1/14/2021

Last night, the Governing Board voted to reaffirm their decision to resume in person learning for grades Pre-Kindergarten through twelfth grade on Tuesday, January 19. The action followed a presentation which included a review of CUSD’s Covid-19 timeline, a comparison of learning models, and an outline of the five data sources used to make informed decisions (student considerations and needs, school specific threshold, safety concerns and mitigation plan, Maricopa County benchmarks, and health official recommendations).  

The full presentation may be viewed here.

The Chandler Online Academy and Elementary Connect students will remain in their current instructional setting. We are accommodating families who would like to enroll in our online program as an alternative.

We appreciate the support of the community for their flexibility as we work together for the best interest of students, staff and families. 

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The CUSD Help Desk has been created to assist students and families with technology questions and concerns. The direct phone number is 480-812-7697. We are experiencing a high call volume. If staff are not available, call again.

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The Governing Board voted tonight on the following for all preschool through 12th grade students:

• Virtual instruction will begin on Wednesday, January 6, 2021 and in-person instruction will resume Tuesday, January 19, 2021 (the day after Martin Luther King Holiday). 
• Tuesday, January 5, 2021, will be a teacher workday and students do not attend school (including Chandler Online Academy).  Teachers will report to their school sites in order to prepare for virtual instruction and distribution of devices to those students who need them. 

This option allows for a quarantine period after returning from winter break where students have travelled and participated in gatherings.  The Governing Board will revisit this action on January 13, 2021.

Special Education services will be provided as they were during the previous virtual instruction.  Dr. Marshall and her staff will work with teachers to deliver in-person services to those in specialized classrooms beginning the week of January 11th.  Details will be communicated directly to the families involved.  All students with special education services will return to school with the K-6 general education population on Tuesday, January 19, 2021.  

Food and Nutrition Department will distribute meals.   Details are forthcoming.

Childcare options will continue.  Details are forthcoming.

Schools will be open per Executive Order 2020-51 to provide free on-site learning opportunities and support services for students who need a place to go during the day.  Details will be coming from your school. 

SUPPORT STAFF WORK SCHEDULE

If virtual instruction impacts an employees’ ability to perform their regular job duties, the Administration recommends the employee be redeployed in meaningful work.  

THRESHOLD FOR TEMPORARY VIRTUAL LEARNING

Based upon the community spread, the Administration recommends that the current thresholds for the temporary closure of an individual site with virtual instruction be lowered as outlined below. The Board will further study this issue at the February 10, 2021 meeting.

	Current Threshold	Lower Threshold Effective January 5, 2021
Elementary	2% Positive Active Cases	1.5% Positive Active Cases
Junior High	1.5% Positive Active Cases	1% Positive Active Cases
High School	1% Positive Active Cases	.75% Positive Active Cases

 

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The Governing Board meeting has been moved up to 5 p.m. Monday, January 4. The meeting can be viewed live at www.cusd80.com/GoverningBoardMeetings

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December 31, 2020

Dear parents and guardians,

As mentioned in our last letter on December 18, COVID-19 case numbers in Arizona, similar to other states and countries, have continued to increase.  On Monday, January 4, the CUSD Administration will meet with certified and support staff committees to review metrics, gather input, and discuss COVID mitigation strategies.  Dr. Peggy Stemmler, MD, MDA from Maricopa County Health will be presenting information and taking questions. 

The CUSD Governing Board has scheduled a meeting for Wednesday, January 6 at 5 p.m. to review committee input and current data in order to recommend an instructional path moving forward that will best meet the needs of our students, families and staff.

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December 18, 2020

Dear parents and guardians,

In the last 60 days, COVID-19 cases in Arizona, similar to other states and countries, have increased significantly.  In August, the Maricopa County Health Department developed metrics to guide the reopening of schools.  Two of the three metrics have exceeded the desired threshold.  As of this week, the third metric – hospital census – exceeded the threshold.  At the November 18, 2020 board meeting, the board and administration discussed plans and rationale for moving forward, including a timeline and process for a temporary closure if a school hits the threshold of student/staff active COVID-19 cases.  (See PowerPoint PDF or YouTube video presentation.)  Additionally, on December 9, 2020, the Governing Board approved a virtual option for grades 7-12, similar to what quarantined students are provided, for the first two weeks of January, if families choose.  (See COVID-19 Update Letter – 12/11/2020.)  Based upon the community spread, the District is working closely with state and county health officials and local hospital personnel to garner their input and strengthen our mitigation practices, including the following:

1. Partnering with ASU to provide free COVID testing at a district site with staff and students prioritized.
2. Updating guidelines for acceptable face masks to completely cover your nose and mouth and fit snugly against the sides of your face without gaps.  Face shields no longer accepted.
3. Increasing communication of, and adherence to, mitigation strategies on campus.
4. Expanding the CUSD dashboard to include all confirmed cases for staff and students, regardless of school exposure.
5. Seeking the input and counsel of local hospitals.  At this time, our local hospital officials believe that the community is best served when students are at school with strong mitigation in place.
6. Working with health officials and health insurance providers to prepare for the arrival of vaccines.
7. Gathering input from a representative group of certified and support staff to understand and respond to concerns.  On January 4, 2021, Dr. Peggy Stemmler, MD, MDA from Maricopa County Health will update the members of this focus group with the latest guidance regarding community spread benchmarks and the use of additional data to assist schools in making decisions.  Topics to be discussed include strengthening mitigation strategies and setting criteria for school-by-school return to virtual learning, if necessary.

We are grateful for the upcoming winter break.  Please follow all the mitigation strategies that are recommended to help contain the spread of the virus.  The tremendous sacrifices made by all CUSD employees and the struggles our families face are readily apparent.  We look forward to the day when the pandemic is behind us and we can celebrate the many contributions made to this effort.  Your cooperation is very much appreciated as we work together toward a brighter future.

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December 11, 2020

As guidance related to COVID-19 continues to evolve, we have updated our plans based on the latest information and guidance available, including the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Arizona Department of Public Health, and the Maricopa County Department of Public Health Administration.  We have also received numerous communications from our staff, parents, students, and the community sharing their opinions. 

 

Based on the most recent Board action

Anticipating that families will be traveling over the holidays and hosting family gatherings, on Wednesday night the Governing Board voted to temporarily allow students in grades 7-12 to listen and view instruction for classes via Google Meets, as is currently available for quarantined students, in place of attending in-person instruction for the first two weeks of the second semester (January 5-15, 2021).

Providing quality instruction for students in-person will continue to be the primary focus for classroom teachers.  Students choosing to attend class in a virtual modality are expected to commit for the two-week period, log-in on a daily basis and meet assignment due dates.  Students attending virtually will be able to listen and view live instruction in core subject areas (English Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies and World Languages) via Google Meets, have assignments and resources uploaded into Google Classroom as the teacher deems appropriate, and complete assignments online.  Elective courses will upload assignments into Google Classroom that can be completed independently. 

If you would like your student to participate in this virtual opportunity, please contact your child’s attendance clerk to indicate your intent.  You may leave a message on the attendance line. Parents have until January 4, 2021 to notify their school.
 

Communication during break

We encourage families to notify us of any active COVID-19 cases that develop over the winter break.  For any student’s positive diagnosis that occurs between December 18, 2020 and January 4, 2021, please send an email with the student’s name and ID number to Health@cusd80.com.  Please also attach documentation of the test result.
 

New guidelines for Quarantine – Effective January 5, 2021

In accordance with new CDC guidelines, the 14 day quarantine period may end:

• after 10 days without testing if no symptoms have occurred
     or
• after 7 days if no symptoms have occurred and a documented negative test result has been provided to the school

If choosing to return after 7 days, the test sample must have been collected at least 5 days after exposure.  Send-off PCR tests are preferred, but rapid PCR or antigen tests are acceptable.

If you are exposed again during quarantine, the period must start over.  If you develop symptoms or test positive for COVID-19 during the quarantine period, you must follow the instructions for isolating yourself and notify the school.
 

New guidelines for Face Masks – Effective January 5, 2021

The Arizona Department of Health Services Emergency Measure 2020-04 (Slowing the Spread of COVID-19 in Schools) “mandates that masks are worn on school campus, on school buses, during school-associated activities, and while participating in or observing any school-associated athletic activities, by all students, faculty, staff, contractors and visitors.”  This Emergency Measure cites Center for Disease Control research that supports community masking to reduce the spread of COVID-19.  In compliance with this emergency measure, face masks are required on all CUSD campuses for all students, staff, and visitors ages 2 and older.  Furthermore, the Maricopa County Department of Public Health specifies that an acceptable face mask should completely cover your nose and mouth and fit snugly against the sides of your face without gaps. 

As a result, beginning January 5, 2021 face shields will no longer be an acceptable face covering for students unless a medical exemption is provided by a licensed healthcare provider and is on file with the school site.  Staff will ONLY be allowed to utilize a face shield when necessary for specific classroom instruction and where they are able to socially distance from students and staff.
 

In This Together

We all have a role to play to keep our schools and community safe.  Please stay home if you are not well and experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, are awaiting test results, or have received a positive test.  

You can view our active cases and quarantine information on our dashboard at www.cusd80.com/COVIDdashboard.  The dashboard will be enhanced next quarter to include cases affiliated with schools, even when there has been no exposure on campus.

Thank you for your support as we continue to make decisions that promote the health and safety of our students, staff, and community.

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In an effort to promote timely communication and transparency, CUSD was among the first school districts in Maricopa County to publish a COVID-19 Dashboard.  Over the last several weeks we have made modifications to the COVID-19 Dashboard to provide the data that our community and staff have requested.  The following information is now provided on the dashboard:

• School
• Total Employees and Student Enrollment
• Confirmed Active Cases
• Percentage of Active Cases
• Resolved Cases (cases are moved to this category if the positive individual has been cleared to return to a CUSD campus)

Recently, we’ve received questions about the accuracy of the dashboard and reliability of the data.  The data that is reported on the dashboard is accurate.  However, we realize that further clarification is necessary to ensure effective communication.  Only “confirmed active cases” are reported on the dashboard.  A “confirmed active case” is defined as meeting the following criteria before it is added to the dashboard:

1. CUSD has a confirmed positive test from a student or staff member.  A positive test can be confirmed either by a parent or staff member providing a copy of the positive COVID-19 test result that the Registered Nurse will confirm OR confirmation from Maricopa County Department of Health Services of a positive test.  Most often our health services team receives a copy of the test directly from the parent or staff member before confirmation from the County.
2. The person who has tested positive is confirmed to have been on a CUSD campus during their infectious period.  The infectious period is defined as starting 48 hours prior to the onset of COVID-19 symptoms or a positive test result, whichever came first and through the remainder of the infection.

In summary, if a student or staff tests positive for COVID-19 the CUSD Health Services Department will: 1) confirm the positive test; 2) identify if the person was on a CUSD campus during their infectious period; 3) if the person meets both of those criteria they will be added to the COVID-19 Dashboard.  ONLY students and staff who are “confirmed active cases” will be indicated on the CUSD COVID-19 Dashboard which is updated each school day by 10 a.m.

We understand there has been confusion about this criteria.  It is important to note that if a student or staff who have a confirmed positive COVID-19 test but did not participate in any on-campus activities during their infectious period are currently NOT reported on the dashboard.  As stated above, the intent of the dashboard is to communicate the active confirmed cases on CUSD campuses.  In an effort to further clarify the data, however, we are currently developing a process to communicate confirmed non-campus exposure cases on the dashboard starting after the winter break.  Although these cases will not be used in determining temporary school closures, the confirmed cases that have no campus exposure will be visible to the public. 

In regards to quarantining protocols, we are continuing to follow the Maricopa County guidelines and quarantining any student that is determined to have been in “close contact” with a staff member or student during their infectious period while on a CUSD campus or at a CUSD-sponsored event.  The CUSD Health Services department is conducting the contact tracing and is limited to only tracing incidents of “close contact” that happen on CUSD campuses. The CUSD Health Services Department is actively monitoring the CDC and Maricopa County quarantine guidelines and additional information will be forthcoming on any changes recommended to the quarantine procedures.

Thank you in advance for your help to ensure accurate information is shared with our community.  We appreciate your continued support as we refine our COVID-19 Dashboard.

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November 19, 2020

Dear Staff and Families,

We are continuously monitoring the COVID-19 activity at the county, city, and school levels, responding to new information, and working closely with the Maricopa County Department of Public Health.

On November 18th, the administration provided an update on COVID-19 in a public meeting.  Please take a few minutes to view the presentation (PowerPoint PDF or YouTube video) which provides in-depth information on the following:

1. Though COVID-19 activity at the state, county, and city is on the rise, the incidence of positive cases for CUSD staff and students since the return to school on September 14, 2020 is less than 1%.  In fact, 10 schools have no reported cases at all, and 32 schools have no active cases as of November 17, 2020.
    
2. Data indicates that our mitigation strategies are making a difference.  By and large, students and staff are not spreading the virus at school.
    
