Contact tracing is part of a public health process used in response to a confirmed COVID-19 or other infectious diseases. If an individual who has been in a school is lab-confirmed to have COVID-19, the school must notify the Texas Department of State Health Services (TXDSHS), in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws and regulations, including confidentiality requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).

If you are diagnosed with COVID-19, a public health worker may call you to check-in on your health, discuss who you have been in contact with, and ask where you spent time while you may have been infectious and able to spread COVID-19 to others. You will also be asked to stay at home and self-isolate, if you are not doing so already.

Everyone should remember the phases of managing COVID -19.

Monitor- conducting daily health self-screens, wearing a face covering, social distance and maintain daily prevention strategies.

Self-Quarantine “Staying Home”- when you stay at home for 14 days and monitor your health because you have come in “close contact” with someone that has had a confirmed positive test for COVID-19.

In general, close contact is defined as:

1. being directly exposed to infectious secretions (e.g., being coughed on); or
2. being within 6 feet for a cumulative duration of 15 minutes;

Either (a) or (b) defines close contact if it occurred during the infectious period of the case, defined as two days prior to symptom onset to 10 days after symptom onset. In the case of asymptomatic individuals who are lab-confirmed with COVID-19, the infectious period is defined as two days prior to the confirming lab test and continuing for 10 days following the confirming lab test.

Self-Isolation- you have a lab confirm positive test for COVID 19 or you are exhibiting symptoms of COVID -19. Stay at home for 10 days after the date of your positive test and your symptoms have improved. If you did not test, but are exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 you must stay home for 10 days after symptoms first appeared and no fever for 24 hours without medication and symptoms improve.

If the individual has symptoms that could be COVID-19 and wants to return to school before completing the above stay at home period, the individual must either:

(a) obtain a medical professional’s note clearing the individual for return based on an alternative diagnosis or

(b) obtain an acute infection test at an approved testing location found at https://tdem.texas.gov/covid-19/.

 

PLEDGE #1: HEALTH AND SAFETY

Red Oak ISD is dedicated to providing a healthy and safe learning environment for all students, staff, and community.

Red Oak ISD will communicate with and educate our students, staff, and community members about the importance of self-screening, frequent hand washing, hygiene practices, cleaning protocols, building adjustments, and other measures taken to support our prevention, mitigation, and response efforts related to COVID-19.

Red Oak ISD will continue to follow all guidance from federal, state, and local health authorities.

PLEDGE #2: HIGH-QUALITY INSTRUCTION

Red Oak ISD is dedicated to providing a high-quality education to all ROISD students, with a choice of in-person or at-home virtual learning.

In-person learning: students will receive regular, full-day, face-to-face instruction for all courses.

At-home/ virtual learning: online instruction will be offered through a virtual asynchronous format for most classes; limitations may include CTE, UIL, etc.

PLEDGE #3: STUDENT AND STAFF SUPPORT

Red Oak ISD is dedicated to providing academic, social, and emotional support to students and staff to help build resiliency skills.

Counselor support: school counselors will focus on prevention, intervention, and postvention activities. Counselors will be available for students if needed. Community resources will be available to share with students, parents, and staff.

Outreach support: the School and Family Services Office provides assistance in removing all barriers for students through community support and guidance.

Updated July 23, 2020

Week of July 20, 2020:

• District Fall 2020 Instruction Plan finalized and rolled out to the community
• Tuesday, July 21 - Returning Student Registration opens

Week of July 27, 2020:

• Wednesday, July 29 - Parent Selection email sent out - August 3, 8 a.m. - Deadline!

Week of August 3, 2020:

• August 3, 8 a.m. - Deadline for Parent Selection for fall instruction
• August 5-7 - New Teachers Report

Week of August 10, 2020:

• Monday, August 10 - All returning Teachers Report

Week of August 17, 2020:

• Thursday, August 20 - First Day of School

Updated Aug. 5, 2020

Health and Safety Measures

ROISD General Health and Safety Guide for the Fall of 2020 

Red Oak ISD will continually update this document when new guidance is released from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and federal, state and local health officials regarding on-campus instruction this fall. Our utmost goal is to limit the exposure of COVID 19 to staff and students to the best of our ability. We appreciate your support and patience as we all work through the unprecedented times together.

General Information

• Facial coverings required for all district staff 
• Facial coverings required for students in grades Pre-K through 12 - PreK-3 may remove their mask when working at their desk
• Parents/Visitors are requested to conduct district visits by phone, virtual or by pre-scheduled appointment, any visitor to campus will be subject to a health screening
• Students, teachers, staff, and essential campus visitors will be encouraged to sanitize and/or wash hands frequently
• Sneeze Guards will be added to office reception desks
• CDC approved social distancing and safety signage will be added and visible throughout school facilities
• ROISD will continually remind and instruct students on appropriate hygiene practices and other mitigation practices
• Desks or tables will be socially distanced as much as instructionally possible
• Campuses will implement strategies to transition students throughout the building to minimize exposure
• No large group gatherings or events will be held during the instructional day
• ROISD will suspend use to any and all outside groups use of ROISD facilities
• All ROISD staff will be trained in COVID 19 safety mitigation protocols 
• All staff and students will be required to participate in a temperature screening prior to entering campus 

Campus & Classroom Protocols

For the health and safety of all students and staff parents are mandated to conduct a daily self-screening for COVID-19 symptoms and fever before arriving at school, or boarding school transportation.

