March 12, 2021
Dear Superintendents and School Leaders,

I'm writing with updates on several COVID-19-related items as well as details about the RISE Urban Principal Preparation, a free learning opportunity that aims to create a pipeline for principals and teacher-leaders.

Frequently Asked Questions on AB 86
School Services of California has posted answers to frequently asked questions about AB 86, the COVID-19 relief and school reopening bill.

The FAQ includes answers to questions such as:
  • If I’ve already reopened for in-person instruction or I have a plan to reopen, and my in-person instruction offerings are not in compliance with AB 86, am I eligible to receive the In-Person Instruction Grant?
  • Can you please clarify the paraprofessional requirement for the Expanded Learning Opportunity Grant? Are LEAs required to hire additional paraprofessionals, or can we use allocation of funding for the paraprofessionals we currently have on staff?
  • Assembly Bill (AB) 86 includes language that reduces an LEA’s In-Person Instruction Grant allocation. Can you please elaborate on this 1% reduction?

Updated Youth Sports Guidance and Physical Education Resources
The California Department of Health has once again updated youth sports guidance. New requirements:
  • Require masking for youth and adult sports participants, coaches, and support staff
  • Specify that teams can return to competition only if they adhere to the stricter requirements in place for college teams, which include rigorous testing requirements around each competition, following contact tracing protocols, and coordination with local health authorities

While districts and schools should follow this guidance for all extracurricular activities, they should use the Jan. 14 consolidated schools guidance to guide all other decisions related to physical education. The California Physical Education Collaborative’s Strategically Planning for In-Person Physical Education presentation explains which guidance should be considered when planning in-person physical education and includes links to resources and best practices. The San Diego County Office of Education’s Site Plan for On-Campus Physical Education template helps guide and record discussions and assists school leaders in making strategic decisions relating to in-person physical education.

RISE UPP Administrator Program
The RISE Urban Principal Preparation (RISE UPP) program is a partnership among SDCOE, RISE San Diego, and Teach for America. RISE UPP aims to create a pipeline for principals who are committed to advancing equity in San Diego’s urban schools. This free, one-year administrator program includes a two-week summer intensive and five sessions throughout the year. Fellows will engage in dynamic equity leadership learning, coaching, and mentorship opportunities. Fellows will receive credit toward an SDCOE administrative credential.

Applications are being accepted through 11:59 p.m. March 19. Learn more on the SDCOE website or by viewing this presentation.

Thank you for all you are doing during these unprecedented times. As always, please let me know if you have any questions or need support.

Sincerely,
Paul

Dr. Paul Gothold
San Diego County Superintendent of Schools
phone: 858-295-6641