WHEN WILL SCHOOL START IN THE FALL?

Student instruction will begin on August 17, 2020. This is a week later than originally planned to allow one week of professional development for teachers, which will begin on August 10.  Kindergarten will begin on August 24th.

HOW LONG WILL THESE REQUIREMENTS BE IN PLACE? IS THERE A “TERM” TO THIS PLAN?

This first phase will go through Fall Break, or when the Governor announces a change, whichever comes first.  At Fall Break, we will reach out to each family and reassess needs and desires.

WILL WE BE ABLE TO SWITCH OUR CHOICE LATER? IF WE CHOOSE, FOR EXAMPLE, DISTANCE LEARNING…COULD WE CHOOSE IN-PERSON INSTRUCTION LATER IF THAT’S NOT WORKING WELL FOR OUR CHILD OR IF A VACCINE IS CREATED?

We will do our best to accommodate each family, assuming we have the space to do so.  This initial choice will be in place through Fall Break.  We will ask for parent input for the next block of time as Fall Break approaches.

ARE SCHOOL HOURS GOING TO BE THE SAME?

The bell schedule will be the same with minor tweaks for staggered arrival and dismissal.

WOULD CHILDREN BE ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE IN PE AND/OR RECESS?

Yes.  We are creating a schedule that will limit the amount of children on the playground at one time to no more than 20 in this initial reopening phase.

WILL WE BE GIVEN A LIST OF SUPPLIES THAT MY CHILDREN WILL NEED SO THAT THEY HAVE THEIR OWN THINGS OR ARE WE GOING TO BE GIVING A SUPPLY FEE TO THE CLASSROOM LIKE BEFORE?  IS IT SAFE FOR CHILDREN TO SHARE SUPPLIES THIS YEAR?

Normally, HDMS supplies all relevant school supplies except for the “record book” (a special journal where the student records their work).  However, if you are concerned about your child sharing supplies this year, you can request a list of supplies from your classroom teacher.

WHAT ARE THE EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS GOING TO BE? 

The Expectations for students are to be safe, healthy, and to continue to grow and  learn in whatever format works for their family. 

IF K-9 GOES TO DISTANCE LEARNING BECAUSE OF AN OUTBREAK IN THE SCHOOL, WILL PRE-K STAY OPEN?

We would have to follow the guidance of the health department based on our unique situation.

WILL HYBRID KIDS INTEGRATE WITH THE KIDS WHO ARE GOING EVERY DAY OR WILL THEY BE IN SEPARATE CLASSROOMS IN SMALL GROUPS WITH SPECIFIC “HYBRID” TEACHERS? 

Students on the “Hybrid Plan” will be in regular classrooms alongside children who attend school 5 days a week.

WILL DISTANCE LEARNING REQUIRE TECHNOLOGY?

Yes, a computer and internet connection will be required.  Laptops can be “checked out” from HDMS for the period of distance learning if needed. 

IF WE CHOOSE DISTANCE LEARNING, WILL MY CHILD BE TAUGHT BY THEIR REGULAR CLASSROOM TEACHER?

Students on the “Distance Learning” plan will work with a Certified HDMS teacher who will oversee the online learning platform. This may be their assigned classroom teacher or another certified teacher who will work directly with students in Distance Learning. At this time, we are working out the details of how this will happen to ensure a more uniform experience for students. 

IF WE CHOOSE DISTANCE LEARNING, WILL MY CHILD GET THEIR SPOT BACK IN THEIR REGULAR CLASSROOM WHEN WE RETURN TO A NORMAL SCHEDULE?

Our goal is to be able to place all students back in their regular classrooms, but some minimal shifting may take place.

IF A DISTANCE LEARNING IS SELECTED, IS THERE A PLAN FOR MORE INTERACTION BETWEEN THE TEACHERS AND STUDENTS THAN THERE WAS DURING THE INITIAL QUARANTINE? 

We currently plan to have certain teachers dedicated to the oversight of Distance Learning.  At this time, we are working out the details of how this will happen to ensure a more uniform experience for students.  Our teachers will also have more training and prep time going into this round of distance learning.

