Edmond Public Schools releases updated COVID-19 protocols ahead of new school year

EDMOND, Okla. (KOKH)--With the first day of school approaching on Aug. 12, Edmond Public Schools released its updated COVID-19 related protocols for the upcoming year.

The district said the protocols are based on the latest guidance from the Oklahoma City County Health Department.

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The district's COVID-19-related protocols can be found below:

• In accordance with Oklahoma state law, face coverings will not be required in school facilities, buildings, or buses for students or staff; however, we encourage everyone to wear one to protect themselves and others
• Per the most recent guidance (July 30, 2021) from the Oklahoma City-County Health Department, quarantines are recommended but not required for individuals exposed to a positive COVID-19 case
• Per the OCCHD, fully vaccinated individuals do not need to quarantine if exposed. However, anyone with symptoms needs to isolate until they can test or receive an alternative diagnosis
• Schools will notify parents if their child has been exposed at school and provide symptom guidance and quarantine options
• Anyone with a positive COVID-19 test will be required to isolate regardless of vaccination status
• Our dedicated operations team will continue to deep clean and sanitize our school facilities, and all staff members will continue to encourage thorough handwashing. Hand sanitizer will also be readily available for students
• Where possible, we will continue to observe social distancing
• Anyone with a fever, diarrhea, or vomiting must stay home until 24 hours symptom-free. It is more important than ever that you do not send your child to school if they are feeling unwell until you know the cause of their illness

RELATED: OK COVID cases increase weeks before the start of a new school year

Families will have until Aug. 25 to enroll their child in Virtual Edmond. Guidelines for Virtual Edmond (VE) can be found below:

• Families who wish to make an enrollment change prior to the first day of school on August 12 can contact their home school at any time
• After school begins, families who are enrolled in VE and want to change to in-person learning must contact the appropriate VE administrator prior to August 25
• After school begins, families who are enrolled in in-person learning and want to change to VE must contact their home site registrar prior to August 25
• After August 25, families are committed to the placement through the end of the semester

Edmond Public Schools will also open a testing hub where students and families can be tested for COVID-19, flu, and strep beginning Aug. 9 at Cross Timbers Elementary.

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