Health and safety remain the focus of Omaha Public Schools. We care deeply about our students, staff and families. As one of the first large, urban school districts to return in person in 2020, the entire Omaha Public Schools community can be proud of our collective commitment to young people. Our data has shown that students need to be in class, connected and learning with one another. We can do it, together.

Additional specifics on our health and safety protocols are below:

• Vaccines and face coverings
  • Face coverings are optional for all students, staff and visitors inside district schools and offices.
  • Staff and families should continuously monitor their health. If a student or staff member feels ill, they must stay home.
  • Omaha Public Schools encourages everyone eligible to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in consultation with their doctor.
    
    

• Enhanced disinfecting measures
  • School campuses will undergo cleaning and sanitization procedures at least daily.
  • Frequently touched surfaces will be sanitized with an EPA-approved disinfectant or sprayed with an ionizer at least daily.
  • Shared materials, including computer labs and other hands-on resources, should be disinfected between uses.
  • Student desks should be regularly wiped down with an EPA-approved disinfectant or sprayed with an ionizer. 
    
    

• Hygiene
  • Staff will work with students to teach and reinforce proper handwashing.
  • Hand sanitizer will be available throughout schools, where permitted by the fire marshal.
  • Staff will work with students on “respiratory etiquette,” like covering coughs and washing hands.
  • Handwashing or sanitizing will be part of the routine when moving throughout the school, before and after mealtimes and more. 
    
    

• Mealtimes
  • Students will wash or sanitize hands before and after every meal.
  • Staff will follow public health recommendations and food safety will be prioritized at all levels.
  • Schools may adjust routines based on the needs of their location.
    
    

• Adjusted routines
  
  • Schools may adjust traffic patterns based on the needs of their location.
  • The use of shared materials should be limited when possible and disinfected between uses.