IF WE DO THE HYBRID MODEL, CAN WE DO A MORNING/ AFTERNOON SPLIT?

No. If a family chooses to do the “Hybrid Model” it is an “A/B Alternating Wednesdays Rotation Schedule” format with approximately half of their instruction to be In-Person and half with Distance Learning. (Group A attends Monday, Tuesday & every other Wednesday/ Group B attends Thursday, Friday & every other Wednesday)

CAN YOU DESCRIBE MORE SPECIFICALLY WHAT DAILY LIFE WILL LOOK LIKE INSIDE THE CLASSROOMS? THE PLAN ONLINE MENTIONED LIMITING MATERIALS AVAILABLE TO STUDENTS AND OTHER MEASURES… HOW WILL STUDENTS’ LIVES INSIDE THE CLASSROOM BE THE SAME AND DIFFERENT THAN THEY WERE PRE-COVID19?  

Our hope is that we can provide as true a Montessori experience as possible.  We will work hard to establish new routines and normals as quickly as possible to ensure a safe, positive, and healthy classroom environment.

WILL WE GO LAX ON THE RULE OF NOT HAVING SIBLINGS IN THE SAME CLASS? IT WOULD BE REALLY HARD TO HAVE MY KIDS ON DIFFERENT SCHEDULES. 

For any family who chooses a hybrid plan, HDMS commits to making sure your children are in on the same rotation schedule.  There will be flexibility in arrival and dismissal times for families who have children on different arrival or dismissal schedules due to the staggered schedule.

IF THE NEW LEARNING SYSTEM DOESN’T FIT OUR LIFESTYLE, AND WE HAD TO GO ELSEWHERE, WHEN THINGS CALM DOWN WOULD WE BE BACK ON A WAITING LIST?

We are working with our Enrollment Team in determining guidelines for families who choose to leave then want to return. We will keep you updated on this.

IS THERE POTENTIAL WIGGLE ROOM FOR THE HALF DAY PICK UP TIME (LIKE 1PM)

Yes, when we are able to accommodate it (based on ratios and schedules).  Please contact Ms. Stephanie to see if we can accommodate your specific needs.

IF I CHOOSE ONE OPTION AND IT DOESN’T WORK OUT, CAN I SWITCH TO ANOTHER.

We will do our best to accommodate each family, assuming we have the space to do so.  This initial choice will be in place through Fall Break.  We will ask for parent input for the next block of time as Fall Break approaches. A change from a more “in person” model to a less “in person” model will always be honored.

IS THERE AN OPTION WHICH WOULD ALLOW MY CHILD TO BE WITH HIS/HER ORIGINAL TEACHER NOT A SEPERATE DISTANCE TEACHER?

All students will be assigned a Homeroom/Advisory Teacher. Depending on the type of instruction each student receives, they may be working with another certified Montessori trained teacher. Our faculty is working on plans to assure that instruction is grounded in Montessori ideals and remains more uniform across the school.

WILL THERE BE ANY AT HOME GUIDANCE FOR PARENTS DOING DISTANCE LEARNING? ARE THEY BEING GRADED NOT SO RIGOROUSLY?

Yes. We are planning workshops to support parents in their role during distance education.

WHO IS REQUIRED TO WEAR A FACE COVERING AND WHEN?

As per WCSD and HDMS Board of Directors mandate, each adult and child on campus is required to wear a cloth face covering.  

WHY ARE YOU REQUIRING YOUNG CHILDREN TO WEAR FACE COVERINGS WHEN THE GOVERNOR’S DIRECTIVE EXEMPTS CHILDREN UNDER AGE 10?

The Governor’s directive allows entities to take additional safety measures beyond what is recommended. Our Board of Directors determined that it is important for students of all ages to wear face coverings to help protect their fellow students, families, and staff. Families are encouraged to begin having their children practice wearing face coverings and should teach them how to put it on and take it off safely.

