CDC’s Operational Strategy for Reopening Schools

1.5 minute read

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued their operational strategy for reopening schools for those districts who haven’t open yet or are moving from a hybrid to full in-classroom. These guidelines are not mandated but should be used as a “roadmap” based on CDC findings and evidence.

The CDC suggests that many K-12 schools have implemented mitigation strategies and have been able to open for in-person instruction and remain open. If proper protocols are followed, the CDC suggests that schools can reopen safely. They also state that vaccinating teachers is important but not a requirement for in-person instruction.

When districts develop their reopening strategy, they must determine what essential elements are needed for safe in-person school instruction and to help mitigate COVID-19 transmissions. Five key mitigation strategies include:

1. Correct and universal use of masks
2. Physical distancing
3. Maintaining and cleaning healthy facilities
4. Hand-washing and respiratory etiquette
5. Contact tracing in combination with isolation and quarantine, in collaboration with local health departments

Testing programs and vaccinations for teachers and school staff can also provide districts with additional layers of COVID-19 prevention.

Download the bulletin for more details.

This blog is intended to be a compilation of information and resources pulled from federal, state, and local agencies. This is not intended to be legal advice. For up to the minute information and guidance on COVID-19, please follow the guidelines of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and your local health organizations.