COVID-19 Response
Return To Learn Frequently Asked Questions
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Last Updated: 12/11/2020
Please find preliminary answers to frequently asked questions below. Since this information is evolving as our planning progresses, the information will be updated periodically as new information, guidance and protocols come available. In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we know that chief among your many concerns regarding students’ and teachers’ return to school campuses is their health and safety. SUSD’s Operations and Logistics subcommittee has developed District protocols and procedures for personal protection, hygiene, enhanced facility cleaning and sanitation, recess, passing periods, campus visitors and more, when schools physically re-open. Read more here.
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Athletics
Last Updated: 12/11/2020
Please contact Nathan Slater, District Athletic Director with additional questions at nslater@susd.org.
Q: Will Middle School Sports be offered?
A: Our goal is to offer Athletics at the middle school depending on the learning model in the second semester and the COVID-19 metrics. Communications will go out in the 2nd semester as the pandemic progresses.
Scottsdale Online Learning - Students are eligible to play at their home school provided full Athletic opportunities are available with onsite students at school.
Q: Will High School Sports be offered?
A: Yes High School sports are going on now but athletic opportunities will be dependent upon the Arizona Interscholastic Association having athletic opportunities - this is dependent upon the Governor and phasing. Athletes are eligible at their home school provided there are athletic opportunities. Open Enrolled students who choose to transfer to SOL should check with their respective High School Assistant Principal/Athletic Director on eligibility.
Q: What safety precautions has Athletics implemented?
A: SUSD Athletics and has implemented mandatory temperature checks for participants, mask wearing at all times except during aerobic activity, symptoms logs, social distancing, limiting spectators and several other precautions to try and reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread.
Q: Will there be spectators allowed at the games?
A: The AIA has determined that there will be no spectators at high school games during the winter season and we have yet to determine spectators at the middle school level if we are able to offer athletics.
Q: How can someone watch the games if they are not parents of participants?
A: SUSD now has live streaming availability through the NFHS. For instructions to subscribe please click here Subscribe to NFHS Network.
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Career & Technical Education
Last Updated: 09/15/2020
Please contact Erin Scherer with additional questions at escherer@susd.org.
Q: Can my student remain in EDL once schools reopen and still participate in his/her CTE course?
A: Due to the hands-on nature of CTE courses, it is strongly recommended that students return to the classroom in order to fully experience the program. However, students that must remain in EDL will still be able to participate in the course.
Q: Can my student earn industry certification if he/she remains in EDL?
A: This will vary by program. In some cases, students can prepare for and practice skills in a virtual environment that will prepare them for the credentialing exam (i.e Marketing, Sports Medicine). There are programs (i.e. Nursing, Biotechnology, Culinary) where online simulations may be offered, but may not provide the real world, practical experience that is needed to perform with confidence on the exam.
Q: Are industry certification exams required?
A: This school year, industry certifications will be optional for students.
Q: Will additional safety measures be in place for the CTE classrooms that may require specialized equipment?
A: Yes. Each CTE classroom that holds specialized equipment will have additional safety and disinfecting protocols to adhere to. These will be shared with students prior to re-opening and frequently reviewed for understanding.
Q: When will East Valley Institute of Technology (EVIT) start school?
A: Communication from Dr. Chad Wilson on July 9, 2020, indicates that “the board agreed that EVIT will start school online on Aug. 10 and continue online only until Gov. Doug Ducey reopens school campuses.” Thus, SUSD will provide transportation to our SUSD EVIT enrolled students.
Q: Can I enroll in EVIT Courses while attending Scottsdale Online Learning (SOL)?
A: Yes, and you can utilize transportation to EVIT available from an established high school route.
Q: If my student’s CTE course requires special software, materials or equipment, will I be expected to provide that for my child?
A: For CTE programs that require specialized software, students will be checked out devices that have the required software loaded for student access at home. There will not be an expectation to purchase or provide special equipment or materials for projects. In some cases, students may check out project kits to complete at home.
Q: How will the 51% lab or “hands on” time required for CTE courses be met for the 2020-21 school year?
A: As stated in Governor Ducey’s Executive Order released on June 24, 2020,
"Allows Career and Technical Education Districts (CTEDs) to participate in distance learning during the 2020-2021 school year and allows remote training to occur in lieu of laboratory time requirements for the current school year."
