Aug. 4, 2020
Dear Superintendents and School Leaders,

I’m writing with updates on several COVID-19-related items that have come up since my last message.

Waiver Update
County of San Diego Public Health has informed us they are drafting an elementary waiver application and approval process, including materials for schools to download from the county website to submit a waiver. We will share a link when the materials are available. 

Schools Guidance Q and A
Last night, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) released an extensive list of questions and answers regarding their guidance for schools. Topics include testing and screening, notification of positive cases, face coverings, the waiver process, and closure criteria.

Band and Choir
Revised guidance from CDPH clarifies that activities where there is increased likelihood for transmission from contaminated exhaled droplets—such as singing, yelling, chanting, and blowing wind instruments—are not permitted at this time. This is a change from the July 17 version of the guidance, which suggested that singing could occur outside.

Updated Industry Guidance Comparison
The San Diego County Office of Education team has updated our industry guidance comparison -- which covers rules for child care, day camps, and schools/school-based program -- to include a section on sports.

Thank you for all you are doing during these unprecedented times. Please don't hesitate to get in touch if I can be of assistance.

Sincerely,
Paul

Dr. Paul Gothold
San Diego County Superintendent of Schools
phone: 858-292-3514