Dear Superintendents,
I'm writing with updates on several COVID-19-related items that have arisen since my last message.
Masking/Testing Mandate Form for State
The state is requesting information to help evaluate any masking and testing mandates across local health jurisdictions and school districts. Please provide updates on your school district's current or anticipated masking and testing protocols by noon Wednesday, July 20, using
this online survey.
At-Home Test Kit Distribution
The San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) is expecting over the next two weeks to receive about 1.17 million at-home COVID-19 test kits for distribution to the region's districts, charters, and private schools.
The kits are funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and distributed through the state for students, teachers, and other school staff to ensure local educational agencies (LEAs) have over-the-counter tests to use before returning from summer break. Tests are intended to supplement (and not replace)
existing testing resources in place for school communities statewide, and there is no statewide testing requirement, though testing is strongly recommended.
An SDCOE representative will reach out to the district, charter, and private school contacts we have on file from previous distributions of personal protective equipment. LEAs can pick up test kits from the SDCOE warehouse at their convenience, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to noon, beginning Wednesday, July 27. Please email
ppe@sdcoe.net to request a pick-up time outside those hours or if you have any questions.
Thank you for all that you do. As always, please reach out if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Paul
Dr. Paul Gothold
San Diego County Superintendent of Schools
phone: 858-295-6641