Health & Safety

FACE MASKS/COVERINGS

Face masks or coverings are required for all staff and students, ages 3 years old to adults, and must be worn:

• Properly over the nose and mouth and when physical distancing is not possible or practical.

• In the classroom, during passing periods and in common spaces-e.g. restrooms, hallways, library, cafeteria, gym, meeting rooms, offices, after school, etc.

• On the bus at all times.

• Gaiters are an allowable face covering and must be worn appropriately over the nose and mouth.

• Masks and face coverings shall be free of any images, words, political slogans, with the exception of the a SBISD school or district logo or college logo.

*Note: Masks with one-way exhalation valves or vents are not allowed.

Failure to wear a mask is considered a health hazard and may result in disciplinary consequences.

FACE SHIELDS

• According to the Texas Education Agency, full- face shields may be used in place of a mask to protect eyes, nose, and mouth whenever a mask is not feasible or whenever the education context may benefit from the ability to see an individual’s full face.

• School systems may require the use of masks or face shields for adults or students for whom it is developmentally appropriate.

• Teachers may distribute face shields to students, if needed, to facilitate clear communication for in-person instruction.

• Students would only be allowed to wear them while seated at their desk, during instruction. If the student needs to move about the room, the mask or face covering must be put on again before getting up from their desk.

• A note from a health care provider is required if a student or employee has a health condition that inhibits them from wearing a face covering/mask or due to a religious practice that would require otherwise.

• A parent/guardian shall complete the mask accommodation form for students and provide a physician’s note to the nurse. If the accommodation is approved the student shall be required to wear a face shield when physically possible.

• Employees shall request an accommodation and submit an accommodation form through Human Resources. If the accommodation is approved, the employee shall be required to wear a face shield when physically possible.

RECESS

• Stagger the use of playground equipment in cohorted groups. Masks and/or face coverings are required during recess. Limit the number of class groups on the playground and physical distance when and where feasible. Students and staff should wash hands and/or use hand sanitizer before entering and when exiting the playground.

- Updated 8.30.2020

FAQs being updated. FAQs listing here.