ROISD COVID Self-Screening Assessment

No individual should enter this facility if they present any of the following symptoms:

• Feeling feverish or a measured temperature greater than or equal to 100.0^o F
• Loss of taste or smell
• Cough
• Difficulty breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Chills
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Shaking or exaggerated shivering
• Significant muscle pain or ache
• Diarrhea
• Nausea or vomiting

Do you currently have any of the above mention symptoms? YES or NO

Have you had known close contact with a person who is lab-confirmed to have COVID-19 in the last 14 days? YES or NO

In general, close contact is defined as:

1. being directly exposed to infectious secretions (e.g., being coughed on); or
2. being within 6 feet for a cumulative duration of 15 minutes;

Either (a) or (b) defines close contact if it occurred during the infectious period of the case, defined as two days prior to symptom onset to 10 days after symptom onset. In the case of asymptomatic individuals who are lab-confirmed with COVID-19, the infectious period is defined as two days prior to the confirming lab test and continuing for 10 days following the confirming lab test.

If you answer YES to either of the two questions you are NOT to enter any ROISD facility.

Face Coverings

Schools are required to comply with the current Governor’s executive order regarding the wearing of face coverings. In addition to the Governor’s executive order, TEA has provided school districts with guidance that can require the use of masks or face shields for adults or students for whom it is developmentally appropriate.  ROISD return to campus protocols require the following in regard to the wearing of face masks/coverings until further notice.

• Facial coverings required for all district staff
• Facial coverings will be required of ALL students using District Transportation
• Facial coverings required for students in grades Pre-K through 12 - PreK-3 may remove their mask when working at their desk
• All face coverings should meet the guidelines as outlined in the ROISD Dress Policy

Student Health Protocols

• All students are required to complete a daily self-screening for symptoms prior to arriving to school or boarding school transportation
• Facial coverings required for students in grades Pre-K through 12 - PreK-3 may remove their mask when working at their desk
• Facial coverings shall appropriately cover the nose and mouth
• Students must be up-to-date with state-required immunization compliance
• Students are encouraged to clean workspace before classroom instruction begins and ends when appropriate
• Students are encouraged to use hand sanitizer when entering buildings and throughout the day when available
• Students will be seated with as much separation as feasible during the instructional day 
• Students are encouraged to bring disposable items as much as possible to school each day (i.e. water bottles, home-prepared lunches) to limit the possible spread
• Students arrival and dismissal at campuses will be controlled by campus administrators in order to social distance and eliminate spread as much as possible

 School Clinic Protocols

• Minor health needs will be handled in the classrooms as much as possible to reserve the clinic space for students experiencing COVID 19 symptoms or other serious issues
• Students who come to the school health clinic showing COVID 19 symptoms will be required to isolate until their parent arrives to take them home. Parents shall remove the student from campus within 30 minutes of being notified.
• School clinics will be cleaned and disinfected daily

Employee Health Protocols

• All staff are required to complete a daily self-screening for symptoms prior to arriving at work 
• All staff and students will be required to participate in a temperature screening prior to entering campus 
• All staff must practice appropriate hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and social distancing
• All staff are required to wear a facial covering while in classrooms, common spaces, and when social distancing cannot occur outdoors
• All staff are expected to clean and sanitize workspace before and after use

Cleaning Practices 

• Campuses are cleaned throughout the instructional day with an emphasis on cleaning high traffic and multiple touch areas, including door handles, restrooms, large group transition areas, cafeteria between meals
• Hand sanitizer stations are located in multiple areas throughout the campus
• Signage for proper hygiene practices is visibly posted at multiple locations throughout each campus

Updated July 23, 2020

In-Person Learning
(Traditional)

OVERVIEW

This will be school as usual with adjustments made at the campus level for the health and safety of all students and staff and to support both methods of instruction. In-Person Learning students will receive direct instruction from teachers, use computers, and engage in the Learning Management System (LMS). 

There will be additional actions taken on campuses for health and safety; such as,

• Increased cleaning and sanitation practices.
• Attention to student separation.
• Staff training in the prevention of COVID-19 prior to the opening of school. 
• Student training in the prevention of COVID-19.
• Compliance with all federal, state, and local health and safety requirements.

Please review the ROISD operational support of in-person instruction and FAQ for details on:

• Health and Safety
• Nutrition
• Transportation

FAQ - IN-PERSON LEARNING

How will social distancing be promoted in cafeterias, gyms, restrooms, and other commons areas?

Signage reminding students and staff about social distancing, hand washing, and infection prevention will be posted throughout the school.

• Elementary classrooms will be assigned specific bathrooms, breakfast, lunch, and gym access times to reduce the number of students in any given area as much as possible.
• Secondary students will be encouraged to follow social distancing guidelines.

Will students be able to participate in co-curricular and extra-curricular activities?

Yes, students who select In-Person instruction may participate in clubs and/or organizations, as well as athletics, fine arts, and UIL academic events.

What precautions will be in place for athletics, fine arts, and other extracurricular activities?

Safety guidelines are being developed for conducting all on-campus workouts, rehearsals, and practices. The district will continue to follow all guidelines provided by UIL, TEA, the county, city, and state. Any additional safety guidelines will be published as they become available.

