Click here to view the video message from Superintendent Mike Folks with Spanish captions.
*Note: since this article was published, the 2021-2022 safety protocols were adopted by the USD Board of Education. You can view a full description of the protocols by clicking here.
On Tuesday, August 3, 2021, Hutchinson Public Schools Superintendent, Mike Folks, announced the COVID-19 Safety Protocols for the upcoming 2021-2022 school year.
“District leadership has been researching and receiving input from various medical and state agencies over the past few weeks, and have determined district protocol in response to the prevalence of the Delta Variant in Reno County,” said Folks, “The Delta Variant has been found to be easily transmitted and prone to cause serious health issues in young people.”
The goal of Hutchinson Public Schools for the 2021-2022 school year is to keep students in school for the entire year. This goal also includes keeping staff and students safe, providing sustainability by limiting the number of changes to protocols, and providing as much normalcy as possible so we can continue to deliver the best educational opportunities for our students.
The following safety protocols will begin tomorrow, Wednesday, August 4, 2021:
o All students, staff and visitors will be required to wear a mask indoors in all USD 308 facilities, regardless of vaccination status.
o Outdoor activities and events will not require masks, but are recommended.
o No temperature checks will occur by the district before entering USD 308 buildings.
o It is recommended that staff and families practice home symptom screenings prior to coming to work or school.
o COVID-19 vaccination is not required by the district, but it is encouraged to all who are eligible to receive the vaccine.
“Thanks for your help, and thanks for your understanding. I look forward to kicking off a great new school year in a few days,” said USD 308 Superintendent, Mike Folks.
These protocols are subject to final Board of Education approval before becoming policy on Monday, August 9, 2021.