COVID-19 Updates

November 1, 2022 marked the first day of new guidance from the Washington State Department of Health regarding COVID-19 guidelines. FPS has worked closely with state and local health care officials throughout the pandemic and will continue to look to them for the best ways to keep students, staff and families healthy and safe.

Important Highlights:

Strategies to prevent the spread of COVID-19 

 

Masking (indoor and outdoor):  

Beginning on Saturday, March 12, 2022 masks will not be required in or around all Franklin Pierce Schools facilities (including buses). Since the Tacoma Pierce County Health Department recommends the use of masks as an effective strategy to prevent the spread of COVID-19, we encourage staff, students and families to develop a personal approach that takes into account your own unique circumstances and the impact of your decision on those around you. 

Franklin Pierce Schools will respect each person’s choice and will not tolerate disrespect toward students and staff regarding their decision to wear or not wear a mask. Staff and students are encouraged to contact the main office at their school to request additional masks or equipment.  

Please note that mask requirements remain in healthcare settings (Nurse’s Office, Isolation Room, etc.) and may also be reinstated in classrooms, schools or other areas if advised by the Tacoma Pierce County Health Department. 

Testing: 

We are no longer offering on-site testing. Take-home test kits are available upon request through the school office. 

Vaccinations: 

Vaccination is the most effective prevention strategy available to protect people from the most severe COVID-19 illness. Please visit the Vaccinate Washington website to learn more about convenient locations to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. 

Hygiene, Sanitization and Ventilation: 

  • Hygiene: Franklin Pierce Schools will continue to encourage regular hand washing and the use of hand sanitizer in school facilities.    

  • Sanitization: Based on recommendations from the Tacoma Pierce County Health Department, staff use soap and water to routinely clean high touch surfaces throughout the day and Vindicator disinfectant on specific high touch surfaces.  

  • Ventilation: Based on recommendations from the Washington State Department of Health, Franklin Pierce Schools has replaced filters with the standard MERV 10 designation. MERV 13 filters have been installed when possible. 

Response to COVID-19 Symptoms 

Students and staff who have symptoms of COVID-19, are recommended to stay home and should get tested and/or see a health care provider.  Symptoms include: fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting or diarrhea.

NEGATIVE TEST RESULT 

POSITIVE TEST RESULT 

  • What if I test negative? Stay home until symptoms improve. 

  • What if I test positive? Stay home and isolate for at least 5 days. 

  • When can I return? Students or staff can return after 24 hours without symptoms; or symptoms have improved, and have not had a fever for at least 24 hours. 

  • When can I return? Students and staff can return after 5 days if symptoms have improved, and have not had a fever for at least 24 hours. 

  • What do I do when I return to school? No additional requirements. 

  • What do I do when I return to school? Students and staff are RECOMMENDED to wear a mask.