My child is enrolled in dual credit classes. What should I know as a parent/student?

Dual credit students will follow the policies and decisions of their college. Most colleges are offering online courses for students with similar guidelines.

Will students have recess or the ability to play and socialize with other students?

Elementary campuses will limit the number of students at recess at one time and create different play areas for activities to further reduce student interactions. Students and staff will be required to use hand sanitizer and wash their hands before and after recess.

Will After the Bell services be offered?

Yes, After the Bell will be available to families and will operate on its normal schedule. 

Will health and safety training be provided for all staff and students?

Yes. All staff members will receive COVID-19 prevention training prior to the opening of school.  All students will receive instruction on health protocols related to minimizing the spread of COVID-19.

How many students will be assigned to each classroom?

Red Oak ISD will follow TEA guidelines for class size. At this time, the class size requirements are the same as a regular school year. The maximum number of students per class varies by grade level and also varies by class at the secondary level.

Will an online learning management system be used to support In-Person students?

The benefit of an online learning management system is to streamline all digital tools and content for a more connected learning experience for students. The district has identified Google Classroom as the LMS tool to support elementary students and Canvas to support secondary students. 

Will computer devices be made available to students who need them?

Yes, devices will be available upon the Parent/Guardian acceptance of the Student Handbook Technology Acceptable Use Policy and Device Responsible Use Guidelines.

Will STAAR/EOC be administered in 2020-2021?

Yes. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has indicated that STAAR testing will still occur during the 2020-2021 school year, in compliance with state and federal legislation.

Can students change their commitment from in-person learning to at-home learning after the start of the school year?

Due to the scheduling complexities inherent in these two options, parents will be asked to make a commitment for at least one full six-week grading period.

What happens if a student or a teacher tests positive for COVID-19? Will the entire classroom have to quarantine? What if multiple classrooms and students/staff are impacted? Will students be able to participate in At-Home Virtual Learning during the quarantine?

Students or staff who test positive for COVID-19 will be sent home to recover. When notification of a possible exposure occurs, in coordination with local health authorities, the campus/district will conduct contact tracing. Based on the results, a determination will be made as to whether an entire classroom or multiple classrooms are required to quarantine. In the event students are required to temporarily quarantine, the education of these students will continue through At-Home Virtual Learning for the duration of the quarantine period.

What happens if my child’s campus is temporarily closed during the school year?

During the period of the school closure, all students will transition to asynchronous instruction.

Updated July 23, 2020

At-Home Virtual Learning
(with asynchronous instruction)

OVERVIEW

• Students will remain at home and will engage in learning activities that are primarily delivered through an online learning management system (LMS).
  • Access to the internet is required.
  • Elementary students will use Google Classroom (LMS).
  • Secondary students will use Canvas (LMS).
  • Both student groups will use online video conferencing to support instruction.
  • ROISD will provide qualifying students with a device to access the LMS.
• Student attention to instruction will be a shared responsibility between the teachers and the student’s family. A parent/caregiver may be needed for your student to be successful.
• Students will follow a schedule for routine interaction with teachers to support the use of the LMS.
• Daily student participation in the assigned learning activities or participation in the video-conference will be required in order for the student to be counted present for the day.  
• Truancy and the 90% attendance for credit policies are in effect.
• Most learning time will consist of independent learning activities.  
• Learning will have the same state requirements (TEKS) and follow the same pacing schedule as face-to-face instruction at school.
• Some courses may not be eligible for asynchronous learning or may require some scheduled face-to-face instruction. Examples would be agriculture, auto mechanics, cosmetology, construction, and certain practicums.
• Accommodations and support services for special student populations will be provided.

FAQ - AT-HOME VIRTUAL LEARNING

Will students participating in At-Home Virtual Learning receive live, teacher-led instruction for the full length of a school day?

No. Asynchronous instruction will include video-conferencing with teachers according to their class schedule to support at-home instruction, but the instruction consists primarily of independent learning activities.

How will At-Home Virtual Learning be staffed?

ROISD will continue to be staffed based on student enrollment. We are currently exploring options for designated at-home learning teachers; however, final enrollment and in-person vs. virtual learning numbers will impact this decision.

What will At-Home Virtual Learning look like?

It will depend on the grade level and the course; however, an example could be that your student logs into the LMS and watches a pre-recorded video explaining the TEKS objective of the day. The detailed video will provide the instruction needed for the student to then complete an assignment within the LMS. 

Will this 2020-2021 virtual learning look any different from this past spring?

Yes, it will be very different. This past spring, Texas schools were given the flexibility to offer “support” to students while they learned from home. This school year will be different in that teachers will be “instructing” not simply supporting.  Students who select at-home learning will be required to participate in class daily.  It will be a full-course load of instruction and align with in-school learning. 

Will there be attendance requirements?

Yes, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) will require daily attendance and participation in at-home learning. Students will be required to participate daily and traditional attendance rules will be reinforced.

What qualifies as a student being ‘present’?

Your student will be counted “Present-Remote Asynchronous” if they showed progress in the Learning Management System (LMS), they showed progress from teacher/student interactions that day, or they successfully completed their assignment that day.

What happens if my child does not log-in or participate in their learning or complete their assignment(s) for the day?

Your child will be counted absent if they do not comply with the at-home learning guidelines stated in the previous answer.  Students must be engaged in learning every day by one of the three methods - progress on the LMS, student-teacher engagement regarding the instruction, submission of an assignment.

