LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — On Monday, Clark County School District students and staff will be heading back to the classroom. CCSD leaders say this year, they have the tools to handle the COVID-19 pandemic in a "proactive" way.
Assistant Superintendent Monica Cortez said CCSD has hired more staff and they’ve had more time to refine protocols. That way, Cortez said, they can avoid another five-day pause in instruction.
“We are in a very different place today than we were then,” Cortez said in a district board meeting.
Cortez added the district is able to staff more nurses in schools, allowing for much greater staff availability and flexibility when needed. Additionally, all CCSD schools will be required to maintain a "sick room" and a "well room" in health offices, separating students with and without COVID-19 symptoms. Employees will also be required to do a daily symptom check.
Masks will not be required for employees or students unless they’ve been exposed to COVID-19. Additionally, the COVID-19 vaccine will not be required for students or staff, contrary to CDC's recommendations.
The district says distance learning will remain an option for families.
Pediatrician Dr. Anita Henderson says incoming students should also be aware that there are other new vaccine mandates this year, especially for those entering middle school. Immunize Nevada has a full list of back-to-school immunization requirements on its website.
As we head towards flu season, Dr. Henderson also recommends the flu shot for children six months and up. She also recommends the HPV vaccine, which is available for children ages nine and older.
“We do recommend this vaccine be given to both boys and girls, it’s one of the few vaccines that actually prevents cancer, so it is an important vaccine to also consider,” Dr. Henderson said.
For more information on CCSD's health and safety guidance, you can go to its website.
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