OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — In June, Omaha Public Schools revealed plans for students and staff heading back to the classroom this fall. On Wednesday, school officials, including Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Logan, provided a sneak peek of what a typical day will look like at Norris Middle School.
Classrooms, cleaning procedures, lunch and transportation have all been redesigned to adhere to safety protocols with COVID-19. Right now the school is still planning to return with their 3/2 model that reduces capacity inside the schools by about 50 percent. But Logan says that's all subject to change.
"We are prepared to pivot. We are prepared to go to a full remote if we have to go to a full remote. We're prepared to spot close some schools," she said.
DIGITAL EXTRA: Nutrition Services Director Tammy Yarmon on school lunches amid the pandemic
On the days that students learn remotely with the 3/2 model, they'll be in charge of completing assignments and tasks assigned on school-issued iPads or person electronic devices. The iPads will have mobile data and will connect to internet anywhere. Distribution of the iPads will begin in the coming weeks with elementary schools first.
In school lunchrooms students will not be able to sit face to face and will have to leave masks on when they're not eating. Depending on capacity, students will either be eating in lunchrooms or classrooms.
The bus routes won't change but procedures will. Only one student is allowed per seat and windows will remain cracked to circulate fresh air. Masks are required on buses.
DIGITAL EXTRA: OPS Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Logan on quarantine procedures
Despite all of these efforts, a teacher or student may test positive for the virus. if they do the county health department and school will notify those that need to quarantine or were in close contact.
"We cannot do this without the help of the community. We're going to give out 20,000 thermometers and we're going to need families to take temperatures," Logan said.
RECESS: Students will NOT be allowed on playground equipment. Proper cleaning can’t take place after each student uses something. This will be enforced.
— Ruta Ulcinaite KMTV (@RutaUlcinaite) July 29, 2020
FAMILY 3/2 MODEL: When a student is at home for their days, it will not be a live stream class. They will be doing assignments previously taught in person.
— Ruta Ulcinaite KMTV (@RutaUlcinaite) July 29, 2020
LUNCH: Students will have the option to eat in a socially distanced lunch room or in class. Students will not be allowed to sit face-to-face and will have to wear masks if they are not eating.
— Ruta Ulcinaite KMTV (@RutaUlcinaite) July 29, 2020
ONE WAY WALKING: Signage is all across the school directing traffic to reduce interaction. pic.twitter.com/KJCWdaT1VY
— Ruta Ulcinaite KMTV (@RutaUlcinaite) July 29, 2020