I have WIFI/internet access at our home, but we do not have a device for our student(s). Will the district provide a device like they did in the spring?

Yes, the district will provide one device per family of three (3) or less students. If you have more than three (3) students in your household, contact the technology department for an additional device.

How will student progress be reported?

Overall progress on learning outcomes will be communicated in a “traditional” format using number grades. Assignments and grades will be entered into Skyward just like in an “In-School” setting.

Will courses taken in At-Home Virtual Learning be included in GPA calculations and class rank for high school students?

Yes, courses taken by students participating in at-home learning will be included in calculating GPA and class rank in accordance with EIC (Local) policy.

Will STAAR/EOC be administered in 2020-2021?

Yes.  The Texas Education Agency (TEA) has indicated that STAAR and EOC testing will occur during the 2020-2021 school year in compliance with state and federal legislation.

Are immunizations required for students enrolled in At-Home Virtual Learning?

Yes. At this time the Texas Department of State Health Services has not waived any vaccine requirements for students enrolled in Texas public schools regardless if the student is an in-person or virtual learner.

Will students participating in At-Home Virtual Learning need to purchase school supplies for the new year?

Families will need some of the typical supplies in order to complete some of the assignments. For certain classes, your student’s teachers may have additional supplies needed for the class.

Will my child have remote access to their campus nurse during the school day if we choose At-Home Virtual Learning?

Yes, parents and students may contact the school nurse by phone or email during school hours.

Will students identified as Special Education, 504, ESL, Dyslexic and/or Gifted and Talented receive services if they choose At-Home Virtual Learning?

Yes, these students will continue to receive their designated services.  More information will come at a later date.

If we choose At-Home Virtual Learning, will ARD meetings and 504 meetings be held?

Yes, they will be scheduled on a case-by-case basis and in compliance with current policies.

How will At-Home Virtual Learning affect dual credit students?

Dual credit students will follow the policies and decisions of their college. Most colleges are offering online courses for students with similar guidelines.

Will all courses be offered to At-Home Virtual Learning students?

It is our goal to offer all courses, but unfortunately, some may not be practical for at-home learning; for example, certain Career & Technology courses. 

Can students who choose At-Home Virtual Learning still come to school for extracurricular activities such as sports, fine arts, etc.?

UIL is expected to release guidelines soon. The district will follow UIL guidance along with state and local orders. Due to the in-class demands of many extra-curricular activities, At-Home Virtual Learners may choose another elective if they wish.

Will students who choose At-Home Virtual Learning be able to participate in clubs and organizations?

In part, participation will depend on the club’s or organization’s ability to safely accommodate At-Home Virtual Learners with virtual meetings, social distancing and other measures.

Updated July 31, 2020

Red Oak ISD
Academic and CTE Dual Credit Update

Navarro College Academic Dual Credit

• Navarro College dual credit courses will start on August 24, 2020.
• Navarro College will be offering a hybrid format for all dual credit courses that have a Red Oak High School faculty instructor.
• This hybrid course delivery will allow students to do the majority of the course online except for about 15-20%.
• Any dual credit course not taught by Red Oak High School faculty will be online.  This includes, dual credit Speech, Economics, and College Algebra.
• Navarro College will be sending out campus application login and navigation information soon for ROHS to share with dual credit students.
• Below are the Red Oak High School faculty instructors and courses taught.
  • Lauren Crain: DC Hist 1301-1302
  • Andrew Davis: DC Eng 1301-1302 & DC Eng 2322-2323
  • Belinda Hoyle: DC Eng 1301-1302
  • Stephen Johnson: DC Soc
  • Shandria Kelly: DC Bio 1406-1407 & DC Bio 2401-2402
  • Ginger McClure: DC Hist 1301-1302
  • Jessica Moreno: DC Govt S1 & DC TX Govt S2

  For more information, please contact: Heidi Brittain, ROISD Advanced Academics Coordinator at heidi.brittain@redoakisd.org

---

Texas State Technical College (TSTC) CTE Dual Credit

• TSTC dual credit courses will start on August 31, 2020.
• TSTC will be offering a hybrid format for all dual credit courses.
• The following dual credit courses taught by a Red Oak High School faculty instructor will be online.
  • Lucas Corns: Internetworking
  • Zachary Russell: DC Graphic Design 2 & DC Practicum Graphic Design
• This hybrid course delivery will allow students in the following courses to complete lecture and class assignments online and allow for students to attend the following courses in person to complete work-based learning at either the TSTC or Red Oak High School campus on designated days.
  • Lucas Corns (ROHS): DC Practicum of IT
  • Tim Martin (ROHS/CTE Bldg.): DC Automotive Technology 1 & DC Automotive Technology 2
  • TSTC Campus:
    • DC Diesel Technology
    • DC EPCT
    • DC Welding
    • DC Welding 2
• TSTC will be sending out a letter about their dual credit classes and procedures soon.
• Last day to complete application for registration in dual credit courses will be August 14, 2020.

