5:02 - 6:02pm
The summer season has unfortunately come with a concerning resurgence of COVID-19 cases throughout California. As a mother of three kids in public school I, like many of you, have been following the updates related to schools re-opening this fall and wanted to share the latest updates from Governor Newsom and the legislature.
A few weeks ago, the legislature passed SB 98 a bill that aims to have children in the classroom when safe, and ensures that children are getting the same amount of instructional hours whether they are in person or remote. It also clarifies to districts that we expect all instruction to be meaningful, and sets standards for what can be counted as instructional minutes during distance learning. I was happy to support this legislation to ensure that the education our kids have during distance learning is comprehensive and meaningful.
Last Friday, Governor Newsom issued new guidance for reopening of schools. The most important point is that schools cannot re-open for in-person classes until their county has been off the state monitoring list for 14 consecutive days. At this time, both Contra Costa and Alameda Counties are on the state watch list so schools are expected to begin the year in distance learning. Once our schools are able to open safely, they will need to follow masking and distancing guidelines, as well as staff testing and contact-tracing protocols. In addition, Governor Newsom issued a framework for how schools and districts should respond to potential outbreaks, including when it would trigger school closures.
Given Governor Newsom’s recent order, whether we get back to the classroom is in the community’s hands. We have driven down the number of COVID-19 cases once and we can do it again. However, it means every one of us needs to practice social distancing, wear masks, wash our hands, and follow all guidance from the counties. We can do this and get kids back to the classroom.
With the continued need to Shelter in Place comes continued challenges, I would like to invite you to my staff Virtual Office Hours. This is an opportunity to connect directly with my staff and have a chance to get linked to resources, share your concerns, and receive help with state agencies such as the EDD and DMV. Information about how to access the Zoom will be sent to those who RSVP.
Virtual Office Hours
Wednesday, July 22nd
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Information about how to access the zoom will be sent to those who RSVP.
If you cannot make it to Virtual Office Hours, please know that you can reach out to my office at anytime with questions, concerns, or requests for assistance. You can reach my staff at 925-328-1515.