3. The benefits of keeping schools open are many:
   
   
   • In-person learning is optimum for most students.
   • Access to resources and technology from home is limited or non-existent for a portion of our students.
   • Students’ presence in school helps educators better identify and meet their unique physical, social and emotional needs.
   • Parents depend on trained educators to provide a quality education for their children.
   • Many parents depend on schools to provide a safe educational and social environment while they are at work.
     
     

4. Although we do not believe a change in instructional model is warranted at this time, the administration remains vigilant and prepared for change.  A school-by-school contingency plan will guide a decision to move to temporary virtual learning, if necessary.  Should a school meet a specific benchmark, then we would institute a temporary school closure and shift to virtual learning.  See guidelines below.
    

School Site	% Confirmed Positive Active Covid-19 (Student/Staff) Cases
Elementary	2.0%
Junior High School	1.5%
High Schools	1.0%

Families will be notified 48 hours in advance of temporary school closure and a shift to virtual learning.  Computers will be distributed to students who do not have access.  The school will be evacuated for 24 hours to allow for the fogging and disinfection process.  The school campus will be closed for students for five (5) school days. 

As we enter the Thanksgiving season, we want to express our gratitude for all you are doing to support your children and our schools.  There is hope for an end to this pandemic in the months ahead.  In the meantime, please continue to adhere to the strategies that will keep your family and our schools safe.

In your service,

Chandler Unified School District

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CUSD is offering students on quarantine an opportunity to view and listen to instruction via a live Google Meets during normal class time.  This connection to instruction will be provided by the student’s elementary classroom teacher.  At the junior high and high school levels this connection will be provided by the student’s teachers in the core content areas, including world language.  Students that are placed in quarantine will be allowed the opportunity to view live instruction in their normally scheduled classes and complete assignments electronically until their quarantine is lifted.  Only students required to quarantine may access the live Google Meets.

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Dear Chandler Unified School District Families,

The purpose of this letter is to provide you an update with respect to the reopening of schools, the District’s response to COVID-19 cases, and, most importantly, a plea for you to help us avoid school closure.

REOPENING OF SCHOOL FOR IN-PERSON LEARNING

Students return to school for in-person learning has gone well.   There was noticeable excitement among students when their virtual teachers came to life and they were able to reconnect with old friends and meet new friends.   Although in-person teaching and learning is optimum for most students, more than 9,000 CUSD parents decided that an online option best meets the needs of their children.  It is our intent to continue to offer two quality learning options.

DISTRICT’S RESPONSE TO COVID-19 CASES

Under the guidance of CUSD Health Services Director Lyndsay Hartley, MSN, RN, the District administration, teachers and staff are doing everything in their power to keep students and staff safe, healthy, and keep our schools open for in-person learning.  Mitigation procedures are in place.  Staff are documenting students’ whereabouts so that contact tracing is effective in the event of a positive case on campus.  Exposed students are being quarantined to contain virus spread.  

Beginning next week in an effort to increase transparency to staff, students and families, the District is enhancing the COVID-19 dashboard located on the CUSD website.  Information is updated daily with active cases by school.  An active case indicates that a student or staff member participating in on-campus activities has tested positive for an active COVID-19 infection.  Individuals who test positive are excluded from participation in any in-person/on-campus activity until the registered nurse verifies that the individual meets the return criteria set by state and local health authorities.  Once the individual is cleared to return, they are no longer considered an active case and their case is removed from the dashboard count and labeled “resolved”.  See a sample of the revised dashboard below.

School

Total Employees and Student Enrollment

Confirmed Active Cases

% of Active Cases

Resolved Cases

As the case numbers increase, the District administration is not only monitoring the benchmarks from the Maricopa County Health department, but also our individual school and district data.  Although the number of cases in Chandler and the surrounding areas are increasing, we are monitoring our active cases in relationship to 50,000 students and staff in the entire school district. 

PLEA FOR YOUR HELP

Although our individual school data is positive overall, we cannot let our guard down as the trends change quickly and exponentially.  Students and parents understand and are committed to comply with the mitigation strategies.  There are exceptions where individuals have overlooked mitigation strategies thereby placing at risk the health of students, staff and community members as well as continued in-person learning.  Students have been sent to school with symptoms or while awaiting test results.  Students have attended gatherings outside of school, contracted the virus, and then returned to school exposing their classmates.   These situations are avoidable.  The pandemic has presented us with so many factors outside of our control.  We need 100% cooperation to influence what we can control.

As pandemic fatigue sets in, I ask you to join us in a renewed commitment to adhere to mitigation strategies as we enter the next few months of high risk. 

1. Encourage your children and family members to adhere to the recommended CDC mitigation strategies – masks, social distance, hand washing – both at school and at home.  Many of the coronavirus infections are a result of student gatherings outside of the school setting where attendees relax their guard. 
2. Please keep your child at home if they are exhibiting symptoms.  As we enter the flu season, it will be hard to determine if symptoms are COVID.  Keeping your child home is the best course of action to protect staff and other students.  Let the school know if you have questions or need support.
3. If you have had your child tested for COVID-19, please wait until you receive results before sending them back to school.
4. Notify the school if your child or a family member is COVID positive. 
5. Call your school if you have any questions.

We remain committed to providing a quality educational experience for all CUSD students, but we cannot do this alone.    I respectfully request your help to keep our schools open and safe. 

Sincerely,

Camille Casteel, Ed.D

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CUSD Staff and Families,

Dr. Camille Casteel, Superintendent of Chandler Unified School District, provides some information for parents as we approach the reopening of schools in the next few weeks. Please see her video message below.  A link to the CUSD Safety and Mitigation Protocols video is found at the end of the video (starting at 3 minutes, 18 seconds).

 

After a comprehensive review of options to reopen schools in-person, the Chandler Unified School District Governing Board voted to welcome students back to campus in the following manner:
 

Elementary students (preschool to sixth grade) will begin in a staggered start.

• Preschool to second grade and self-contained special education classes will begin fully in-person September 14, 2020.
• Third to sixth grade classes will begin fully in-person on September 21, 2020.
• Sixth graders at ACP-Oakland, Andersen Junior High, and Basha AMS will follow the secondary schedule. 

Secondary students (7 – 12) will begin fully in-person on October 13, 2020.

 

Chandler Online Academy and Elementary Connect students will remain in their current instructional setting and may choose to 1) change to in-person learning effective October 13, 2020 or 2) remain in Chandler Online Academy.

The health pandemic is a complex issue. In recent weeks, there have been two noteworthy changes in the data that led the Governing Board to revisit in-person instruction. First, the numbers of cases in Arizona and the City of Chandler have significantly decreased over the last several weeks. Secondly, the Maricopa County Health Department benchmarks for Chandler Unified School District have steadily improved. The reopening plan approved by the Governing Board is contingent upon the benchmarks remaining stable or improving. Safety and mitigation practices will be a priority including, but not limited to, the requirement for staff and students to wear face coverings when on campus. Schools will be providing further information over the next week.

We look forward to greeting our elementary students in person in the next few weeks joined by our secondary students as well as the Chandler Online Academy students who choose to move to in-person learning on October 13th.

Thank you for your input, your patience and your continued support. Please refer to the district website for more information.

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CUSD Parents/Guardians, An effective virtual learning environment requires a strong partnership between students, teachers and parents to ensure outstanding student learning.  The first few weeks of online learning has brought to light several ways in which parents can support their children and provide the best home environment for students to engage in their virtual classrooms. What we have found is that students have the most success in virtual learning when parents do the following: Provide a space for computer access that is free from distractions including: pets, toys, food, TV, other siblings and background noise. Make available a computer work station that allows for students to be seated upright with the screen at eye level. Ensure the background within camera shot is appropriate for school aged children and free of distractions including parents and siblings. Check in with their child regularly to ensure they are engaged in their online assignments and activities. Allow participation in Google Meets free from any parental interaction and only communicate with the teacher during times when they are not providing live-instruction. Partner with their child’s teacher and communicate on a regular basis outside of live instructional time. Allow their child to complete assessments and answer live questions without parental support. Provide frequent breaks and mix screen time with other off screen activities. Take an interest in what your child is learning and ask questions after each day’s class. A strong partnership between parents, students and teachers will continue to be the cornerstone of CUSD’s success, particularly in this time of virtual classrooms and online learning.  Thank you for your continued support.

IMPORTANT CLARIFICATION:

Optional limited on-site supervision and support does NOT refer to to the resumption of in-person instruction.  In-person instruction is scheduled to begin after fall break.

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Dear Chandler Unified School District parents and families,

In accordance with Governor Ducey’s Executive Order 2020-51, Chandler Unified School District will provide all families with an opportunity for on-site learning and support starting August 17th.  Detailed information is provided on your home school’s website.

General Information:

• All CUSD school sites will be open for on-site learning and support Monday - Friday during standard school hours.
• Supervision and support will be provided for online coursework; no direct instruction will be provided.
• Students may access CUSD guest Wifi and are encouraged to bring a CUSD issued device or personal device.
• Enrollment at each site is capped when capacity is reached.
• Transportation is not provided.
• Face coverings are required and social distancing is enforced.
• Enhanced sanitation procedures will be implemented.
• Chandler Online Academy students may attend their home school for on-site learning opportunities.
• All families will receive detailed information and registration instructions from their currently enrolled school.

Parent Acknowledgement Form:

Click here for the CUSD COVID-19 Parent Acknowledgement Form | Reconocimiento y Divulgación Parental de COVID-19.  Parents are asked to print, sign and present the COVID-19 parent acknowledgment form on their first day on-site.  CUSD COVID-19 Parent Acknowledgment Forms will also be available in-person at your school site upon request. 

#MaskUpAZ

To ensure that every Arizonan does their part to stop the spread of COVID-19, the Arizona Department of Administration (ADOA) and the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) expanded their #MaskUpAZ program to students and school staff. All students and school staff in Arizona can order 5 washable, reusable cloth face masks today.  Click here to request your free cloth face masks. 

CUSD Google (GSE) Account Password Updates for Junior High and High School Students

Beginning tomorrow, when junior high or high school students log in to their CUSD Google (GSE) accounts, Google will prompt students to create a new password to log in. This is to increase the safety and security of student accounts and information. When prompted, please create a strong password that is at least 8 characters long. We recommend a combination of letters and numbers. This Google Support Page includes more information about password requirements. It should not be a password you have used in the past with this Google account and it should not include any personal information that might be easy to guess. Once you have chosen a password, be sure to write it down and keep it in a safe place. The instructions and videos below may be helpful.

• Password Change Instructions (PDF) - English | Español
• Password Change Tutorial Video - English | Español

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Dear parents and guardians,

Tonight, the Governing Board approved the return to in-person, teacher-led classroom instruction beginning second quarter if the District can do so in a manner consistent with the Maricopa County Health Department/Arizona Department of Health Services public health benchmarks in effect at that time.  The board will re-evaluate at its September 23rd meeting if the criteria has not been previously met.   Updates and letters from the District will continue to be posted on our website at www.cusd80.com/SaferStrongerTogether.

We look forward to safely welcoming students back to in-person instruction, and until then will be working hard to provide a quality learning experience for students in our online and virtual learning environments. 

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Dear CUSD parents and guardians,

Tomorrow marks the first day of school for 2020-21 and we are excited to have students back in our virtual classrooms across the district.  In accordance with Governor Doug Ducey’s Executive Order on July 23 (Arizona: Open for Learning, 2020-51), our Distance Learning and Mitigation plans have been posted online for your review at www.cusd80.com/ReopeningPlans.  For your convenience, any updates to these plans will also be posted to this address and linked from the front page of our district website at www.cusd80.com.
 

Starting the school year in a virtual instructional model will require students to be academically engaged on a daily basis.  We encourage students to participate in virtual learning during normally scheduled class time.  Regular class attendance is essential for success in school. As required by state law, student attendance must be taken every day.  Students will be marked present if they have been academically engaged in class that day.  Academic engagement can include, but is not limited to:

• Attempted and completed assignments
• Participation in Google Meets live instruction
• Documented access of pre-recorded instructional videos
• Email, phone or other communication with the teacher constituting virtual instruction
• Minutes logged on online learning platforms such as BUZZ, Google Classroom or other online applications
   

Students will be marked absent if they have not demonstrated academic engagement for the day.  Parents/guardians will receive a phone call to notify them of the absence.  PreK-6th grade teachers will be reporting attendance by 11 a.m.  Junior high and high school teachers will be reporting attendance each period.  The Chandler Online Academy registrar will be reporting attendance in grades 7-12 by 3 p.m.  In the event that a student is marked absent but did engage in class instruction after attendance was reported, the student's attendance will be adjusted the next school day and he/she will be marked present. 
 

Parents or guardians may call a student “out” as an excused absence by contacting the school's attendance line if they are unable to academically engage in class that day.  All normal school policies regarding make-up work and grading apply.  Reasons for excused absences may include:

• Lack of computer access or internet connectivity
• Illness
• Bereavement
• Family emergencies
• Observance of religious holidays of the family's faith
   

If your student is unable to engage in remote learning due to a lack of computer access or internet connectivity, please contact your school site to request technology assistance. 