For more information, please contact: Lisa Menton, CTE Director at lisa.menton@redoakisd.org

Updated July 23, 2020

Extracurricular & Student Organization Participation

• All UIL co-curricular and extracurricular programs are conducted in alignment with UIL guidelines & COVID-19 protocols
• Non-UIL student programs follow the same COVID-19 related guidelines & protocols as UIL programs
• Use of face coverings is implemented as feasible

ATHLETICS

Conferences 5A-6A

Activity	1st Day for Practice	1st Day for Games/ Matches/ Meets	District Certification Deadline	State Championships
Team Tennis	**	September 7, 2020	October 24, 2020	November 11-12, 2020
Cross Country	**	September 7, 2020	November 14, 2020	December 5, 2020
Volleyball	September 7, 2020	September 14, 2020	November 17, 2020	December 11-12, 2020
Football	September 7, 2020	September 24, 2020	December 5, 2020	January 2021, TBD

MUSIC

All Conferences (unless otherwise denoted)

Activity	1st Day to Begin Contest Show Visual / Marching Curriculum	Region Contest Deadline 2A/ 4A/ 6A	Area Contest Deadline 2A/4A /6A; Region Contest Deadline 1A/ 3A/ 5A	Area Contest Deadline 3A/ 5A	State Championships 2A/ 4A/ 6A; State Military Championships 1A/ 2A/ 4A
Marching Band	September 7, 2020	December 3, 2020	December 10, 2020	December 12, 2020	December 2020, TBD

Updated July 31, 2020

Student Nutrition / Lunch

If allowed and deemed safe for students, cafeterias will be open to serve breakfast and lunch daily. The physical setup for the cafeteria and the schedule will be adjusted to reduce the number of students in the cafeteria at one time. Each campus cafeteria space will be evaluated to ensure social distancing. Some students will be eating in the cafeteria, spaced according to the recommended guidelines, and other students may eat in the classroom if necessary. All school meals will be served by employees, meaning student self-serve tables will not be used. 

To minimize possible outside exposure and to allow for adequate physical distancing for students during meal times, school protocols include no food/gift deliveries will be accepted and non-essential visitors will not be allowed on campuses or in cafeterias.

• ROISD Student Nutritional Staff shall use facial coverings and gloves when performing job responsibilities and are trained to practice health and hygiene regulations 
• ROISD cafeterias will be cleaned and disinfected daily 
• ROISD serving and eating areas are cleaned between uses
• Mobile lunch distribution stations may be used as needed at designated campuses to minimize cafeteria lines, increase the speed of service and enhance social distancing
• Students must properly wear ID at breakfast and lunch to ensure efficient scanning of ID for payment and minimize touching of ID by multiple staff
• Students must follow social distancing signage displayed on the walls and floor markers
• Students may be directed to eat in various locations throughout the building, including classrooms, to maximize social distancing
• Meal payments must be made by students or parents in advance by mail, in a designated area away from the cafeteria serving line on a daily, weekly, or monthly basis, or by using the My School Bucks online payment system
• Parents who pack a lunch for their student should pack items that are easily opened by the student to avoid the handling of their food by others

Updated July 23, 2020

Addressing the mental health and social-emotional development of all students, staff, and community by following best practices in the areas of:

• School-based mental health services
• Behavioral support systems
• Family engagement and support practices
• Staff supports
• Other key systems and supports

Social-Emotional Learning

• Social-Emotional Learning lessons and activities to support students related to COVID-19 experiences, trauma, and school closure
• Counseling support will be accessible to both In-Person and At-Home learners

Family Support

• Provide families with information on how to access resources for mental health and wellness

Updated Aug. 5, 2020

Transportation

Due to the option for virtual learning, we will have a decline in ridership which will allow for social distancing on buses. To support contact tracing, students will be assigned seats, and a seating chart will be maintained by the bus driver. The bus driver and students will be required to wear face coverings and use hand sanitizer provided when boarding and exiting the bus. Students are required to remain seated at all times and keep their hands and arms to themselves. School buses will be cleaned and disinfected daily.

• All transportation staff are required to wear facial coverings
• All students using ROISD transportation will be required to wear facial coverings upon boarding and for the duration of riding the bus.
• ROISD will attempt to assign bus seating, with no more than two (2) students per seat, except in some cases elementary students residing in the same household
• Students and staff are required to use provided hand sanitizer upon boarding the bus 
• When appropriate, bus windows will be opened to allow for additional ventilation and airflow
• Buses will be thoroughly cleaned after each bus trip, focusing on high-touch surfaces such as bus seats, steering wheels, knobs, and door handles  
• TEA has recommended families are to drop students off, carpool, or walk with their student to school to the extent possible to reduce the possible COVID 19 exposure on school transportation

Updated July 23, 2020

INTRODUCTION

The procedures and information within these guidelines apply to all student devices at ROISD schools during and outside of school when applicable. Teachers may set additional requirements for use in their classrooms.

DEPLOYING DEVICES & COLLECTING FEES

Receiving your device

• Parents / guardians and students must acknowledge and consent to the Student Device Responsible Use Agreement form. This agreement will be made available in Skyward Family Access to allow for electronic signature.  Parents / guardians are encouraged to review this agreement with their students as parental consent also includes student consent.
• Parents / guardians can opt-out for each student enrolled in ROISD.

Returning your Device

• Device accessories (such as charging cords and cases) that are furnished by the school must be returned with only normal wear and no device modifications to avoid paying a repair or replacement fee. If a student transfers, withdraws, is expelled, or terminates enrollment at a ROISD school for any reason, he/she must return the device with accessories on the date of termination. If the device is not returned, it will be assumed the device has been stolen. Action will be taken by the District to reclaim the device and accessories.

