Recommendations - and Requirements - for Reopening Schools
The nation’s pediatricians call for prioritizing in-person learning and advise schools to prepare to address students’ mental health needs.

In updated guidance for the 2021-22 school year, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly recommends in-person learning and urges all who are eligible to be vaccinated to protect against COVID-19.

In addition to vaccinations, the AAP recommends a layered approach to make school safe for all students, teachers and staff in the guidance here. That includes a recommendation that everyone older than age 2 wear masks, regardless of vaccination status.

Masks will be required for all students and teachers in Rhode Island's K-12 schools, regardless of age or vaccination status. Please see Governor McKee's Executive Order here.
2021-22 Statewide School Calendar
The Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) has posted a Statewide School Calendar for all public schools. Please note that school districts have flexibility around their start and end of year dates.

Via RIDE: "One of the key supports for our school communities during the COVID-19 pandemic has been utilizing a statewide school calendar so that all Rhode Island students, educators and families are operating on one shared schedule. A unified school calendar ensures that educators from across the state have the opportunity to prepare and engage in professional development opportunities to better serve students and families."

For additional back to school information and updates, visit RIDE’s Back 2 School RI website: www.back2schoolri.com.
Community Fact Sheets on Federal Funding for RI Schools
Rhode Island schools will receive nearly $600 million through the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund to reopen safely, and address the impact of Covid-19 on students, families, & educators.

Please see the new ESSER Community Fact Sheets — including information on the amount each district will receive, and how community members can engage in the allocation process — in English and Spanish.

Fact sheets focusing on the core cities are also available in English and Spanish.
Tips for Supporting Teens’ Mental Health This Fall
The continuing impacts of the pandemic for youth include feelings of anxiety or depression, family challenges including grief and economic hardship, and/or academic loss. Being aware of the signs of symptoms of mental health and adjustment challenges is imperative for caregivers and educators. Teens are especially vulnerable to the effects of the pandemic, with evidence that there has been an increase in anxiety and depression among adolescents.

To help teens navigate these challenges, the Morgan Stanley Alliance for Children's Mental Health has created tip sheets for families and educators.
Rhode Island KIDS COUNT | www.rikidscount.org