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Answers to Frequently Asked Questions
***Please note - responses to questions are subject to change in accordance with evolving public health guidance and/or directives issued by the Florida Department of Education. The safety of students and staff is the top priority of the Martin County School District. ***
Last Updated: December 11, 2020
To submit additional questions that have not been answered on this page, please email MCSDReopening@martinschools.org.
Instructional Options
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1) What are my enrollment options for the 2020-2021 school year?
Parents may choose from two student attendance models:
1) Students may participate in full-time, traditional (in person) school at their assigned school with enhanced health and safety procedures in place.
2) Students may attend school in a remote learning environment from home via live streaming from teachers’ classrooms at their assigned school. Students attending from home will follow the same curriculum sequence and bell schedule as their peers who are attending school in person. -
2) Why would the District choose to fully reopen schools when COVID-19 cases are rising in our community and state?
The decision to reopen schools at this time is in direct response to the Florida Department of Education’s Emergency Order 2020-EO-06 which was issued and signed by Education Commissioner Corcoran on July 6, 2020.
Within the Emergency Order, Commissioner Corcoran outlines that brick and mortar schools will need to reopen at least five days a week for all students beginning in August or risk the loss of funding. All school districts in Florida are required to submit their reopening plans to the DOE by July 31, 2020. We are working with our community partners to mitigate risk and protect the health and safety of staff and students.
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3) Will each learning option offer the same classes?
Yes, students will follow their regular class schedule and receive full-day instruction whether they are attending school in person or participating in remote learning from home.
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4) Will the remote learning option be identical to the distance learning we experienced during the final months of last school year?
The remote learning option for the 2020-2021 school year is not the same as the distance learning families participated in last school year.
In order to maintain instructional continuity, students participating in the remote learning option will receive direct instruction from their classroom teacher(s) through the livestreaming of each class.
Students who choose this option will maintain their enrollment status at their assigned school and follow their assigned course schedule. Attendance will be taken each period. Students/teachers will follow the same curriculum sequence as their peers in school and can easily transition to in-person attendance in school when they are ready. Services including mental health, counseling, and interventions will be made available. Parents should provide adult supervision and support for young children.
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5) Will my child be able to participate in recess?
Recess time will be provided and will be organized to allow for a limited number of students to be participating in any one location. Outdoor recess will be a mask-free zone while students are outside and social distancing. For students who participate in remote learning, recess will be at the discretion of the parent. Playground equipment will not be open for use at this time.
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6) If I choose the remote learning option, will I need to provide my own computer, tablet or laptop for my child?
No. All students enrolled in a District-operated school who are not currently in possession of a device will be eligible to receive a Google Chromebook. Devices will be distributed at schools August 5 - 7, 2020.
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7) If I choose the traditional option, what will happen if my child’s school or all schools close again like last Spring?
If schools are ordered to be closed by the Governor or the local Health Department, schools will begin remote learning for everyone as per the Martin County School District's Back to School Decision Tree. A structured schedule for instruction and teaching will be made available at that time. Student expectations for attendance and learning will be made clear. Ongoing training for teachers will continue throughout the fall to support engaging online instruction.
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8) If I choose the remote learning option for my middle or high school student, will they be able to participate in athletics?
Yes, students will remain eligible to participate in athletics at their assigned school.
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9) If I choose the remote learning option, will my middle or high school student be able to participate in programs or academies such as International Baccalaureate, Cambridge AICE, Advanced Placement, Career & Technical Education (CTE) courses or AVID?
The remote learning option will allow students to livestream directly into their teachers’ classrooms at school. While many aspects of lessons will translate seamlessly into the remote learning format, some courses include hands-on lessons and experiences that will not be available in the remote learning environment.
*Note: In-person attendance may be required in specialty programs when work-based learning and/or Industry Certification requires the demonstration of technical skills attainment. Contact site instructor with questions.
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10) Will teachers be expected to teach both in person and online simultaneously? How will the District address any logistical challenges that may arise as teachers are trying to accommodate the learning and questions from in person and remote learners at the same time?
Teachers will teach from their classrooms; students who are present in the classroom will receive lessons in person and students who are participating in the remote learning option will participate in the livestream. Teachers will not be required to create two different plans.
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11) If I choose to have my child start the year participating in one learning option and decide that I want to transfer to the other, will this be possible? How long will I be expected to commit to one option for my child?
The commitment to a learning option will be at least through the middle of the first quarter. Our intention is to evaluate and offer viable options toward the end of September 2020. In an extenuating circumstance, parents may contact their school site administrator to inquire about available options.
