SCHOOLS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
The purpose of this tool is to assist administrators in making (re)opening decisions regarding K-12 schools
during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to check with state and local health officials and other partners
to determine the most appropriate actions while adjusting to meet the unique needs and circumstances of the
local community.
Should you consider
opening?

Are recommended health and
safety actions in place?

✓✓ Are you able to screen
students and employees
upon arrival for symptoms
and history of exposure?
ANY

ALL

✓✓ Intensify cleaning,
disinfection, and ventilation
✓✓ Encourage social distancing
through increased spacing,
small groups and limited
mixing between groups, if
feasible
✓✓ Train all employees on
health and safety protocols
ANY

DO NOT
OPEN

✓✓ Develop and implement procedures
to check for signs and symptoms of
students and employees daily upon
arrival, as feasible

✓✓ Promote healthy hygiene
practices such as hand
washing and employees
wearing a cloth face
covering, as feasible

✓✓ Will reopening be
consistent with applicable
state and local orders?
✓✓ Is the school ready to
protect children and
employees at higher risk
for severe illness?

Is ongoing monitoring in place?

✓✓ Encourage anyone who is sick to
stay home

ALL

✓✓ Plan for if students or employees
get sick

ALL

OPEN AND
MONITOR

✓✓ Regularly communicate and
monitor developments with local
authorities, employees, and
families regarding cases, exposures,
and updates to policies and
procedures
✓✓ Monitor student and employee
absences and have flexible leave
policies and practices
✓✓ Be ready to consult with the local
health authorities if there are cases
in the facility or an increase in cases
in the local area

MEET
SAFEGUARDS
FIRST

ANY

MEET
SAFEGUARDS
FIRST

cdc.gov/coronavirus