Dear Superintendents and School Leaders,
I'm writing with updates on several COVID-19-related items that have arisen since my last message.
State Releases Updated Guidance
The California Department of Public Health just released the following guidance documents aimed at safely reopening elements of the state’s economy:
This indoor seated live events guidance includes the following statements:
- Discourage audience from engaging in yelling, singing, chanting, booing, use of noise makers that require the exhalation of air (e.g., vuvuzelas), and other similar practices that may increase the likelihood of transmission from contaminated, exhaled droplets and aerosols. Attendees MUST wear a mask during any of these activities.
- Increase distancing between people who sing or chant and others, or between wind instrument performers and others to more than 6 feet, especially when indoors and not wearing face coverings. Consider use of barriers to add further separation in these cases.
The County of San Diego has asked for clarification on the applicability of this guidance for schools. We will share an update when the county has received an answer.
Vaccination Eligibility Expanded
As you may be aware, the COVID-19 vaccine is now available to all individuals age 16 and older. This means that many of our students are eligible to receive the vaccine. The San Diego County Office of Education has created
a template letter in English and Spanish to support communication with your families about expanded vaccine eligibility.
Schools May Host Mobile Vaccination Clinics
Champions for Health is working with the County of San Diego to provide mobile COVID-19 vaccination clinics to support our vulnerable communities. If your district or school is interested in hosting a vaccination clinic to support families who are uninsured or who face barriers that could otherwise deter them from being vaccinated, please complete a
site interest form. Preference will be given to sites in ZIP codes designated by the county as health equity priority areas. For more information, you may also contact Andrew Gonzalez
by email or phone at 858-300-2787.
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