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Community Education
Last updated: 12/11/2020
Please contact Debbie Ybarra with additional questions at dybarra@susd.org
Q: How will Community Education Early Learning programs operate during Covid-19
A: Students wear mask all day long and will bring a snack until further notice
Students will be able to get free breakfast and lunch
Sign in and out will be at assigned spot by the teacher and dismissal time will be based on site determination for 2020-2021 school year
Q: When will Registration begin for the 2021-2022 school year
A: Registration will begin February 1,2021 online for Pre-registration for one week. It will close the second week in February and then re-open for regular registration on the third week of
February and will be ongoing
Q: What type of programs will be available for early learning in 2021-2022
A: Preschool (3 yr. old’s), Pre-K (4 yr. old’s), Pre-K (Gifted 4 yr. old’s - must qualify), Pre-K (Virtual 4 yr. old’s)
Q: Are these programs offered across the district
A: We have Community Education programs and Title 1 programs and for more information about site location and cost information go to www.susd.org/communityed
Q: Is the staff running these programs certified teachers
A: Yes all classrooms are run by Certified Classroom Teachers
Q: How do I register my child for the Early Learning program
A: For registration information go to www.susd.org/communityed
Q: If I need an afterschool place for my child where would I get information for that
A: Community Education offers an afterschool program called Kids Club Monday – Friday, immediately after dismissal
Q: Is Kids Club offered at each elementary site
A: No it is not, it is only at 13 sites at this time and for more information about sites and cost go to www.susd.org/communityed
Q: When will Enrichment Classes be available at elementary sites
A: Enrichment classes will begin in the Spring and offered at sites as some are outside in-person classes and some are being offered virtually.
Q: How do I register my child for enrichment classes
A: Go to www.susd.org/communityed for more information on location and availability
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Dual Enrollment
Last Updated: 9/15/2020
Q: Where can I find general information about the dual enrollment program:
A: https://www.scottsdalecc.edu/students/high-school/early-college/dual-enrollment
Q: Will Dual Enrollment (DE) courses be offered through the Enhanced Distance Learning model?
A: Yes, courses that are approved for Dual Enrollment will be offered through Enhanced Distance Learning. Students that wish to enroll in DE will do so through an online process. This process will be shared with your student by his/her SUSD teacher while the enrollment window is open. There will be staff from Scottsdale Community College to support this process as well.
Q: Will Dual Enrollment (DE) courses be offered at Scottsdale Online Learning (SOL)?
A: Dual Enrollment opportunities are contingent upon teachers certification. Contact Scottsdale Online Learning (SOL) for availability.
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Elementary School
Contact your site administrator with additional questions.
Specialty Program Information
SUSD specialty programs include the following:
- International Baccalaureate (IB) (Desert Mountain High School)
- Middle Years Baccalaureate Program (MYP) (Mountainside Middle School and Desert Mountain High School)
- Primary Years Baccalaureate Program (PYP) (Anasazi)
- Dual Language Immersion - Mandarin (Desert Canyon Elementary) and Spanish (Pueblo Elmentary School and Mohave Middle School)
- STEAM Certification Candidate Schools (Laguna and Navajo)
- Traditional (Cheyenne and Pima)
SUSD specialty programs are not available in Scottsdale Online. Families that want to continue the specialty programs for the 2020-2021 school year should select Enhanced Distance Learning transitioning to Full Return once schools reopen.
The EDL Extended is now an option for students in SUSD specialty programs.
Enhanced Distance Learning
Q: Will teachers be expected to provide only direct instruction? Will students be allowed to work collaboratively and in small groups?
A: During Enhanced Distance Learning, teachers will be instructing through a combination of “live” direct instruction and student self-directed learning, depending on grade level, course, etc. Collaboration will be optimized for both Enhanced Distance Learning and Full Return with safety measures in place.
Full Return
Q: What if I sign up for Full Return and cannot return to a campus when school resumes in person due to medical issues or safety concerns?
A: EDL Extended provides an option for families who select Full Return and are not able to return in person when school resumes.
Q: Will students be allowed to attend classes that are outside of their homeroom class? Ex: Gifted services, small reading groups, remediation, enrichment, LRC, Speech, OT?