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12) How does live streaming work? If my child is participating in learning at school and other students are streaming lessons live from home, how will you protect my child’s privacy if I do not want them to be photographed?
The District’s streaming of live classroom lessons does not involve photographing or recording anyone, including students. Classrooms, however, are not private places. Classrooms are rooms in which public education is delivered to multiple students who are also members of the public.
Ordinary classroom instruction during which the likeness of a student is recorded would fall within material that is able to be disclosed under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
Again, the District will not be recording anyone, including students. Students will participate in a live classroom experience, as they always do, with their classmates, who will be attending both in person, and through virtual technology so that the District can fulfill its mission of educating all students for success during the COVID-19 pandemic. For more information about FERPA, please visit: https://studentprivacy.ed.gov/faq/faqs-photos-and-videos-under-ferpa.
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13) How will my child take District assessments and tests created by teachers remotely?
Students will be able to take all District assessments and tests created by teachers remotely. Our testing platforms such as iReady and Performance Matters are web-based, allowing users to access anywhere the internet is available.
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14) Will a student be permitted to take some courses in person at the school building and their remaining classes at home?
This concept is being investigated for feasibility. If a student is enrolled in a course first period that he/she would like to take in person, the travel time to go home after first period would not allow him/her to participate in second period remotely. Once student commitments have been made, staff will investigate this possibility for potential changes to make part-time remote learning and part-time in-person learning possible.
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15) If my child is participating in the remote learning option, will they have access to the teacher to ask questions and participate in real-time?
Yes, students will be able to participate in learning and class discussions in real-time. Students will be using Zoom to access the classrooms. There is a hand raising feature as well as a small group feature within Zoom. Students learning at home will have access to the same materials and resources that students learning in a brick and mortar setting have.
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16) I have been hearing a lot about MOSAIC. Why is the District not including this as an available learning option?
MOSAIC is a virtual learning option operated by St. Lucie County Public Schools. While it is available to students residing in Martin and St. Lucie counties, Martin County students electing to participate in the program do not retain their enrollment in the Martin County School District - they are instead enrolled in St. Lucie County Public Schools.
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18) What are the expectations associated with remote learning?
The expectation is that all remote learners follow a regular school day and schedule, as well as all behavior and dress code regulations. Effective November 9, 2020, all students participating in remote learning are expected to have their cameras turned on while participating in classes each day.
Please click here to learn more.
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19) My child is participating in remote learning. Does he/she have to have their device camera turned on?
The Martin County School District has moved to an upgraded Zoom package to enhance security and engagement. Effective Monday, November 9, 2020, all students are expected to have their device cameras turned on while participating in classes each day. Our Educational Technology Department is offering tech support hours to students who need to have camera settings enabled on their District-issued devices:- District Office - 1939 SE Federal Highway, Stuart, FL 34994
- Monday - Friday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Indiantown Middle School - 16303 SW Farm Rd., Indiantown, FL 34956
- Monday - Friday 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. by appointment only**
The remote learning option was introduced as a temporary learning format as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic. As is the expectation for their peers learning in traditional classrooms, students participating in remote learning are expected to actively participate in their lessons and be engaged in school.Please click here to access the student/parent contract for device cameras and face masks.Please click here to view the decision tree related to device cameras and face masks. - District Office - 1939 SE Federal Highway, Stuart, FL 34994
Health and Safety
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1) Will students, staff and visitors be required to wear masks? If so, will they wear them at all times?
At this time, students will be required to wear masks on school buses and on campus any time they are not eating, drinking, or participating in recess/physical education.
Social distancing cannot be guaranteed and is dependent on the number of students and staff in any location at a given time.
All designs and wording present on masks must adhere to the dress code regulations found in the District’s Code of Student Conduct. Employees are required to wear masks at all times they are not physically eating or drinking. Visitors are required to wear masks at all times while on school district property.
Students and staff will be provided with instructions on when and how to properly wear masks, remove masks, and store masks.
Please click the links below to learn more.
¿Qué tan rápido pueden propagarse los gérmenes? -
2) Will teachers or other school personnel have the authority to determine if students are able to remove their masks if students are socially distanced in a classroom setting?
Everyone on campus should expect to wear their mask for the entire day, with the exception of mealtimes and recess. In all other non-emergency and non-mealtime/recess situations, teachers and students must wear their masks at all times inside the school or classroom. Social distancing cannot be guaranteed and is dependent on the numbers of students and staff in any location at a given time.
