Elementary School Classroom Openings: Alameda County Waivers

ALAMEDA COUNTY, CA — Elementary school children in Alameda County are one step closer to returning to their classrooms for instruction, instead of 100 percent online learning. The Alameda County Public Health Department announced Wednesday that it will begin the process of accepting waivers for on campus, in-person learning.

School districts, as well as private and charter schools, will be allowed to submit their waiver applications to the Alameda County Office of Education. After screening the applications, they will be forwarded to the health department.

At this point, the waiver process is for TK through 6th grade. Online education for middle and high school will continue.

“We know that distance learning presents a challenging environment for students, families and schools, and for some, this waiver is a viable option for bringing students back to classrooms,” said Alameda County Superintendent of Schools L. Karen Monroe. “We know that the majority of schools across the state that have applied for waivers are independent schools. Schools that explore the waiver option in order to bring back students must be thoughtful and effective in implementing the protocols that will help to create a healthy and safe learning environment for students and staff.”

The waiver process is rigorous. Applicants must address health and hygiene, the use of face coverings, physical distancing, and more. They must also involve labor, parent, and community groups in the reopening process.

The waiver applications will pass through the county education office, the county health department, and then the state health department. The entire process is expected to take weeks.

The application and instructions are online.