2021 school year. 

The plan outlined here is for the reopening of schools in the Baldwin UFSD for the 2020-21 school year, following the building closure related to the COVID-19 pandemic. This plan includes procedures that will be followed in the following schools:

• Baldwin High School
• BHS@Shubert
• Baldwin Middle School
• Brookside Elementary School
• Lenox Elementary School
• Meadow Elementary School
• Plaza Elementary School
• Steele Elementary School

The health and safety of our students, our staff and their families is our top priority. We want students and employees to feel comfortable and safe returning to school campuses. Our reopening plan incorporates recommendations and guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) and the New York State Education Department (NYSED).

Dr. Shari Camhi will serve as the district’s COVID-19 Coordinator. Mr. Eduardo Ramirez will work closely with our local health department as the Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics. He will serve as a central contact for schools and stakeholders, families, staff and other school community members and will ensure the district is in compliance and following the best practices per state and federal guidelines.

The plan you are about to read was developed in consultation with parents, students, teachers, administrators, staff, union leadership, and Board of Education, our district’s Reopening Taskforce, coupled with guidance from the New York State Governor, New York State Education Department, New York Department of Health, and Center for Disease Control (CDC).  It is possible that we may need to alternate between in-person and remote learning throughout the year due to recommendations and guidance from our partnering agencies and stay-at-home orders from the Governor. The level of infection, the spread of the virus and response to the disease in our community will be at the forefront of our decision making as we move to open our schools.

The most current information will always be posted to our website at www.baldwinschools.org/reopening. We will also stay in communication via ParentLink (i.e., email, text messages, and phone calls). In order to receive communication, please make sure your information is current.

NYSED Mandatory Requirements are defined as elements that the New York State Education Department has identified as necessary for the Local Education Agency (LEA) to complete or comply with in order to open schools successfully in the fall.  Districts have received formal guidance from the CDC, the New York State Department of Health, and the New York State Education Department. Facets of this guidance were used in developing our protocols and plans for possible “re-opening.” New York State Department of Health Guidance New York State Education Department Reopening Guidance Document

Baldwin UFSD Plan indicates the direct steps that Baldwin UFSD will use to implement the state requirements and guidance, consideration put forth by the NYSED and/or NYS DOH, or referenced entity rooted in best practices, experience, and research that will aid in the successful reopening of schools in the fall.

On July 13, 2020, Governor Andrew M. Cuomo announced new, data-driven guidance for reopening schools in New York State. Schools in a region can reopen if that region is in Phase IV of reopening and if its daily infection rate remains below 5 percent, or lower, using a 14-day average since New York on PAUSE was lifted. Schools will close if the regional infection rate rises above 9 percent, using a 7-day average, after August 1. New York State will make the formula determination during the week of August 1 to 7.

 COVID-19 Safety Coordinator

Dr. Shari L. Camhi, Superintendent of Schools, will serve as the COVID-19 Safety Coordinator, whose responsibilities include continuous compliance with all aspects of the school’s reopening plan as well as any phased-in reopening activities necessary to allow for operational issues to be resolved before activities return to normal or “new normal” levels.

 

Families, staff, and students take a critical role in keeping our schools open and our school community safe and healthy. To participate in an in-person model, regardless of the phase, we need full cooperation with all of the expectations outlined in this document. All of these mitigation strategies are necessary for stopping the spread of the virus. 

 

	Stay at Home if Feeling Ill: Students and staff must stay home if they are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19 or if they have come in close contact with someone with COVID-19.
	Monitor Health Daily: Parents and staff are expected to screen daily for symptoms, including temperature checks.
	Face Covering or Masks Required: Students and staff must wear face coverings or masks that completely cover the nose and mouth while inside the school and on the bus and unable to maintain a social distance of 6 feet apart, with exceptions only for those students for whom it is not safe to do so due to medical conditions. “Mask Breaks” will be provided during the day. Parents will be responsible for providing students with face coverings or masks. Schools will have backup disposable masks available for students who forget them.
	Social Distancing Required:  Students and staff must maintain social distancing to the greatest extent possible.  Students and staff are expected to practice social distancing when entering and exiting the building, in classrooms, and moving throughout the school. Sharing of school supplies and materials will be limited to situations when those materials can be disinfected between uses.
	Frequent Hand Washing or Sanitizing: Students and staff must engage in frequent hand washing or sanitizing upon arrival, before and after meals, after bathroom use, and after coughing or sneezing.
	Students Must Obey All Bus Expectations: Students must ride their assigned bus and sit in their assigned seats.  Students must wear mask/face covering while on the bus. If the student does not have a mask, one will be provided for them.
	Students Must Be Fully Engaged in All Learning Activities: Students are expected to be active participants in all learning activities regardless of the instructional setting.  In addition, they are expected to be self-directed learners and follow the Code of Conduct whether learning in-person or remotely.

Overview

Baldwin Union Free School District (UFSD) will provide clear and consistent communications to students, parents, staff, and community members before and during reopening of schools and throughout the 2020-2021 school year, leveraging various channels. The district aims to ensure that all audiences stay informed and updated at all times with the latest information.

The district will utilize a variety of communication methods, including a central website location at: www.baldwinschools.org/reopening

Objectives

• Provide target audiences with clear and ongoing communications about expectations for the 2020-2021 reopening, especially as the situation changes
• Foster strong two-way communication for all audiences across the district, including parents, students, faculty and staff
• Make reopening plans easily accessible in a central location on the Baldwin UFSD website (baldwinschools.org/reopening) and available in relevant languages of Baldwin families, as well as for those with visual and/or hearing impairments
• Provide training utilizing various methods for target audiences to understand expectations and know their role in helping to ensure the health and safety of themselves and others

Target Audiences/Stakeholders

The communications component of the plan will target:

• Parents/Guardians
• Students
• Administration
• Faculty
• Staff
• Visitors, including Community Members

Community Engagement

Baldwin UFSD administrators engaged with all target audience members, including faculty, staff, students, parents/legal guardians and union leadership through a combination of meetings and a district-wide survey. 

Survey Results: More than 2,500 responses from all eight locations. 

Messaging

In addition to routine announcements, the district will provide regular updates on a variety of topics including but not limited to:

• Training on COVID-19 related hygiene protocols and preventative action items
  • This includes, but is not limited to, guidance on the school protocols related to health and safety guidelines.
• New policies and/or protocols prior to reopening, any time there is a significant policy change, and upon reentry if a school closes temporarily during the year
• Instructions on building closures and transition to e-learning
• How students and their families/caregivers can contact the school and teachers with questions about their instruction and/or technology
• Available mental health resources for school staff and parents/guardians
• Any other important messages related to the COVID-19 pandemic, including updates on meal plans and transportation

Specifically, messages, starting prior to reopening, will continually emphasize following:

• We all play a role in helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
• Know the symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
• All students, faculty, staff, and visitors must adhere to CDC and DOH guidance regarding the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), specifically acceptable face coverings, when a social distance cannot be maintained.