 

Tech Support Help for Students and Parents 

Starting August 4th, Virtual Learning Help for students and parents will be available 7 am - 6 pm weekdays at the web address, email and phone below:

Website: familyresources.gse.cusd80.com
Email: helpdesk@cusd80.com
Phone: (480) 812-7697

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CUSD FAMILIES,

We are writing to let you know that the CUSD Governing Board has moved the August 12th meeting to August 5th to discuss the first day of in-person instruction. Also note, Arizona Health Services are expected to provide benchmarks next week to help guide our in-person reopening plans.

 A number of families have requested a change in preference for virtual/in-person vs. Chandler Online Academy.  The schools are maintaining a list of these requests.  Please understand that we cannot accommodate these changes at this time. Continuous adjustments are making it extremely difficult for us to solidify class schedules, rosters and staffing.  However, we are working hard to provide you a quality experience in both models. 

Thank you for your patience as we continue our Safer Stronger Together reopening plans. 

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We are providing two updates regarding our Safer Stronger Together school reopening plans:

1. Governor Doug Ducey and Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction Kathy Hoffman announced Thursday afternoon that by August 7th the Arizona Department of Health Services will develop and release public health benchmarks for the safe return of in-person, teacher-led classroom instruction. We continue to communicate with state and county health officials and the Governor’s office as we prepare for the return of in-person instruction.
2. Starting August 5th, when virtual learning begins, our Curbside Meal Program will transition to the traditional National School Lunch Program.  Enrolled CUSD students will still be able to pick up meals curbside at select sites.  Students who have qualified for Free or Reduced meals will continue to eat FREE. Paying students will receive a 5-day meal bundle for a discounted price of $23.  To qualify your child for Free or Reduced Meals, please complete an application at www.myschoolapps.com.  Please click here for more information on the changes to our meal program. 

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Dear CUSD Families,

The Chandler Unified School District Governing Board has approved a plan to reopen our schools for the 2020-21 school year that provides parents with flexible in-person and online options. We will welcome all students back on August 5th. Until we can open schools for in-person services, all instruction will be delivered through our Chandler Online Academy (COA) or a virtual format that will transition to in-person.

Before detailed instructional decisions can be made and course offerings can be solidified, all families are being asked to indicate their intent to return and select which instructional model they would like their child(ren) enrolled in for the start of the 2020-21 school year. Families have until July 14th to indicate their intent to return.

• To complete the CUSD Intent to Return, please login to the parent portal.
• If you are new to CUSD and don’t have a parent portal account, please click here to create your account.
• If you need help logging into your parent portal, please contact your child’s school. After you login to the parent portal, click on “More” from the left hand column and then click on “CUSD Intent to Return.”

We appreciate your ongoing support and patience as we address the challenges of these unprecedented times. The teachers and staff of the Chandler Unified School District are eager to get back to serving our community and providing the first-class education that has made CUSD the Premier District of Choice and the No. 1-rated school district (Niche.com) in Maricopa County.

Safer. Stronger. Together.

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Dear CUSD Families and Staff,

The circumstances surrounding COVID-19 continues to be fluid. On Monday, June 29, 2020, Governor Doug Ducey announced that all schools shall delay the start for in-person instruction until August 17, 2020.

We have reviewed the latest Executive Order and how it applies to our proposed reopening plan. At this time, we want to share that we will still welcome our students back for their first day of instruction on Wednesday, August 5th. Until we can open schools for in-person services, all instruction will be delivered through our Chandler Online Academy (COA) or a virtual format.

In order to plan and staff appropriately, we will be asking you to select your student(s) preferred delivery system when schools can reopen.

1. Online Only (for those who plan to attend Chandler Online Academy for a minimum of one quarter). Kindergarten-6 will enroll in Elementary Connect @ COA; Grades 7-12 will enroll in COA. Florida Virtual Curriculum or customized courses will be offered for a number of areas. Both of these programs will have increased teacher interaction compared to a typical online course.
   
   
2. The in-person option for grades K-12, will begin the school year through a virtual learning experience using Google Classroom. The student will be assigned to a teacher(s) from their enrolled school with an established schedule in order to cover all areas of the curriculum. The teacher and students will transition to in-person at the school site when allowed to do so.
   
   NOTE: Grades 7-12 The in-person and online option (concurrent enrollment) will be available for grades 7-12 when schools are allowed to open for in-person instruction. In the meantime, this option will be delivered virtually.

We believe it is important to begin teaching and learning as soon as possible to help address a potential achievement gap. We will always prioritize student learning and understand that the community relies on various services including counseling, social work, food services, childcare, etc. and prefer not to delay these services.

Please be on the lookout for additional communication in the next few days, beginning with a Question and Answer document, followed by enrollment forms in which you will be asked to choose the preferred learning model for your child(ren).

Safer Stronger Together

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June 25, 2020

Dear CUSD Families,

As we prepare for the reopening of schools for 2020-21, we have been thoughtful and deliberate trying to determine what is best of students, families, and staff. We have involved a Task Force that looked at issues and concerns in a solution-oriented way. We have surveyed parents and staff and consulted with state health leaders.

Our Governing Board met tonight, June 24, 2020, to discuss options and made three key decisions:

• Delay the start of the school year two weeks and make up the required days by eliminating the first week of the October and March Intersessions. The first day for students will be August 5, 2020;
• Offer families with an In-person Model of Instruction and a K-12 Online Model of Instruction through the Chandler Online Academy; and
• Comply with Maricopa County, City and Town guidelines that all students (kindergarten and above) and patrons are required to wear face coverings on school grounds where persons are unable to maintain continuous physical distancing of 6 feet or more.

Our task force has developed guidelines that stress increased safety, cleaning and disinfecting, communication, and services to provide counseling and social emotional learning during this transition period.

We will be communicating more details with you in the next several days. In the meantime, more detailed information will be posted on our website dedicated to information on reopening schools, www.cusd80.com/SaferStrongerTogether. You will find our school reopening guidelines, parent and staff survey results, the newly approved calendar for 2020-21, 7-12 Chandler Online Catalog, and much more in the coming days.

Next week, we will be asking you to choose the Online or In-person Instructional Model and request your response no later than July 10, 2020.

In closing, please know how much we have appreciated your patience. We are preparing to provide your student with the quality educational experience that you have come to expect from CUSD in the setting that is right for your family.

We will continue to pray for the health and safety of our students, staff, and families while we respond to ever-changing information regarding COVID-19.

Respectfully,

Camille Casteel. Ed.D

Dr. Camille Casteel
webmaster@cusd80.com
480-812-7000

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UPDATED 1/12/2021

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Q: Will High School Athletics take place this Winter?  (UPDATED 1/12/2021)  

A: Due to the AIA Executive Board vote on January 12, 2021, winter sports will take place with competition resuming on January 19, 2021. Feel free to contact your site Athletic Department for more information.

Q: Will Junior High School Athletics take place during the 2nd Season? (UPDATED 1/12/2021)  

A: The East Valley Conference (EVC) 2nd Season Sports is currently slated to begin on January 19th.  Feel free to contact your site Athletic Department for more information as there may be changes to the 2nd Season forthcoming. 

Q: Will students be socially distanced on District transportation for sports?  

A: Where social distancing cannot be maintained, students are required to wear facial coverings. * Please Note: Chandler Online Academy (COA) students will need to provide their own transportation for on campus practices/meetings/activities/etc.   

Q: Will the students who are enrolled exclusively through CUSD’s Chandler Online Academy (COA) be deemed eligible to participate in extracurricular activities?   

A: Yes. Student needs to be connected to a traditional brick and mortar secondary school to participate in extracurricular activities. Please contact your site Athletic Director for eligibility questions.

Q: Will academic eligibility be monitored for extracurricular activities?

A: Yes. Secondary schools will work directly with COA to monitor academic eligibility.

Q: Will schools collect extracurricular activity participation fees for participation?

A: Yes. Schools will collect fees throughout the school year for the programs that occur. * Please Note: Once a program officially begins, there will be no refunds for the programs that are cancelled.

Q: Will spectators be allowed to attend extracurricular events?

A: Spectator limitations and guidelines have not been addressed at the state or local levels for extracurricular events. * Please Note: CUSD will have a variety of opportunities to view High School extracurricular events via online streaming platforms.

Q: Can Booster Clubs begin fundraising for extracurricular program?

A: Yes. Booster Clubs may begin to fundraise with appropriate approvals.

Q: What is required for Athletic and Activity participants to resume back to extracurricular participation if they have; COVID Symptoms/Signs, Positive Test of COVID-19, or are in Close Contact/Physical Contact with a person with a positive COVID-19 test?

A: ALL Athletic and Activity participants are required to successfully complete the District’s COVID-19 Care Report/Release Form (C-2 Form). Athletic Directors and Activity Directors have access to this form which is shared with all extracurricular athletic programs and activities. 

 

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UPDATED 1/6/2021

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Below are frequently asked questions regarding the re-opening plan for childcare once school begins virtually. We are working with the most recent updates from the state and county departments of health to provide accurate protocols and safety measures.

Click here to Register for Community Education Programs (cusd80.ce.eleyo.com) or visit CUSD Community Education for more information.

Childcare

Beginning January 5, the district will be opening virtually.  All of our Community Education programs will continue to be operative with a few changes to meet our community’s needs.  Outlined below you will find information about each of our programs, their location, hours, enhanced safety protocols, and financial obligations. These programs were created for working families that will need childcare while CUSD opens virtually. 1. Is Kids Express available? Beginning January 5, Community Education will utilize the multipurpose room and a few classrooms at select elementary schools to provide paid childcare until students return for in-person instruction.  All programs will be operating with enhanced health and safety protocols, student centered activities, and access to technology devices so they can complete their virtual classroom tasks and assignments. a) What sites are available for Kids Express childcare? Hancock and Haley Elementary are currently available for childcare. Beginning on January 5, as soon as 120 students are enrolled per site, additional elementary locations will be added. Click here for Kids Express updates as they are posted online. b) What are the operating hours? Childcare will be available Monday through Friday from 6:30 am – 6 pm at Hancock and Haley. c) What is the daily rate for childcare? The cost will be $32 per day for each child. d) Can my student compete their virtual classroom activities and assignment while at Kids Express? Yes, our kids express staff will be available to help throughout the day as they access their virtual classroom.  Staff members will provide log-in assistance, daily assignment help and attendance tracking. e) Can my child bring their own laptop or electronic device? Yes, laptops and electronic devices can be brought from home. Please clearly label all personal devices. The District will not be liable for any damage to personal devices brought from home. f) What will children be doing during the daily care if not completing school work? Kids Express will provide a variety of activities for students including active play, games, art, team building, science experiments, music, crafts and more. 2. Is Lil Explorers childcare available? Lil Explorers (Infants -PreK) will be located at Basha High, Chandler High, Hamilton High and Perry High will all be open to meet the needs of our families.  Click here for Lil Explorers daily rates, locations and updates. 3. Is Preschool still being offered? Preschool is being offered with online instruction and activities beginning January 6 through the start of in-person instruction. Live meetings and self-paced educational lessons will be available. These lessons will include “Social Emotional Learning” content and “Get to Know You” activities that will be delivered via Google Meets. Lessons will be prerecorded so participation can be completed at parent/guardian’s convenience. All cleaning, staffing and ratio for students will be implemented as explained in the Health and Safety FAQs mentioned below. There are more than 20 different preschool options offered on 12 campuses districtwide. Click here for preschool additional information and updates. Additional Preschool FAQs for Preschool Families may be found in the Community Education preschool website. 4. Are Club CUSD or Chandler Sports League community programs available? Yes, there are a few Club CUSD programs available that are being offered online. Chandler Sports League also has select clinics available. Click here for Club CUSD and Chandler Sports League program details and updates.

Health and Safety

During the state shut down, CUSD Community Education successfully deployed two Emergency Essential Worker’s Care sites. During that time, our staff developed health and safety guidelines that we will continue to use as we open schools virtually and in person. Every site will have trained staff and will follow enhanced sanitation protocol. Health and Wellness questions are being asked daily to staff and students. All schools have been and will continue to follow recommended sanitizing standards. In addition to hand sanitizers being available, we have also increased hand washing protocols. 5. What are the increased health protocols? a. Hand washing When students arrive on-site students will be required to wash hands. Handwashing will also be required before/after going into the bathrooms, before/after meals and before/after active games or when a shared item or technology device is used. Staff will also be required to wash hands upon arrival, before/after going into the bathroom, before/after handling food and throughout the day every hour. b. Signage Hand washing signs will be posted throughout the campus reminding staff and students on how to properly wash hands and follow health guidelines. c. Face coverings All staff will be required to wear face coverings. See FAQs 9-10 for additional information on face coverings for students. d. Daily Sanitation All areas utilized by students will be completely sanitized at the end each day including classrooms, cafeteria, gym, etc. Active play areas, computer labs and shared items will also be sanitized after each use. e. Temperature Checks It is expected that all students will have their temperature checked by their parent or guardian prior to arriving on site. Temperatures will be checked individually only if the student becomes ill. If a student becomes ill they will be isolated from other students until a guardian picks them up. 6. Will there be nurses on site? Yes, Health Assistants that are assigned to each school will be on site all day to address questions and concerns. 7. What if a student becomes ill? If a student becomes ill, they will be isolated from other students and a guardian will be contacted immediately so they can be picked up.  We will follow Maricopa Health Department recommendations and will give instructions based on their guidance. 8. What are the staffing ratios? The current student to staff ratio is lower than the Department of Health Services requirement. Each site will have a minimum of 2 staff members for up to 30 students. Community Ed will add staff as needed to maintain a 15:1 student to staff ratio. 9. Will students be required to wear face coverings? Face coverings for students will be mandatory. All staff will be required to wear face coverings. Shields are not permitted per CUSD policy. 10. Will Preschool/Lil Explorer students be required wear face coverings? Yes, any child 2 years or older will be required to wear a mask. 11. How will the locations be staffed as more sites are added? Back-up staffing plans will include accessing additional CUSD staff from other departments if needed.  All staff working childcare will be required to pass a background check and have an active fingerprint clearance card.

