Hi Kira-
In Oregon, we are required to offer 10-minute breaks to staff twice a day, morning, and afternoon. To do so, we have 1 floating teacher assigned to the same classrooms for the week. These floating teachers are only in these classrooms for ten minute periods twice a day and to cover the lunch breaks. They are also only allowed in two classrooms. So when one of those teachers get sick or are out for testing, we have their break person cover the room. In some instances, myself or the other administrator are covering 10-minute breaks when necessary but doing so as distanced from the group as possible, so as to limit the amount of potential spread to others. The floats are responsible for breaks, sanitizing toys, sanitizing the classroom while kids are outside, as well as any additional needs that arise for their classrooms. We have been exceptionally lucky that we have been able to cover teacher absences but I fear for cold and flu season where we may have multiple teachers out at the same time and not enough staff to safely cover the rooms without risking exposure. Thankfully we are planning ahead and plan to use as many subs as possible to fill the gaps when necessary. I hope this was helpful to you!
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[Elizabeth] [Nash]
[Student Services Coordinator]
[Endeavor Schools]
[Portland] [OR]
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Original Message:
Sent: 06-30-2020 03:54 PM
From: Kira Hartley
Subject: Covering ill staff upon reopening
We are looking to reopen soon and are wondering about staffing coverage if a teacher is out sick. The guidance is that groups stay together, and staff say with one group. How are you covering ill staff without moving kids or introducing new adults to the group? We have a large center, and even opening at half capacity we'd have over 60 staff. So far we've thought about overstaffing classrooms so there's a person there just in case, but that isn't very budget friendly. Love to hear your thoughts!
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Kira Hartley
Program Coordinator
UWM Childrens Center
Milwaukee WI
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