FEES

Replacement ($200 for Chromebooks, $300 for Windows Laptops/Apple iPads)

• In the event that the student device is lost, stolen, or not returned, ROISD will attempt to locate, recover, and/or disable the device.  If the device is not recovered, the parent/guardian agrees to pay ROISD a $200 replacement fee for a Chromebook device or $300 for a Windows Laptop or Apple iPad.
• In the event of intentional damage that results in the device being unrepairable, the parent/guardian agrees to pay ROISD a $200 replacement fee for a Chromebook device or $300 for a Windows Laptop or Apple iPad.

Repair ($50)

• In the event that the student device is damaged beyond normal wear and tear, the parent/guardian agrees to pay ROISD a $50 repair fee.

CARE AND STORAGE OF THE STUDENT DEVICE

Student devices are school property and all users will follow the Student Device Responsible Use Guidelines and the ROISD Student Handbook Technology Acceptable Use Policy for these technologies. Students are responsible for the general care of the devices they have been issued by the school. Devices that are broken or fail to work properly must be taken to school personnel for an evaluation of the equipment as soon as possible.

Device Identification

Student devices will be labeled in the manner specified by ROISD. Devices can be identified in the following ways:

• Serial number
• ROISD asset tag sticker

Unless backpacks are disallowed by the District for security/virus reasons, students are encouraged to use personal backpacks for safe transport of their device to and from school. We strongly recommend a backpack with a padded area designed to protect the device.

General Procedures and Precautions

Students are responsible for maintaining their devices and keeping them in good working order.

• Cords must be inserted carefully into the device to prevent damage and stored in a way that does not stress the cords.
• The device, including power cords, must remain free of any writing, drawing, stickers, graphics or labels.
• The device should not be placed near magnets; magnets are known to damage computerized equipment such as computers and tablets.
• The device is to be treated as a valuable object. It should not be thrown, purposely dropped, or abused. It will never be placed on the roof or hood of a car, on the sidewalk or street, or imperiled in any way that may cause it to be crushed or thrown to the ground.
• The device will never be left unattended in any place outside of the student’s residence.
• The device will not be used in or near proximity of water, household chemicals, or other liquids that could damage its electronic components.
• The device will be protected from the environment to prevent rain, snow, ice, excessive heat, and/or cold.
• Pencils, pen tips, and other pointed objects will never be used on the screen.
• The device will be kept away from pets at all times.
• Parents and students agree to return the device and all components to the school in the same condition the device was issued to the student.

Storage of Devices

Students are responsible for securely storing devices in designated areas when not in use. If a device is found in an unsupervised area, it will be taken to the main office. Leaving a device in an unsupervised area is considered an infraction of the Student Device Responsible Use Guidelines.

• Grade 3 thru 12 Students are expected to take their devices home every day after school.
• Nothing should be placed on top of the device when stored.
• If a student needs a secure place to store the device, he/she may check it in for storage with designated school personnel.

LOSS OR DAMAGE

If a student device is damaged, lost, or stolen, the following guidelines must be followed:

Damaged Devices

Student devices that malfunction or are damaged must be reported to school personnel immediately.

• ROISD DOES NOT cover intentional damage to devices. If it has been determined by the school that there was intentional damage or gross negligence to a device, the student/parent is responsible for the repair fee or replacement fee if the device is beyond repair.
• If the device is damaged due to misuse or neglect, the student may not be allowed to take the device home.
• ACCIDENTAL damage will be subject to the repair or replacement fee.
• The school will be responsible for sending devices that malfunction or are accidentally damaged to ROISD Technology Department. All repairs will be performed by ROISD or its authorized agent.
• Repairs due to device failures will be handled by the District and a loaner device, if available, will be provided to the student.

Missing, Stolen or Vandalized Devices

Devices that are missing or stolen on or off school property must be reported immediately to school personnel. Action will be taken by the District to track missing/stolen devices.

• Devices that are not brought to school for three consecutive days will be considered missing.
• When a device is deemed missing or stolen, ROISD may locate and disable the device.
• THEFT AND VANDALISM: In cases of theft, vandalism, and other criminal acts, a police report MUST be filed by the student and/or parent.  A copy of the police/fire report must be provided to the main office.  These occurrences will be subject to the repair or replacement fee.
• Students/Parents/guardians will be held responsible for full payment for the replacement of any assigned ROISD student devices that are not returned to school and accounted for (stolen off campus or lost).

TAKING DEVICES HOME

Unless the District mandates otherwise, the following is planned for this upcoming school year.  Students that have chosen Virtual Learning At Home will take the device home.  Grades 3 thru 12 students that have chosen In Person Instruction will take the device home after school each day.  Grades EE thru 2 students that have chosen In Person Instruction will have their device remain in their Homeroom class unless requested otherwise and approved by the teacher to take home.  If Virtual Learning is mandated for ALL, then all students will take the device home.

Devices Left at Home

Students must bring the device to all classes unless specifically instructed not to do so by their teachers.  If a student leaves the device at home, he/she is responsible for completing course work as if the device were present.

Charging your Device’s Battery

Student devices must be brought to school each day fully charged.