WHAT IS THE PLAN IF KIDS STRUGGLE TO WEAR MASKS? CAN WE ADDRESS FACE SHIELDS VS. MASK – WITH A SENSORY KIDDO

Please see the CDC Guidelines regarding Cloth Masks vs Face Shields.  Face Shields MAY be permitted on a case by case basis as part of an accommodation plan.  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cloth-face-cover-guidance.html

The Governor’s directive 024 states those with medical conditions or disabilities are exempt from wearing a face covering. Staff will work with parents and guardians of students who are medically unable to wear a mask considering modifications such as providing an alternative face shield and adhering to physical distancing. Please contact the school to arrange for these accommodations. 

HOW WILL STUDENTS – EVEN HALF OF THEM – MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING PROTOCOLS?

Students, and staff alike, will be facing new expectations as we return to school for the 2020-2021 school year.  Significant effort will be made in the first few weeks of school to teach, and reteach, new routines expected of students such as maintaining social distancing.  Visual aides will be used at doorways, in hallways, at bathrooms, and elsewhere to remind students of social distancing expectations.

WILL THERE BE TEMPERATURE CHECKS AT THE ENTRANCE EVERY DAY?  

Yes.  You should plan for your child’s temperature to be taken each morning at drop off before you leave the premises.  As per our Communicable Disease Policy, any child or adult who has an oral temperature of 101 degrees or higher or an axillary (armpit) temperature of 100 degrees or higher will be excluded.  Children or adults with fever shall not be readmitted until fever has been gone for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medication). 

WOULD YOU PLEASE DO QUALITY CHECKS ON THE THERMOMETERS, AND COMPARE DIFFERENT TYPES OF THERMOMETERS TO MAKE SURE YOU’RE CHOOSING THE MOST RELIABLE AND VALID THERMOMETER AVAILABLE? 

We have recently ordered new, high quality thermometers for both campuses.

WHAT IF A STUDENT COMES TO SCHOOL SICK OR DEVELOPS SYMPTOMS WHILE AT SCHOOL?

If students are exhibiting any cold and flu related symptoms at school, they will immediately be sent to the clinic area near the front desk. They will be isolated from other students and screened for symptoms. Parents or guardians will be contacted and asked to pick up their children.  

WHAT IF A STUDENT IS EXPOSED TO COVID-19 OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL?

If households suspect their student has been exposed to Covid-19, they should contact the health district and HDMS immediately. HDMS will work with the Washoe County Health District to determine the severity of the exposure and conduct contact tracing.  Students should not return to school until cleared.

WHAT IS THE CONTINGENCY PLAN WHEN SOMEONE (TEACHER OR STUDENT) TESTS POSITIVE FOR COVID? DOES THAT CLASSROOM MOVE TO DISTANCE LEARNING FOR TWO WEEKS? WHAT IF THE STUDENT HAS SPED SERVICES AND HAS EXPOSURE BEYOND THE CLASSROOM?  

We are working closely with the Washoe County Health District and will follow their guidance on a case by case basis.

WITH THE TIGHTER REGULATIONS ON STAYING HOME WHEN SICK, HOW WILL YOU MAKE SURE TO HAVE ENOUGH SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS? 

HDMS is always hiring substitutes.  In addition, we have several teaching assistants with substitute teaching license who could be used in the classrooms as needed. We encourage all families to reach out to those who may be interested and encourage them to apply.  

ARE THE TEACHERS EXPECTED TO DEAL WITH HOW TRAUMATIZED KIDS WILL BE AND HOW TRAUMATIZING IT WILL BE FOR THE KIDS DEPENDING ON WHAT THE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT WILL BE NOW? WILL TEACHERS BE SUPPORTED BECAUSE THIS IS NO DOUBT GOING TO BE TRAUMATIZING FOR THEM AS WELL.  

Our staff will be receiving ongoing training including courses such as the American Red Cross’ “Psychological First Aid: Supporting Yourself and Others During COVID-19”

HOW ARE TEACHERS AND OTHER ADULTS WHO WORK IN THE BUILDING GOING TO BE PROTECTED? 

Please see the “Safety Procedures” section of this newsletter.