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3) How will the District enforce the rule that students must wear masks when social distancing is not possible? I do not want my child exposed to illness because another student(s) refuse(s) to follow the rules.
District staff hold the responsibility of ensuring students are wearing their masks at all appropriate times as previously outlined or specifically noted otherwise. Students will be reminded that masks are required while in school and continued refusal to comply with this requirement could result in disciplinary action as outlined below:
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4) What should I do if I would like my child to return to in-person school, but they have a health condition that I believe would preclude them from wearing a mask?
Any parent or legal guardian who feels that having their child wear a mask is contraindicated should provide a note from a physician that states the medical reason for the child’s inability to wear a mask. All medical documentation will be kept confidential. Medical information will be considered through either the IEP or the 504 Accommodation process and a determination for accommodation will be made on an individual basis.
Please contact the Exceptional Student Education Department for additional information at (772) 219-1200, ext. 30406.
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5) If my child participates in traditional, in-person school, what will social distancing look like? Will desks be placed 6 feet apart? Will students have to wear masks in their classrooms if their desks are placed 6 feet apart?
Social distancing will be a primary objective and desks will be spaced 6 feet apart to the greatest extent possible based on class size and space. Social distancing cannot be guaranteed and is dependent on the numbers of students and staff in any location at a given time. Students will be required to wear masks at all times except as noted above.
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6) Will students undergo temperature screenings?
The District continues to partner with the Florida Department of Health in Martin County and local medical professionals to make decisions about health/safety protocols. Experts have not recommended daily temperature screening of all students for the following reasons: fever is only one of many symptoms that children may present with, infected children are just as likely to be asymptomatic as they are to have a fever, infected patients are most likely to transmit the virus in the few days prior to developing symptoms if they become symptomatic, and a normal temperature may create a false sense of security.
In accordance with recommendations released by the Florida Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FCAAP), we are asking parents to screen their child for symptoms each day prior to making the decision about whether or not they should report to school to receive in-person instruction. Our daily screening tool is available here: https://www.martinschools.org/Page/9665.
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7) Will staff undergo temperature screenings?
Staff are expected to monitor their health and stay home if they are sick. Infrared thermometers will be available at employee entrances for use by staff to test for elevated temperatures. Staff with temperatures over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit will be sent home. Staff will be screened using COVID-19 questions upon return from summer break and varies other times as recommended by DOH Martin.
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8) Will visitors undergo temperature screenings?
All visitors and vendors will be required to undergo temperature screenings prior to entering the school or District site. All visitors and vendors will be screened with COVID-19 questions reviewed and approved by DOH Martin. Persons with temperatures over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit will be denied entry.
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9) What will happen if a student or staff member becomes ill?
All students and employees must stay home if they are ill. If a staff member or student exhibits symptoms at school they will be taken to an isolated location in or near the school clinic and their parent or guardian will be notified to take them home. Instructions will be provided re: criteria for returning to school.
Students and staff who have been experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 must stay home until they can answer YES to all of the following questions:
1) Has it been at least ten (10) days since you first experienced symptoms?
2) Have you been without fever for one days (24 hours) without taking any medicine for fever?
3) Has it been at least three days (72 hours) since your symptoms have improved?
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10) What is the protocol for school closure in the event a school receives notice that a student or staff member has tested positive for COVID-19? Will the District notify parents?
If a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19, the District will work closely with DOH Martin to provide contact tracing to ensure that anyone who came in close contact with the Case+ person will be notified by DOH Martin to determine exposure, quarantine measures and testing, if necessary.
Decisions about the closure of schools will be made in partnership with local and state health officials.
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11) What if a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19?
The Martin County School District works directly with the DOH Martin on staff and student illnesses as it relates to COVID 19. DOH Martin will notify the district if a student or staff member tests positive. We will cooperate with DOH Martin as they conduct the appropriate notifications of individuals who have been in contact with the person infected. DOH Martin will give direction on possible school closure as well as intensive cleaning protocols as necessary. If there is a short-term, temporary school closure, the closure will be treated on a case by case basis and follow DOH Martin recommendations.
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12) Will students be expected to practice social distancing?
Social distancing cannot be guaranteed and is dependent on the numbers of students and staff in any location at a given time. Every effort will be made to provide for social distancing across all school settings based on CDC guidance. Desks in classrooms will be distanced to the greatest extent possible and the distance will be dependent on the number of students physically present in each classroom. Desks will be turned to face the same direction. Physical guides, such as tape on the floors or sidewalks will be visible to assist with distancing.