Financial

Community Education programs do not receive State funding and are funded solely through enrollment fees. Therefore, the rates and tuition vary program to program based on program needs and staffing. The childcare being offered during the reopening will closely mirror before and after school care that is typically offered during the regular school year and intersessions. 12. When will Kids Express be billed? The daily rate of $32 per student will be invoiced every Monday for any childcare for the following week. Payments will be drafted each Friday. Once in-person instruction begins, billing will default to the first of each month. 13. When will Lil Explorers be billed? The weekly rate per student will be invoiced every Monday for any childcare for the following week. Payments will be drafted each Friday. Once in-person instruction begins, billing will default to the first of each month. 14. How will preschool monthly tuition be billed? You will only be billed for in-person instruction. The tuition rate in January and February will depend on when in-person instruction begins and will be prorated based on the number of days in attendance. 15. Is financial assistance available? Yes, Department of Economic Security (DES) Child Care Assistance will be available for individuals who require financial assistance. Click here to apply for DES Child Care Assistance online. If you already have DES assistance but need to make any changes or check your current rates, please contact your DES assigned case worker.  If you need help or assistance, please call 480-224-3900 and we will help you navigate the process. 16. What is the childcare rate for CUSD employees? For the CUSD employee rate, please refer to district communication on employee discount options.

Other Community Education Programs

Community Education offers many other programs that will continue to be provided with limitations. 17. Is Kindergarten Readiness testing available for registration? Yes, click here for more information regarding Kindergarten Readiness Testing. 18. Are you currently offering Gifted Testing? Yes, CUSD offers Cognitive Abilities Testing (CogAT) multiple times throughout the school year. For more information please visit the Gifted Testing information page or contact April Dailey at 480-224-3702.

 

UPDATED 1/1/2021

Frequently Asked Questions –
FAQs COVID-19 Health and Safety

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Please click here for the updated CUSD student exclusion guidelines and daily health screenings information.

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UPDATED 1/12/2021

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Frequently Asked Questions –
FAQs CUSD Elementary Connect-Chandler Online Academy

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Elementary Connect was created to meet the needs of our learners both academically and socially. The intent of the program is to transfer many of the experiences of a brick and mortar environment in an online setting. Instruction through Elementary-Connect started August 5, 2020.

For additional information regarding either the Elementary Connect Online Instructional model or Secondary Chandler Online Academy Instructional model, please call Chandler Online Academy at 480-812-6350.

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1. How frequently will students have teacher-led lessons and what platforms will be used for these? Will they be live or recorded?
   
   
   1. Each Elementary Connect pathway will feature at least two live daily interactions with the teacher.  Students will confer daily as a class to set the stage for the day, engage in social emotional curriculum, and build relationships.  Teachers will provide small group skill-based live instruction based on each student’s needs as driven by data collected from the self-paced content and other assessment protocols.   Additionally, teachers may choose to provide additional live opportunities for science and social science to support and engage students with the curriculum. Elementary Connect will use Google Meets for live interactions and various screen-recording tools for any pre-recorded lessons.
      
      
2. Will students follow a typical school schedule?
   
   
   1. Yes. Students will follow a typical school schedule with lunch and movement breaks, as well as specials, and small group instructional opportunities. See sample schedules for further reference. 
      
      
3. Will the students who participate in online instruction be able to develop a cohort they identify with and belong to, as they do in regular classrooms? What activities will be focused on this endeavor?
   
   
   1. Each student will be assigned a teacher and classmates based on their selected pathway.  They will engage in community building activities, group projects, small group instructional opportunities, and social emotional curriculum together.  They will also attend virtual field trips (when applicable) and have time to collaborate in various instances.
      
      
4. How many hours per day will students need access to a computer? If a student doesn’t have access to a computer due to parents’ scheduled use, will the district be able to provide one? 
   
   
   1. Students will need access to a computer for 3-5 hours per day.  While some activities can be conducted offline, they might need a computer to submit these offline assignments.  If students do not have access to a computer, the district will provide the student with the necessary technology to access Elementary Connect materials and content.
      
      
5. What curriculum will Elementary Connect students be using?
   
   
   1. All pathways will be utilizing Florida Virtual School (FLVS) curriculum as a content baseline in some capacity.  While FLVS is the baseline, online teachers will be adding curricular programs that align specifically with their pathway. For program examples, please see the sample pathway schedules.
      
      
6. Will they participate in group projects?
   
   
   1. Teachers have the option to create collaborative experiences and group projects outside of what is provided within FLVS (which has embedded opportunities for group projects) and will work to provide these opportunities to students.  This might include STEM projects, project-based learning, or other real-world connections. 
      
      
7. How would completed work be submitted?
   
   
   1. Students will progress through the FLVS content in the BUZZ platform, and this is where students work will be submitted.  Additionally, teachers will also use Google Classroom, and assignments and work can be submitted through this platform as well.
      
      
8. Will there be any training provided to students and parents for accessing and using the chosen platforms? Who will we ask for assistance?
   
   
   1. We have created virtual tutorials and videos for students and families. These tutorials provide necessary input to assist their child in navigating Google Classroom, Google Meets and Buzz (which is the tool that students will use to access FLVS), and are shared with families when they are onboarded with Chandler Online Academy - Elementary Connect.  For technology concerns, families may contact the CUSD Helpdesk.  
      
      
9. Does the Elementary Connect curriculum align to the Arizona State Standards?
   
   
   1. The purchased content resource for Elementary Connect aligns with our Language Arts and Mathematics standards.  It does not align with the Social Science and new Arizona Science state standards. To create a strong alignment, our team created modules, pulled from Integrated Units, to enhance the self-paced content resource to see that students have a robust experience that addresses Arizona standards. Additional licensing has been purchased to further enhance the virtual experience for our elementary students.
      
      
10. If my student transfers between Elementary Connect and brick and mortar will there be major gaps in learning?
    
    
    1. The self-paced content used in Elementary Connect aligns with Arizona State standards but does not address the content in the same order as the brick and mortar setting, so there may be small academic gaps. This is not abnormal as we receive students from other districts, and sometimes other CUSD schools with similar gaps. Our teachers are trained to assess and identify areas which need refinement.
       
       
11. It looks like FVLS requires a printer for some of their assignments. If this is the requirement, will students be provided copies of materials or printers?
    
    
    1. While most of the work will be done within the online platform, there may be instances where a paper worksheet is required. We will not be supplying paper copies or printers for students and families.  Each family will be responsible for attaining these materials.  We have purchased a program, Kami, that allows students to annotate and complete printable materials virtually.
       
       
12. Can a student be enrolled in multiple Elementary Connect tracks (ie. Gifted and Dual Immersion)?
    
    
    1. At this time, Elementary Connect does not allow for students to be enrolled in two different academic tracks.
       
       
13. How will the needs of Chandler Traditional Academy (CTA) students be met?
    
    
    1. Students who are enrolled in the CTA track will be placed in cohorts to allow for the conversations in the LIVE portions of the virtual learning environment to involve vocabulary and tasks aligned to CTA resources.  Both Saxon and Spalding will be added as a supplementary component of Elementary Connect. These resources will be used in addition to the self-paced content courses to provide consistency in CTA programming.  The course sequence will follow the model of the brick and mortar setting.
       
       
14. How will the needs of Gifted Education students be met?  Who will be teaching the gifted track for Elementary Connect?
    
    
    1. Teachers from our self-contained gifted program will be teaching the gifted track and are encouraged to use the adopted gifted resources and, most importantly, utilize teaching strategies which engage the gifted learner to the virtual setting.  Students will use both Florida Virtual School curriculum and specialized gifted resources housed within Google Classroom.
       
       
15. How does the Dual Language Immersion program fit into Elementary Connect?
    
    
    1. At present, we have incorporated self-paced Mandarin Matrix and Descubre into the school day. In addition to the use of Mandarin Matrix/Descubre, students are provided conversational Mandarin and Spanish experiences for approximately 20-30 minutes each day.
       
       
16. If the student(s) return to regular classrooms during the second or subsequent quarters, will they be integrated into classrooms with members of their online group or assigned to separate classrooms?
    
    
    1. Attempts will be made to keep students from each school site in the online environment together, however pending enrollment, it is not guaranteed.
       
       
17. Will students Elementary Connect-Chandler Online have proctored assessments?
    
    
    1. Yes.  Assessment will be proctored online.
       
       
18. Will small group instruction occur to assist in addressing learning gaps?
    
    
    1. YES, in an online setting.
       
       
19. What electronic devices are required to participate in the Elementary Connect – Chandler Online Academy?
    
    
    1. Elementary Connect at Chandler Online Academy courses are designed to be accessible from a wide variety of computer systems and require only basic software applications/plug-ins that can be downloaded from the internet at no cost to students.  It is most likely that your system has already been updated with the necessary components to access our courses.   Please ensure your computer meets the software/hardware requirements described here.
       
       
20. Are daily lessons live or recorded?  Will there be a platform for students to ask questions?
    
    
    1. Daily lessons will be delivered via the online program using Florida Virtual School, and students will progress through the material at their own pace while also following a daily schedule.  Additionally, teachers will be providing at least three live lessons daily (small group and whole group) with students to meet the needs of the specific learners.  There may be recorded lessons used to support and supplement instruction provided in the self-paced portion of learning.  The Google Classroom platform will be used to communicate and ask/answer questions.
       
       
21. How will live teaching be integrated with online self-paced learning?
    
    
    1. Google Classroom will be used to house online self-paced and live opportunities.  There will be live support provided from the online instructor during transitions between content areas, especially for our early learners.  Google Meets may be used to help keep students on track, as well as support students if they are confused or need additional instruction at any time.
       
       

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UPDATED 1-21-2020

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Frequently Asked Questions –
FAQ’s CUSD Elementary In-Person Instructional Model

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Below are frequently asked questions regarding the In-Person Instructional Model that is being offered to students/families.  Questions related to COVID-19 health and safety protocols are addressed in a separate FAQ.  We are working with most recent updates from the state and county departments of health to provide accurate protocols and safety measures.

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MITIGATION

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1. What mitigation strategies have been implemented at campuses to ensure student, staff, and community safety?
   1. The mitigation strategies implemented on our school campuses include, but are not limited to the following:
      1. Plexi-glass barrier installation on campuses
      2. Directional tape and signage on all campuses
      3. Hand sanitizer stations in all classrooms and throughout the campuses
      4. Classroom cleaning/sanitizing supplies
      5. Inventory of facial coverings and gloves for staff and students
      6. Hiring of additional staff to assist with classroom size and support
      7. Contact tracing and quarantine protocols as directed by county health
      8. Access to COVID-19 testing through partnerships with local agencies
      9. Access to Vaccinations with partnership with Maricopa County Health
      10. Cohorting of students at all our sites when and where feasible
      11. Restrictions of parent/visitor access on our campuses
      12. Restriction of large gatherings/assemblies
      13. Adherence to social distancing recommendations when and where feasible
      14. Restriction of Parents/Visitors onto campuses. Appointments required for all visitors.
      15. Staff and Parent meetings held virtually when and where feasible
      16. Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences conducted virtually
      17. Implementation of staff and community feedback regularly

 

2. How is social distancing managed in the classroom?
   1. Based on our current enrollment numbers for in-person learning on our campuses and with consideration of those students who have selected to attend our Elementary Connect-Chandler Online program, our class sizes have been reduced providing appropriate distancing of students. In select classrooms where the recommended distancing is a challenge, additional supports have been implemented, including plexi-glass barriers, removal of furniture to expand space in the classroom, and additional staff support to assist with distanced instruction.  All staff continue to educate and remind students regularly to maintain the appropriate social distancing between individuals when feasible. 

 

3. Will my child be required to wear a facial covering while at school? If my child has special needs, will they be exempt from this requirement?  How will this be enforced?
   1. In compliance with Maricopa County, City and Town Guidelines, The Governor’s Executive Order 2020-51, The Arizona Department of Health Services Emergency Measure 2020-04 along with the CUSD Governing Board adopted guidelines, all students and staff are required to wear face masks when present on any CUSD campus. For those students who may require an exemption to the face mask requirement, there exists an accommodation form that MUST be completed by a licensed medical provider.  Please note that this accommodation does not relieve students from wearing any facial covering, but instead allows for a face shield to be worn as an appropriate alternative. CUSD requires that face shields must cover the face (eyes, nose, and mouth), wrap around the face and extend below the chin.  This requirement is in accordance and guidance from the Maricopa County Health Department and Center for Disease Control. 