Home Internet Access

Students are allowed to access wireless internet networks on their devices in order to have wi-fi access outside of school. Keep in mind that ROISD does provide internet filtering outside of the district’s network as a courtesy and that no system is foolproof.  Parents / Guardians are responsible for the online activities and behavior of their student while away from school.

Disclaimer. While ROISD uses technology protection measures to limit access to material considered harmful or inappropriate to students, it may not be possible for the District to absolutely prevent such access. Despite our best efforts and beyond the limits of filtering technology, a student may run across some material that is objectionable. ROISD has a 3-layer approach when students are using the Internet. The device is automatically routed through ROISD’s filter for appropriate content which provides the first layer. The second layer is the monitoring by an adult, and the third layer is where the student should use their digital responsibility skills when using a device.

MANAGING YOUR FILES & SAVING YOUR WORK

Saving to the Student Device

Some storage space will be available on the student device, BUT it will NOT be backed up in case of re-imaging. It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that work is not lost due to mechanical failure or accidental deletion.

Network Connectivity

ROISD makes no guarantee that the District network will be up and running 100% of the time. When the network is down, the District will not be responsible for inaccessible, lost, or missing data.

Media Stored on Devices

T he student device has limited storage, and this storage is designated for educational use. Inappropriate content is NOT allowed on the device. Inappropriate content includes, but is not limited to, music, videos, podcasts, pictures, documents, presentations and apps that contain the presence of weapons, pornographic materials, inappropriate language or lyrics, tobacco, alcohol, drug, gang related symbols or pictures.

• The device has limited storage and educational use has top priority.
• If non-educational or personal content is on the device and storage space is needed, students must delete the non-educational content to make room for required content.

OPERATING SYSTEM AND APPLICATIONS

District-Installed Apps

Apps installed by ROISD must remain on the device in usable condition and be easily accessible at all times. From time to time, the school may add apps for use in a particular course.

Additional Apps

All devices are initially deployed with a set of base apps. Students will follow the established procedures when instructed by their teachers to install required apps.

Operating System and App Updates

Updated versions of the operating system and apps are available from time to time. The District will provide and maintain updates for the operating system and/or apps. Some updates may require student intervention, such as clicking “ok” or rebooting the machine.

RESPONSIBLE USE & DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP

Statement of Responsibility

The use of student devices and the network is a privilege. The student is responsible for what he/she says and does on the network. It is important for the user to stop and think before communicating and to show respect for others and for their ideas. Students must assume that none of their data is private or confidential. Any communication or data may be subject to review by the District and/or school administration. Periodic checks may be made by designated staff to ensure that students have not removed required apps or added inappropriate content.

Wireless internet access (wi-fi) is available on every device. Network administrators will make reasonable efforts to maintain reliable service. They cannot, however, absolutely guarantee that the system will always be available or operating correctly.

Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

It is expected that Parents / guardians talk with their student about digital citizenship. This includes discussing the dangers and consequences of cyberbullying, inappropriate use, and other misuses of the Internet. Parents / guardians must expect their student(s) to appropriately use technology both at school and at home. TEA provides several resources for the staff and students of ROISD in the areas of cyberbullying and communication.

Below are some resources for parents / guardians seeking more information on digital citizenship: 

Common Sense Media website

Stay Safe Online website

School and District Responsibilities

• ROISD provides internet access to its students at school.
• ROISD provides internet filtering/blocking of inappropriate materials in compliance with the Children’s Internet Protection Act (CIPA) while using the ROISD device.
• ROISD reserves the right to review, monitor, and restrict information stored on or transmitted via district owned equipment and to investigate inappropriate use of resources.
• ROISD schools will provide device instruction and guidance to students and encourage student adherence to the ROISD Student Device Responsible Use Guidelines and the ROISD Technology Acceptable Use Policy.
• Student devices may be selected at random for remote or physical device inspection by any District staff. 

Student Responsibilities

• Students will use ROISD technologies in a responsible and ethical manner.
• Students will follow school rules concerning behavior and communication that apply to District network use.
• Students will adhere to these guidelines, Student Code of Conduct, and the ROISD Technology Acceptable Use Policy.
• Students will use all technology resources in an appropriate manner so as not to damage school equipment. “Damage” includes, but is not limited to, the loss of data resulting from delays, non-deliveries, or service interruptions caused by the student’s own negligence, errors, or omissions.
• Use of information obtained via the ROISD network is at the student’s own risk. The District denies any responsibility for the accuracy or quality of information obtained through the ROISD network.
• Students will help ROISD protect the District network and devices by contacting school personnel about any security problems they may encounter.
• Students will not share their credentials with others.
• Students will not allow others to use their assigned device.
• Students will monitor all activity on their account(s).
• If a student should receive an electronic message containing inappropriate or abusive language, or if the subject matter is questionable, he/she is asked to inform a teacher or other staff member (and if applicable print a copy and turn it into school personnel).
• Students will turn in the device to their school at the end of each school year unless specifically authorized by the District.
• Students who graduate early, withdraw, are suspended or expelled, or terminate enrollment at a ROISD school for any reason must return the device on the date of termination. The District will report the device as stolen if not returned as described above.
• Students will mute the sound on their device during the instructional day unless otherwise permitted. Headphones or earbuds may be allowed or required for certain applications and settings.

Student Discipline

The violations and consequences outlined by this Student Device Responsible Use Guidelines are aligned with the ROISD Student Code of Conduct levels of infractions. The discipline procedures in the ROISD Student Code of Conduct address all levels of offenses, including stealing and destruction of school or personal property.

