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New Year, New Policies

by | Jan 3, 2023 | Campus Updates, Staff

As we move towards an endemic phase of Covid, having an operating plan dedicated solely to pandemic protocols is no longer adequately serving our community. To reflect that shift, we have changed the name of the Covid Operating Plan to the Campus Operating Plan. This modified document covers Covid and other non-Covid illnesses, as well as campus protocols for drop-off, pick-up, and visitors. Please review the new plan. Below are highlights of the updates to the Escuela del Sol Montessori policies:

Pick-Up Policy

  • Pick-up during designated pick-up times will remain the same (12:15-12:30 p.m. or 3:00-3:30 p.m.).
    • Make sure you check in with either your student’s Classroom Guides or a member of the admin team so we can make sure your student is signed out properly. If you’re picking up from the Plaza between 3:20 – 3:30 p.m., look for the staff member holding a tablet.
  • Pick-up outside of the designated times outlined above requires Admin assistance.
    • Press the buzzer button next to the Blue Gate. Admin will be able to open the gate remotely.
      When you arrive at your student’s room, let the Classroom Guides know you have arrived and then wait outside the classroom for your student to come out.
  • All arrivals after 8:30 a.m. should continue to be announced by calling the office (505-242-3033). A member of the Admin team will meet you at the Blue Gate and walk your student to class.
  • In consideration of individuals with phobias to animals, and for the safety of our students, staff, and classroom animals, family pets (dogs, cats, snakes, lizards, etc.) are not permitted within the Blue Gates. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service dogs are allowed to accompany their human.
Illness Policy
  • If an individual is experiencing possible Covid symptoms, they must provide two negative test results 24-48 hours apart, a note from a medical professional, or a negative PCR test prior to returning to campus.
  • Any individual with symptoms of an illness other than Covid (including, but not limited to, RSV; Hand, Foot and Mouth; Ringworm; Pink Eye; Strep Throat; etc.) should seek a diagnosis from a medical professional and must follow guidelines for the diagnosed illness for returning to school. Please refer to the Illness Policies and Procedures section on page 6 of the Campus Operating Plan for additional information.
  • Whenever possible, consult a medical professional.
  • If a student is diagnosed with an illness, families must notify the office.
  • Test-to-Stay will no longer be implemented. Per NMPED and ECECD requirements, Individuals who are exposed to Covid-19 must mask for 10 days, and test on Day 6. This is true for any exposure, off-campus or on-campus. While our supplies last, Escuela will continue to provide tests for at-home testing following an on-campus exposure to Covid. NMPED and NMDOH funding for schools to provide testing supplies is no longer available.
  • Any individual who has tested positive for Covid-19 may return to campus after completion of the quarantine period provided they are symptom-free. They will be required to wear a mask until two (2) negative antigen tests are achieved, taken 24-48 hours apart, regardless of if this surpasses the general 10-day quarantine window.
  • If a child is not well enough to play outdoors and interact actively with other children, they are too sick to come to school.

Because we are in the midst of cold and flu season, many of the symptoms of seasonal viruses often present as those of Covid. Most pharmacies are offering up to eight free antigen tests covered by insurance. While our supplies last, families may request an at-home antigen test kit if your student is experiencing Covid symptoms.

We are grateful for your partnership in keeping our community safe and healthy. Please contact the office if you have any questions.