School reopening is a multifaceted endeavor that requires careful planning and thoughtful communications. It entails putting policies and procedures in place to support school operations, learning and the recuperation of lost academic gains, and safety, well-being, and protection, including access to education for the most vulnerable children and adolescents. It also requires an intersectoral approach and collaboration between health, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), education and protection, with the active engagement of governments, local communities and other stakeholders.
To begin, you must understand the regulatory framework for your school. This varies by state, and may involve charter approvals or private school certifications. Once you have this clear, you can start to think about establishing your school’s vision and mission. You should also consider what educational model and curriculum you will use, and how to find students and teachers.
Creating an open and inclusive community is a critical step in building your school’s reputation and supporting its success. You can hold meetings, send surveys, or speak to small groups of people in your community to get feedback and create a sense of ownership.
Educators should continue to be aware of the reopening protocol guidance issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and New York State Department of Health. This includes maintaining all infection control precautions, which include masking and maintaining a social distance of 6 feet when interacting with others. A new research brief from the Learning Policy Institute highlights some of these measures and provides recommendations for how schools can support the return to classes.