This applies to all ROISD property, including school-assigned devices. Depending on the seriousness of the offense, students may lose device usage rights and/or network privileges, be suspended, or, in extreme cases, expelled.

INFRACTIONS AND CONSEQUENCES

Infractions and consequences are determined by campus administration. If a student does not meet behavior expectations and responsible use, consequences will occur. The administration reserves the right to deny students access to devices at their discretion both inside and outside of school.

CONTACT US

Please read the above Student Device Responsible Use Guidelines. Afterwards if your family will need a device or technical assistance, please contact the Red Oak ISD technology department at technology@redoakisd.org.

Updated July 23, 2020

Providing families with clear and concise communication through the following outbound channels:

• Email
• Website
• Campus Newsletters
• Social Media

 Communication Tools and Channels

• Parents will receive emails from Red Oak ISD, sent through the Blackboard ParentLink Email addresses will be collected from Skyward Family Access.
• Information about Return 2 Learn and Back to School 2020 will be posted on the Red Oak ISD website. The website will include:
  • Health and safety protocols
  • Information on both in-person and at-home learning
  • A list of frequently asked questions
• Campuses will share campus-specific information with parents via email, newsletters, and other campus communication tools.
• Regular updates will be posted on Red Oak ISD’s social media channels (Facebook, Twitter and Instagram).
• At-Home Virtual Learning support offered to parents through consistent communication

This information is related to when a student and/or staff shows COVID-19 symptoms during the school day. All staff and students should self-screen prior to coming to campus and SHOULD NOT come on campus if they have any signs or symptoms of COVID-19. Staff and students will be subject to temperature checks each morning when arriving at school.

If symptoms appear before arriving on campus, staff should contact their immediate supervisor and students should contact their attendance office via email or phone to report their absence and that they are showings signs of COVID-19.

Depending on the information provided in the phone call or email, a student’s parent may be contacted by the school to gain further information related to the absence.

ROISD CAMPUS ISOLATION PLAN

If a student or staff member presents COVID-19 symptoms during the school day:

• Symptomatic staff and/or student will be required to apply a face covering if they are not currently wearing one, and report to the designated isolation area on their campus.
• The individual will remain isolated with assigned staff to be monitored and receive any medical care if needed, until they leave campus. Parents need to arrange for pick-up within 30 minutes of the notification from the campus of a symptomatic student.
• Assigned staff must wear appropriate PPE and will utilize proper hygiene protocols for the duration of the isolation.
• After everyone is removed from the isolation area, it will be disinfected appropriately.
• The classroom where the student/staff member was located while becoming symptomatic will be disinfected. If students are currently occupying the classroom they will be removed to another location so the classroom may be disinfected appropriately.

Updated August 5, 2020

The Texas Education Agency's most recent “Public Health Planning Guidance” document outlines basic guidelines for a safe return to in-person instruction for the 2020-2021 school year. As this document states: “There will almost certainly be situations that necessitate temporary school closure due to positive COVID-19 cases in schools. Parents, educators, and school administrators should be prepared for this in the event that it occurs, while actively working to prevent it through prevention and mitigation practices”. 

• Notifications
  ROISD will respond in the event of a confirmed COVID-19 among students and/or staff at a specific campus with an email no later than 6 p.m. on the day the COVID-19 case confirmation is reported.
• Intermittent School to Home
  Should there be a need to temporarily close a class or school due to COVID-19, teachers will instruct virtual classes via Canvas and/or Google Classroom, pending the return to campus.  Home internet and device access are required for virtual learning. ROISD plans to implement a 1 to 1 device initiative for students that do not have a device or internet access to use at home.  Also, extracurricular and student programs will be temporarily suspended during a campus closure. 

Individuals Confirmed or Suspected with COVID-19

Any individuals who themselves either: (a) are lab-confirmed to have COVID-19; or (b) experience the symptoms of COVID-19 must stay at home throughout the infection period, and cannot return to campus until the school system screens the individual to determine any of the below conditions for campus re-entry have been met:

• In the case of an individual who was diagnosed with COVID-19, the individual may return to school when all three of the following criteria are met:
  1. at least one day (24 hours) have passed since recovery (resolution of fever without the use of fever-reducing medications);
  2. the individual has improvement in symptoms (e.g., cough, shortness of breath); and 
  3. at least ten days have passed since symptoms first appeared.

• In the case of an individual who has symptoms that could be COVID-19 and who is not evaluated by a medical professional or tested for COVID-19, such individual is assumed to have COVID-19, and the individual may not return to the campus until the individual has completed the same three-step set of criteria listed above.
• If the individual has symptoms that could be COVID-19 and wants to return to school before completing the above stay at home period, the individual must either (a) obtain a medical professional’s note clearing the individual for return based on an alternative diagnosis or (b) receive two separate negative confirmations at least 24 hours apart.

Identifying Possible COVID-19 Cases on Campus

• ROISD must immediately separate any student who shows COVID-19 symptoms while at school until the student can be picked up by a parent or guardian.
• ROISD will clean the areas used by the individual who shows COVID-19 symptoms while at school (student, teacher, or staff) as soon as is feasible.
• Students who report feeling feverish will be referred to the campus clinic to check to determine if they are symptomatic for COVID-19.