 

4. What if a child forgets their facial covering?
   1. Schools have been supplied with sufficient inventory to provide either a face mask or face shield as determined by the student need.

 

5. What are the criteria for discontinuation of the facial covering policy?
   1. The criteria will be based on county and state requirements in conjunction with guidance and advisement from the Superintendent and Governing Board.

 

6. Is there a form or process to obtain an exemption to the Facial Covering policy?
   1. Facial covering exemptions are permitted with medical clearance from a licensed health care provider Please speak with your site administration or school Health Office to obtain an exemption form if necessary. Please note that this accommodation does not relieve students from wearing any facial covering but instead allows for a face shield to be worn as an appropriate alternative. 

 

7. What are the protocols for hand washing?
   1. Most elementary classrooms have sinks for handwashing, and all classrooms have been provided hand sanitizer. Students will wash their hands with soap and water at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer at the following times:
      1. Upon arrival at school
      2. After being outside for physical activity
      3. Before and after lunch
      4. Prior to leaving school for home
      5. After sneezing, coughing, or blowing nose
      6. To and from the restroom
      7. On and off school busses

 

8. What are the protocols for restroom use and refilling of water bottles?
   1. Students have access to restrooms throughout the day. Clear social distancing requirements are posted and reinforced in each classroom, and restrooms have signage as to social distance markers, number of students allowed, and proper handwashing techniques. Restroom breaks are monitored by the teacher to ensure social distance requirements are being met.  Water bottles are required to be labeled with student’s name, and refilling will be determined by each site. Drinking directly from water fountains is not allowed.

 

9. What are the enhanced sanitization and disinfecting procedures?
   1. All horizontal surfaces are cleaned and disinfected multiple times per day. High traffic areas maintain regular sanitization and disinfecting schedules.  Restrooms and Health Office are disinfected at a minimum of two times daily.  Campuses have been provided sprayers to apply appropriate sanitization to indoor and outdoor equipment on a regular basis.  Sharing of supplies is restricted and, any shared equipment is disinfected after use. Staff are in charge of sanitizing the hard surfaces at our campuses.

 

10. What will be the criteria for requiring classrooms or entire schools to close?
    1. On January 4^th, the CUSD board approved a set of thresholds, based on higher community spread, that will determine when a school campus may close for temporary mitigation of any viral spread and students would move to virtual instruction. In this instance, the school would be closed to in-person learning for five instructional days while mitigation efforts are conducted.  Students will receive instruction from their teacher in a virtual format during this time.  The thresholds are below:

 

11. Are students’ temperatures monitored?
    1. Prior to sending a student to school, parents should temperature check their child as well as check for any COVID-19 related symptoms. If a student exhibits symptom at school, they are temperature checked in the Health Office and sent home in accordance with district and county health guidelines. 

 

12. Will students gather for assemblies and school events?
    1. Large gatherings and outside field trips continue to be restricted at this time.

 

13. Will students be social distanced on busses?
    1. Where social distancing cannot be maintained, students are required to wear facial coverings or parents may opt to transport student to and from school. Students with any COVID-19 symptoms or temperature will not be transported.  Transportation safety updates will include the following:
       1. All buses will have the COVID reminder signs (wash hands, face coverings, etc.)
       2. Hand sanitizer will now be on the front of the bus and all students will be asked to sanitize hands when they first enter the bus.
       3. Drivers and students will be in face coverings (buses will have extra facial coverings to provide if needed).
       4. When possible, buses will be loaded from back to front.
       5. All bus seats will be assigned, and Siblings will be seated together.
       6. Drivers will be wiping down buses in between routes and all buses will be fully sanitized.

 

INSTRUCTION

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14. Will students be allowed to work in small groups with other students?
    1. Small group instruction is limited in our classrooms and appropriate distancing and face coverings are required when close contact is made among students and staff.

 

15. How will the district ensure substitute coverage for potential teacher absences?
    1. School campuses have been provided site-based sub coverage to assist with staff absences. Substitutes continue to be allocated as staff absences occur.

 

16. How will students transition if classrooms are departmentalized? 
    1. Student movement and transition is limited when and where feasible. If programming is departmentalized, teachers will transition to and from classroom while students remain.  This will be in effect until community spread is reduced.    

 

17. How will student learning be handled during any quarantine period?  Will their assigned teachers remain the same if they are quarantined?
    1. Students are provided with instructional materials and teacher outreach using Google Classroom.  Teachers are equipped to connect students to learning through virtual technologies.  Depending upon the duration of the quarantine, students are provided a virtual learning environment including connection and teaching from their regular teacher. 

 

18. How will student learning be delivered if an entire classroom or school is required to close?
    1. Based on the school thresholds for temporary closure, as adopted by the board on January 4^th, student learning will be transitioned to virtual for a period of days necessary to implement the appropriate mitigation efforts campus wide prior to student return.

 

19. Will elementary specials be offered (Music, PE, Technology/Media, Band & Orchestra)?
    1. YES.  Students attend specials.  A modified specials plan has been implemented at our sites to assist and support instruction while maintaining social distancing and other mitigation efforts.

 

20. What will student lunchtime look like?
    1. Students are social distanced two per table and all tables face one direction. Outside dining (weather permitting) is utilized where and when feasible.  Campus lunch schedules have been modified to accommodate appropriate mitigation efforts.

  

21. If a student is enrolled in Chandler Online - Elementary Connect, will they maintain their seat at their Open Enrolled/Neighborhood school?
    1. Students registered in Chandler Online-Elementary Connect are required to maintain their attendance through the end of the 2020-2021 school year. Students wishing to remain at Chandler Online for the 2021-2022 school year must complete an Open Enrollment indicating this preference.  Students wishing to return to their boundary or Open Enrolled school for the start of the 2021-2022 school year must complete the Student Intent to Return Form and indicate their wish to return to their home campus.  Sites will no longer hold seats for students who select to remain at Chandler Online-Elementary Connect for the 2021-2022 school year.  While students may return to their boundary school, those students on Open Enrollment for a particular school campus, and who have selected to remain at Chandler Online for the 2021-2022 school year, will need to complete a new Open Enrollment should they wish to attend a school other than their boundary school upon withdrawing from Elementary Connect-Chandler Online.

 

22. Is the curriculum identical between the Online-Elementary Connect and In-Person instructional model?
    1. NO. However, curriculum will meet the standards for grade level, acceleration, and intervention. You may visit the district website at https://www.cusd80.com/Page/109228 to identify the differences between CUSD In-Person Learning and Elementary Connect-Chandler Online Learning.

 

23. Will parents be able to volunteer and/or visit classrooms?
    1. NO, parent Visitors and volunteers are currently restricted from visiting our campuses.   

 

24. What is the procedure for student arrival on campus?
    1. Students report directly to their classroom or cafeteria if they are eating breakfast.

 

25. What is the procedure for student dismissal from campus?
    1. Students are dismissed by staggering departure choice (walkers, bike riders, Kids Express, parent pickup, etc.).

 

26. Is half-day Kindergarten available?
    1. YES. This option has always been available to our families.  Parents work with the school administrator to choose either an AM or PM portion of a full-day option.

 

27. Will outside community groups still be able to reserve elementary schools for non- school related events?  If so, how will the rooms utilized be disinfected?
    1. Any inquiries into the rental of campus facilities should be directed to our Community Education department at 480-224-3901. All organizations renting campus facilities are required to follow the mitigation guidelines set forth by CUSD and the County Health Department.

 

28. Can we choose to continue virtual learning (Google Classroom) and not transition to in-person at the start of the 2021-2022 school year?
    1. No. The two learning models that will be provided at the start of the 2021-2022 school will be In-Person learning at each of our elementary campuses or instruction delivered through our Elementary Connect-Chandler Online program.

 

29. I am new to the Chandler Unified School District, can I enroll for the Elementary Connect-Chandler Online program at any time?
    1. Families interested in selecting enrollment for our Elementary Connect-Chandler Online program must complete an Open Enrollment application for the 2020-2021 OR 2021-2022 school, depending upon when they are wishing to enroll.

 

30. If my child receives Special Education/ELL/Reading Services, will they be pulled out for assistance?
    1. Students requiring special education instruction may be pulled out in small group or one-on-one settings, however face masks and appropriate social distancing are strictly adhered to. 

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REVIEWED ON 1/12/2021

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When facilities are built in the Chandler Unified School District, they are designed to meet the requirements outlined in the American Society of Heating Refrigeration and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), first known as Standard 62 (and has evolved to 62.1 and 62.2) Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality.

Some of the district's sites operate differently based on the standard that was in place at the time of construction. Other sites operate with CO2 monitoring following the guidelines set forth by the Arizona School Facilities Board (ASFB) R-7-6-215. A large portion of the facilities use a preoccupancy purge system which opens an outside air damper and purges each room everyday before the building goes occupied to alleviate a build up of concentration or room contaminates.

The district also follows the recommendations set forth by the National Air Filtration Association guidelines for schools. Based on the EPA's Tools for Schools program, all schools should meet the requirement of a MERV 8 (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value, ASHRAE Standard 52.5) air filter in all HVAC applications. We are upgrading to more efficient filters, as high as MERV 13 filters. Our systems automatically provide fresh air into the facility and we are forcing additional fresh air, too.

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UPDATED 1/12/2021

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Below are frequently asked questions regarding the Chandler Online Academy Distance Learning and the In-Person Instructional Model that is being offered to students/families.  Questions related to COVID-19 health and safety protocols are addressed in a separate FAQ.  We are working with the most recent updates from the state and county departments of health to provide accurate protocols and safety measures.

1. What are the CUSD instructional model options for secondary (7-12 grade) students approved by the governing board?
   
   
   • In person – taking classes in person onsite at the enrolled schools
     
     
   • Full time online – taking all courses online through Chandler Online Academy (COA) with the commitment of staying for the balance of the school year (1 semester).
     
     
   • Part time online (concurrent) – combination of courses in person and online through COA with the online course commitment for 1 semester. Students can take a combination of 6 courses online and in person at their home site.
     
     
2. What is a hybrid model of instruction?
   
   
   • A hybrid model of instruction is when a student is learning in person in the classroom on some days and at home/virtually with the same classroom teacher the other days.  
     
     
3. What is a virtual model of instruction in CUSD?
   
   
   • A virtual model of instruction is when student learning occurs in an online environment where the teacher instruction occurs remotely asynchronous and synchronously.
     
     
4. What is distance learning in CUSD?
   
   
   • Distance learning includes a self-paced model of learning with some teacher interaction through virtual meetings utilizing Google Classroom, emails, phone calls and messaging.  Content is managed through a learning management system (LMS).
     
     
5. Can a senior take more than four (4) classes?
   
   
   • Yes, seniors are required to take a minimum of 4 classes but can take up to 6.
     
     
6. What if the course I want to take at my brick and mortar or enrolled school is not available at COA?
   
   
   • Although the district will be making every effort to offer a wide range of courses, it may not be possible and another course will need to be selected.
     
     
7. Will seniors be able to graduate and receive a diploma from their home school if they choose the online option?
   
   
   • Yes.
     
     
8. Can COA students take a mix of 9 week and 18 week classes?
   
   
   • If a student selects to enroll full time at COA for 1 semester, they will be enrolled in 3 courses in the first quarter and 3 courses in the 2nd quarter. Each course, when completed will be the equivalent of a semester course and will receive semester credit for each course.
     
     
   • If a student selects to enroll part-time at COA, each course is a semester course (18 week course). Each course, when completed will be the equivalent of a semester course and will receive semester credit for each course. Part-time courses could be completed in a shorter period of time depending on the individual work pace of the student.
     
     
9. Can part-time (concurrent) students take online AP classes?
   
   
   • Yes.
     
     
10. How will grading and finals at COA be conducted at the Junior high and High School level?
    
    
    • In order to earn a passing grade and credit, students are expected to complete all assignments & assessments preceding the final exam, and must have a minimum overall grade average of 60%. Students must pass the final exam with at least a 60% in order to receive credit for the course. The final grade is a combination of the overall average on all coursework preceding the final exam and the score the student receives on the proctored final exam.  Final exams may be proctored in person or virtually.
      
      
11. Does Chandler Online Academy have higher level courses available for junior high students?
    
    
    • Yes, course offerings can be found online at Chandler Online Academy Course Offerings.
      
      
12. Will student be able to attend the East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT)?
    
    
    • Yes.
      
      
13. Will High School Athletics take place this Winter? (UPDATED 1/12/2021)
    
    
    • Due to the AIA Executive Board vote on January 12, 2021, high school winter sports will take place with competition resuming on January 19, 2021.   Feel free to contact your site Athletic Department for more information.
      