Communication Channels

Please note that many of these channels are easily accessible from the district website at: www.baldwinschools.org/communications 

Digital

Website

• Central location for plans and other important information and guidelines related to reopening and e-learning protocols                    
• Website Alerts
  • Alerts will pop up on any of the district’s website pages and will feature updated messages for the community.

• Website District Calendar
  • A copy of the district calendar can be download directly to a cell phone. Date and time changes and any other new information will automatically get updated, which includes any cancellations. Just follow these instructions. 

Electronic Signage

• Electronic signs located throughout each building, predominately at the main entrance, will include important messaging related to health and safety policies
• Digital Marquee (large electronic sign), located on Grand Avenue, will provide brief reminders for the community, such as where to find information on the website and whether or not schools are open, etc.

Email/Text/Broadcast Messages

• Through email, text, and phone calls, Baldwin UFSD will continue to disseminate information. Families should make sure to update contact information, including a mobile phone, with the main office of their child’s school. All high school students should also make sure their cell phone number is on file in case of an emergency.
• Baldwin residents with no children in the K-12 school system (including private and parochial), who would still like to receive important updates from the district to the community, please visit baldwinschools.org/notificationsignup to sign up. 

Virtual Backpacks

• At times, specifically targeting K-5, information will be placed in Virtual Backpacks for parents, which are located on each of the school’s individual websites.

Print

The Baldwin Beat

The official quarterly newsletter that is mailed out to all Baldwin homes, will feature any important updates and reminders, as needed.

2021-2021 District Calendar

• Mailed to all Baldwin residents and copies are also available in Registration (960 Hastings Street), the calendar will feature preventative measures for the spread of COVID-19 and reminder about signing up for important messages.

The Baldwin Herald

• May also run articles about reopening and other important information. The paper is mailed to all Baldwin residents and is available at convenient stores throughout the community.

Signage

• Stop the Spread signs will be placed in prominent locations throughout the schools and the District Office to create a constant visual reminder of prevention strategies.
• Signs on hand washing will be placed on or close to mirrors/in front of sinks in bathrooms as visual reminders to wash hands for at least 20 seconds.
• Directional arrows will also be placed in hallways/stairways to indicate traffic flow.
• At the main entrance, reminders about wearing masks and social distancing will also be posted.

Other Methods for Communications

Broadcast Media

• For sudden school closures, the district may send updates to NBC Channel 4, WNYW Channel 5, ABC Channel 7, News 12 Long Island and radio stations, WCBS 880AM and WINS 1010 AM. The news outlets will either announce on the air, run across the bottom of the screen, and/or simply post to their main website.

School Announcements

• Within the schools, during the morning announcements, building principals will highlight prevention and hygiene strategies and remind students of the proper safety protocols.

Training and Technology

• All families will have access to technology provided by Baldwin UFSD and support system is in place to help operate and maintain the equipment. See all related materials for eLearning at baldwinschools.org/elearningresources  and also see Technology section on page 29.
• Developmentally appropriate instructional videos will be developed and presented to students on handwashing, properly wearing face coverings and prevention strategies.
• The videos will also be made available on the district website at: baldwinschools.org/reopening
• Training documents will also be made available to families through the website.
• Faculty and staff will be trained, as well by building administrators.

 

 

NYSED Reopening Mandatory Requirements

• Districts/schools must review and consider the number of students and staff allowed to return in person.
• Districts/schools must engage with school stakeholders and community members (e.g., administrators, faculty, staff, students, parents/legal guardians of students, local health departments, local health care providers, and affiliated organizations, such as unions, alumni, and/or community-based groups) when developing health and safety reopening plans. District/school plan should identify the groups of people involved and engaged throughout the planning process.
• District/school plan must include a communications plan for students, parents/guardians, staff, and visitors that includes applicable instructions, training, signage, and a consistent means to provide individuals with information.
• District/school plan has a written protocol developed in collaboration with the district or school’s director of school health services to instruct staff to observe for signs of illness in students and staff and requires symptomatic persons to be sent to the school nurse or other designated personnel.
• District/school plan has a written protocol for daily temperature screenings of all students and staff, along with a daily screening questionnaire for faculty and staff and periodic use of the questionnaire for students.
• District/school plan requires that ill students and staff be assessed by the school nurse (registered professional nurse, RN) or medical director and that if a school nurse or medical director is not available, ill students and staff will be sent home for follow up with a healthcare provider.
• District/school plan has written protocol requiring students or staff with a temperature, signs of illness, and/or a positive response to the questionnaire to be sent directly to a dedicated isolation area where students are supervised, prior to being picked up or otherwise sent home.
• District/school plan has written protocol to address visitors, guests, contractors, and vendors to the school which includes health screening.
• District/school plan has a written protocol to instruct parents/guardians to observe for signs of illness in their child that require staying home from school.
• District/school plan has written protocol and appropriate signage to instruct staff and students in correct hand and respiratory hygiene.
• District/school plan has written protocol to ensure all persons in school buildings keep social distance of at least 6 feet whenever possible.
• District/school plan has written protocol detailing how the district/school will provide accommodations to all students and staff who are at high risk or live with a person at high risk.
• District/school plan has written protocol requiring all employees, adult visitors, and students to wear a cloth face covering whenever social distancing cannot be maintained.
• District/school plan has written protocol regarding students taking mask breaks.
• District/school has plan for obtaining and maintaining adequate supplies of cloth face coverings for school staff, students who forget their masks, and PPE for use by school health professionals.
• District/school plan has written protocol for actions to be taken if there is a confirmed case of COVID-19 in the school.
• District/school plan has written protocol that complies with CDC guidance for the return to school of students and staff following illness or diagnosis of confirmed case of COVID-19 or following quarantine due to contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19. Return to school will be coordinated with the local health department.
• District/school plan has written protocol to clean and disinfect schools following CDC guidance.
• District/school plan has written protocol to conduct required school safety drills with modifications ensuring social distancing between persons.
• District/school has written plan for district/school run before and aftercare programs.
• District/school must designate a COVID-19 safety coordinator (administrator) whose responsibilities include continuous compliance with all aspects of the school’s reopening plan, as well as any phased-in reopening activities necessary to allow for operational issues to be resolved before activities return to normal or “new normal” levels.

 Baldwin UFSD Plan 

Health Screenings and Other Protective Measures

Baldwin UFSD will follow the guidelines set forth by the Governor, the NYS Department of Health, and NYSED in the development of protocols for the screening of students, staff, visitors, and vendors to our school buildings.

