Yakima Schools Return to In-Person Learning

Last month, the Washington State Department of Health released new guidelines for schools. As a result of the new guidelines, Yakima Schools is planning a full return to in-person learning with the start of the new school year.

The new guidelines include:

• All students, school personnel, volunteers, and visitors must wear at least a cloth face covering or an acceptable alternative when indoors and outdoors where a minimum of six feet distancing cannot be maintained.

• Schools must have basic ventilation, cleaning, and infection control plans updated to reflect what is currently known about COVID-19.

• In preparation for the potential of COVID-19 infections while at school, schools must have a response plan in place that includes communication with staff, families, their school district, and local health jurisdiction.

• Schools should prepare to provide instruction for students who are excluded from school due to illness or quarantine.

• The physical distancing of at least three feet or more between students in classroom settings and at least six feet or more in most situations outside of the classroom to the degree possible is recommended. However, physical distancing recommendations should not prevent a school from offering full-time, in-person learning to all students/families in the Fall.

• While COVID-19 testing programs and vaccinations are not required for providing in-person learning, these measures can help reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission in schools and the broader community.

Yakima Schools will continue to follow all CDC and DOH guidance to ensure the safety of our kids.

Read the full press release here.