      
14. Will Junior High School Athletics take place during the 2nd Season? (UPDATED 1/12/2021)
    
    
    • The EVC 2nd season sports is currently slated to begin on January 19th.  Feel free to contact your site Athletic Department for more information as there may be changes to the 2nd Season forthcoming.
      
      
15. Will my child be required to wear a facial covering while at school? If my child has special needs, will they be exempt from this requirement?  How will this be enforced? (UPDATED 1/12/2021)
    
    
    • In compliance with Maricopa County, City and Town Guidelines, The Governor’s Executive Order 2020-51, The Arizona Department of Health Services Emergency Measure 2020-04 along with the CUSD Governing Board adopted guidelines, all students and staff are required to wear face masks when present on any CUSD campus.  For those students who may require an exemption to the face mask requirement, there exists an accommodation form that MUST be completed by a licensed medical provider.  Please note that this accommodation does not relieve students from wearing any facial covering, but instead allows for a face shield to be worn as an appropriate alternative.
      
      
16. What if a child forgets their face covering?
    
    
    • Although schools may have a limited supply, an alternative face covering may be provided. Parents may want to purchase additional face coverings, so students are prepared.
      
      
17. What are the criteria for discontinuation of the facial covering policy?
    
    
    • The criteria will be based on county and state requirements in conjunction with guidance and advisement from the Superintendent and Governing Board.
      
      
18. Is there a form or process to obtain an exemption to the Facial Covering policy? (UPDATED 1/12/2021)
    
    
    • Facial covering exemptions are permitted with medical clearance from a licensed health care provider Please speak with your site administration or school Health Office to obtain an exemption form if necessary.  Please note that this accommodation does not relieve students from wearing any facial covering but instead allows for a face shield to be worn as an appropriate alternative.
      
      
19. What is the facial covering procedure during lunch and outdoor activity?
    
    
    • Where social distancing criteria is met, students may have facial coverings with them but not worn.  This includes outdoor physical activity.  Students socially distanced at lunch time, at each table, will not require facial coverings during their time eating.
      
      
20. What are the protocols for hand washing?
    
    
    • Students will wash hands upon arrival to school, prior to lunch, and after returning from other scheduled times throughout the instructional day.
      
      
21. Will hand sanitizer be available in lieu of hand washing each day?
    
    
    • YES
      
      
22. What are the protocols for restroom use and refilling of water bottles?
    
    
    • Students will have access to restrooms throughout the day.  Clear social distancing requirements will be posted and reinforced in each classroom.  Classroom restroom breaks will be monitored to ensure social distance requirements are being met.  Water bottles must be labeled with student’s name, and refilling will be determined by each site. Drinking directly from water fountains will be prohibited.
      
      
23. What are the enhanced sanitization and disinfecting procedures?
    
    
    • All horizontal surfaces will be cleaned and disinfected multiple times per day.  High traffic areas will maintain regular sanitization and disinfecting schedules.  Restrooms and Health Office will be disinfected at a minimum of two times daily.  We are discouraging the sharing of supplies.  Any shared equipment will be disinfected after use.
      
      
24. Will students’ temperatures be monitored? If so, what is the expectation/guidelines for this process?
    
    
    • Prior to sending a student to school, parents will be required to temperature check their child as well as check for any COVID-19 related symptoms.  If a student exhibits symptoms at school, they will be temperature checked in the Health Office. 
      
      
25. Will students gather for assemblies and school events?
    
    
    • Sites will develop alternative ways to gather and celebrate students.  
      
      
26. Will student field trips still be allowed?
    
    
    • Field trips will be approved on a case by case basis to ensure safety measures and expectations are in place (at principal’s discretion). Extended travel field trips will be reviewed on a case by case basis to determine approval (at the district level). Must have parent signed permission slips and waivers before students can attend a trip. A review of  safety measures and expectations are required for the location of the activity.
      
      
27. How will the district ensure substitute coverage for potential teacher absences?
    
    
    • We will maximize non-classroom staff, provide site specific substitute teachers, and increase our pool of substitute teachers.  
      
      
28. Will there be difficulty with students moving from the Online Option (Chandler Online Academy) to the In-person option?
    
    
    • We ask that once a parent chooses the online option that a commitment be made for one semester, or year.  However, exceptions will be made on a case-by-case basis.  For students who elected to begin the school year online with COA and transition to the building at the quarter, all course transitions will be reviewed by the home school.  We know some of the courses will not be the same and the site teacher, administrator and counselor will work to put the student in the appropriate course.
      
      
29. Will parents be surveyed into the school year to gather feedback as to student learning?
    
    
    • YES.  We will survey parents first.
      
      
30. What will student lunchtime look like?
    
    
    • Outside dining (weather permitting) will be utilized.  In cases where social distancing cannot be maintained, a combination of hallways, open spaces, classroom and cafeteria usage will occur.
      
      
31. Is the curriculum identical between the Chandler Online Academy and In-Person instructional model?
    
    
    • NO.  However, curriculum will meet the standards for grade level, acceleration, and intervention.
      
      
32. Will parents be able to volunteer and/or visit classrooms?
    
    
    • Not at this time.
      
      
33. What is the procedure for student arrival on campus?
    
    
    • Schools provide information specific to their site.
      
      
34. Will students be social distanced on busses?
    
    
    • Where social distancing cannot be maintained, students are required to wear facial coverings or parents may opt to transport student to and from school. Students with any COVID-19 symptoms or temperature will not be transported. Transportation safety updates will include the following:
      
      
      1. All buses will have the COVID reminder signs (wash hands, face coverings, etc.)
      2. Hand sanitizer will now be on the front of the bus and all students will be asked to sanitize hands when they first enter the bus.
      3. Drivers and students will be in face coverings (buses will have extra facial coverings to provide if needed).
      4. When possible, buses will be loaded from back to front.
      5. All bus seats will be assigned, and Siblings will be seated together.
      6. Drivers will be wiping down buses in between routes and all buses will be fully sanitized.
         
         
35. What will be the criteria for requiring classrooms or entire schools to close? (UPDATED 1/12/2021)
    
    
    • On January 4th, the CUSD board approved a set of thresholds, based on higher community spread, that will determine when a school campus may close for temporary mitigation of any viral spread and students would move to virtual instruction.  In this instance, the school would be closed to in-person learning for five instructional days while mitigation efforts are conducted.  Students will receive instruction from their teacher in a virtual format during this time.  The thresholds are below:
      
      

    	Previous Threshold	Lower Threshold Effective January 5, 2021
    Elementary	2% Positive Active Cases	1.5% Positive Active Cases
    Junior High	1.5% Positive Active Cases	1% Positive Active Cases
    High School	1% Positive Active Cases	.75% Positive Active Cases

     

36. How will student learning be delivered if an entire classroom or school is required to close? (UPDATED 1/12/2021)
    
    
    • Based on the school thresholds for temporary closure, as adopted by the board on January 4th, student learning will be transitioned to virtual for a period of days necessary to implement the appropriate mitigation efforts campus wide prior to student return.

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UPDATED 1/12/2021

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While we hope the information contained in this document is useful, this document is provided only as a resource and should not be considered to be a response to any specific situation. If you have a specific issue for which you need assistance, you are encouraged to contact your student’s campus and/or IEP or 504 team.

There may be a need for amendments to the IEPs to support students in the online setting.  Services in a virtual setting will not be the same as in person.  For instance, if transportation is on an IEP as a related service, transportation will not need to be provided in an online setting. Similarly, a paraprofessional for navigating a campus will not be necessary.  These amendments can be completed without an IEP meeting if the parents and the District agree to make the changes without a meeting.

In selecting the model that you believe will work best for your family, please keep in mind that most IEPs and Section 504 Plans can be implemented in an online or virtual setting. However, you should consider your child’s individual skills, abilities and needs before making a decision.

1. When can my student receive in person instruction?

When the governing board resumes in-person instruction, whole-group, small-group and individual instruction may be provided to meet students’ needs. Homebound instruction services may also begin for eligible students who meet the criteria under ARS 15-901 and Board Policy IHBF.   

2. How will my child’s IEP service be implemented at Chandler Online Academy?   
   

The IEP will be reviewed by the staff to determine the student’s needs, goals and services to develop a plan to implement the IEP. If the IEP cannot be implemented as written in this virtual setting, the IEP team will need to convene to determine how the student’s FAPE can be provided based on their unique needs.   

3. Will my child be required to wear a facial covering while at school? If my child has special needs, will they be exempt from this requirement?  How will this be enforced?

In compliance with Maricopa County, City and Town Guidelines, and the C.U.S.D. Governing Board, all preschool students and above are required to wear face coverings in public places where persons are unable to maintain continuous physical distancing of 6 feet or more.  The Arizona Department of Health has established guidelines for medical exemptions to this policy which will be communicated to parents.  While this requirement is in place, parents will be notified, and students will be socially distanced during the remainder of the school day or provided an alternative face covering, unless a student is medically exempt from requiring such facial coverings. Students with disabling conditions that impede their ability to wear face coverings shall be permitted to attend school based on accommodations to address this need as outlined in the IEP.  Executive Order 2020-51 exempts students with disability conditions from wearing masks if they are unable to keep them on or put them on and take them off independently.   The adults in the classrooms will assist students when needed and will have the necessary PPE to keep students and staff safe.  See Health and Safety FAQs.

4. What are the protocols for hand washing for students who have special needs?

Most elementary classrooms have sinks for handwashing, and all classrooms will be provided hand sanitizer.  Students will wash their hands with soap and water at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer at the following times: a. Upon arrival at school b. After being outside for physical activity c. Before and after lunch d. Prior to leaving school for home e. After sneezing, coughing, or blowing nose.  These practices will be modeled and prompted with physical, visual, and verbal cues as needed.  

5. What are the protocols for restroom use and refilling of water bottles?

Students will have access to restrooms throughout the day with and without adult assistant as needed for students with physical and/or cognitive impairments.  Clear social distancing requirements will be posted and reinforced in each classroom, and restrooms will have signage as to social distance markers, number of students allowed, and proper handwashing techniques.  Students will be permitted to enter the restrooms in groups no larger than the number of stalls/urinals in the restroom.  Restroom breaks will be monitored by the teacher and/or paraprofessionals to ensure social distance requirements are being met.  Water bottles must be labeled with student’s name, and refilling will be determined by each site. Drinking directly from water fountains will be prohibited.

6. Will there be difficulty with students moving from the Online Option (Elementary Connect) to the In-person option?

Parents who have chosen the online option may address necessary exceptions on a case-by-case basis via the IEP team. 

7. In the event that the Governing Board determines that school will remain virtual, will there be a virtual learning opportunity provided to students identified with disabilities?

Yes.  Students will be assigned to their in-person teacher at their enrolled site.  Students will have access to all content including specials and live instruction through a virtual platform, five days a week. The delivery of specially designed instruction and related services may not mirror in person delivery.  

8. In the event instruction remains virtual, how frequently will students have teacher-led lessons and what platforms will be used? Will they be live or recorded?

The pathway will feature at least three live daily interactions with the teacher. This may include general education teacher and/or the special education teacher, therapists or paraprofessionals.  Teachers will provide small group skill-based live instruction based on each student’s needs as driven by data collected from the self-paced content and other assessment protocols.   Additionally, teachers may choose to provide additional live opportunities for science and social science to support and engage students with the curriculum. Elementary Connect will use Google Meets for live interactions and various screen-recording tools for any prerecorded lessons.

9. How will COA accommodate academic level?

While the District will continue to provide equal access to educational opportunities, the teachers will be responsible to accommodate academic levels if the student is not able to access grade level materials.  The provision of FAPE may not be appropriate for some students identified with disabilities.  

10. Will small group instruction occur to assist in addressing learning gaps in the online setting?

Yes, in an online setting. Specially designed instructional practices and/or programs will also be provided online by certificated staff, therapists and/or paraprofessionals.  

11. Why is there not a hybrid model specifically for children with IEPs, medically fragile students, etc.?

This is not an option the district chose to provide.  If students who are medically fragile are not able to access in person or COA, an IEP team will need to reconvene to discuss options for the provision of the student's FAPE.  Homebound is an option if a healthcare provider certifies the student will miss more than 90 days of school due to the student's prognosis. 

12. Many of these medically fragile children, supported by an IEP cannot stay home because their parents work and cannot sit with them the computer to help modify, accommodate, and motivate. Is there an option to work with these families to provide FAPE with educational professional assistance? 

The District has put safety procedures in place for all students and staff.  Students who are deemed to be medically fragile are welcome to attend school in a brick and mortar setting.  If a student requires homebound or home instruction due to medical need, the District will convene an IEP meeting to determine the appropriate supports and services for the Student to ensure their receipt of FAPE in that setting.  Parents will need to make arrangements for care if they are unable to stay home with the student if the student requires homebound or home instruction or parents have made the decision to enroll their child in the online platform.     

13. Do the models meet the least restrictive environment?  Online is not really appropriate for many children supported by IEP/504? 

It is inaccurate to state that online programming is “not really appropriate for many children supported by IEP/504.” Many, if not most, IEPs and Section 504 Plans can be implemented in an online setting. The District continues to have a continuum of services available for all students with disabilities.