In addition, the Baldwin UFSD will collaborate and communicate with the school district lead physician, Dr. S. Kowal-Connelly and Ingerman Smith, our legal counsel, in the development of protocols for the screening of students, staff, visitors, and vendors to our school buildings.

All staff will be required to complete an online COVID-19 screen app to determine entry into school buildings. Parents will be required to screen their child each morning before sending them to school. Please see Staffing/Human Resources section (page 42) for more information.

All cases will be reported to the school physician and the Nassau County Department of Health and the district will follow their recommendations. Each building will be assigned a COVID-19 Liaison who will communicate concerns or issues that may come up with the Director of Health Services. For more information on the protocol for actions taken if there is a confirmed case of COVID-19, see the Response to Positive COVID-19 Case section of this plan (page 44).

For the emergency drills, cleaning, and disinfecting protocols, please see the Facilities section of this plan (page 18).

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Protocol

Baldwin UFSD has reviewed the OSHA COVID-19 guidance on how to protect staff from potential exposures as well as CDC guidance on proper PPE use.

Training will be provided on proper PPE use including, but not limited to:

• The proper way to wear face coverings;
• Washing hands before putting on and after removing face coverings;
• Proper way to discard disposable face coverings;
• The importance of routine cleaning of reusable face coverings; and
• Face coverings are for individual use only and should not be shared. 

Staff PPE Protocol

• All staff should wear face coverings as required by the NYSDOH and NYSED Reopening Guidance Document. Baldwin UFSD will provide masks if the employee does not have a face covering.
• Teaching staff can use face shields, in addition to clear facemasks, which enable students to see their faces and to avoid potential barriers to phonological instruction. These will be provided by Baldwin UFSD as needed to elementary and special education staff.
• For any staff wearing a face shield, it is required that they also wear a surgical mask in the event they are not social distancing.
• Baldwin UFSD will supply other PPE appropriate for work assignments (complying with OSHA requirements)
  • Employees engaging in symptom screening: surgical masks, face shields, and disposable gloves will be provided.
  • Nurses will have access to a higher degree of PPE due to the nature of their work.
  • Front office and food service employees: face coverings, and disposable gloves will be provided.
  • Custodial staff: equipment and PPE for cleaning and disinfecting. 

Student PPE Protocol

• The NYSDOH states that an acceptable face covering, which is strongly recommended to be worn by all individuals at all times but is required to be worn any time or place that individuals cannot maintain appropriate social distancing, in hallways, in restrooms, and in other congregate settings, including buses.
  • However, if face coverings are to be worn by all individuals at all times, Baldwin UFSD will permit students to remove their face covering during meals, instruction, and for short breaks so long as they maintain appropriate social distance.
  • Acceptable face coverings include but are not limited to cloth-based face coverings (i.e., homemade sewn, quick cut, bandana), and surgical masks that cover both the mouth and nose.
• Training on appropriate use of face coverings will be provided to students during the first few days of instruction and will be followed up with regular reminders and training during the school year.

Student Health Screenings

Elementary Level

Parents of students will be required to complete a daily Health Screening/Entry Requirements Questionnaire via a paper form.

The questions answered will cover:

1. Within the last 14 days, have you experienced any symptoms of COVID-19 (including a fever of 100.4 or greater, chills, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, new loss of taste or smell)?
2. In the last 14 days, have you tested positive for COVID-19?
3. In the last 14 days, have you had close contact with a confirmed or suspected COVID-19 case?
4. Are you required to be quarantined due to NYS Coronavirus travel restrictions?

Secondary Level

High school and middle school students will be required to complete a daily Health Screening/Entry Requirements Questionnaire using the district’s COVID-19 App. In cases where students do not have a cell phone, the paper version of the screening will suffice.

The questions answered will cover:

1. Within the last 14 days, have you experienced any symptoms of COVID-19 (including a fever of 100.4 or greater, chills, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, new loss of taste or smell)?
2. In the last 14 days, have you tested positive for COVID-19?
3. In the last 14 days, have you had close contact with a confirmed or suspected COVID-19 case?
4. Are you required to be quarantined due to NYS Coronavirus travel restrictions?

For staff health screening process, see page 42. 

Outside Visitor Protocol

• Appointments will need to be made in order for a visitor to access a school building. Outside visitors will be discouraged and access limited to parents only when necessary.
• All buildings will require visitors to sign in and a log will be maintained with the date, time, and places visited to assist with contact tracing efforts, if necessary.
• All contractors and visitors will complete the COVID-19 questionnaire before being allowed to enter a building.
• We will evaluate whether and to what extent community organizations can safely utilize the district facilities. At the current time, no community organizations will have access to our buildings.
• If access is granted to community organizations, they will be required to follow the school district’s health and safety plans and NYS Department of Health guidance.
• We will review facility use agreements and establish common facility protocols for all users of the facility.
• We will establish protocol for accepting deliveries safely.

NYSED Reopening Mandatory Requirements

 General Health and Safety Assurances

• School districts or other applicable schools must follow all guidance related to health and safety. This will include meeting social distancing requirements and cleaning frequently touched spaces regularly to prevent spread of infection. These requirements will be addressed in more detail in other parts of the NYSED Re-Opening Guidance. The Facilities portion of the district’s, or other applicable school’s, reopening plan will seek assurance that school districts or other applicable schools will meet all requirements associated with building space related changes that they may elect to make.   

Fire Code Compliance

• Changes or additions to facilities require review by the Office of Facilities Planning (OFP), since all spaces to be occupied by public school students and staff must meet the requirements of the 2020 New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code (BC) and the State Energy Conservation Code. In their plans, districts or other applicable schools will provide assurances that, should alterations be made, districts and other applicable schools will submit the proposed changes to the OFP for review and approval - just as with any other project.   

Doorways

• Many stairs and corridor doors have closers with automatic hold opens. These doors are normally held in the open position and are automatically released by the fire alarm system. The function, position, and operation of those doors must remain unchanged. Fortunately, they need not be touched during normal use.

Emergency Drills

• Districts or other applicable schools shall conduct standard operations and procedures to the best of their abilities without deviating from current requirements. Fire (evacuation) Drills and Lockdown Drills are required by Education Law and regulation and the Fire Code and they must be conducted without exceptions. Fire Code Section 404 requires that schools maintain Fire Safety, Evacuation, and Lockdown Plans and these plans include how lockdown and evacuation drills are conducted. Methods to promote and provide for social distancing during the evacuation drills are ultimately the district’s or other applicable school’s decision and responsibility. Those changes must be included in the Fire Safety plans.