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13) What steps will be taken to ensure surfaces are clean? How often will classrooms, communal areas and school buses be cleaned?
Operations and custodial staff will clean frequently touched surfaces throughout the day and conduct overall cleanings at the conclusion of every day. In addition, all occupied interior areas and classrooms will be disinfected each evening. Other non-custodial staff members will be expected to do their part in keeping surfaces clean and will be provided with the necessary products for additional cleaning. Teachers will have access to cleaning supplies for their classrooms.
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14) What other steps are being taken to ensure a healthy environment?
In conjunction with DOH Martin, Schools will educate students on the importance of hand washing, hygiene, and social distancing. Hand sanitizer will be made available in classrooms and workplaces. Additional custodial equipment has been purchased to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of cleaning and disinfecting protocols. Classrooms will be set-up to allow for maximum distance between student stations as physical space allows. Shared items will be discouraged.
Indoor air quality improvements are in process and buildings are following the ASHRAE Evidence Level A recommendations as outlined in the ASHRAE Position Document on Infectious Aerosols. The District is working to enhance air filters with higher MERV 13 ratings dependent on our existing equipment's ability to operate with the increased level of filtration. Local exhaust ventilation will be increased. Outdoor air ventilation shall be increased and outdoor dampers set to 100% as conditions permit to bring in as much outdoor air as possible.
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15) Will parents and volunteers be allowed on campus?
At this time, parents, volunteers, and visitors will be limited to essential business and by appointment only. Parents will not be permitted to walk their children to class or eat lunch with their child at school until further notice.
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16) Will the new procedures and policies change the way students participate in safety drills?
Lockdown drills will be conducted as “table top” exercises until further notice. Students will be given instruction on what to do in the event of a real emergency, along with other safety messaging.
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17) Will students and staff have access to water fountains?
Drinking fountains will be available for use. Students and staff may also bring their own water bottles to school.
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18) Will my child be permitted to wear a face shield instead of a mask?
The term “masks” has been used as a generalized term but in the case of returning to school, the terms “masks” and “face coverings” can be used interchangeably. In short, a mask or face covering is acceptable as long as the following rules are followed:
- Surgical masks will be made available to those in need.
- Designs and language depicted on masks/face coverings must meet the guidelines outlined in the Code of Student Conduct.
- Masks/face coverings must be properly worn and cover the nose and mouth at all times except when eating or drinking.
- Neck gaiters that cover the mouth and nose are permitted, however, they may only cover the mouth and nose. They may not be worn to cover the entire head with only the eyes showing.
- Face SHIELDS are not considered a mask or face covering. Students are permitted to wear face shields only when they are worn in conjunction with a mask or face covering.
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Any parent or legal guardian who feels that having their child wear a mask is contraindicated should provide a note from a physician that states the medical reason for the child’s inability to wear a mask. All medical documentation will be kept confidential. Medical information will be considered through either the IEP or the 504 Accommodation process and a determination for accommodation will be made on an individual basis.
Please contact the Exceptional Student Education Department for additional information at (772) 219-1200, ext. 30406.
Notes:
- Face shields do not offer the same protection from droplets in the air as a face covering does. These droplets can remain in the air for as long as 24 hours and the face shields permit air to circulate around them and into the breathing zone. They may also “capture” droplets and hold them close to the nose and mouth for a longer period depending on the design of the face shield.
- Surgical masks will be made available to those in need.
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19) What’s the difference between “quarantine” and “isolation”?
Quarantine keeps someone who might have been exposed to the virus away from others. “Quarantine is for contacts”
Isolation separates people who are infected with the virus away from people who are not infected. “Isolation for infected/ill”
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20) How do I know if I need to quarantine or self-isolate?
Quarantine: Anyone who has been in close contact (within 6 feet for longer than 15 minutes) with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 whether one or both parties was wearing a mask or not. Students, parents/guardians and employees will be notified if they have been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 and will need to quarantine as a result.
Isolation: People who have COVID-19 and people who have symptoms of COVID-19 and are able to recover at home. People who have no symptoms (are asymptomatic) but have tested positive for COVID-19.
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21) Has criteria been established to define when a classroom or school would transition from in-person to remote learning due to spread of COVID-19?
The K-12 Pandemic Response Team has developed the pictured criteria, which was presented to the School Board on July 21, 2020.
Parents/guardians must be mindful that remote learning will be implemented for students attending school in person if a decision is made (in collaboration with local health officials) to close a classroom(s) or school(s).
