As of early June 2020, seventy (70) countries are slowly reopening their school campuses to welcome their students after the COVID lockdowns. Still, more than 1 billion students are out of school following nationwide school closures. School administrators work in collaboration with health experts and government leaders in creating strategies to ensure safety in their classrooms, putting priority in securing the best interest of every child.
What Precautions should be in Place to Prevent COVID-19 in Schools?
School administrators should comply with their country’s COVID Prevention Protocols to protect students, faculty, staff, and their families.
Other practical ways that schools can apply to prevent infection in the campus include:
Class Room Scheduling
- Alternative room scheduling
- Staggered start and end of classes, meal times
- Allocate space to move classes to temporary spaces
- Scheduling rooms, shifts, and reducing class sizes
School administrators should consider using technology in managing their campus facilities. DeskFlex classroom scheduling software allows administrators to optimize classroom scheduling system. DeskFlex online booking software will enable students, faculty, and school administrators to view room availability and reserve classrooms, desks, laboratories, study spaces, and activity halls. Using reservations software can help schools transition safely back to the campus classes.
Water and Hygiene Facilities, Wearing of Masks
- Include handwashing practices and equipment
- Instruct Respiratory etiquette when coughing, laughing, and sneezing into the elbow
- Physical Distancing
- Classroom and facilities sanitation
- Safe Food preparation practices
Students, faculty, and campus employees must also undergo proper training in complying with the COVID Prevention methods such as the practice of Physical Distancing, School Hygiene Practices, and Wearing of Masks.
When Should School Reopen?
Schools should reopen when they have thoroughly planned their steps and scenarios during the opening of classes. Going back to school will not be the same as usual. Schools may implement their safety procedures depending on the situation in their locality. Because of the uncertainty of the times, everyone should be flexible in adapting to changes to ensure the safety of every child.
Remember that your children are also adjusting to the situation. Before school starts, prepare your children by incorporating play in your child’s routine to deal with stress. Create a supportive and nurturing environment allowing your children to express their emotions. Involve them in different family activities such as cooking, reading, or gardening. If you have concerns about your child, you can seek help with the school’s administration if you feel your child is experiencing specific challenges like grief or heightened anxiety due to the pandemic.