Inspections 

• Statute has not been changed to provide an extension to the submission deadline for the Building Condition Survey or Visual Inspections. These deadlines must be met. Lead Testing due in 2020.
• At present, the statutory requirement that lead testing occur in 2020 continues. NYS DOH regulation 67-4, Lead-In-Water Testing, DOH requires lead-in-water testing to be conducted when the building is “normally occupied.” Sampling should not be conducted when the building is vacant or has been vacant for an extended period due to COVID-19 closure. Simulation of “normally occupied operation” for the purpose of lead-in-water testing is not permitted. NYS DOH advises that schools follow recommended procedures to the extent possible to provide clean and safe drinking water upon reopening

 Baldwin UFSD Plan 

General Health and Safety Assurances

Covid-19 Cleaning and Disinfecting Protocols

Reducing the risk of exposure to COVID-19 by cleaning and disinfecting is an important part of reopening public spaces that will require careful planning. Every American has been called upon to slow the spread of the virus through social distancing and prevention hygiene, such as frequently washing your hands and wearing face coverings. Everyone also has a role in making sure our communities are as safe as possible to reopen and remain open. The virus that causes COVID-19 can be killed if you use the right products. EPA has compiled a list of disinfectant products that can be used against COVID-19, including ready-to-use sprays, concentrates, and wipes. Each product has been shown to be effective against viruses that are harder to kill than viruses like the one that causes COVID-19.

This document provides a general framework for cleaning and disinfection practices at Baldwin UFSD. The framework is based on doing the following:

Please be advised to keep a uniformed cleaning process in the Baldwin UFSD the cleaning staff will use Hydroxi Pro Red for basic cleaning and Pure Green 24 as our disinfectant.  

• Normal routine cleaning with soap and water and Hydroxi Pro Red will decrease how much of the virus is on surfaces and objects, which reduces the risk of exposure.
• Disinfection using EPA-approved disinfectant (Pure Green 24) against COVID-19 can also help reduce the risk. Frequent disinfection of surfaces and objects touched by multiple people is important, these are once again High Contact Areas: refer to the Facilities site staff section for more information on “High Hand Contact Areas” as listed in the pandemic Flu plan.

 Intensify Cleaning and Disinfection Efforts for High Cases in Community

• Routinely clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that are frequently touched. This may include cleaning objects/surfaces not ordinarily cleaned daily (e.g., doorknobs, light switches, classroom sink handles, countertops). We know this type of cleaning as (High Contact Cleaning). Clean with the cleaners typically used such as Hydroxi Pro Red. Use all cleaning products according to the directions on the label. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all cleaning and disinfection products (e.g., concentration, application method and contact time, etc.). Baldwin UFSD uses Hydroxi Pro Red for surface cleaning and Pure Green 24 for disinfecting surfaces 
• Provide EPA-registered disposable wipes to teachers and staff so that commonly used surfaces (e.g., keyboards, desks, remote controls) can be wiped down before use.
• Ensure adequate supplies to support cleaning and disinfection practices.

Clean and Disinfecting of COVID-19 Confirmed Case in Schools

• Clean and disinfect area thoroughly.
• Close off areas used by the individuals with COVID-19 and wait as long as practical before beginning cleaning and disinfection to minimize potential for exposure to respiratory droplets. Open outside doors and windows to increase air circulation in the area. If possible, wait up to 24 hours before beginning cleaning and disinfection.
• Cleaning staff should clean and disinfect all areas (e.g., offices, bathrooms, and common areas) used by the ill persons, focusing especially on frequently touched surfaces.
• If surfaces are dirty, they should be cleaned using a detergent (Hydroxi Pro Red) or soap and water prior to disinfection.
• For disinfection, use EPA-registered Pure Green 24 in a spray bottle or in the district issued fogger.

Bathroom Cleaning During Operation of School                   

Secondary Buildings

Bathrooms in secondary buildings will be checked, cleaned and disinfected 5 minutes after transition of each period. The bathroom check sheet will be filled out after each bathroom is complete.

Items to be checked:

• Waste basket emptied
• Toilets flushed
• Hand soap checked
• Paper towels checked
• Toilet paper checked
• Sinks and toilets wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Flush meters wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Sinks and toilets wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Door handles wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Paper towel dispensers wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Toilet paper dispensers wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Partition door handles wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant

Elementary Bathrooms

Bathrooms at elementary schools will be checked during teacher prep times if bathrooms are in the classrooms. Bathrooms in common areas will be checked throughout the day at least three times throughout the day. The bathroom check sheet will be filled out with date and time included.

Items to be checked:

• Waste basket emptied
• Toilets flushed
• Hand soap checked
• Paper towels checked
• Toilet paper checked
• Sinks and toilets wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Flush meters wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Sinks and toilets wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Door handles wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Paper towel dispensers wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Toilet paper dispensers wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Partition door handles wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant

Nurse Room

Nurse room at both secondary and elementary schools shall be cleaned and disinfected with a plan that includes the building principals, nurse and head custodian to organize an ideal time to clean and disinfect the nurse's room. In most cases, such as elementary schools, a uniform time may be right after lunch as high volume of nurse visits is during lunchtime. 

Items to be checked, cleaned, and disinfected:

• Countertops wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Nurse desk wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Bathrooms wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Doorknobs wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Phones wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Nurse bed wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant
• Light switches wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant

High Hand Contact Cleaning 

High hand contact cleaning will continue from the start of school. This will be built into the normal daily cleaning schedule for all schools throughout the year. The below items will be wiped down with cleaner and disinfectant.

• Doorknobs inside and outside
• Light switches
• Flush meters
• Sink faucets
• Bathroom stall doors
• Paper towel dispensers
• Toilet paper dispensers
• Desktops
• Countertops
• Phones
• Any other surfaces that are frequently touched by people

Classroom and Area Sanitizing Methods Used by Teachers

If there is the need to use the following methods in classrooms, please see the building facilities staff for proper cleaning tools to use.

A sanitizing/virucidal-cleaning agent is available to all Baldwin UFSD employees during an emergency or used for preventative measures in the classroom. This cleaner is automatically dispensed and is easily identified. The cleaner may be found in most school custodial closets throughout the district. Additionally, you can request from the building facilities staff for a spray bottle with the red solution of Hydroxi Pro Red.

• Hydroxi Pro Red super concentrate is an orange-labeled product found in a large green plastic dispensing unit that sits on the floor.
• Attached to the unit is a hose with a dispenser gun at its end, which hangs on the wall.
• On the face of the gun there are 4 colored buttons: green – blue – red - purple.
• Rotate the dilution solution knob to the red selection (red and purple are the only dilutions which make sanitizing claims).
• When you feel the selector knob, click in at red – turn on water supply at the sink and begin to fill your container by pressing down on the gun lever (allow a small flow of product to be dispensed into the sink. This is to clear the lines prior to filling the container).
• Red is the ready to use level that provides sanitizing/virucidal EPA claims regarding bacterial kill and is an environmentally safer replacement for bleach.

