Updated Health and Safety Guidelines

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Dear Families,

Thank you again for all your input related to DSST’s masking policy and for your partnership as we enter this next phase of the pandemic. I am grateful for your continued trust in DSST to provide your child(ren) with a world class education.

As you may have heard, the CDC updated its guidance on Friday and no longer recommends indoor mask requirements in counties where COVID-19 Community levels are low, which is true of both Denver and Arapahoe counties. While this does not mean that we are past the pandemic finish line, it does mean that our own masking decision is in line with federal and local recommendations.

In addition to the mask mandate lifting, DPS shared a number of health and safety updates that we want to make sure you are all aware of.

Masking updates

Effective Feb. 26, masks are strongly encouraged but no longer required for any individual regardless of vaccination status, with the exception of those actively using or operating DPS transportation.
It is strongly recommended that individuals returning to school after being COVID positive follow CDC and CDPHE guidelines to properly wear a mask for the 6-10 days after an infection.
If an individual becomes sick with COVID-like symptoms, they may be asked to wear a mask until they exit the facility.
This is an opportunity for our community to meaningfully practice our Core Value of Integrity. While mandates have been lifted and restrictions have been loosened, it is up to each of us to act with integrity in order to keep our communities safe and healthy.

COVID positive case reporting

If a student or staff member tests positive for COVID, they are required to report their case by letting their school or supervisor know.
The positive individual is required to stay home and isolate for five days past the first day of symptoms (or five days past the testing date if they are asymptomatic). They may return on day 6 as long as they are fever-free and feeling mostly better. We strongly recommend this individual to continue wearing a mask while indoors during days 6-10 after the first day of symptoms or testing date.
If a household member tests positive, individuals who are not vaccinated or up-to-date on the vaccine should quarantine for 5 days following the last day of exposure.
All reported cases will appear as active on the DPS COVID Dashboard for 5 days, per CDC guidance.

Additional health, safety and operational guidance

Athletic events, student performances, competitions, etc., are not subject to additional capacity restrictions beyond what is permitted by the size of the venue.
Visitors, volunteers, and families are permitted at schools. Vaccine verification cannot be requested from individuals, nor can masking be required unless that requirement aligns with district policy.
All athletic and performance art activities can proceed as normal without additional restrictions.
School events, including school dances and graduation, may resume normal operations. Vaccine verification cannot be requested from attendees, nor can masking be required unless that requirement aligns with district policy.

COVID vaccinations and boosters

DSST strongly encourages individuals to become fully vaccinated and stay current with booster shots.
All staff can access COVID vaccines and boosters at Denver Health School-Based Health Centers in schools across the district. Call 303-602-8958 to make an appointment.

Keeping our communities safe

DSST remains committed to keeping our communities healthy and safe. Please follow the following strategies to protect yourself and others:

Stay home when you are sick.
Prioritize using areas with good ventilation and the outdoors.
Maximize physical distance when possible.
Maintain good hygiene.

Again, thank you for your ongoing commitment to our students and our mission. I have full confidence that together we will be able to navigate this next chapter and continue to provide our students with the excellent education they deserve.

All my best,

Bill Kurtz