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22) What are the immunization requirements this year? Will my child have to have an updated immunization form on file if they are participating in remote learning?
Students who will be returning to school in person or enrolled in remote learning must have a current Florida Certificate of Immunization (DH 680) form on file.
Parents/guardians who choose not to vaccinate their child must provide the appropriate exemption form (DH 680, DH 681) to their child's school. Please click here to learn more.
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23) Will students who are experiencing symptoms of illness report to the clinic at their school?
Each school will have two clinic settings available for students. "Clinic 1" will be used for students in need of first aid or the dispensing of medication. "Clinic 2" will be available as an isolation clinic for students who are exhibiting symptoms commonly associated with COVID-19. Please click here to learn more (information is available on slides 8-10).
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24) How do I know if I should keep my child home from school? What symptoms should I look for?
Parents should review our health screening tool to help them assess their child's symptoms on a daily basis.
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25) What is the quarantine protocol for essential employees? How do I know if I am an essential employee?
ALL District staff are considered essential employees pursuant to this order by Governor DeSantis.
Quarantine for essential workers is as follows:
If an essential worker is identified as a "close contact" of a positive case through contact tracing and needs to continue to work to help with the needs of the school site to provide services, they are an essential worker. These employees must have health checks on arrival, wear a mask at all times and social distance and can work as long as they remain symptom-free. They must immediately report if they have any of the symptoms of COVID-19 and not come to work. When not at work, they must be instructed to quarantine at home for 14 days from last contact with the positive case. They cannot go anywhere else but to work and home.
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26) What is the criteria for transitioning a classroom/ group of students or staff to the quarantine/remote learning protocol?
The Florida Department of Health in Martin County (DOH Martin) advises the District when a classroom or other group of students/staff should be quarantined and transitioned to remote learning. Transitions are carried out in the following scenarios:
1) An individual has tested positive for COVID-19 and the quarantine/transition to remote learning is necessary for all of their contacts
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2) An individual is exhibiting symptoms commonly associated with COVID-19 and has also been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive, and the transition to remote learning is necessary for all of their contacts.
Exceptional Student Education
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1) How will the District complete evaluations once school reopens?
The District will continue to work collaboratively with parents to complete all evaluations within the required statutory timelines. Assessments that must be completed in-person to assure the validity and reliability of the results will be conducted face-to-face, ensuring that all public health and District guidelines for safety are observed.
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2) How will Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings take place?
In collaboration with parents, IEP meetings will be held either virtually or in-person ensuring that all public health and District guidelines for the safety and well-being of students and staff are observed.
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3) Will students with IEPs or 504 Plans receive accommodations when participating in remote learning?
Students with IEPs or 504 plans will continue to receive accommodations to the extent feasible when participating in remote learning. If for some reason an identified accommodation is not possible to implement in a virtual environment, an IEP or 504 plan meeting will be held with the parent to review the issue and to discuss alternatives, as necessary, so that the student may continue to progress in his/her educational program. Any changes made by the IEP or 504 team to the IEP or 504 plan will be documented.
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4) Will students with IEPs continue to receive the services identified in individual student plans (IEP) when participating in remote learning?
Students with IEPs will continue to receive services identified in the IEP to the extent feasible when participating in remote learning. If for some reason a service is not possible to deliver in a virtual environment, an IEP meeting will be held with the parent to discuss alternatives, as necessary, so that the student can continue to progress in his/her educational program. The IEP will be revised to reflect any changes made.
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5) How will the District ensure students are provided with the least restrictive learning environment possible while complying with all health and safety requirements?
The District is following all federal, state and local public health guidelines as they pertain to the health and safety of students and staff.
The least restrictive environment is determined by the amount of time students spend with non-disabled peers and is reflected in each student’s Individualized Education Plan. The IEPs will be implemented as written.
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6) If my child is enrolled in ESE classes and has a documented health concern, will they be expected to wear a mask when participating in traditional, in-person school?
If your child has a medical condition that precludes him/her from wearing a mask, a note from a physician will be needed to document the medical reason the child is not able to wear a mask. . Medical information provided will be considered through either the IEP or the 504 Accommodation process and a determination for accommodation will be made on an individual basis.
Please contact the Exceptional Student Education Department for additional information at (772) 219-1200, ext. 30406.
Mental Wellness
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1) If my child is anxious or concerned about returning to school, what can I do to help?
Be honest. (Talk about) some of the changes they may expect at school, such as needing to wear forms of protective clothing like masks.