In addition, Botanical wipes will be issued to each classroom, which also has EPA claim to killing viruses and can be used on surfaces including keyboards.

How to Use Hydroxi Pro Red

Sanitizing is a 2-step process: 

• Clean desired hard surface by liberally spraying the red solution with a trigger sprayer. Allow surface to remain wet for 5 minutes and then if possible, agitate with a scrub pad or brush. Rinse with clean water or wipe clean with a disposable cloth or paper towel to remove excess liquid.
• Once the surface is clean, begin the sanitizing process by liberally spraying the red solution directly on the surface. Allow surface to air dry – no wiping is required.

Areas to be cleaned include:

• Doorknobs
• Sinks and faucets
• Bathrooms fixtures and handles
• Phones and public address system receivers
• Student desktops
• Keyboards
• Countertops

Touch-Less Water Bottle Fillers

In order to promote proper hydration throughout the day while reinforcing contact-less plumbing fixtures, 48 new water fountain/bottle fillers are being installed during the summer of 2020, throughout the district to minimize contact points throughout the day. 

Physical Distancing Protocol/Utilization of Space

Baldwin UFSD will review all spaces and facilities to be utilized in order to maintain the health and safety of students and staff, especially when tending to individual student medical or personal needs. Specifically:

• Review the student and staff capacity of each classroom, learning spaces, and cafe to meet the 6-foot physical distancing objectives.
• Appropriate physical distancing will be maintained in all directions between individuals or use of appropriate physical barriers between individuals that do not adversely affect air flow, heating, cooling, or ventilation, or otherwise present a health or safety risk.
  • If used, physical barriers will be in place in accordance with United States Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines and may include strip curtains, cubicle walls, polycarbonate or similar materials, or other impermeable divider or partition.
• Limit the number of students physically reporting to school, in order to maintain physical distancing. Various strategies have been outlined in the School Schedules section of this document on page 24 and include blended learning models.
• A distance of 12 feet in all directions will be maintained between individuals while participating in activities requires projecting the voice (e.g., singing), playing a wind instrument, or aerobic activity resulting in heavy breathing (e.g., participating in gym classes). These activities will be limited or suspended for the 20-21 school year.
• To the extent possible, and as recommended by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), Baldwin UFSD will attempt to create smaller student/educator cohorts to minimize the mixing of student groups throughout the day. Baldwin UFSD will also minimize the movement of students, educators, and staff as much as possible in elementary schools and middle school.
• In a circumstance where sufficient physical distancing is difficult or impossible, such as when students enter or exit a school bus in proximity to the bus driver, all individuals, including staff and students, should wear face coverings that cover the mouth and nose consistent with CDC guidelines.
• Post social distancing markings using tape or signs that denote 6 feet of spacing in commonly used and other applicable areas.
• Desks will be a minimum of 6 feet apart and arranged in a way that minimizes face-to-face contact.
• Other spaces will be utilized for instructional activities (e.g., gymnasiums, auditoriums, cafeterias, outdoors) if necessary.
• The district will maximize the use of live streamed instruction to students at home.
• The district will maximize virtual activities in lieu of field trips and intergroup events. 

Ventilation

The district will maintain adequate ventilation. The district is also collaborating with a consultant to assess conditions and capacity of existing units/air flow while integrating MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) ratings. 

Fire Code Compliance

Currently, there are no additions to our facilities. We will repurpose rooms, such as the gymnasiums, auditoriums and cafeterias, in order to expand the square footage and improve social distancing. The school district will consult with our architect and submit any necessary floor plans to NYSED’s Office of Facilities Planning.

Doorways

Stairs and corridor doors have closers with automatic hold opens.  These doors will remain open.  Classroom doors will also remain in the open position to reduce the spread of the disease by reduce students and staff touching doorknobs.

Emergency Drills

Education Law § 807 requires that schools conduct 8 evacuation and 4 lockdown drills each school year. When planning drills, consideration will be given to the guidelines recommended by the DOH and NYSED Reopening document to minimize risk of spreading infection.  As such, it may be necessary drills in the 2020-21 school year to be conducted using protocols that are different than the previous year, such as conducting drills on a “staggered” schedule and ensuring all students participate in all emergency drills.  Students will be required to wear masks during all emergency drills.  All classroom “Emergency GO-Bags" will contain a supply of face masks for emergency use during a drill.

Inspections

The district will continue with all statutory requirements and inspections.

 

School Schedules

  NYSED Reopening Mandatory Requirements

• No NYSED Mandatory Requirements

Baldwin UFSD Plan

Baldwin is committed to having students attend in-person instruction safely under the guidelines from the Department of Health (DOH) and New York State Education Department (NYSED).  Due to the potential learning loss of formalized education as a result of COVID19, it will be necessary to deliver a program that ensures the successful growth of our students toward the end of the 2020-2021 school year.  

For Elementary Students (Grades K-5)

Parents will choose between full remote learning or full in-person instruction. In either case, students will be grouped in classes and taught by a certified elementary teacher. Class sizes will be reduced to maintain 6-foot distancing in classrooms. If necessary, we will repurpose other areas of the elementary buildings, such as the gymnasium, to create additional learning spaces for our students and staff.  

In order to ensure continuity of instruction, the elementary school day will begin 30 minutes later than usual to provide common planning time for all teachers. Therefore, elementary classes will begin at 9:10 am.

For Secondary Students (Grades 6-12)

Parents will choose between full remote learning or a hybrid model of in-person learning and remote instruction that reduces the school capacity by 50%.  Half the students from the school will attend in-person classes on campus while the other half will attend live classes virtually. Groups will rotate according to the schedule below. This would allow all students to have an equitable opportunity for in person teaching and learning in small classes.

• Group 1: Students with a last name of A-L will attend school for in-person instruction every Tuesday and Wednesday. 

 

• Group 2: Students with a last name of M-Z will attend school for in-person instruction every Thursday and Friday.

 

• Students in Groups 1 and 2 will alternate Mondays.

 

• All special class IEP and ENL students can attend every day.

 

• All students will follow their schedule, and daily attendance will be recorded.

 

• All classes will be streamed live over Google Meet or on occasion and depending on the subject matter, a teacher will utilize a flipped classroom strategy so there will be no loss of instructional time and ensure that instruction is aligned with the outcomes in the NYS Standards.

