GDOE OPERATIONS DURING PCOR 1

Face-to-Face Instruction Anticipated to Begin on January 19, 2021

The Guam Education Board has approved plans to reopen Guam Department of Education schools for face-to-face instruction on January 19, 2021, subject to authorization from the Governor and Superintendent. Face-to-face instruction will be permitted on a limited basis using an alternating schedule. Parents/guardians will have the opportunity to enroll their children in either face-to-face learning or distance learning from home.

GDOE Facilities Closed to the General Public

While GDOE will continue to be operational during PCOR 1, all GDOE facilities, to include schools and the GDOE central offices in Tiyan, will be closed to the general public until further notice outside of essential educational activities. Employees and contractors will continue to have access to GDOE buildings. Members of the community may contact each school or division over the phone or via email. Offices and schools may be contacted at the following directory: https://www.gdoe.net/District/Portal/Directory.

All GDOE Employees Remain on Regular Duty 

All GDOE employees, to include school and central office employees, are on regular duty. Employees should contact their immediate supervisor for guidance regarding their reporting schedule. Teleworking may be authorized subject to approval and execution of a teleworking agreement. 

Safety Reminders

The safety of GDOE students and employees remains a top priority. All stakeholders are reminded that face coverings are required while on GDOE facilities or campuses. There will continue to be screening conducted at the front entrance of facilities and physical distancing will be required at all times. GDOE stakeholders are also reminded to practice all mandated health and safety guidelines. 

LAPTOP DISTRIBUTION APPLICATIONS NOW AVAILABLE

The application process for the Guam Department of Education (GDOE) laptop distribution for secondary students is now available at all GDOE secondary schools. 

The GDOE will be distributing roughly 8,000 laptops to middle and high school students in need. Schools are in the process of identifying available computer inventory and finalizing the process for distribution. Applications are now available at secondary schools. Laptop applications may be downloaded at each school's website, or parents may contact their child's school over the phone or via email to receive the application.

The laptop distribution aims to provide computer equipment to students based on need. Students/families interested in applying to receive a laptop to facilitate distance learning will need to complete and submit a laptop distribution application form. Some of the factors schools will look at when selecting students to receive laptops will include whether or not the student currently has access to a computer at home, access to the internet, and whether a student is currently engaged with their classes. Once selected, students will need to comply with school requirements and fill out all necessary forms.

Roughly 8,000 laptops will be distributed once the program launches. An additional 10,000 computers are being purchased and are expected to arrive this December. The procurement for these additional laptops is being administered by the GDOE Federal Programs Division State Educational Agency and funded by the Education Stabilization Fund - Site Educational Agency under the CARES Act.

At this time, the current GDOE models of learning will remain in place and shifting to the hard copy model of learning is no longer permitted. Any requests to shift models of learning will now be made on a case by case basis. 

“We are excited to launch our plans to distribute technology to our students and families in need,” GDOE Superintendent Jon Fernandez said. “While we had originally planned to roll out technology to students over the course of several months, we accelerated that timeline based on our shift to full home learning and the needs of our students and families.”

“Our schools have been working tirelessly to inventory available resources so that we can get this equipment to our students as quickly as possible,” Deputy Superintendent Joe Sanchez said. “We hope that providing these additional resources will help our students and families to better adjust to the new models of learning.”

District School Readiness Task Force

The Superintendent of Education appointed the GDOE School Readiness Task Force in May 2020. The School Readiness Task Force is following Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance and working with government leaders, healthcare experts, school administrators, teachers and parents to plan the reopening of GDOE schools during School Year 2020-2021. The School Readiness Task Force consists of seven committees:

1. Operations, Safety and Social Distancing 
2. Curriculum & Distance Learning 
3. Sports
4. Personnel Management 
5. Social & Emotional Wellness 
6. Community and Public Information
7. Budget and Finance

The first day of classes for students for School Year 2020-2021 was August 17, 2020. Schools continue to operate through 100% distance learning. The face-to-face learning model of instruction, which is one of three models of learning approved for this school year, is anticipated to begin on January 19, 2021.

