12/1/2021 Message from McDaniel | COVID-19 Update
OKCPS Families,
In light of recent news regarding a new COVID-19 variant, Omicron, I wanted to provide a quick update to families and staff regarding OKCPS’ COVID-19 Safety Plan and Response.
The mask requirement that is currently in place will remain in place through the rest of this semester and into the new year. With so many unknowns regarding the new variant and with the likelihood of holiday travels and gatherings, we believe it’s best to leave our mask requirement in place until we know more. This means that when students return from Winter Break on January 4, 2022, all students and staff will be required to continue wearing a mask, unless a previous exemption has been issued. That said, OKCPS will closely monitor the situation as students and staff return from break while consulting with our public health partners. If virus numbers remain low and other conditions allow, we hope to begin adjusting some of our COVID safety protocols as we move into the new year.
As a reminder, we ask that our families not send children to school if they are sick. Likewise, employees should not report to work if they are ill. Not only are we still facing COVID-19, but it’s also the cold and flu season. If you have been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing any symptoms, please consider being tested and stay home until you are well.
Speaking of testing, I want to remind families about our free COVID-19 testing. Testing is available at a number of OKCPS schools and takes place every day of the school week. To schedule an appointment, please visit our website. As you prepare to spend time with family and/or friends over the next few weeks, please consider taking advantage of our free COVID-19 testing opportunities.
Lastly, science tells us that being vaccinated is one of the most effective ways to protect ourselves and each other from COVID-19. OKCPS has partnered with OCCHD to host vaccine clinics for any adult or child who is currently eligible to receive the vaccine. Right now, the vaccine is approved for children over the age of 5 and all adults over the age of 18 are eligible to be vaccinated and/or to receive a booster. As a reminder, OKCPS does not require staff or students to be vaccinated, but if you are interested in having your child vaccinated or being vaccinated yourself, please visit our website to view our vaccine clinic schedule. As always, you can also visit www.vaxokc.com to find a convenient clinic in the metro area for you.
I am so proud of our students, staff and families for remaining vigilant in our health and safety practices which has allowed our students to remain in classrooms for in-person learning for this semester. Let’s keep working together to keep our children, staff and community safe.
Dr. Sean McDaniel
OKCPS Superintendent