The Pennsylvania Department of Education has made several updates to the guidance and FAQ. Updated topics include:
- OCDEL Continuity of Education
- Distributing Technology
- Fingerprinting
- English Learners – provisional identification procedure
- Graduation Ceremonies
- Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) Fund FAQ
- Library – Re-opening Framework
- Medical/Nursing Training Programs
- Closed Schools (retrieving personal belongings)
- Data Collection Updates (PIMS)
Also, as instruction continues through a variety of virtual learning platforms, the Department would like to remind LEAs/schools that it is important to safeguard personally identifiable student information, including photos and video, as required by local district media policies and protections provided under FERPA. Be aware that taking screenshots of students is the equivalent of taking photos and all of the same local practices for photographic images that ensure student privacy should be followed.
- Turnaround for Children | Resources For The Three Rs: Relationships, Routines and Resilience. Check out a list of resources here.
- AFT Mental Health Resources: Helpful Information and Tips for Dealing with COVID-19
- AFT has been working diligently to develop comprehensive resources to help educate and guide members and the community at large about best practices and proper protocol. We urge you to examine the AFT resources here.
- Within those resources, you will find K-12 guidance, fact sheets, resources in English and Spanish, as well as sharable infographics
- The PA Department of Health also has a number of resources available, and an entire section of resources dedicated to K-12 guidance.
- The PA Department of Education, too, has been working diligently to prepare information and enact emergency protocol. You’ll find significant information on their website. We have been in frequent communication with the PDE.
- The School District of Philadelphia also has a section on their website.
- The Inquirer has lifted its paywall on COVID coverage, and you can stay up to date on the latest news here.
- CDC – Manage Anxiety & Stress
- Philadelphia School District’s Employee Assistance Program
- Free Library of Philadelphia Digital Media Featured Database
- AFT – Trauma Counseling Programs and Services
- PhilaPOSH – COVID-19 resources, documents, and specific advice for workers in healthcare settings.