WILL MY CHILD EVEN BE ABLE TO LEARN IN AN ENVIRONMENT THAT WILL MOST LIKELY BE SCARY FOR THEM? 

We all miss our students and their families. We will do our best to return to normal routines and develop new routines where the old way is not possible.  We will continue to create a safe and respectful learning environment for all children. 

IF THE CHILD DOES NOT COMPLY WITH WEARING A MASK, WHAT WOULD HAPPEN?

We understand wholeheartedly that wearing a mask, especially with our younger children, may be a challenge. All teachers will be teaching grace and courtesy lessons specifically for mask wearing.

DO THE PRE-K KIDS NEED TO WEAR MASKS DURING NAPS?

We will not require students to wear masks while sleeping.

ARE THE KIDS ALLOWED TO BE MASK-FREE DURING OUTSIDE RECESS AND IF SO HOW MANY CHILDREN WILL BE ON THE PLAYGROUND AT ANY GIVEN TIME?

Children can play during recess without masks as long as they are maintaining a reasonable social distance. Groups will be limited in size at all times.

WHAT DO LUNCHES LOOK LIKE REGARDING PROXIMITY WITH KIDS?

We will maintain a six foot social distance between children while eating.

HOW WILL ENRICHMENT FEES FOR GRADES 1-8 BE ADJUSTED IF CHILDREN WILL NOT PHYSICALLY BE IN SCHOOL FIVE DAYS A WEEK? 

Enrichment Fees will be prorated for families that choose the Hybrid Model.  Drop in rates will remain the same.  Full time After Care (3:30 pm-5:30 pm) and Morning Care (7:30 am-8:30 am) (for those attending 5 days a week) will remain the same.  Please see our updated rate sheet for more detail.

DO DISTANCE LEARNING PARENTS HAVE TO PAY THE FULL SUPPLY FEE, WILL THERE BE A HOME SUPPLY LIST?

At this time, we will be requesting the full $125 supply fee for each Distance Learning student. Supply fees are used for many purposes, including the purchase of costly Montessori materials, classroom furniture, field trips, and renewable classroom supplies.  HDMS also incurs regular costs with our Distance Learning students (providing laptops, copying materials, mailings, etc.)

HOW WILL PRIMARY TUITION FEES BE ADJUSTED SINCE CHILDREN WILL NOT PHYSICALLY BE IN SCHOOL FIVE DAYS A WEEK?

We will be offering 5 different attendance programs for Primary Students (please see the “Reopening Key Points” section of the website).  Please see our updated rate sheet on our website.

Monthly Rates for 3 & 4 Year Old Programs

Full Distance Learning- $500

Half Day- $500

Hybrid- $500

School Day- $700

Extended Day- $900

Monthly Rates for Kindergarten Program

Full Distance Learning- free

Half Day- free

Hybrid– free

School Day- free

Extended Day- $300

FOR THE PRIMARY PROGRAM, HOW WILL HOLIDAYS, EARLY DISMISSAL DAYS, AND BREAKS BE AFFECTED? WILL THERE BE ANY CARE PROVIDED AND, IF NOT, WILL TUITION BE ADJUSTED?

A year round calendar will be provided to Primary Extended Day Families.

WILL AN EXTENDED DAY PROGRAM BE OFFERED IN THE PRIMARY PROGRAM?  WHAT WILL THE HOURS BE?

Yes.  The hours will be 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM. (corrected hours from 7/22 newsletter)

FOR PRE-K FAMILIES WHO AREN’T COMFORTABLE RETURNING TO SCHOOL AT THIS TIME, WILL WE LOSE OUR CHILD’S ENROLLMENT SPOT AT SCHOOL? (WILL WE JUST HAVE TO CHANCE IT AND ENTER THE LOTTERY IN ORDER TO OBTAIN A KINDERGARTEN SPOT THE FOLLOWING YEAR?)

We will be offering a Full-Distance Learning model which will hold your child’s Pre-K spot in our Primary Program.  We are working with our Enrollment Team in determining guidelines for families who choose to leave then want to return. We will keep you updated on this.