As stated in the FAQs for Elementary Connect and Secondary Schools, there will be teachers assigned for online instruction and they will be interacting with students/groups of students virtually.  Special educators will also be part of the virtual setting as co-teachers and provide specially designed instruction.   Virtual participation may not be appropriate for some students and IEP teams will need to convene to discuss options.   

14. Will you consider a concurrent schedule for students with an IEP?

Yes, if they are in high school where this option is provided. 

15. If we chose online, can we send our children to their home school for specials to provide some social interaction with less exposure?

No, we are keeping the students in a cohort with the same students to limit possible exposure.   

16. Will CUSD have remote paraprofessionals to assist in homes?We will not provide in home paraprofessionals. 

Paraprofessionals will be available to support students under the direction of the certified teachers via the virtual model. 

17. How will therapies take place, especially vision, for those with visual impairments?

Special Education teachers will provide the services in person or via Google Meets.  If a student has a visual impairment, we will work with the family to determine if FAPE can be provided in a virtual setting. If they are in person, therapies will proceed with the appropriate precautions.

18. If we choose an online model, how will PT be handled? 

The PT will work with the family to provide modeling of skills in a virtual setting.  This related service may not be appropriate in a virtual setting for some students.  An IEP team will need to determine if FAPE can be met. 

19. If we choose online how will kids who get speech therapy, reading intervention, math intervention get their services?

Virtual small groups with certified teachers, speech therapists, and paraprofessionals via online platform as explained in the general FAQ's. 

20. How do accommodations work with online instruction? Will online have a read aloud model for students with dyslexia, or those who have accommodations for areas such as math tests? Will they be able to honor accommodations online?   

Yes, the teachers will make the accommodations outlined in the IEP or 504 plan.  An IEP team or 504 team may need to convene to determine if his mode of delivery provides a FAPE for the student. 

21. How does the online model for 7-12 work for students with IEPs when there are no teacher-led classes and it is self-regulated?

For some students, it may not be an appropriate option.  There will be live teacher interaction for specially designed instruction via Google Meets.  All teachers can provide support to the students who need assistance.  See Secondary FAQs. 

22. How is my ADHD child supposed to self-teach and stay on task?

For those families that have elected COA, the COA staff will collaborate with the parent to develop partnerships to support the student’s learning in the home. Teachers can provide examples of structured schedules to assist with motivation and self-advocacy skills for students. 

23. What kind of online program will be available, and will there be any live instruction?

Live instruction will occur via Google Classroom/ Meets if needed.  Students with services will have live interaction with their related service providers in small groups.  

24. If a student is medically fragile and cannot attend, will there be any access to provide social interaction with friends?

Teachers have been provided the technology to offer “reasonable access” for students who wish to socially interact and observe the classroom experience. This will not meet the standard of FAPE, or require teachers to offer and track specially designed instruction. This will be attendance/participation only.

25. How will you make online learning accessible for students assigned to specialized classrooms, and those who may not be able to read/write or use technology?

Self-contained is a level of service and there is a variety of student abilities and needs associated with this level of service. The IEP team will need to convene to determine how FAPE can be provided utilizing this instructional model. Online will not mirror in person services.   In this case, an IEP team may need to convene to discuss access virtually and if that method provides a student their FAPE.

26. Will the teacher assigned to teach my student online be from his/her home school?

The teacher online will be the assigned teacher at the brick and mortar campus until the District is able to finalize the instructional delivery model. If a parent selects COA, it will not be the same person from their brick/mortar school site.  

27. Will CUSD provide the manipulatives necessary for my child to succeed?

The teacher will make the determination of what supplies will be needed for student use.   

28. In the online sessions, is there a cap for the number of students?

Class sizes may be higher than in person.  

29. If we elect COA, is AZ Merit still required? 

At this time, the legislature/ADE has not cancelled state testing for spring of 2021.  

30. For high school students with concurrent enrollment, will the IEP be with COA or home school? 

Typically, the student is assigned to the home school when they are concurrently enrolled for online classes. 

31. How can a student receive 1:1 help from online teachers?

Special education teachers and paraprofessionals will be able to provide support via Google Meets.  

32. For a student who is enrolled concurrently at the high school level, who will be grading work and overseeing IEP minutes?   

The home school general education and special education teacher/service coordinator.  

33. Will concurrent students receive transportation when classes are dismissed?

They will have access to Transportation per related services on their IEP.  

34. Will parents need to sign liability waivers for in person or concurrent classes? 

No. 

35. Will career coaching that was taking place at home school be given in the concurrent model?

If the student has access to home school site, the transition specialist and/or career center personnel will continue to provide the support related to career coaching. 

36. How will they keep my child safe when she needs the nurse at school due to medical reasons?

If the student has nursing services on their IEP's, the nurse will provide those services as indicated. Our Preschool-8th grade schools do not have a nurse on campus each day. We have Health Assistants who are supervised by an RN (Health Services Coordinators). Protocols have been established to keep students safe if they need to enter the health office for medical needs such as diabetic care, catherization, or dispensing of daily medications.

37. What if my child cannot wear a mask, or plays with it…making everyone more at risk?

The staff will model wearing face coverings, provide education via discussions and social stories.  If the student is unable to wear a mask as outlined in the CDC guidelines due to cognitive impairment, mental health issues or physically unable to remove face covering on their own, staff will provide the support needs and physical distancing needed to keep all safe.  

38. How are they going to honor medical 504's where the kids may be at higher risk when the classes they need are not offered at COA and hybrid model is not available?

When parents of students on 504 accommodation plans choose a site, whether brick and mortar or COA, students will have access to the courses offered at that site and will receive accommodations in the courses in which they are enrolled.

39. PRIORITY PRESCHOOL: Is there an online option for priority preschool? Will it be interactive?   

Virtual instruction at the preschool level is not developmentally appropriate and therefore, this model is not offered for students in Priority Preschool. Due to our obligation to provide FAPE, the district has made in-person instruction available in small cohorts with appropriate mitigating strategies to promote health and wellness. Parents who elect to keep their children home may be provided reasonable access as noted previously.

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UPDATED 1/12/2021

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CUSD Transportation Re-Opening & Frequently Asked Questions

Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) will be taking necessary steps to ensure that both bus driver/attendants and student health is the top priority when transporting students to and from schools. Below are frequently asked questions regarding the re-opening plan for transportation. We are working with the most recent updates from the state and county departments of health to provide accurate protocols and safety measures.

Safety Begins with our Staff and at our Transportation Yard:

During the state shut down, CUSD transportation team spent valuable time developing health and safety guidelines. In addition, our team sanitized all buses and white fleet by completing a thorough deep clean to ensure our fleet was in top working condition.

1. Have staff been trained on COVID safety and sanitation procedures?
   • Yes, all transportation employees have attended mandatory safety trainings to learn about enhanced sanitation protocol and safety measures due to COVID.
     
     
2. What are the enhanced sanitation protocols and safety measures for staff?
   • Employees are required to self-assess and monitor their health prior to reporting to work.
   • Practicing 6 feet social distancing
     • Social distancing is required when picking up keys and routing information.
     • Staff is not allowed to congregate inside the building or onsite.
   • Face coverings are required onsite and while in transit
   • Washing or sanitizing hands often
   • Disinfectant of surfaces and objects
   • Signage and hand sanitizers on each bus
     
     
3. What are the expectations of the driver enforce protocols and safety measures while on the bus?
   • Visually monitoring students to ensure they are wearing a face covering and are not exhibiting any signs of illness
   • Provide masks to students that do not have their own face covering
   • Encourage students to practice social distancing while waiting in line
   • Assign seats from back to front, leaving the seat directly behind the driver empty, whenever possible. By loading the back of the bus first we are limiting exposure to students by social distancing so they do not have to walk past seated students.
   • Encourage students to use the hand sanitizer provided as they board the bus.

Health and Safety of our Riders and Guardians:

As CUSD begins to welcome students back to the classroom, several safety protocols have been enhanced to ensure continued sanitization and best practices are met.

4. What are the increased health/safety protocols for students?
   • Temperature Checks - It is expected that all students will have their temperature checked by their parent or guardian prior to arriving at their bus stop.
     
     
   • Gatherings at bus stops - We encourage parents and students to wear face covering when waiting for a bus or preparing to enter the bus, especially when social distance cannot be maintained. Also, we encourage to follow social distancing guidelines at bus stops.
     
     
   • Waiting in Line – Households are encouraged to stand in line together as a group. The next place in line should be a minimum of 6 feet back when possible.
     
     
   • Assigned Seating – The Driver will assign seats as students board the bus from back to front. By loading the back of the bus first we are limiting exposure to students by social distancing, they do not have to walk past seated students.
     
     
   • Hand Sanitizer – All bus occupants will be encouraged to utilize the hand sanitizer located on the inside of the bus upon entry to the school bus and again upon exiting the vehicle.
     
     
   • Face coverings – All students (K-12) and staff will be required to wear face coverings. If a student does not have their own face covering one will be provided. See FAQs 6-7 for additional information on face coverings for students.
     
     
   • Signage – Prominent COVID signage will be posted on the bus in an area visible to the students and parents as they approach the bus.
     
     
   • Daily Sanitization – Drivers will be wiping down buses in between routes and all buses will be fully sanitized, each evening, using EPA approved cleaning products.
     
     
5. What happens if my student becomes ill or is identified by a staff member to have COVID like symptoms?
   • If a student becomes ill on a bus route, they will be social distanced from other students as much as possible. A guardian will be contacted immediately once they reach their home school for them to be picked up. We will follow Maricopa Health Department recommendations and will give instructions from that point based on their guidance.
     
     
6. Will K-12 students be required to wear face coverings? 
   • Face coverings for students will be mandatory for students age two and older, unless there is a medical release. All staff will be required to wear face coverings.
     
     
7. Will Preschool or younger students be required wear face coverings? 
   • Yes, students age two and older are required to wear face coverings.
     
     

Bus Routes:

Our Transportation team handles all scheduled routes and will update you via a letter or email if there are changes. Transportation will notify your student’s school for any late buses, notifications regarding late buses will come directly from the school.

8. How do I view my child’s bus route?
   • To view your child’s bus route, please log into Infinite Campus. From the Infinite Campus home page click on “More” (on the bottom left) and then the “Transportation” link. Your child’s bus route information including times, route number and stop will be listed
     
     
9. What extra measures are you taking to make sure my student rides the correct bus?
   • All K-1 st graders will have a wrist band that matches the color of the bus sign. Each driver will need to verify that the student has the correct color band before boarding the bus. The bus driver will notify a school official if a student does not have a band or is mistakenly trying to board the incorrect bus.
   • Transportation staff and school staff will organize student bus riders for the afternoon pick up.
   • Students will rehearse lining up for appropriate bus route/color during the day by teacher, small group assembly, etc. to ensure proper bus route and color identification by student.
     
     
10. Do I need to be at the bus stop to pick up my students?
    • Bus drivers will only drop K-1 st grade bus riders off at their designated bus stop with an older sibling student or if an adult is waiting at the location. If either option is not available, the bus driver will notify Transportation Dispatch. Dispatch will try to contact student’s parent. If unable to make contact, then the student will be returned to their home school.
    • All students, other than K-1 st grade bus riders, can be dropped off at bus stop without a parent or guardian present.

TRANSPORATION HOTLINE FOR MISSING STUDENTS:

Our priority is to get every single student to and from school safely. However, if there is a time where you do not know where your child is please call the hotline listed below.

SPED Routes – Dispatch
Phone: 480-424-8620

General Routes – Dispatch
Phone: 480-484-8619

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Dear CUSD Families, The Chandler Unified School District Governing Board has approved a plan to reopen our schools for the 2020-21 school year that provides parents with flexible in-person and online options. Over the course of the past several weeks, over 20,000 parents and over 3,700 staff have been surveyed to elicit input and identify expectations for the reopening of our schools amid this global pandemic. CUSD is offering two instructional options to meet the needs of our families, provide a quality educational experience for ALL children, and adhere to state and federal recommendations for health and safety. Below is an overview of the approved instructional options for the start of the 2020-21 school year. Additional information for each option is available at www.cusd80.com/saferstrongertogether.

Encourage student and staff health and safety Build relationships and active partnerships with families Provide quality learning environments for both in-person and online models Personalize experiences to meet the unique needs of students

In Person Model of Instruction The in-person model of instruction is designed for students and families that would like their students to attend their current school in a traditional classroom setting. Extensive sanitation and personal protective equipment will be implemented in accordance with the CDC recommended guidelines. The in-person model of instruction includes:

	Maintain registration at your current school
	Five full days of instruction per week - normal daily schedule
	Face coverings required for students and staff in all areas where social distancing is not possible
	Restricted use of common areas, structured transitions, and small group assemblies only
	Enhanced sanitation and disinfecting procedures
	Hand washing and/or sanitizer stations in every classroom
	Temperature checks daily for staff before arrival
	Lunch operations will be modified to allow for distancing
	Use of Google Classroom utilized for students with short-term school absences
	Before and after school care offered through CUSD Community Education Programming
	Gifted, Special Education and Dual Language Immersion options will function as normal

Online Model of Instruction Chandler Online Academy (COA) is a fully accredited CUSD School established in 2012, providing high-quality academic instruction in an online setting. Instruction is delivered by highly qualified CUSD teachers and the curriculum is aligned to Arizona State Standards. Students who choose to enroll in COA will have the option to transition back to their home school or open enrollment site every quarter and are guaranteed placement. Laptop computers are available for students who need them. Technology information / requirements can be found online here.

