Resources to Help Schools Navigate the COVID-19 Crisis
Originally published March 12, 2020; last updated July 9, 2020
Amid growing concerns of the rising threat of the Coronavirus, or COVID-19, many governments, businesses, families, and schools are facing the responsibility of developing a response plan. School leaders also need to be ready to answer questions from concerned students, parents, and staff, as well as consider alternative learning models to support continued education in the event of a school closure.
We know there is a lot of information out there, and it is hard to keep track of all the updates. We gathered a list of resources from government and health agencies as well as charter organizations so that we can all be better equipped to help prevent the spread of the virus, minimize the impact of disruptions, and proactively communicate our plans with those who depend on us. This list will be updated on an ongoing basis as more information becomes available.
National Resources
The Safe Reopening of Charter Schools by the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools
A collection of public resources on guidance for the safe reopening of charter schools.
Guidance for Administrators of US Childcare Programs and K-12 Schools by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
This interim guidance is intended to help administrators of public and private childcare programs and K-12 schools prevent the spread of COVID-19 among students and staff.
COVID-19 Information and Resources for Schools and School Personnel by the U.S. Department of Education
Useful information, resources, trainings, and tools for addressing infectious diseases, related topics, and protecting the school community.
COVID-19 Resources for Charter Schools by the National Alliance For Public Charter Schools
A collection of information from trusted partners to help schools support their staff and families, including guidance on federal resources, SBA loans, distance learning, and educational equity, as well as a list of upcoming webinars. The website also includes links to information from state charter support organizations.
Map: Coronavirus and School Closures by Education Week
The coronavirus outbreak in the United States is prompting K-12 education leaders to shut down individual schools or entire districts. Track where closures are happening and how many students are affected.
State-Specific Resources
California
Stronger Together: A Guidebook for the Safer Opening of California’s Public Schools
Released on June 8, this guidebook aims to support public school leaders as they work with local health officers to plan for the safe reopening of campuses and classrooms this fall.
Coronavirus Information and Resources by the California Department of Education
New additions as of May 11, 2020 include comprehensive guidance on topics such as distance learning, mental health, school meals, special education, and child care and student supervision, as well as a new statewide benefit program to help food insecure students.
COVID-19 Resources by California Charter Schools Association
CCSA is providing California charter schools with guidance and sample resources to support planning and communications to your school community.
Colorado
COVID-19 Resources for Schools by the Colorado Department of Education
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has created COVID-19 fact sheets, guidance for schools and childcare providers and more.
COVID-19 League Support by Colorado League of Charter Schools
Resources include news, a member survey designed to understand urgent needs, weekly support calls, and virtual learning webinars.
Georgia
COVID-19 and Schools by the Georgia Department of Education
Detailed guidance for school districts on the preparations to take to prepare for the potential spread of COVID-19.
COVID-19 Guidance and Resources for Schools, Students and Families by Georgia Charter Schools Association
Information on topics such as assessment and accountability, special education, meal service, and paid sick leave, as well as a list of online resources for students and teachers.
Louisiana
COVID-19 Resources and Guidance for Schools by Louisiana Association of Public Charter Schools
Includes guidance on remote learning, free family resources, and communication support such as sample letters to families.
COVID-19 Information and Resources by the Louisiana Department of Education
Up-to-date guidance for schools as well as resources for families such as a list of school meal sites and a toolkit to support learning at home.
Nevada
COVID-19 Resources by Nevada Department of Education
Tips and resources to keep Nevada’s communities safe and healthy, including online resources for schools, students, and families, and mental health resources.
CSAN COVID-19 Information by the Charter School Association of Nevada
Resources include a list of frequently asked questions and a list of local food banks to share with families.
New Mexico
COVID-19 Resources for Schools by the New Mexico Public Education Department
Includes the most current information as well as protocols, procedures, and best practices for all schools.
Continuing to Learn by NewMexicoKidsCAN
This report includes summaries of distance learning plans from every district and charter school across the state.
New York
COVID-19 Information and Guidance for Schools by the New York State Education Department
This guide provides an update on measures needed to respond to the COVID-19 outbreak as well as recommended interventions and community containment measures including a checklist for schools to assist in planning.
COVID-19/Coronavirus Updates by the New York Charter Schools Association
A collection of guidance published by state and federal education and health agencies, as well as links to charter-specific tools and resources.
Tennessee
Update on Coronavirus by Tennessee Department of Education
The Tennessee Department of Education has prepared guidance for education leaders to help support them in making the best possible local decisions for their students, schools, and communities.
COVID-19 Resources by Tennessee Charter School Center
A list of information and resources on topics such as online and at-home learning, education of vulnerable populations, and nutrition.
This is a very challenging time, but we know educators and school leaders are uniquely equipped to demonstrate perseverance and leadership. Here at EdTec we’ll be monitoring the situation closely and will provide updated resources as needed.