Remind children about the positives – that they will be able to see their friends and teachers (if they are physically returning to the classroom) and continue learning new things. Also, by wearing their facemasks they are helping keep themselves and others safe. Therefore helping the community.
Along with that, reassure children about safety measures in place to keep students and teachers healthy and remind children that they can also help prevent germs from spreading by washing their hands with soap and coughing or sneezing into their elbow. Children may also find it difficult being physically distanced from friends and teachers while at school – you could encourage them to think about other ways to bond and stay connected.
Please feel free to review the following website to learn more:
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2) Where can I find resources regarding emotional and mental wellness for my child?
School counselors will have lists of local resources. In addition, there are many resources on the web such as: https://www.apa.org/topics/talking-children
https://casel.org/parent-resources/
However, if you need more immediate resources please dial 211.
IF YOUR CHILD IS EXPERIENCING AN CRISIS THAT PUTS THEIR SAFETY AT IMMEDIATE RISK, CALL 911
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3) Will staff receive any extra training regarding trauma-informed care and mental health first aid as a result of COVID-19?
Youth Mental Health first aid training will be provided online or blended via their new model. Trauma informed practices will continue dependent upon how far along the schools are in their training. Additionally, we will work with leaders and teachers on continued implementation of Social and Emotional Learning.
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4) If I choose to have my child participate in remote learning, how will they have access to counseling and other support resources?
Our School Counselors, Social Services Workers, as well as our community mental health partners, are available via Zoom or Telehealth visits. For students receiving counseling through the Mental Health Collaborative, services will also be provided via Zoom or Telehealth.
Food & Nutrition
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1) If we elect to have our child(ren) participate in remote learning, will they still be permitted to receive their free or reduced price meals?
All meals will be available to enrolled students (free, reduced and paid meal status) as part of the National School Lunch Program.
Food and Nutrition Services has developed an order sheet that parents/guardians of students enrolled in remote learning will submit weekly. They will pick up a week's worth of meals at one of three locations: J.D. Parker Elementary, Port Salerno Elementary or Warfield Elementary. Meal distribution will take place from 3 -4 p.m. on Tuesdays.
Parent must have student ID Badge and/or student ID number to pick up meals. Meal cost is based on the student's eligibility status:
Free - 0
Reduced - $.70/Day (includes breakfast/lunch)
Full Pay - $3.35/Day (includes breakfast/lunch)
* Eligibility Status is based on last year's status (Grace period of 30 days) or until a new FNS Meal Application has been processed. Meal applications are available at http://lunchapplication.com/.
Questions should be directed to the Food & Nutrition Services Department at AskFNS@martinschools.org.
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2) What steps will be taken to limit exposure in school cafeterias?
Every effort will be made to provide for social distancing across all school settings based on public health guidance, however, social distancing is difficult in certain situations, including mealtimes.
Schools will utilize all available space (including outdoor areas) in an effort to promote social distancing. Hand sanitizer will be available in all dining areas. Point of Service will be touchless. Meals will be unitized and include all necessary utensils and condiments in an effort to reduce the number of touchpoints on surfaces. Share tables will be eliminated. Fresh fruit with edible skin will be wrapped. Food & Nutrition Services staff will receive training on safety precautions. All staff will wear masks and gloves with frequent, required handwashing.
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3) Will students be required to wear masks while eating in the cafeteria? Will social distancing be practiced in the cafeteria?
Every effort will be made to provide for social distancing however, social distancing is difficult to maintain during mealtimes. Masks will be required except during the shortest practical period when students are actually eating or drinking.
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4) How do I submit an application for free or reduced price meals?
***Free meals will be provided to all children aged 18 and under for the time period of September 16 - December 18, 2020. Please click here to learn more. ***
Meal applications are paperless this year. Applications will be available here. Only one application per household is necessary - an application is not required if your family has already received a letter of approval.
Questions? Please contact the Food & Nutritional Services Department at (772) 223-2655 or email AskFNS@martinschools.org.
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5) May I pay for my child's meals online?
Yes. Parents/guardians are encouraged to skip cash and pay student meals online via K12PaymentCenter.com. Questions? Please call Food & Nutrition Services at (772) 223-2655 or email AskFNS@martinschools.org.
***Free meals will be provided to all children aged 18 and under for the time period of September 16 - December 18, 2020. Please click here to learn more. ***
Transportation
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1) If I elect to have my child participate in the traditional, in-person school option, will they be able to ride the bus to and from school?