A: Some of these services may be offered virtually to students to attempt to limit student contact outside of their classroom cohort. In some cases, when deemed appropriate, students may attend classes in small groups for speciality services.
Q: Will grade levels be able to departmentalize?
A: Departmentalization will be considered, with recommended safety measures driving this decision. When deemed safe, sites can consider this option based upon the number of sections, number of students, and unique campus needs.
Q: Will students attend specials?
A: Students will have specials either in person and/or virtual.
Q: Will students receive recess?
A: Yes, with safety measures in place.
Q: Will schools be able to host public events, such as ‘Meet the Teacher,’ Curriculum Night, community events?
A: Events will be virtual until it is safer to gather in large groups. Governor Ducey’s order currently prohibits gatherings of more than 50 people.
Q: Will the attendance policy change?
A: The SUSD attendance policy will be modified to be responsive to our current situation. Students are required to stay home if feeling ill, displaying symptoms, or a family member is ill.
Scottsdale Online Learning
Please contact Dr. Chris Thuman at CThuman@susd.org with additional questions
Q: How can I get more information about Scottsdale Online?
A: Visit Scottsdale Online Learning (SOL) at https://www.susd.org/ScottsdaleOnline
Q: Will online students still be enrolled in their current school?
A: Students will be enrolled in Scottsdale Online, with the “Right to Return” to their school of residence or open enrolled school at the semester or the 21-22 school year. This includes current open enrolled students at a site.
Q: What classes will be available for students?
A: See the list of classes at https://www.susd.org/ScottsdaleOnline
Q: How will my student stay connected to their current school?
A: We are finalizing the various ways that this will be achieved; but fully understand the importance of keeping students connected. Some early ideas are viewing morning announcements and using Google classroom to connect students.
Q: Can my child be enrolled in a Scottsdale Online class with students from their home school campus taught by a home school teacher?
A: The SOL model is taught by SUSD teachers that may or may not be from your student’s home school. It is dependent on the number of students who choose Scottsdale Online from each site, balanced with the need to staff for grade level, subject area, etc. We will always strive to optimize this by combining students from the same school in the same online class and staff it with a homeschool teacher when all of the factors listed above allow it.
Q: Is the learning experience the same online as it is in the classroom?
A: The learning experience is not the same online and in the classroom, however the online program will provide excellent educational opportunities for our students.
Q: How will students be supported socially and emotionally in this learning model?
A: While students are online, they will have consistent teachers who will conduct office hours and relationship building activities, as found in our Sanford Harmony program.
Q: Can students access English Language Development and Special Education classes in this setting?
A: Yes, students will receive services in the areas for which they qualify. Please see the FAQ for EL services for program support.
Q: Who will deliver specialized instruction to students with IEPs?
A: Please see the FAQ for Special Education Services.
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English Language Learners (ELL)
Last Updated: 09/18/2020
Please contact Sheryl Rendor with additional questions at srednor@susd.org
Q: How will English Language Learners be supported?
Model EL MS/HS Full Onsite * Targeted English instruction will be taught with increased safety precautions by ELD Specialists *Regular class structures * Full onsite instruction will include supports to ensure the success of students who receive ELD services. Academic English Reading and/or Writing classes taken with ELD Specialist EDL Extend *Targeted English instruction will be delivered online by ELD Specialists Academic English and/or Writing classes taken with ELD Specialist *Online instruction will include supports to ensure the success of students who receive ELD services. Online instruction will include supports to ensure the success of students who receive EL services. EDL *Targeted English instruction will be delivered online by ELD Specialists Academic English Reading and/or Writing classes taken with ELD Specialist *Online instruction will include supports to ensure the success of students who receive ELD services. Online instruction will include supports to ensure the success od students who receive EL services. FULL Online Targeted English instruction will be delivered online by ELD Specialists Academic English Reading and/or Writing classes taken online with ELD Specialist Online instruction will include supports to ensure the success of students who receive ELD services. Online instruction will include supports to ensure the success od students who receive EL services. -
Enrollment
Last Updated: 09/16/2020
Please contact Dr. Cindy Bochna at cbochna@susd.org with additional questions.
Q: If my student were to enroll in Scottsdale Online (SOL), would they lose their open enrollment status?
