On September 22, 2020 Alameda County moved from the Purple Tier to the Red Tier in California's Blueprint for a Safer Economy. This means RCS is one step closer to students being able to return to campus for our Phase 2 - Small Cohort Classrooms!
There are two requirements for schools to open in the Red Tier. First, Alameda County must stay in the Red Tier for 14 days. Second, Alameda County Public Health Department (ACPHD) must make the determination that it is safe for schools to open.
The ACPHD press release issued on September 22, 2020 stated, "Bringing students back for in-person learning is a top priority for the next phase of reopening. Though
counties in the Red Tier are permitted to open schools for in-person learning after two weeks in the RedTier, our Health Officer Order issued on August 28 clarified that schools must continue distance learninguntil such time that local conditions support in-person learning, even if the County meets the State’scriteria for in-person learning."
RCS is continuing forward with theelementary waiver so that the elementary students can return to campus for live-instruction. ACPHD is currently reviewing the school's application. After their approval, it will be sent on to the California Department of Public Health, for the final approval.
In addition, after receiving the waiver, RCS will then focus on returning Middle School students to campus, through Cohorting Guidance - Providing Targeted, Specialized Support and Services at School. This guidance will allow RCS to have 25% of the campus capacity to return. RCS has selected middle school students first because the younger the student, the more help and facilitation they need with their school work. If not all of the available seats are filled by middle school students, these seats will be opened up to high school students who are struggling to complete their class assignments.
Therefore, next week I expect to send a survey to all RCS parents asking for a final determination to be made regarding whether or not they want their children to return to campus for the RCS Phase Two - Small Cohort Classroom. We are finally at the place and time where campuses need to begin planning for the number of students in cohorts and the number of students who will continue with virtual education via Zoom. Please consider your choice, and be watching for my email coming next week.
If you have any questions about testing, please email me.
In Christ,
Al Hearne II, PhD
Superintendent
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10 #GodsPurpose
Redwood Christian Schools | 510-889-7526 | 4200 James Avenue, Castro Valley, CA 94546 | www.rcs.edu