Yes. Students who are eligible for school bus transportation as defined in School Board Policy 8600 will continue to be eligible to ride the bus. To be eligible for transportation, students must live more than two (2) miles from their home-zoned school OR be eligible for transportation due to a documented hazardous walking condition (as defined in Chapter 1006.23, Florida Statutes). On February 18, 2020, the Martin County School Board voted to eliminate the seats available and grandfathering programs that previously allowed students who lived less than two (2) miles from their home-zoned school to be eligible for transportation. More information on this decision is available here: http://go.boarddocs.com/fl/martin/Board.nsf/goto?open&id=9ZYL9Z5032D2.
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2) Will students be required to wear masks on school buses?
Yes. Students who are eligible for transportation will be required to wear masks while riding the bus.
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3) Will social distancing be practiced on school buses? How will buses be loaded? Will you allow my child to be seated with his/her sibling(s)?
Social distancing will be practiced to the extent possible on school buses. This will largely be dependent on ridership. Students will be expected to wear their masks at all times. Buses will be loaded from rear to front. Siblings will be expected to sit together and should board the bus at the same time. Students should expect to share their seat with at least one other child depending on eligible ridership.
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4) What steps will be taken to limit exposure on school buses?
The risk of exposure to COVID-19 increases during times when social distancing is difficult, including while on school buses.
Students and drivers will be required to wear masks or cloth face coverings on school buses. Hand sanitizer will be available on buses and students will be encouraged to use when entering/exiting the bus. Buses will be disinfected between runs and go through a deep cleaning at the end of each day.
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5) Where can I find bus routes?
Bus routes for the 20-21 school year are available here.
Technology
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1) If I don’t currently have a device for my child(ren), can I obtain one from the District?
Yes. The District continues to support distance learning by distributing devices to students that do not have a previously issued district device to use outside the classroom.
All students who are still in need of a device should contact their child's school for pickup information.
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2) Will the District support my child’s device if we choose to use one from home?
The District is encouraging students to obtain a District-issued device during the deployment from Aug 5 - Aug 7. A personal device can be used, but will not be subject to support from District staff.
Parents/guardians who would like to purchase a device that is consistent with a District device should be mindful of these specifications:
HP Chromebook 11A G8 EE, A4-9120C APU (1.6GHz, 1 MB L2 cache)
4 GB 1866 (on Mb), 32GBeMMC
11.6 LED HD SVA AG (non-touch screen)
UMA: Radeon R4
No Optical
802.11 ac 2x2 +BT 4.2
BT
TPM H1
Slot Lock
720p HD webcam
Chrome OS
2-Cell 47.6WHr
4 year warranty (1 year warranty included + 3 year warranty uplift)
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3) I already have a District-issued device for my child, but the camera is turned off. What should I do?
Please bring your child's device to one of the following tech support locations to have these features enabled:
- District Office - 1939 SE Federal Highway, Stuart, FL 34994
- Monday - Friday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Monday - Friday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Indiantown Middle School - 16303 SW Farm Rd., Indiantown, FL 34956
- Monday - Friday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. by appointment only
- Monday - Friday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. by appointment only
- District Office - 1939 SE Federal Highway, Stuart, FL 34994
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4) My child's device is not working. How do I request tech support?
Please email MCSDLaptops@martinschools.org for assistance with your child's District-issued device PRIOR to arriving at either location for tech support.
Tech support (hardware and software issues) for District-issued devices is available at the following locations:
- District Office - 1939 SE Federal Highway, Stuart, FL 34994
- Monday - Friday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Monday - Friday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Indiantown Middle School - 16303 SW Farm Rd., Indiantown, FL 34956
- Monday - Friday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. by appointment only
- Monday - Friday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. by appointment only
- District Office - 1939 SE Federal Highway, Stuart, FL 34994
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5) Is my child required to have their camera on when participating in remote learning?
Effective November 9, 2020, students must have their device cameras turned on when participating in remote learning. If you need to have the camera settings enabled on your child's device, please bring it to one of the following tech support locations:
- District Office - 1939 SE Federal Highway, Stuart, FL 34994
- Monday - Friday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Monday - Friday 2 p.m. - 6 p.m.
- Indiantown Middle School - 16303 SW Farm Rd., Indiantown, FL 34956
- Monday - Friday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. by appointment only
- Monday - Friday 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. by appointment only
- District Office - 1939 SE Federal Highway, Stuart, FL 34994
Early Childhood Education
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1) What instructional options are available for children enrolled in Head Start and VPK?