A: Open enrollment status will be preserved at the physical school site for the 2020-2021 and 2021-2022 school year. You must stay continuously enrolled in a Scottsdale school in order to preserve your open enrollment status.
Q: How do I submit my enrollment documents while the school offices are closed?
A: All documentation can be uploaded or emailed to the schools via the Online Enrollment application.
Q: Will online students still be enrolled in their current school?
A: Students will be enrolled in Scottsdale Online, with the “Right to Return” to their school of residence or open enrolled school at the semester or the 21-22 school year. This includes current open enrolled students at a site.
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Fine Arts and Physical Education
Last Updated: 12/11/2020
Please contact Michelle Irvin, Fine Arts and PE Coordinator with additional questions at MIrvin@susd.org
Q: What does my Arts and Physical Education classes look like?
A: Below is what it looks like for each subgroup:
- Marching Bands – 2nd semester – may be asked to perform in the Parada Del Sol Parade in April – should metrics allow
- Concert bands, Choirs, String Ensembles, Dance Classes, and Theatre Classes will be rehearsing in ensembles following the ADE Re-Opening Guidance for Arts and Physical Education.
- Physical Education teachers will be working with students live following the ADE Re-Opening Guidance for Arts and Physical Education.
- Live performances and rehearsals will consistently be monitored to insure the safety of all students and faculty. We will be re-evaluating the metrics and National Guidance to provide the best opportunities for our SUSD Families.
Q: What type of Safety Protocols are in place for Fine Arts and Physical Education classes?
ADE Re-Opening Guidance: ADE Releases Re-Entry Guidance for Arts and Physical Education | Arizona Department of Education (azed.gov)
A: Below are the safety protocols we have in place for the Arts and Physical Education classes:
No Shared Equipment (Instruments/Art Supplies/Athletic Equipment) - cleaning will be done before other students can use (until further notice)
Mask - all students and teachers will wear mask as specified by district guidance, with the addition of specific needs below:
- MS and HS Choir - students and teachers have a choral mask to use (these are not to be shared between students).
- Band (all levels) - Bell covers and surgical masks with slits to schools for student use.
- Physical Education - mask should be worn inside at all times, but may be removed when outside if doing aerobic activity only if you are maintaining 6’ social distancing. If 6’ social distancing cannot be maintained, then the mask will need to stay on.
Locker Rooms - No locker room usage at this time (unless) - it is HIGHLY monitored and students’ entrance and exit is limited to small groups at a time. Preference is students come dressed out for class and only bring a shoe change to class (if needed)
Social Distancing - it is recommended that you attempt to facilitate 6’ social distancing. You can reduce that to 3 feet if you are teaching visual arts or doing a lecture class.
- Orchestra Classes can also be slightly more flexible on spacing as your students will not be breathing heavily as they are performing
- Band and Choir Classes MUST follow the 6’ guidance if students are actively performing.
- Theatre Classes will need to maintain the 6’ social distance if your students are actively acting.
- Dance Classes will need to maintain 6’ if your students are actively dancing.
- Physical Education Classes will need to maintain 6’ if you students are actively participating in activity.
Limited Rehearsal Time if indoors - this mainly affects our Band and Choir classes. It is recommended that the students actively perform for no more than 30 minutes during each hour class period.
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Gifted and Accelerated Learning
Last Updated: 12/11/2020
Please contact Karen Brown with additional questions at karenbrown@susd.org
Q: Does Scottsdale Online Learning (SOL) offer gifted courses or gifted instruction?
A: Scottsdale Online will be enhanced with “Extension Menus” by grade level on a weekly basis to extend and enhance the learning for students in the gifted program.
Q: Comprehensive Gifted Program be offered in Scottsdale Online?
A: No, these students will be serviced through the live stream format with their site CGP teachers.
Q: Will students in Enhanced Distance Learning receive gifted services?
A: Yes, students will be serviced through the cluster model and/or a gifted endorsed teacher through the EDL school at Echo Canyon.