 

 

Instructional Setting	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday
In-Person Instruction	Groups 1 and Group 2 alternate   Special class IEP and ENL students	Group 1 (A-L)     Special class IEP and ENL students	Group 1 (A-L)     Special class IEP and ENL students	Group 2 (M-Z)     Special class IEP and ENL students	Group 2 (M-Z)     Special class IEP and ENL students
Remote Instruction	Groups 1 and Group 2 alternate	Group 2 (M-Z)	Group 2 (M-Z)	Group 1 (A-L)	Group 2 (A-L)

This schedule makes the days very consistent for childcare issues. Done alphabetically, schedule also allow siblings to have the same days in-person and remote days scheduled.

For Shubert@Baldwin High School

We expect all Shubert students to return to school for in-person instruction while maintaining 6-foot social distancing guidelines as outlined in the DOH and NYSED guidelines.

Baldwin UFSD has prepared to support students’ ongoing growth as learners in the event the district needs to transition to full remote instruction.   

Contingency Plans if Schools Close   

For Elementary Students  

Assignments will be posted in accordance with the student’s class schedule. Below is an example of a typical elementary student’s schedule that can be followed (see next page). 

Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5	Day 6
Reading	Reading	Reading	Reading	Reading	Reading
Writing	Writing	Writing	Writing	Writing	Writing
Word Work	Word Work	Word Work	Word Work	Word Work	Word Work
Math	Math	Math	Math	Math	Math
Science	Social Studies	Science	Social Studies	Science	Social Studies
Special**	Special**	Special**	Special**	Special**	Special**

*Students will be encouraged to continue to read, journal and participate in other self-directed learning activities.

**Special when possible and/or other subject area work as determined by the building principal and teacher.

For Secondary Students

Secondary students will be expected to follow their schedules and their assignments will be posted in accordance with their class schedule.  

Instructional Option for Vulnerable Populations

Remote instruction will be provided to a student unable to physically attend school due to illness, in a medically vulnerable /high-risk population and/or with a family member in this population, and/or students who require quarantine or isolation. Across all programs, will offer the opportunity for parents to select a fully remote option for their child.    

For students to be successful during full remote, it is critical that students in grades K-12 engage in both asynchronous and synchronous learning opportunities.

 

NYSED Reopening Mandatory Requirements

• All schools must ensure that they have a continuity of learning plan for the 2020-2021 school year. Such plan must prepare for in-person, remote, and hybrid models of instruction.
• Instruction must be aligned with the outcomes in the New York State Learning Standards.
• Equity must be at the heart of all school instructional decisions.  All instruction should be developed so that whether delivered in-person, remotely, or through a hybrid model due to a local or state school closure, there are clear opportunities for instruction that are accessible to all students. Such opportunities must be aligned with State standards and include routine scheduled times for students to interact and seek feedback and support from their teachers.
• Instruction aligned to the academic program must include regular and substantive interaction with an appropriately certified teacher regardless of the delivery method (e.g., in person, remote or hybrid).
• Schools must create a clear communication plan for how students and their families/caregivers can contact the school and teachers with questions about their instruction and/or technology. This information needs to be accessible to all, available in multiple languages based on district or charter school need, widely disseminated, and include clear and multiple ways for students and families to contact schools and teachers (e.g., email, online platform, and/or by phone).

Baldwin UFSD Plan

The mission of the Baldwin Public Schools, regardless of the instructional setting, is to support students' academic, social, and moral growth to foster a lifelong commitment to learning, and to encourage responsible contributions to society. A partnership reflecting the high standards of supportive families, conscientious learners, committed staff, and an involved community will maximize potential for student success.    

It is of the utmost importance that individual student needs and equity are put at the center of all learning experiences.  In planning for teaching and learning for the 2020-2021 school year, we will keep a laser focus on four learning mindsets that are particularly important in supporting students’ academic development, specifically students’ sense of 1) belonging and safety, 2) efficacy, 3) value for effort and growth, and 4) engagement in work that is relevant and culturally responsive (Aspen Institute, 2019).

As stated in the New York State Education Department Reopening Guidance Document, “All schools must provide 180 days of instruction each school year to their students. Instructional days shall be counted for programs that are delivered in-person, remotely, or through a hybrid model.”  Flexibility is essential when planning for teaching and learning and we should be prepared to shift between in-person instruction, hybrid model of instruction, or full remote learning, in a way that is least disruptive to students.  

As mentioned in the School Schedule section on page 26, all elementary students to return to school for full remote or in-person instruction and secondary students will return to school using full remote or a hybrid model. In the hybrid learning environment, students learn through a blend of face-to-face interactions with staff and online learning opportunities that can be synchronous (live) instruction or asynchronous instruction.  New content will be delivered daily and instruction will continue to be aligned with the outcomes in the New York State Learning Standards regardless of the instructional environment.  In all cases, instruction will be live by a fully certified NYS teacher.

In the event schools are mandated to close by NYS’s closure formula, schools and office operations will transition to our Continuity of Instruction plan and provide instruction remotely. Details for how schools will operate remotely are included in the School Schedule section above.  For students to be successful during full remote, it is critical that students in grades K-12 engage in both asynchronous and synchronous learning opportunities.

NYSED Reopening Mandatory Requirements

• Have knowledge of the level of access to devices and highspeed broadband all students and teachers have in their places of residence;
• To the extent practicable, address the need to provide devices and internet access to students and teachers who currently do not have sufficient access; and
• Provide multiple ways for students to participate in learning and demonstrate mastery of Learning Standards in remote or blended models, especially if all students do not yet have sufficient access to devices and/or high-speed internet.

 Baldwin UFSD Plan

As noted in the NYS Education Department Reopening Document, “Technology knowledge and skills are vital for full participation in 21st Century life, work, and citizenship.  The effective use of digital technology can assist educators in differentiating and personalizing learning; provide flexibility in scheduling and pace; and provide multiple entry points for students to engage in learning. As schools plan for reopening, technology and connectivity must remain essential areas of focus.” 

For Elementary Students (Grades K-5)

All elementary students who return to school for in-person instruction will use the devices located in the classrooms (Chromebooks or lap-tops).  Students who do not have access to a computer or Internet and are on remote instruction, will be loaned a district device. 

In the event we have to transition to remote learning, any student and family who does not have a device or high-speed internet access, particularly our low socioeconomic status and homeless/displaced students, will receive a hot spot along with district issued Chromebooks/devices. 

For Secondary Students (Grades 6-12)

Since students in grades 6-12 will be in a hybrid model, these students will receive their own device (1:1 initiative) to ensure they are all able to participate in instruction regardless of the instructional setting.

Teachers are encouraged to use a variety of found and created content to review and deliver new instructional material.  The district uses Clever, an “application dashboard” that allows a single sign on for many of our instructional technology tools. 