Elementary Connect - Elementary (Grades K-6) Five Full days of instruction per week Daily live teacher interaction in small and whole groups Individualized supports and accommodations provided Customized programming for Dual Language Immersion and Gifted Specially Designed Instruction as appropriate for students with IEPs Self-paced and live instruction CTA: Teachers supplement the self-paced math content with Saxon; Spalding will be taught LIVE Understanding Elementary Connect PDF

Chandler Online Academy - Secondary (Grades 7-12) Self-paced instruction and opportunities for acceleration Personalized live teacher support and interventions multiple times per week Extensive course options including thirty-nine electives and twelve Advanced Placement classes Proctored final exams Students may participate in their home school activities, sports, and extra-curricular programs Concurrent enrollment available – schedule classes online and in-person Chandler Online Academy - Secondary Education (7-12)

Option 1: PreK-12th grade In-person Model of Instruction

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Elementary (Preschool-6th grade)

• Parents who choose the In-person Model of Instruction will maintain registration at
  their current enrolled site.
  
  
  • There will be 5 full days of instruction per week
  • Students will report directly to classrooms when they arrive at school
  • Cohorts of students stay together where possible throughout the day, including breakfast, lunch, recess, specials, and dismissal
  • Restricted common area use
  • Structured transitions and scheduled playground use
  • In classroom celebrations, virtual and on-site field trips
  • Staggered start and end times may be established for sites with largerenrollments
  • Large events, such as Meet-the-Teacher-Night may take place virtually or may be scheduled over a period of time to limit the size of the gathering
  • Desks will face one direction when possible to allow for distancing
  • Sharing of school supplies among students will be limited
  • Before and After School childcare will be available
  • Arrival and Departure /Volunteers and Visitors
    • Parent drop-off and pick-up area, drivers stay in cars at all times
    • Parent appointments made through the office in advance
    • Non-essential visitors and volunteers will be restricted and not assigned in classrooms
      
      
      

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Secondary (7-12 grade)

• Parents who choose the In-person Model of Instruction will maintain registration at
  their current enrolled site.
  
  
  • 7-8th grade students will be enrolled in a full schedule of courses
  • 9-12th grade students will be enrolled in 6 courses (seniors enrolled in 4 if on track to graduate)
  • Students will attend core and elective courses (some activities may be modified to address social distancing)
  • Assemble and celebrate students in small groupings
  • Field trips will be approved on a case by case basis to ensure safety measures and expectations are in place (at principal’s discretion) 
  • In classroom celebrations, virtual and on-site field trips
  • Extended travel field trips will be reviewed on a case by case basis to determine approval (at the district level)
    • Must have parent signed permission slips and waivers before students can attend trip
    • Review to ensure safety measures and expectations are in place at the location of the activity
  • Athletics and extracurricular
    • Students will have access to all athletic and extracurricular campus activities
    • Athletics and Activities will be in accordance with guidelines published by the White House and CDC available at https://www.whitehouse.gov/openingamerica/. Guidance recommendations were provided by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committees (SMAC), The TRUST (TRUST Risk Management Guidelines for Summer Camps During a Pandemic) and the Arizona Interscholastic Association guidelines (AIA).
      

Option 2: K-12th grade online instructional model through the Chandler Online Academy registering with Chandler Online (this allows us to record and report attendance to State and receive funding). Technology Information for Chandler Online can be found here.

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Elementary (K-6 th grade) NEW: Elementary Connect (Understanding Elementary Connect)

• Parents who choose to enroll in Elementary Connect (Online Learning Model of Instruction) must register through the Chandler Online Academy and may retain their seat at their boundary or open enrollment site.
  
  
• Families may choose to transition back to in-person at the quarter or semester breaks. 
  
  
  • There will be 5 full days of instruction per week
  • District technology devices available if needed
  • Daily teacher led instruction in whole and small groups (live lessons)
  • Course content will cover: Math, Science, Social Science, English Language Arts and Elective areas
  • CTA: Teachers supplement the self-paced math content with Saxon; Spalding will be taught LIVE
  • Individualized supports and accommodations will be provided
  • In classroom celebrations, virtual and on-site field trips
  • Customized online learning track will be available for English Language Learners, Special Education, Dual Immersion, and Gifted classes as appropriate (more details will be shared with the families this would affect)
    
    

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Secondary (7-12 grade) (Chandler Online Academy for Secondary Students 7-12)

• Parents who choose to enroll in the Online Learning Model of Instruction must register with Chandler Online Academy (COA) and may retain their seat at their boundary or open enrollment site.
  
  
• Families may choose to transition back to in-person at the quarter or semester breaks.
  
  
  • Florida Virtual curriculum and Buzz (Learning Management system) will be used
  • COA is North Central Accredited and NCAA approved 
  • COA has extensive course options for on level, honors, and Advanced placement 
  • Success coaches will work with teachers to implement a relationship-building component
  • Families who choose online instruction must commit and complete by the quarter or semester
  • Course requirements are equivalent to the in-person instructional model so that grades/credits can be transferred at the end of each quarter or semester
  • COA grading practices will be followed
  • Final exams are proctored
  • District technology devices are available if needed
  • Students will be engaged in virtual activities
  • Students may participate in athletics, extracurricular activities, and graduate from their boundary or open enrolled site
    
    
• Concurrent Enrollment – schedule classes online and in-person.
  
  
• Chandler Online 7-12 Course Catalog can be found here
  
  

Cleaning and Disinfecting

• Enhanced training for all custodians
  
  
• Increased daily cleaning and disinfecting high traffic areas, doors, counters, sinks
  and other horizontal surfaces
  
  
• Restroom and Health Office touchpoint areas will be disinfected twice daily
  
  
• Guidelines and supplies for cleaning desk and table provided to each classroom
  teacher
  
  
• Use of Hydroxyl/ozone machines to disinfect larger areas
  
  
• Signage for safe hygiene and handwashing posted by all classroom sinks and
  restrooms
  
  
• Water fountains are closed
  
  
  

Communication:

• Provide communication to parents and community regarding the “reasonable” safety measures that will be in place, as well as the challenges of enforcing social distancing
  
  
• Social distancing as it relates to before school, at lunch, during passing periods and in classrooms will be difficult

Counseling/ Social Emotional Learning (SEL)
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) for students

• Focus first 2 weeks on incorporating SEL lessons. (Elementary-daily, Secondaryduring conference period) Supplemental lessons available on adopted curriculum
  

Personal/ Social development

• Department will create survey to be administered
• Coordinate and disaggregate data from needs assessment survey
• Quarterly training focused on trauma, SEL and resiliency
• Continue to check-in with students, respond to needs at the site, continue to deliver lessons in the classroom, continue run small support groups
• Update district resource guide
  

Home Visits

• Follow guidelines developed by Department of Counseling before, during, after home visits 
  

Services provided by CARE Center

• Work with Southwest Behavioral Services to provide access
• Provide parent education on social/emotional needs
• Provide opportunities for parents to support each other and give feedback on services
• Services must follow all guidelines for health and safety
  
  
  

Face Coverings

In compliance with Maricopa County, City and Town Guidelines, all students (kindergarten and above) and patrons are required to wear face coverings on school grounds where persons are unable to maintain continuous physical distancing of 6 feet or more.

We are also requesting that the Governing Board give the Superintendent the authority to adjust the precautionary measures as the County and/or local Government regulations change. Recommend approval.

Elementary Lunch Operations

Lunch Operations

• Stagger classes to arrive in cafeteria to maintain distancing when lining-up
• Students must wash hands prior to arrival in cafeteria
• Mark ground with footprints or stickers to ensure distancing
  
  

Lunch Service

• Cafeteria staff serves all items to students vs. self-selection
• Salad bars will only feature cupped and packaged items
• All items will either be individually wrapped or contained in an enclosed container for transport
• Students may bring lunch from home
  

Lunch Consumption

• Students may be socially distanced using cafeteria/stage or outdoor areas as weather permits
• Students may return to classrooms to consume lunches with principal discretion and may alternate if social distancing is not able to be achieved
  
  

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Secondary Lunch Operations

Lunch Operations

• Stagger students to arrive in cafeteria to maintain social distancing
• Cafeterias remaining open all day to allow students to pick up food outside of normal lunch periods to reduce number of students at one period
• Require hand washing or hand sanitizer prior to arrival in cafeteria
• Install hand sanitizer stations at entrances of the cafeteria
• Mark ground with footprints or stickers to ensure distancing
• Encourage students to scan ID’s vs entering in number
  
  

Lunch Service

• All food items are served packaged vs. in open containers
• Offer alternate points of service outdoors to reduce congestion in cafeteria 
  
  

Lunch Consumption

• Students may remain in cafeteria with distancing, hallways, and other open spaces or may return to classrooms to consume lunches with principal approval
  

Health Education for Students:

• Age appropriate education on good hygiene practices to students via video and signage throughout the school sites
  

Heath Education for Staff:

• Educate school and district staff about infection control strategies
  

Management of ill students within the school health office:

• Health office personnel are developing a flowchart and communications for all staff and parents as to protocols and procedures used to avoid the spread of infection
• Work closely with State and County Agencies for additional resources for parents and staff
• Isolate ill students from well students and staff and reduce frequency of non-health related visits to the health offices

Management of Students returning to school after illness:

• Students are expected to follow the exclusion and return to school guidelines set forth by the State and County Health Departments.
• Follow-up visits with Health personnel as check-in
  

Management of ill staff:

• Temperature monitoring at home – stay home if fever of 100.4 or higher
• Verification of employee status daily
  

Management of Staff returning to work after illness:

• Staff are expected to follow the exclusion and return to school guidelines set forth by the State and County Health Departments.
• Follow-up visits with Health personnel as check-in
  

Personal Protective Equipment:

• Disposable face coverings, gloves, and shields are available and stocked in the warehouse
• Face Coverings:
  • A face covering is required for all students (kindergarten and above) and staff when social distancing is not possible
  • Any student or staff who have difficulty breathing or who is incapable of physically removing the face covering on his/her own, will not be required to wear face coverings. Alternative safety measures will be discussed.

Hand Washing (following 20 second protocol or use of hand sanitizer)

• Upon arrival at school, use sanitizer if there is no sink in the classroom
• After physical activity
• Before and after meals
• After sneezing, coughing, and blowing nose
  
  
  

Safety

Enhanced protocols

• Minimize access to the campus by those who are not students or staff
• Provide pre-designated entry and exit plans
• Close and lock all gates that are not staffed at drop off and pick up times
• Staff will wear identification badges
• Each security officer is assigned to five elementary schools to prioritize larger schools for drop-off and pick-up daily for the first 3 weeks
• Hand sanitizer available in all classrooms, multipurpose/cafeteria spaces
• Plexiglas shields installed in all school main offices
• Masks, gloves, and face shields are available at each site
  
  

Social Distancing

• The CDC encourages but does not mandate social/physical distancing
• When feasible, social distancing will be maintained across all campuses
  
  
  

Special Education

Early Childhood Special Education (Priority Preschool) 

In-person

• Resume 2.5 hrs / 4 times per week
  
• Assess COVID-19 Recovery Services that may be required due to closure
  

Online Learning

• Individual Education Plan (IEP) review to prioritize skills and goals for online delivery
• Assess COVID-19 Recovery Services that may be required due to closure
• Synchronous teletherapy related to goals
  
  

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Special Education – K-12

In-person

• Meet required minutes as described in current Individual Education Plan (IEP)
  
• Assess COVID-19 Recovery Services that may be required due to closure 
  

Online Learning

• Register with Chandler Online Academy (7-12) or Elementary Connect @Chandler Online Academy (K-6)
• Assess COVID-19 Recovery Services that may be required due to closure
• Special Education staff identify services and support needed applicable to IEP driven goals to be delivered asynchronously/synchronously 

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Related Services

In-person

• Meet required minutes as described in current Individual Education Plan (IEP)
  

Online Learning

• Synchronous teletherapy related to IEP goals
  

Other

• Child Find Evaluations will continue in a 1:1 in-person model
• Paraprofessionals will assist with both in-person and online learning models
  
  

Transportation

Buses and Cleanliness:

• Buses will be wiped down each night (handrails, door handles, extremely exposed areas)
• Buses will be sanitized once a week or weekend
• Face coverings will be required when social distancing cannot be accomplished, with the exceptions of students with sensory or breathing challenges. Students who ride the bus should be prepared to use PPE if distancing cannot be met.
• Where possible buses will be loaded back to front and unloaded front to back
• Any student who has visible symptoms may not enter the bus; buses will maintain visible signage by the entry of every bus
• Parents must emphasize with their child the social distancing protocol while at bus stops and, if possible, have students wait in vehicle until bus arrival