Dear Superintendents and School Leaders,

I'm writing with a few brief updates on COVID-19-related items since my last message.

The San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) continues to work with the County of San Diego and Cal/OSHA on getting clarification on some of the new requirements outlined in the new Cal/OSHA COVID-19 Prevention Non-Emergency Regulations released in February. We will update the decision trees; document on masking, testing, and notification requirements; and other guidance as soon as the information is confirmed. 

The End of the COVID-19 State of Emergency Impacts Remote Board Meetings under AB 361

Effective March 1, local agencies may no longer rely on California’s COVID-19 State of Emergency to conduct fully remote legislative body meetings pursuant to Assembly Bill (AB) 361. If a board member wishes to attend a meeting remotely, local agencies must look to the traditional teleconferencing option under the Brown Act or the new remote meeting provisions of AB 2449. AB 2449 allows remote board member participation for “just cause” or in emergency situations, subject to certain requirements. AB 361 does not sunset until Jan. 1, 2024, so if a new state of emergency is declared this year, remote board meetings under AB 361 could resume if all other requirements are met. Learn more from Lozano Smith. 

San Diego County Public Health Department Updates Reporting Requirements

As of March 1, schools will no longer be expected to report individual COVID-19 cases to the San Diego County Public Health Department. Reporting of outbreaks to San Diego County Public Health will continue as required under California Code of Regulations Title 17, Section 2500 and Section 2508. 

CDPH Moves to Antigen-Only Testing Program in Schools

With the rapid results antigen tests provide, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is changing to fully antigen-based testing strategies across the state to support early medication access. PCR/molecular testing through the COLOR Lab Network will be phased out by the end of February. If individuals have symptoms, they should follow the testing recommendations provided by CDPH or refer to the Decision Tree. 

Thank you for all that you do. Please reach out if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Paul

Dr. Paul Gothold

San Diego County Superintendent of Schools

email: paul.gothold@sdcoe.net

phone: 858-295-6641