With our significant investment in technology, and our willingness to integrate instructional technology into our instructional program, we are well positioned to create powerful learning experiences for our students using instructional technology applications.   

The district will only consider using instructional applications that meet Education Law 2D, parts 121 requirements. 

Technical Support

Families/Students can receive eLearning technical support by emailing: FamilyITSupport@baldwinschools.org 

NYSED Reopening Mandatory Requirements

• Ensure that a district-wide and building-level comprehensive developmental school counseling program plan, developed under the direction of certified school counselor(s), is reviewed and updated to meet current needs.
• Establish an advisory council, shared decision-making, school climate team, or other collaborative working group comprised of families, students, members of the board of education, school building and/or district/charter leaders, community-based service providers, teachers, certified school counselors, and other pupil personnel service providers including school social workers and/or school psychologists to inform the comprehensive developmental school counseling program plan.
• Address how the school/district will provide resources and referrals to address mental health, behavioral, and emotional support services and programs.
• Address professional development opportunities for faculty and staff on how to talk with and support students during and after the ongoing COVID-19 public health emergency, as well as provide support for developing coping and resilience skills for students, faculty, and staff.

 Baldwin UFSD Plan

The district recognizes that our community, other communities, and schools are facing unprecedented challenges as we face this global pandemic, an economic recession, and civic unrest in response to structural racism.  Baldwin is an innovative and inclusive school district which believes this unprecedented time in our history is also a time to transform education.

The district uses a Multi-Tiered Support System (MTSS) to addresses academic and behavioral challenges including proactive activities for all students (universal interventions), targeted activities for students identified at-risk (secondary interventions) and intensive activities for students identified at high risk (tertiary interventions).   

Baldwin UFSD firmly believes in the social emotional learning (SEL) and well-being of our students and staff. 

During our reopening, the district will continue to support the SEL and well-being of our students and staff by:

• Provide staff with ongoing training at the start of the school to deal with student/staff anxiety, apprehension and to reacclimate to a school setting. During the year provide training on educational programs or practices aimed at social-emotional well being
• Institute a Social Emotional Well-being Committee
• Identify staff and teams available for individual student social emotional emergences (crisis intervention teams).
• Enhance the social emotional programs currently utilized at each building.
• Designate daily scheduled times to focus on social emotional activities with students.
• Identify local clinics and services available for students and families that need help beyond the school day.

NYSED Reopening Mandatory Requirements

• Qualifying schools that reopen using in-person or hybrid instruction will be required to complete the ELL identification process within 30 school days of the start of the school year for all students who enrolled during COVID-19 school closures in 2019-20, as well as all students who enroll during summer of 2020 and during the first 20 school days of the 2020-21 school. After this 20day flexibility period, identification of English Language Learners (ELLs) must resume for all students within required 10 school days of initial enrollment as required by Commissioner’s Regulations Part 154.
• Provision of required instructional Units of Study must be provided to all ELLs based on their most recently measured English language proficiency level during in-person or hybrid instruction.
• Maintain regular communication with the parents/guardians and other family members of ELLs to ensure that they are engaged in their children’s education during the reopening process Provide all communications for parents/guardians of ELLs in their preferred language and mode of communication. 

 

Baldwin UFSD Plan

While returning to school will present challenges for all students, English Language Learners (ELLs) may experience these challenges to a greater extent than their peers, as they transition back to a school setting from remote learning and continue to develop their English language proficiency concurrently while learning grade-level academic content. To mitigate these challenges, we will make every effort to provide support to ELLs to allow them to access academic content as well as providing them with their supplemental language instruction program.   

• Entering/Emerging ELLs can attend an in-person instructional setting Monday – Friday.
• ENL teachers will continue to teach the ELL/MLL students on their assigned caseload using the guidelines established in CR Parts 151 and 154. 
• ENL teachers will continue to support the ELL/MLL (Multilingual Learners) students on their assigned caseload and their families 
• ENL teachers will continue to collaborate with their cooperating teachers in the integrated co-teaching classes to ensure equitable access to instruction and ensure that CR Parts 151 and 154 continue to be met. 
• Develop and maintain ongoing communication with families of ELLs providing translation and interpretation for families with limited English proficiency regarding reopening plans, instructional methods and day to day communication.
• Attend to the SEL needs of English learners, understanding that ELs may have unique, individual needs from each other and from their non-EL peers

 

Special Education

NYSED Reopening Mandatory Requirements

• The school reopening plan, whether services are provided in-person, remote, and/or through a hybrid model, must address the provision of FAPE consistent with the need to protect the health and safety of students with disabilities and those providing special education and services.
• The school reopening plan must address meaningful parent engagement in the parent’s preferred language or mode of communication regarding the provision of services to his/her child to meet the requirements of the IDEA.
• The school reopening plan must address collaboration between the committees on preschool special education (CPSE) and committees on special education (CSE) and program providers representing the variety of settings where students are served to ensure there is an understanding of the provision of services consistent with the recommendations on individualized education programs (IEPs), plans for monitoring and communicating student progress, and commitment to sharing resources.
• The school reopening plan must ensure access to the necessary accommodations, modifications, supplementary aids and services, and technology (including assistive technology) to meet the unique disability related needs of students.
• The school reopening plan must address how it will document the programs and services offered and provided to students with disabilities as well as communications with parents, in their preferred language or mode of communication.

 Baldwin UFSD Plan

Baldwin Union Free School District is dedicated to providing equity and access for students with disabilities to be involved, participate, and progress in the general education curriculum.  The district ensures that students receive a free and appropriate public education consistent with the need to protect the health and safety of students with disabilities and those providing special education and services; meaningful parental engagement regarding the provision of services to their child; collaboration between the Committee on Preschool Special Education/Committee on Special Education (CPSE/CSE) and program providers representing the variety of settings where students are served; access to the necessary instructional and technological supports to meet the unique needs of students; and documentation of programs, services, and communications with parents. 

Baldwin UFSD has considered in-person services a priority for students with disabilities and preschool students with disabilities whenever possible and has considered contingency plans developed by the CPSE/CSE to address remote learning needs in the event of intermittent or extended school closures. Such plans are outlined below: 

Elementary students with disabilities can attend school in-person daily.  

Secondary students with disabilities in special classes and life skills can also attend school in person daily. All related services and home services will be provided in-person or virtually as a shared decision of the parties. Parents will stay informed via communication through the district correspondence and Office of Pupil Services in their preferred language or mode of communication. 

Baldwin UFSD will follow the continuum of serves as outlined by NYSED. The district will document the programs and services offered on each individualized IEP or 504 Accommodation Plan. Baldwin UFSD will also document programs and services offered via documentation and data collected (attendance, logs, progress reports) from each session provided to the student.

