FRANKFORT, Ky. — Summer vacation is almost over and the Kentucky Department of Education (KDE) continues to work to finalize guidelines for all types of students.
A framework for guidelines for Kentucky’s exceptional learners and preschoolers was released on Monday but since every student in the program has different needs the guidelines could change.
“As things change this guidance could very well change because what we are hearing from some of our colleagues across the nation in some of these highly litigated states, we are beginning to see some tension and some litigation and some dispute resolution around serving students with disabilities during times of schools closures,” said Gretta Hylton, with KDE’s Office of Special Education and Early Learning (OSEEL).
K-12 guidelines released late June require masks are a requirement for all students first grade and older, but certain students with disabilities will be able to forgo that requirement.
“It may not be safe for them to wear a mask either due to their age, their physical condition or their disabilities,” said Veronica Sullivan, OSEEL’s Division of IDEA Implementation and Preschool. “We just want districts to be aware of that and if a student presents a doctor’s note saying they do not need to wear a mask, you do not need to have an ARC (Admissions and Release Committee) to implement that.”
Preschool students also will not be required to wear masks.
Teachers are asked to maintain social distancing in classrooms, however, KDE acknowledges that may not be possible for all teachers and students. In situations where a student requires hands-on care from a teacher, they recommend the teacher wear increased PPE, such as face shields, gloves, and in certain situations — surgical gowns if a student needs help using the bathroom.
“The main thing we do want districts to consider is that there are going to be unique circumstances for students with disabilities and really think outside of the box and contact your local health department if you need further suggestions on how to support these students and how to work in close proximity with them,” said Sullivan.
Preschool teachers are advised to explain to students what social distancing is and class sizes will be reduced to allow for social distancing.
Temperature checks will be required for all students but students will disabilities can be allowed to go to the front of the line if necessary.
To look at the full list of guidelines click here.