On August 12, 2021, the GCSSD School Board had a discussion about COVID-19 protocols. Below is a summary of those protocols when handling positive cases and close contacts. The full COVID Operating Guide can be found at https://www.gcssd.org/page/information-and-updates . Please keep in mind that protocols may change depending on the spread of the virus and guidance from the Department of Health.
- Masks are recommended but not required. Your student may choose to wear or not to wear a mask.
- Updated GCSSD school-based positive COVID-19 case numbers will be shared weekly, usually on Monday, under the COVID Information & Updates page of our website at https://www.gcssd.org/page/information-and-updates
- Quarantine/Isolation protocol:
- Continue the use of seating charts in the classroom and cafeteria to help identify potential close contacts.
- Positive cases and students exhibiting symptoms will be sent home with instructions for isolation. Nurses utilize the TN Department of Health COVID Nursing Protocol for determining symptoms.
- Parents will be contacted via phone if their child has been identified as a close contact.
- GCSSD will notify the Department of Health for any positive case and the names/phone numbers of student or staff that have been identified as meeting the criteria of a potential close contact. The Department of Health will call all close contacts and determine if they need to quarantine. In order to keep the spread of the virus to a minimum GCSSD strongly encourages parents to keep close contacts at home and quarantine.
- Students that are quarantined will be able to access schoolwork through Schoology, packets (mainly elementary), or through live classroom instruction. Teachers may choose which method of instructional delivery works best for their students and instructional content. Please be aware that it may take a few days for teachers to get that material ready for your student.
- Parents will need to contact their local school with the information gained from the Department of Health contact tracing call so attendance may be adjusted accordingly.
- GCSSD is working on having the ability to perform COVID-19 tests in our building with parent permission. More information will be provided at a later date.