School Safety & COVID-19

As Guam navigates the evolving COVID-19 health situation, safety remains the top priority for all Guam Department of Education schools. The GDOE is working to safely reopen schools this fall through new safety protocols aligned with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to include: 

• Wearing a mask while on GDOE school campuses and facilities
• Temperature checks upon arrival
• Physical distancing
• Frequent cleaning of common areas and high traffic areas/surfaces
• Frequent washing of hands
• COVID-19 health education for students and staff
• Posted safety signs and protocols

Approved Models of Instruction for School Year 2020-2021

Due to COVID-19 safety concerns, the Guam Education Board has approved three models of instruction for School Year 2020-2021. Beginning January 19, 2021, all three models of instruction are anticipated to be offered, and parents may select which model their child will participate in. Families who would like their children to attend traditional face-to-face classes should have submitted the required selection form by December 18, 2020. 

1. Home Learning Online Instruction (Online Learning): This model of instruction and attendance is 100% online home learning. Students participate in classes online and are required to have a computer or tablet, and reliable internet access. Additionally, though not necessarily required, access to a printer and scanner is beneficial. 
2. Home Learning Hard Copies (Paper Based/Hard Copy Curriculum): This model of instruction and attendance is for students who would like to do 100% distance learning but do not have the equipment to support 100% online work. This would be a home learning model supported by a paper-based or hard copy based curriculum.
3. THIS MODEL OF INSTRUCTION IS ANTICIPATED TO BEGIN ON JAN. 19, 2021: Traditional (Face-to-Face): This model of instruction and attendance will be for students who will be participating in traditional face-to-face classes in school. Due to safety and physical distancing considerations, the Guam Education Board has approved the District School Readiness Task Force recommendation of using an A- B or A-B-C alternating schedule, where either 1/2 or 1/3 of students attend classes on any given school day. The A-B or A-B-C alternating schedule entails the following:
   • Students are divided up into equally sized alphabetical cohorts (A-B, or A-B-C). Efforts will be made to align schedules of siblings in the same or multiple schools. 
   • Cohorts will alternate days for physical attendance on campus.
   • On days when students are not physically on campus, they will have assignments, projects or activities to complete and submit when they return. These assignments, projects, or activities can be provided and completed electronically or through hard copy depending on students' access to equipment and the internet.
   • Alternating days will follow the same order and adjust accordingly for holidays.
   • Fridays will be designated as student interventions and parent support days.

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FAQs FOR PARENTS

Downloadable FAQ sheets for parents (in English, Chuukese and Pohnpeian) are available at the links below:

• ParentFAQSheet_English
• ParentFAQSheet_Chuukese
• ParentFAQSheet_Pohnpeian
• Thank you to Manelu for volunteering to provide these translations for our school communities!

Are schools currently open to the public?

• No. Due to the ongoing public health emergency and guidance from public health experts and executive orders issued by Governor Lourdes Leon Guerrero, schools remain closed to students at this time. However, the face-to-face model of learning is expected to begin for registered students on January 19, 2021, subject to authorization by the Governor and Superintendent.

What safety protocols should parents be aware of when visiting GDOE facilities/schools?

• Visitors, parents and guardians should call ahead prior to visiting each school in order to avoid crowding in school offices. All entering GDOE campuses are required to wear a mask, and visitors should report immediately to the main office where temperature screening will be conducted. Visitors may be asked to wait in their vehicles should doing so be necessary to enforce social distancing guidelines. When submitting registration documents, parents/guardians should call ahead to schedule an appointment. 

What safety protocols are in place to ensure my child is safe at school and to prevent the spread of COVID-19? 

