From kindergarten to high school, schools across Hawaii are making plans to reopen. To ensure the health and safety of students, families, and staff, they're implementing strategies recommended by experts to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The guide below explores what schools are doing to prepare for in-person learning.

How Are Schools Planning to Reopen Safely?

Physical Distancing

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has revised its recommendations for physical distancing from 6 feet to 3 feet in classroom settings. Schools are planning to seat students at least 3 feet apart, but a 6-foot distance should remain between adults and students, in common areas, and when masks are removed for eating and drinking. Face masks will be required for all students, teachers, staff, and visitors and must be worn at all times.

Cleaning & Disinfecting

High-touch surfaces throughout the school grounds, including doorknobs, desks, drinking fountains, and light switches, will be cleaned and disinfected frequently. If possible, communal spaces like cafeterias and classrooms should be cleaned between uses. There will be no self-serve food options, and staff should discourage students from sharing items that are hard to clean.

Hygiene Practices

All students, faculty, and staff are expected to wash their hands regularly throughout the day. Teachers will teach and reinforce hand-washing and respiratory etiquette. Schools will maintain an adequate supply of hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol, soap, tissues, and no-touch trash cans.

Health Screening & Contact Tracing

A temperature scan will be required daily for anyone entering the building. If a student or someone in a student’s household tests positive for or has been exposed to COVID-19, they should inform the school as soon as possible and remain at home. The school will report positive cases to the local health department and notify anyone who may have been exposed.

What Can Families Do to Stay Healthy?

Families can help prevent the spread of COVID-19 by following CDC guidelines and encouraging their students to do the same. Make sure your children have a steady supply of clean masks and know how to wash their hands properly. Bring them to the doctor for regular checkups, and keep them up-to-date on their vaccinations. 

When possible, your family should maintain a distance of 6 feet from people outside your household. Try to avoid unnecessary travel. If you can't, follow state guidelines regarding COVID-19 testing and quarantining.
 

At Hawaii Baptist Academy of Honolulu, faculty and staff are implementing thorough health measures and precautions to keep everyone safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. If your family is looking for a secure and encouraging private education environment, their elementary, middle, and high school will help your child develop academically, socially, and spiritually. To learn more about their detailed approach to safe in-person learning, visit their website. Call (808) 595-7585 to discuss middle or high school enrollment or (808) 536-6830 to reach their K-6 program.