Finding The Balance – Superintendent’s Blog

7/12/2021

Dear Parents, 

Planning for the 2021/2022 school year has been much different than this time last year.  I know everyone is anxious to get back to “normal.”  While we still have a degree of caution for the coming year, we are trying to move toward normal.  Our philosophy continues to be finding a balance between caution for our community and freedom for individuals.   This communication is to let you know what I am thinking as we move toward the start of school.  New information from LHSAA, CDC, and any other medical institution could alter our plans, however I felt some communication is better than none at this point.  The following are some bullet points of information concerning this topic: 

• We will still work through our COVID-19 task force that includes both school nurses, Martha Long, Ochsner, and others.
• Our FLEX program can accommodate a degree of isolation that is more extensive than our traditional program if that is a comfort for some. 
• I do not anticipate wearing masks, but any staff or student who wishes will certainly be permitted to wear one. 
• We will revert to our normal sickness policy for all divisions.  If your child/staff is sick, stay home until symptom free as per our handbook.  This simple procedure is effective in controlling sickness on our campus.
• Vaccinations are a personal choice.  We do not have a position for or against vaccinations.  Myocarditis in youth who have been vaccinated or who have had COVID is a concern still being investigated.
• PBS will follow required guidelines from LHSAA or other entities that may require non-vaccinated individuals to quarantine if exposed to COVID-19.  This is a parent choice, but could affect athletic competition or time away from the academic school day.
• I do not anticipate having to do temperature checks at drop off or at events unless required.  Parents need to monitor their own children.  Our nursing staff will temperature check students as we desire.  Our policy for fever will be followed.
• Division level procedures will be followed for disinfecting rooms, etc.   

More information will follow as we approach the start of school.  I appreciate the high level of understanding and cooperation we received from students and parents last year.  Working together, we were able to make it a success.