COVID Info & Reopening Resources

Updated: September 2022

Beginning September 7, 2021 to help prevent the further spread of COVID-19, here is an update on PSESD facilities and services:

• The PSESD building is now OPEN to the public. The PSESD building hours are from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., Monday – Friday.
• Fingerprinting Services is now OPEN. Please carefully read through the instructions before scheduling your appointment online.
• Conference Center operations have re-opened and we are now taking reservations for upcoming meetings, conferences and events. Please refer to the Conference Center page for additional information.
• Educare Early Learning Center: On-site operations at Educare are OPEN.
• The Early Head Start program at the Washington Correctional Center for Women is currently OPEN and operating on a reduced schedule. WCCW continues to provide direct support Mothers and children.
• ReLife School is open for the 2022-23 school year.

In light of COVID-19, we have strengthened our health and safety procedures to keep our buildings and facilities clean and safe for all. 

As we navigate the ever-changing climate, we continue to be committed to providing our employees and guests an exceptional experience.

PSESD PROTOCOLS INCLUDE:

• Facial coverings are no longer required but are optional. 
• PSESD is increasing the number of accessible hand sanitizing stations at the entrance and throughout our building.
• PSESD has upgraded air filters to higher MERV ratings and increased system run times for more complete air ventilation. 
• PSESD is utilizing highly effective and sustainable cleaning products to clean and disinfect throughout the building.
• PSESD is increasing the frequency and intensity of cleaning and disinfecting high-touch, high-traffic areas, such as light switches, door handles, elevator buttons, and more.
• PSESD has enhanced cleaning and sanitation standards throughout conference center and common areas.
• PSESD has implemented innovative cleaning technologies, such as modern electrostatic sprayers and setting up portable disinfectant in each conference room.

Behavioral Health

We've created a PSESD School Behavioral Health Workbook to serve as a practical guide for detailing your plans and supporting the implementation of addressing the needs of students, family, and staff well-being. Our goal is to attend first to the mental health, emotional state, and well-being of members of the school community and to do so leading with race equity. This attention will not only support our youth in the here and now but for years to come. All materials have been vetted as evidence-based practices and consolidated for your use. The workbook was developed to align with the ESSER student well-being recovery plans. For more information on behavioral health resources, please contact Minu Ranna-Stewart.

2022-23 School Year COVID Information

The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has released updated guidance for schools to follow during the 2022-23 school year. While much of the guidance remains the same as it was at the end of the last school year, there are a few important updates to be aware of.

Health and Safety Requirements for this Fall:

• Students and staff who show symptoms of COVID-19 are required to stay home and should get tested for COVID-19.
• Students and staff who test positive for COVID are required to isolate at home for 5 days. If symptoms improve and they have had no fever for the past 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications, students and staff can come back to school and are encouraged to test before returning.
• Students and staff returning to school after isolation should wear a well-fitted mask from days 6 to 10. Individuals returning to school from isolation should also remain masked for sports and other extracurricular activities.
• Students and staff who test positive after 5 days of isolation must stay at home for the full 10-day isolation period.
• Schools must inform students, families, and staff when there are cases or outbreaks in school. Most are doing so via their website dashboard or an email notification. Schools are no longer required to directly notify high-risk students or staff.

These requirements are legally binding and in place for all public and private K-12 schools and child-care facilities in Washington State.

• Have questions about starting a COVID testing program in your school?
• Looking for COVID mitigation resources?
• Other questions related to COVID

CONTACT: Andrea Dombroski, PSESD COVID Coordinator