DOH changes to school-based COVID/Flu testing at the end of May
The free testing supplies outlined by the WA Dept of Health have started to run out, so the ordering system will shut down at the end of May (maybe sooner).
All participating schools should be receiving this letter from DOH soon.
Recess and lunch-time requirements for public schools
Starting with the 2024-25 school year, the public schools serving kindergarten through 5 or 6th grade elementary students need to provide at least 30 minutes of daily recess within the school day. Extra recess before and after school is allowed but cannot be used to tally the 30-minute requirement.
Public schools must allow at least 20 minutes of seat time for lunch. Additional details here. This topic was discussed at our WFIS K12 Zoom this week, with leaders conveying that private schools often offer more recess and lunchtime and that parents are invested in making sure students get enough time outside for recess.
Preparing for wildfires, wildfire smoke, and extreme heat.
Have a plan ready and know when it’s time to leave. See Ready, Set, Go!, a poster with information about wildfire evacuation levels, how to prepare, and what to bring when you evacuate.
Infectious Disease Control Guide for School Staff
In May, look for an updated OSPI Infectious Disease Control Guide released by DOH. The guide will incorporate COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses, MPOX, and infection control science advances since the last release in 2014.