CommunicationPlus - September 2020

Getting ready for the next ‘normal’ and the one after that

One day in March 2020, everything in your school district, building or classroom was “normal,” and the next day it wasn’t. Something you couldn’t see, smell or taste had invaded your well-ordered world — COVID-19 — and your normal world would never be the same.

It's time to engage and connect

I often told my children, unless they had an 8x10 glossy photo of an event or occurrence or unless they were told a piece of information directly from the person(s) involved, it could not be considered a truth. In the last couple of months, 8x10 photos have been figuratively developed and words from the stakeholders’ mouths have been recorded. Across the country, students have spoken and it’s time to listen.

Following Orders

We have all been inundated with information about COVID-19 from many sources, including many orders coming from the Governor and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). Some restrictions have been lifted or modified while other restrictions still remain in effect. OSBA has been asked numerous times about the restriction on gatherings of ten or more people, virtual meetings and the extension of time to fill a board vacancy.

Week of August 24

Governor activity
Gov. Mike DeWine announced that K-12 schools will be required to notify parents, guardians and the public of a positive COVID-19 case within a school building. Protected health information must remain private and only non-identifying information should be made available to the public. Schools will have the flexibility to determine how to communicate the information. The order is forthcoming and a link will be provided when available.

ODH order permits school sports

Last week, the Governor announced that the Interim Director of the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) would be issuing an order permitting all sports practices and competitions.

Week of August 17

Governor activity
Ohio Department of Health Interim Director Lance D. Himes signed an executive order that allows both contact and non-contact sports to continue. The order provides health, safety and spectator requirements. Click here for a link to the signed order.

Week of August 10

Governor activity
Gov. Mike DeWine signed an executive order that requires K-12 students who return to school buildings to wear masks. Click here for a link to the signed order.