Students enrolled in Head Start will participate in a full-day, traditional (in-person) program.
Students enrolled in VPK have the option of attending in-person or remotely via VPK Flex. More information about the VPK Flex program is available here.
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2) Will my preschooler have to wear a mask while at school?
Students above the age of 2 years are expected to wear a mask at school in accordance with current public health guidelines.
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3) What health guidelines will be followed for preschool children?
Students will have their temperature checked when exiting their vehicles. Classrooms will be cleaned more often, including frequent cleaning and disinfecting of commonly touched areas.
Students and teachers will wash their hands frequently throughout the day. Each child will have their own set of materials that will be stored in separate locations. Transitions will be minimized as much as possible.
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4) How will meals be served to VPK and Head Start students?
Students will eat in their classrooms, in their assigned table locations.
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5) Will children have nap time?
Children will continue to have rest time; mats will be spread apart to maintain social distancing.
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6) How many students will be in each classroom?
Each classroom will have its full enrollment. When possible, the assistant teacher and teacher will split the classroom to keep ratios low.
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7) Who should I contact if I have additional questions about my child returning to school to participate in VPK?
Additional inquiries about VPK enrollment should be directed to Mercedes Ryan, VPK Services Manager, at ryanm@martinschools.org or (772) 219-1610 ext. 38156.
Extracurricular Activities/Athletics
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1) Will my child’s school host sporting events, pep rallies, dances, meet the teacher/curriculum nights?
The Florida High School Athletic Association started the 2020 fall season on July 27. Pep rallies may be held outside if social distancing is possible. Dances will not be scheduled at this time due to current public health restrictions.
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2) Will student-athletes be required to wear masks?
As of July 6, 2020, masks will not be mandatory for student-athletes who are actively participating in a practice or athletic competition, but those who wish to wear a mask may do so.
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3) Will parents/guardians and other spectators be allowed to attend athletic events?
Spectator attendance is based on a tiered system. The start of the school year will begin in Tier 1.
- Tier 1 (Essential): Athletes, coaches, officials, event staff, medical staff, security
- Tier 2 (Preferred): Media
- Tier 3 (Non-essential): Spectators, vendors Only Tier 1 and 2 personnel will be allowed to attend events until state/local health departments lift restrictions on mass gatherings.
- Tier 1 (Essential): Athletes, coaches, officials, event staff, medical staff, security
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4) If my child chooses the remote learning option will they still be able to try out for sports?
Student-athletes will be able to participate with their zoned schools or with the school in which they are attending for a signature program.
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5) Why were summer band camps and practices canceled, but athletic conditioning was allowed to resume?
The decision to cancel summer band camps was a collective determination made by the band instructors at all three District-operated high schools. A letter was sent to the parents/guardians of band students explaining that while they were saddened by this outcome, the band instructors felt confident that this decision was necessary to protect the safety of students and staff. Additional information about band activities and programs will be shared with families as it becomes available.
The Florida Bandmasters Association has released the following statement:
For the health and well-being of our directors and students, all FBA Marching Band MPA’s are hereby canceled for the fall semester of 2020. Bands will not incur ANY negative consequence related to participation in the 2021 Concert Band MPA or Solo and Ensemble MPA due to this cancelation.
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6) How will students participate in PE? Will they be required to wear masks? How will social distancing and shared contact of equipment be handled?
Physical Education classes will follow current CDC Guidelines. Activities will be those in which social distancing takes place. There will be no shared equipment until restrictions are lifted.
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7) Will field trips and other large gatherings be permitted?
The District’s goal is to limit the risk of transmission of COVID-19 to staff and students and will limit field trips, non-essential activities involving external groups or organizations as much as possible.
Extended Day
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1) Will the District have Extended Day next year? If so, which schools will offer this service and what are the hours of operation?
All 12 elementary schools will offer after school extended day programs at a limited capacity. The hours will be from school dismissal until 6 p.m. Parents should contact the Extended Day Site Manager at their child's school to inquire about registration.
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2) Will students practice social distancing while participating in the Extended Day program? How will shared toys, equipment, etc. be disinfected on a consistent basis?
Social distancing will be practiced to the extent possible. Masks will be required when social distancing is not possible. The students will be in small groups of approximately 9 students. Each group will have a set of supplies/equipment exclusive to that group. All supplies/equipment will be disinfected each evening.
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3) When will I be able to register my child for Extended Day? What is the process?
Please contact the Extended Day Site Manager at your child's school to inquire about the registration process.