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High School
Contact your site administrator with additional questions
Terminology:
Enhanced Distance Learning (EDL)- Classes taught by home school teachers during school closure
eLearning (HS only)-online class taken by students in a computer lab setting, offered to full return students only
Scottsdale Online Learning (SOL)-full time students taking courses 100% virtual even when schools resume physically
Specialty Program Information
SUSD specialty programs include the following:
- International Baccalaureate (IB) (Desert Mountain High School)
- Middle Years Baccalaureate Program (MYP) (Mountainside Middle School and Desert Mountain High School)
- Primary Years Baccalaureate Program (PYP) (Anasazi)
- Dual Language Immersion - Mandarin (Desert Canyon Elementary) and Spanish (Pueblo Elmentary School and Mohave Middle School)
- STEAM Certification Candidate Schools (Laguna and Navajo)
- Traditional (Cheyenne and Pima)
SUSD specialty programs are not available in Scottsdale Online Learning. Families that want to continue the specialty programs for the 2020-2021 school year should select Enhanced Distance Learning transitioning to Full Return once schools reopen.
We are working on options for students in SUSD specialty programs should they not be able to return in person when schools open to continue to access their specialty programs to the greatest extent possible. This may include a blend of Scottsdale Online Learning. and specialty program.
Enhanced Distance Learning
Q: Do you anticipate typical class sizes for high school classes through the in-person model when we return to school?
A: The student numbers will be similar as in years prior, but may be reduced due to the number of students selecting Scottsdale Online Learning.
Full Return
Q: Will the attendance policy change?
A: The SUSD attendance policy will be modified to be responsive to our current situation. Students are required to stay home if feeling ill, displaying symptoms, or a family member is ill.
Q: What if I sign up for Full Return and cannot return to a campus when school resumes in person due to medical issues or safety concerns?
A: We are working on options for students who select Full Return should they not be able to return in person when schools resume. This may include a transition to Scottsdale Online Learning. or the ability to access the Full Return model virtually, to the greatest extent possible.
Q: Do you anticipate typical class sizes for high school classes through the in-person model when we return to school?
A: The student numbers will be the same as in years prior, but may be reduced due to the number of students selecting Scottsdale Online Learning..
Q: How will passing periods work?
A: Site administrators will use the recommendations from our Logistics and Operations subcommittee and their unique site design to determine the safest way for students to pass during passing periods.
Scottsdale Online Learning
Please contact Dr. Chris Thuman at CThuman@susd.org with additional questions
Q: How can I get more information about Scottsdale Online?
A: Visit Scottsdale Online Learning (SOL) at https://www.susd.org/ScottsdaleOnline
Q: Will online students still be enrolled in their current school?
A: Students will be enrolled in Scottsdale Online Learning., with the “Right to Return” to their school of residence or open enrolled school at the semester or the 21-22 school year. This includes current open enrolled students at a site.
Q: Can my child be enrolled in a Scottsdale Online Learning. class with students from their home school campus taught by a home school teacher?
A: The SOL model is taught by SUSD teachers that may or may not be from your student’s home school. It is dependent on the number of students who choose Scottsdale Online Learning from each site, balanced with the need to staff for grade level, subject area, etc. We will always strive to optimize this by combining students from the same school in the same online class and staff it with a homeschool teacher when all of the factors listed above allow it.
Q: How will my student stay connected to their current school?
A: We are finalizing the various ways that this will be achieved; but fully understand the importance of keeping students connected. Some early ideas are viewing morning announcements and using Google classroom to connect students.
Q: Is the learning experience the same online as it is in the classroom?
A: The learning experience online is not the same online and in the classroom, however the online program will provide excellent educational opportunities for our students. Please watch the provided video to learn more about Scottsdale Online Learning. and visit the website https://www.susd.org/ScottsdaleOnline
Q: Is the curriculum the same online as it is in the classroom?
A: SUSD teachers will be using the Florida Virtual Curriculum to teach these classes. Please visit the Scottdale Online website for more information.
Q: Can students access English Language Development and Special Education classes in this setting?
A: Yes, students will receive services in the areas for which they qualify. Please see the FAQ for Special Education and ELD.
Q: Who will deliver specialized instruction to students with IEPs?
A: Please see the FAQ for Special Education Services.
Q: Will 504 accommodations still be met in this model?
A: Yes, please contact your site for contact information for the site 504 Coordinator.
Q: How will students be supported socially and emotionally in this learning model?