• As Guam navigates the evolving COVID-19 situation, safety remains a top priority for all Guam Department of Education schools. The GDOE is working to safely reopen schools this fall through new safety protocols aligned with guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to include: 

  • Wearing a mask (or face shield for young children) while on all GDOE facilities

  • Temperature checks upon arrival

  • Physical distancing

  • Frequent cleaning of common areas and high traffic areas/surfaces

  • Frequent washing of hands

  • COVID-19 health education for students and staff 

  • Posted safety signs and protocols 

What is the process should a student or employee test positive for COVID-19?

• Once GDOE receives notice of a student or employee with a confirmed positive COVID-19 diagnosis, GDOE will immediately coordinate with the Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS). Notification will be provided to employees or students of that respective school/division. A COVID-19 contact investigation will be initiated by DPHSS to determine which employees and students have been exposed to the index case based on a review of the following:

  • Class rosters

  • Bus schedule

  • Students that transferred during the infectious time frame

  • Cafeteria staff

  • Cleaning staff

  • Employees and visitors listing

• Employees and students that have been identified as contacts to the confirmed case of COVID-19 will be excluded from work and school for 14 days, and the GDOE Nursing Administrator will coordinate with DPHSS to set up a testing schedule. The division or school will be closed for 2-5 days according to CDC guidance for cleaning and disinfecting. Employees and students will require a clearance letter issued by DPHSS before they can resume school or work.

What will the school instruction be like for my child this coming school year? 

• The Guam Education Board has approved three models of instruction for School Year 2020-2021. Parents may select which of the three models their child will participate in:

  • Home Learning Online Instruction (Online Learning): This model of instruction and attendance is 100% online home learning. Students will participate in classes online and are required to have a computer or tablet, and reliable internet access. Additionally, though not necessarily required, access to a printer and scanner is beneficial.

  • Home Learning Hard Copies (Paper Based/Hard Copy Curriculum): This model of instruction and attendance is for students who would like to do 100% distance learning but do not have the equipment to support 100% online work. This would be a home learning model supported by a paper-based or hard copy based curriculum.

  • THIS MODEL IS ANTICIPATED TO BEGIN ON JAN. 19 2021: Traditional (Face-to-Face): This model of instruction and attendance will be for students who will be participating in a blended model of face-to-face and distance (home) learning. Due to safety and physical distancing considerations, the Guam Education Board has approved using an A-B-C alternating schedule, where 1/3 of students attend classes on any given school day. The proposed A-B-C alternating schedule entails the following:

    • Students are divided up into equally sized alphabetical cohorts (A, B, C). Efforts will be made to align schedules of siblings in the same or multiple schools.

    • Cohorts will alternate days for physical attendance on campus.

    • On days when students are not physically on campus, they will have assignments, projects or activities to complete and submit when they return. These assignments, projects, or activities can be provided and completed electronically or through hard copy depending on students' access to equipment and the internet.

    • Alternating days will follow the same order and adjust accordingly for holidays.

    • Fridays will be designated as student interventions and parent support days. 

What support will GDOE be offering to help parents who are educating their children at home through the home learning options or face-to-face off days?

• GDOE will be offering support to all students and parents every Friday. Each child, regardless of the instructional model they are enrolled in, will have a dedicated teacher for their course or classes. Every Friday, teachers will be available to support parents and students with any issues or questions they may have regarding the week’s assignments and materials. This support may be provided over the phone or online.

What do I need to do if my child is sick with COVID-19 symptoms?

• If your child has any symptoms of COVID-19 (fever of 100.4 degrees Farenheit and higher, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, new loss of taste or smell, etc.), do not bring your child to school. Please inform the teacher and School Health Counselor (School Nurse) right away so they can monitor other students in the class for symptoms. The school nurse/GDOE nursing administrator will coordinate and confirm the appropriate response with DPHSS. Students presenting with COVID-19 symptoms will be referred to their private healthcare provider and/or DPHSS to be cleared before returning to school. If your child tests positive for COVID-19, please inform the school right away.

Am I required to purchase uniforms for my child this year?