Students will be provided with the necessary accommodations, modifications, supplementary aides and services, and technology (including assistive technology) to meet the unique disability needs of students in accordance to their IEP’s or 504 Accommodation Plans. 

Below is a detailed outline of a plan in the event or intermittent or extended school closures occur. 

Facilitation of CSE Meetings

CSE meetings will continue to take place as scheduled. Staff, parents, and providers attending CSE will be utilizing a conference call.

• An invitation to the meeting will be sent to you, via email prior to the start of the meeting.
• If the meeting will take place via Google Hangouts Meet App., you will be provided with a dial in phone number and PIN # to access the meeting.
• When utilizing Google Hangouts Meet App., be sure to please use the mute option if you are not speaking as to reduce the amount of background noise.
• Annual review meetings will take place as previously scheduled.
• Initial Referrals to the CSE and CPSE will only take place if your child’s evaluations have been completed. You will receive an invitation letter to the meeting.
• Please note, your meetings will take place as previously scheduled.

Programs

 Special Education Classes

• Life Skills Classes (8:1:1) – Instruction will be provided through the use of asynchronous and synchronous lessons. Each classroom teacher will identify the learning platform (Google Classroom, See Saw, teachers web page, Zoom, etc.) Instruction and materials will be based on the student’s individual goals and will also incorporate additional online resources, where applicable.
• Self-Contained Classes (15:1) – Instruction will be provided through the use of asynchronous and synchronous lessons. Each classroom teacher will identify the learning platform (Google classroom, see saw, teachers web page, zoom, etc.) Instruction and materials will be based on the student’s individual goals and will also incorporate additional online resources, where applicable.
• Resource Room – Instruction will be provided through the use of asynchronous and synchronous lessons. Each classroom teacher will identify the learning platform (Google classroom, see saw, teachers web page, zoom, etc.) Instruction and materials will be based on the student’s individual goals and will also incorporate additional online resources, where applicable.
• Integrated Co-Teaching Classes – Instruction will be provided through the use of asynchronous and synchronous lessons. Classroom teacher have set up Google classrooms. 

Related Services

 Speech/Language/Hearing Services

The speech/language/hearing department will be addressing the individual needs of each classified student during the school closure due to the Coronavirus (COVID 19).

• Elementary Level – Students will be provided with either individualized packets with related activities that will be sent home or related activities and resources will be listed on the clinicians’ web page. These activities will be geared toward your child’s IEP goals. Directions will either be included in the packet or listed on the web page.
• Middle School Level – Students will be provided with a Google Classroom code. Once they enter their Google Classroom, materials will be provided to address their individual goals. Specific information will be included in their Google classroom.
• High School Level – Students will be provided with a Google Classroom code. Once they enter their Google classroom, materials will be provided to address their individual goals. Specific information will be included in their Google classroom.
• Students Currently Enrolled in Life Skills Classes – Students with more intensive needs will be provided with either individualized packets with related activities that will be sent home or related activities and resources will be listed on the clinicians’ web page. These activities will be geared toward your child’s IEP goals. Directions will either be included in the packet or listed on the web page. Some students will be provided with a Google Classroom code. Once they enter their Google classroom, materials will be provided to address their individual goals. Specific information will be included in their Google classroom.
• Students Enrolled at St. Christopher – Students will receive packets containing activities geared towards their IEP goals. Directions will be included in the packet. Speech Improvement services and ERSS speech services (not mandated on an IEP) will temporarily be suspended during this time. It is recommended that these students review all work that has been sent home previously.

 Counseling Services

• Elementary Level – All providers will be in contact with parents and/or guardians of mandated counseling students. This contact will be in the form of phone calls and/or emails. At the provider and parental discretion, the provider may communicate directly with the student via phone call. In addition, counseling materials and/or resources will be provided for students. These resources may be accessed on the counselor’s web page. The frequency and duration of communication will be determined by individual student needs.
• Middle School Level – All providers will be in contact with the parents and/or guardians of mandated counseling students. This contact will be in the form of phone calls and/or emails. At the provider and parental discretion, the provider may communicate directly with the student via phone call. In addition, counseling materials and/or resources will be provided for students. These resources may be accessed on the counselor’s web page. The frequency and duration of communication will be determined by individual student needs.
• High School Level – All providers will be in contact with the parents and/or guardians of mandated counseling students. This contact will be in the form of phone calls and/or emails. At the provider and parental discretion, the provider may communicate directly with the student via phone call. In addition, counseling materials and/or resources will be provided for students. These resources may be accessed on the counselor’s web page. The frequency and duration of communication will be determined by individual student needs. At the providers’ discretion, based upon student’s needs, providers may be in communication with non-mandated counseling students as well.
• Students Currently Enrolled in Life Skills Classes – Students with more intensive needs will be offered a consultative model, in which providers, will communicate directly with parents and/or guardians to offer resources and support.
• Students Enrolled at St. Christopher – The provider will be in contact with parents and/or guardians of mandated counseling students. This contact will be in the form of phone calls and/or emails. At the provider and parental discretion, the provider may communicate directly with the student via phone call. In addition, counseling materials and/or resources will be provided for students. These resources may be accessed on the counselor’s web page. The frequency and duration of communication will be determined by individual student needs.

 Occupational or Physical Therapy

• Occupational and physical therapists have prepared service packets, which will address the individual needs of your child. Parents will also be contacted to arrange for tele-services.
• Packets will be emailed to families, if tele-services are unable to be arranged.
• Instructions will be included within each packet.
• All providers will be in contact with the parents and/or guardians. This contact will be in the form of phone calls, Zoom, Google Meet up, Facetime sessions, and/or individualized packets. The frequency and duration of communication will be determined by individual student needs.

 Students Attending Out-of-District Day Placements 

• If your child attends a day program outside of the District, you will receive specific individualized instructional materials from your child’s schools.

NYSED Reopening Mandatory Requirements

• Schools are responsible for developing a mechanism to collect and report daily teacher/student engagement or attendance regardless of the instructional setting.

Baldwin UFSD Plan

Extensive research indicates that attendance to school and classes is a critical factor in student growth and achievement.  Missing ten percent of school days tends to be the “tipping point” when student achievement declines.  Chronic absence, or absenteeism, is defined as missing at least ten percent of enrolled school days, which in New York State is eighteen days per school year, or two days per month.

Therefore, we will be collecting and reporting daily student engagement or attendance regardless of the instructional setting.

For students who are not engaged in remote learning or attending in-person instruction, the school staff will reach out to parents/guardians using a variety of methods such as phone calls to families, emails, and/or home visits.