County superintendents of schools in San Mateo, Santa Clara, Contra Costa, Alameda, Marin and San Francisco counties, along with the City of Berkeley, released a joint statement Friday supporting full, in-person learning for the 2021-22 school year.
“In accordance with the July 12, 2021 California Department of Public Health’s (CDPH) K-12 school guidance, the superintendents are eager for students and staff to begin their school year with in-person instruction that maximizes as much in-person instructional time as possible,” the joint statement said.
Superintendents are “strongly encouraging all who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccination to be vaccinated as soon as possible and are educating the community about the requirement of universal masking while indoors on school campus.”
All persons 12 years of age and older are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine.
According to the CDC guidance, a safe in-person learning environment includes vaccinations for all eligible individuals, universal masking in schools, more targeted quarantining practices and access to a robust testing program. Schools are also advised to ensure ample ventilation, cleaning and disinfecting of facilities.
Today, the San Mateo County Office of Education released its 2021-22 Pandemic Recovery Framework to help guide local schools.
“San Mateo County school leaders have been diligent and collaborative in following all public health guidance and in ensuring students have a safe and high-quality educational experience,” said San Mateo County Superintendent of Schools Nancy Magee. “Our countywide approach and partnership with San Mateo County Health have allowed us to streamline planning efforts for schools and provide school leaders with the information they need to serve and support our students.”