A: While students are online, they will have consistent teachers who will conduct office hours and relationship building activities.
Q: How long will students have to complete their online classes?
A: eLearning courses taken are on a 18 week schedule.
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Middle School
Contact your site administrator with additional questions
Specialty Program Information
SUSD specialty programs include the following:
- International Baccalaureate (IB) (Desert Mountain High School)
- Middle Years Baccalaureate Program (MYP) (Mountainside Middle School and Desert Mountain High School)
- Primary Years Baccalaureate Program (PYP) (Anasazi)
- Dual Language Immersion - Mandarin (Desert Canyon Elementary) and Spanish (Pueblo Elementary School and Mohave Middle School)
- STEAM Certification Candidate Schools (Laguna and Navajo)
- Traditional (Cheyenne and Pima)
SUSD specialty programs are not available in Scottsdale Online. Families that want to continue the specialty programs for the 2020-2021 school year should select Enhanced Distance Learning transitioning to Full Return once schools reopen.
We are working on options for students in SUSD specialty programs should they not be able to return in person when schools open to continue to access their specialty programs to the greatest extent possible. This may include a blend of Scottsdale Online and specialty program.
Enhanced Distance Learning
Q: How many students will be in the online EDL classroom at one time?
A: The student numbers will be similar to years prior, but may be reduced due to the number of students selecting Scottsdale Online.
Q: Will extracurriculars still be available for students, as usual?
A: Sites will work to determine the best way to continue extracurricular activities, with safety driving each decision. Please contact your site administrator for more information. Please see the FAQs for athletics and fine arts.
Full Return
Q: How will passing periods work?
A: Site administrators will use the recommendations from our Logistics and Operations subcommittee and their unique site design to determine the safest way for students to pass during passing periods.
Q: What if I sign up for Full Return and cannot return to a campus when school resumes in person due to medical issues or safety concerns?
A: We are working on options for students who select Full Return should they not be able to return in person when schools resume. This may include a transition to Scottsdale Online or the ability to access the Full Return model virtually, to the greatest extent possible.
Q: How many students will be in the classroom at one time?
A: The student numbers will be the same as in years prior, but may be reduced due to the number of students selecting Scottsdale Online.
Q: Will extracurriculars still be available for students, as usual?
A: Sites will work to determine the best way to continue extracurricular activities, with safety driving each decision. Please contact your site administrator for more information. Please see the FAQ for athletics and fine arts.
Scottsdale Online Learning
Please contact Dr. Chris Thuman at CThuman@susd.org with additional questions
Q: How can I get more information about Scottsdale Online?
A: Visit Scottsdale Online Learning (SOL) at https://www.susd.org/ScottsdaleOnline
Q: Will online students still be enrolled in their current school?
A: Students will be enrolled in Scottsdale Online, with the “Right to Return” to their school of residence or open enrolled school at the semester or the 21-22 school year. This includes current open enrolled students at a site.
Q: Can my child be enrolled in a Scottsdale Online class with students from their home school campus taught by a home school teacher?
A: The SOL model is taught by SUSD teachers that may or may not be from your student’s home school. It is dependent on the number of students who choose Scottsdale Online from each site, balanced with the need to staff for grade level, subject area, etc. We will always strive to optimize this by combining students from the same school in the same online class and staff it with a homeschool teacher when all of the factors listed above allow it.
Q: How will my student stay connected to their current school?
A: We are finalizing the various ways that this will be achieved; but fully understand the importance of keeping students connected. Some early ideas are viewing morning announcements and using Google classroom to connect students.
Q: Is the learning experience the same online as it is in the classroom?
A: The learning experience online is not the same online and in the classroom, however the online program will provide excellent educational opportunities for our students.
Q: How will students be supported socially and emotionally in this learning model?
A: While students are online, they will have consistent teachers who will conduct office hours and relationship building activities.
Q: Can students access English Language Development classes in this setting?
A: Yes, students will receive services in the areas for which they qualify. Please see the FAQ for EL services for program support.
Q: Who will deliver specialized instruction to students with IEPs?
A: Please see the FAQ for Special Education Services.
Q: Will 504 accommodations still be met in this model?
A: Yes, please contact your site for contact information for the site 504 Coordinator.
Q: How many classes will students take each quarter?
