SA Metro Health had previously mandated Bexar County schools to delay in-person classes until after Labor Day. On August 7, 2020 San Antonio Metro Health’s Medical Director released an amended directive and “School risk indicator” dashboard that encourages school districts to tie in-person classes to the current COVID situation. As of August 18th, the risk determined by SA Health remained “High”.
The following is an explanation of the risk indicator dashboard, which can be found online at https://covid19.sanantonio.gov/What-YOU-Can-Do/Reopening-Safely/Information-for-Residents?
School Risk Level Indicator
High: Red Zone (current status)
In-person instruction is not recommended during the red zone. Ancillary services that do not involve prolonged close contact (within 6 feet, for 15 minutes or more) should be provided one-on-one to special needs students, at-risk students and students who lack access to resources.
Moderate: Yellow Zone
In-person instruction, if offered, prioritizes special needs students, at-risk students and students who lack access to resources. Instruction should take place under guidance from the CDC for substantial, controlled community transmission. Fixed cohorts of six or fewer students per classroom are recommended in the Yellow zone. Building occupancy and room occupancy should be contingent on adequate ventilation and ability to create 6-foot distancing, and neither building nor room occupancy should exceed 25%. Reasonable accommodation must be made for qualified staff as required by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
Low: Green Zone
In-person instruction should take place with CDC guidance for minimal to moderate community transmission. This should include physical distancing by older children and adults, frequent hand hygiene, and face coverings during high-contact activities.
