Hartford School District COVID Response Protocols
For the start of the 2023/2024 school year, the Hartford School District will be using the infectious disease prevention strategies and COVID Response Protocol as outlined below. This protocol is based on the current CDC guidelines for COVID-19. Any future changes to this protocol will be communicated by the Superintendent of Schools.
MASKING
Universal masking is no longer required in Vermont schools*. However, there are circumstances under which an individual should wear a mask in our school buildings:
Masks must be at least 2 layers, fit properly, and be worn over the mouth and nose.
It is recommended that those who are identified as being at high risk for severe disease related to COVID contact their healthcare provider to discuss whether or not they should wear a mask.
Individuals may choose to continue to wear masks for their own personal reasons outside of those listed above. Bullying or harassment of anyone for any reason will not be tolerated in any Hartford School District building or program.
* If community transmission levels in Windsor County reach a "high" level as defined by the CDC COVID BY COUNTY, Hartford School District may require that everyone wear a facemask while indoors until transmission levels decline.
GUIDANCE FOLLOWING AN EXPOSURE TO COVID-19
IF YOU ARE NOT EXPERIENCING ANY SYMPTOMS:
You DO NOT need to quarantine.
ISOLATION FOLLOWING A POSITIVE TEST
If you have a positive antigen or PCR test, let your school nurse know; they report positive cases to the VT Department of Health. Use the following guidance regardless of vaccination status:
ILLNESS
If a student or staff member develops symptoms of illness while at school, the school nurse will use their clinical judgment to determine if the individual may remain in school. If it is determined that they can stay at school, a facemask may be provided and should be worn while indoors. (Please see your child's parent/student handbook for illness protocols).
TESTING
Test kits will be made available to staff and students from the school nurse upon request to test due to symptoms.
**Antigen test kits will be provided by the school subject to available inventory received from the state of Vermont.
Tom DeBalsi
Superintendent
It’s hard having a sick kid, but it’s important to keep them home from school until they get better. Get them tested if they have any COVID symptoms, may be a close contact, or have taken part in activities that could put them at risk. http://healthvermont.gov/testing
Here are some local sites that offer COVID testing:
Vaccination Information
Please do not hesitate to contact Superintendent DeBalsi or Felicia Hayes, the district's COVID Coordinator, with any questions.