A: Students will follow their middle school schedule of classes.
Q: Can students access CGP/Gifted services in this model?
A: See FAQ for Gifted services.
Q: What elective classes will be available for students?
A: See the list of classes link at https://www.susd.org/ScottsdaleOnline
Q: What is the process for transitioning students back to the full-return learning model? Can a student return at any point during the quarter/semester?
A: A minimum one semester commitment is required.
Q: Will there be opportunities for students to maintain a connection with their home school?
A: We are finalizing the various ways that this will be achieved; but fully understand the importance of keeping students connected. Some early ideas are viewing morning announcements and using Google classroom to connect students.
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Nutrition Services
Last Updated: 9/15/2020
Please contact Patti Bilbrey with additional questions at pbilbrey@susd.org
Q: Will elementary students eat in the cafeteria during brick and mortar instruction?
A: Yes, with enhanced safety procedures. Please note some sites may be able to accommodate classroom and alternative dining locations based on supervisory and space capacity.
Q: How will breakfast work at the middle and high school?
A: Breakfast will be served in the cafeteria with enhanced safety procedures. Nutrition Services will work with site Administrators to collaboratively develop a plan to meet the needs as best we can for each site.
Q: How will lunch work at the middle and high school?
A: Lunch will be served in the cafeteria with enhanced safety procedures. Nutrition Services will work with site Administrators to collaboratively develop a plan to meet the needs as best we can for each site.
Q: Are all students in SUSD now receiving free meals and can students who need meals still pick up meals in curbside or participate in their brick and mortar school?
A: All children in the community who are 18 years of age and under may pick up daily curbside meals, if they are not currently participating daily in the school meal program in their brick and mortar sites. All children can now choose to receive a daily breakfast and lunch for free at their choice of curbside pickup, or in the school cafeteria, no matter what their approved qualifying meal status may be. Nutrition Services will have several strategic locations opened to offer curbside pickups for distance learners. Please continue to check our webpage at https://www.susd.org/Meals for updated information as we continue to expect updated guidance from the USDA.
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Safety Measures and Logistics
Last Updated: 9/15/2020
Please contact Dennis Roehler at droehler@susd.org with additional questions
Q: What is the process for sanitization between class periods?
A: Periodic sanitization between class periods or activities will be done by teachers and students using a spray bottle with district provided sanitizer and tri-fold paper towels. Facility Coordinators will perform enhanced cleaning and sanitizing.
Q: What PPE will be provided and/or required for students/staff?
A: All persons entering SUSD facilities are required to wear face coverings. Additional disposable masks have been provided to all sites and school busses. SUSD has provided staff with reusable masks, hand sanitizer, and wipes for their personal use. In addition, teachers have received face shields to wear in conjunction with their face masks. Nurses have been provided N95 masks, gowns, face shields, bleach wipes, and hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizer stations have been placed throughout the school and hand sanitizer will be available for student use in all Middle and High School Classes. Additional hand washing stations have been installed on school campuses. All Elementary Classrooms have sinks to allow students to wash their hands.
Q: Can people wear face shields instead of masks?
A: Face shields are not a substitute for a face masks, but rather worn in conjunction with the face mask. Face shields have been prioritized for special education teachers and nurses. In addition, face masks with clear inserts have been provided to all Pre K- 3rd grade teachers as well as for Speech Language Pathologists.
Q: What procedures will be in place if a student/teacher becomes ill or tests positive for COVID?
A: SUSD COVID Response Plan will be followed in conjunction with Maricopa County Department of Public Health. Reporting will be per MCDPH requirements.
Q: Will students/staff be screened each day before entering campus?
A: SUSD is encouraging parents to be the first line of defense for screening their students prior to coming to school. Staff will be expected to stay home when sick. All SUSD employees will be trained to observe and identify COVID-19 symptoms.
Q: What are the protocols for addressing students/staff who begin to feel ill during school hours?
A: Students/Staff that begin to feel ill during the school day will report to the school nurse's office for further evaluation and instruction. SUSD will follow the SUSD COVID Response Plan.
Q: Will there be transportation?
A: Yes, all bus riders will be required to wear masks.
Q: What if a teacher is absent (non-COVID related)? Will subs be allowed on campus?