• No. The Guam Education Board suspended the uniform policy this school year to help parents who may be struggling financially. While uniforms are not mandatory, they are optional for those who prefer to use them. Schools will provide dress code guidelines for those opting not to wear the uniforms.

How will the busing situation be different this year?

• Additional safety measures will be put in place on school buses. The Department of Public Works is currently working with the Physicians Advisory Group to determine final safety protocols for busing operations.

What social and emotional wellness resources is GDOE able to offer my child? 

• Social and emotional resources for parents and students are available at https://www.gdoe.net/District/Portal/social-and-emotional-wellness. If you believe your child is in need of further support, please contact your child’s school counselor for social and emotional screening, the Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center at 647-5440, or contact your health insurance provider for the listing of available therapists in private practice. Families may also contact the Guam Crisis Hotline at 647-8833.

How will my child’s clubs/organizations be affected?

• Student sports and activities are not permitted at this time.

How will students practice physical distancing during lunch?

• Students will either practice physical distancing in the cafeteria or eat their lunch in their classrooms. Students will transition as usual and with the potential for increased rules and guidelines provided by each school. The decreased number of students on campus will assist with physical distancing.

Will students be taught the new safety procedures at school?

• Yes. Students will have to learn the new safety protocols at school.

SPED FAQs FOR PARENTS

What is GDOE’s obligation to my child during the COVID-10 pandemic?

• Your child’s school continues to be required to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). FAPE must be provided consistent with the need to protect the health and safety of students with disabilities and those individuals providing education services to these students. When the Guam Department of Education provides educational services to the general student population, such as through distance learning, it must provide comparable opportunities to students with disabilities, tailored to their individual needs, to the greatest extent possible.

How can we make changes to the IEP if we are not allowed to meet in person?

• The IDEA and State law regarding special education allows parents and school personnel to agree to amend an IEP outside of an IEP meeting except when the purpose of the IEP meeting is to conduct an annual review of the IEP.

How will the IEP amendments be determined?

• You will be contacted by your child’s IEP case manager or another member of the IEP team to discuss the services, supports, goals and objectives in your child’s current IEP. Together, you will determine whether and how each of the parts of the IEP can be implemented during the school closure and in light of the current Island wide restrictions that have resulted from the Governor’s Stay at Home Order. It is possible that the services provided and the frequency of the services may change from how they were delivered when schools were in session. Your input is very important in this process. The IEP can be amended outside of an IEP meeting with your agreement. Once you agree, the IEP may be implemented immediately. You will not be required to provide written consent when you agree to amendments outside of an IEP meeting. You have the right to request a formal IEP meeting if you are uncomfortable with the informal discussion for any reason.

What if my child was in the process of being evaluated before school buildings closed?

• If the evaluations can be done remotely the team may continue to complete them and move forward with determining eligibility if you provide written consent. Be prepared that the process may have to be delayed until school can resume. If assessments are needed that require face-to-face interaction with your child and there is not enough data to determine eligibility without those assessments, the team should note this and complete the process once schools reopen.

What do I do if my child’s circumstances have really changed (e.g., new behaviors)?

• You should share your concerns with your child’s IEP case manager or other school staff that is working with your child. If you and the school staff agree to make additions or changes to the IEP to address the child’s needs, that can be done through an amendment. If necessary, an IEP meeting can be called to address these concerns during this time if you and the school staff cannot agree on how to amend the IEP. In addition, when school resumes the IEP team, including you, will meet to discuss any concerns you have including any changes or additional needs your child may have developed during the time that school buildings were closed.

With the three (3) proposed learning models how does it change the role of the 1:1 aide?

• The role of the aide will remain the same as a support to the assigned student and teacher. It would be the delivery of supports that would change to align with the learning modality.

Where can I get help if I have more questions?

• You should seek the help of each school administrator and the Division of Special Education office. The Division of Special Education Office may be reached at 300-1322 or via email at sped@gdoe.net.