A: Yes, substitutes will continue to be available to address absent staff members.
Q: Will students' temperatures be taken each day?
A: Students will not have their temperature checked upon arrival to school. If symptoms develop during the school day, a temperature will be taken.
Q: What are the SUSD Safety protocols?
A: The safety protocols are in alignment with the CDC, Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) and Maricopa Department of Public Health (MCDPH). The SUSD COVID Response Plan follows the guidance and directives set by MCDPH. The Nurses will work MCDPH to report per their protocols, assist with their contact tracing and have students and staff remain home for the number of days required by MCDPH. Additional safety protocols will be followed by our facilities management in terms of cleaning, spot cleaning during school day and response to areas where staff or students test positive for COVID 19.
Q: What are the mask requirements?
A: In conjunction with recommendations from MCDPH, SUSD will require masks as part of the dress code at all times on campus except when eating or drinking. Aerobic activity would be an exception as well.
No valve masks, gaiters or bandanas will be allowed.
Please contact your school front office with any questions.
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Special Education
Special Education: Enhanced Distance Learning and Scottsdale Online
After receiving additional stakeholder feedback, the special education department has further defined our ‘20-‘21 offerings for families of students with special education needs. The District understands and appreciates how difficult it is to make educational platform decisions for your child during these uncertain times. We wanted to take this opportunity to provide you additional information regarding the District offerings to help assist with your decision. In selecting an educational platform for your student, please take into account your child’s strengths and needs as a learner, and the availability of support in the home. We hope the information below assists you with making the best decisions for your child and your family. We have also included contact information for the appropriate staff to answer any questions you may have.
Scottsdale On-Line (“SOL”) is a self-paced, general education curriculum program. With SOL, students withdraw from their home campus and enroll in SOL. Students will have access to teachers and staff via email, text message, and phone calls. This program has varying levels of direct instruction from a teacher depending on the grade level. The program typically requires students to be able to work independently and plan for their own learning. Special education and related services will be provided virtually as part of this program. At this current time, we cannot commit specific personnel who will implement the IEP in SOL, but all services will be provided by certified special education staff. If you intend for your student to return to campus when school buildings are able to re-open this option is not appropriate. In addition, SOL may not be appropriate for students for a variety of reasons. You as a family will need to decide if this option will work best for you. If you have questions about this program, please contact the Special Education Department, Coordinators Cathie Devers Cdevers@susd.org or Christina Agans CAgans@susd.org with any questions.
The Enhanced Distance Learning (EDL) will be available to all students until campuses are able to be reopened. There will be an ability for special education students to continue to access instruction from home if needed once schools resume in-person learning. For some students who receive special education and related services in a specialized program (ALC, SCA, SUCCESS, SHINE, LSC), EDL may be a better option to ensure the continuity of support and staff. If you have any questions regarding this option, please contact the Special Education Department, Coordinators Cathie Devers at Cdevers@susd.org or Christina Agans at Cagans@susd.org with any questions.
Again, please reach out with any concerns or questions you may have about the possible programming options for your child and we will do our best to support you.
PANDA Preschool Program
- Onsite Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday
- PANDA is offered through the Full Return model.
- Enhanced Distance Learning is available for parents wanting their student to start the Preschool/Pre-K experience virtually before students are allowed to return in person.
- Sessions are two hours and forty-five minute sessions, and children are assigned morning or afternoon times.
SCORE High School Transition Program
- Onsite Monday through Friday
- Enhanced Distance Learning is available for parents wanting their student to start the experience virtually before students are allowed to return in person. SCORE is available in Full Return Learning model only
- Instruction will be at the Arcadia High School site.
- Instruction will follow the student’s IEP providing specially designed instruction as well as any related services as written.
For questions please contact:
Evaluations and Special Education Instruction:
Marge Rehberg, Executive Director of Special Education mrehberg@susd.org
Adaptive Physical Education, Special Education Nurses, Speech/Language
Dr. Linda Brake,Director of Special Education lbrake@susd.org
Occupational Therapy Services, Physical Therapy Services
Christina Agans, Special Education Coordinator cagans@susd.org
Orientation/Mobility, PANDA preschool, SCORE Transition, Vision/Hearing
Cathie Devers, Special Education Coordinator cdevers@susd.org
