New communication was sent out to the MCPS community by MCPS Athletics. The letter to the community can be seen below:
Dear MCPS Community:
As communicated by MCPS, we must remain vigilant in our efforts to fight the spread of COVID-19. Now more than ever, we are calling on every member of our community to recommit to the procedures and protocols outlined in the Return to R.A.I.S.E. Plan. Here are some important program reminders, per guidance from the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services:
● All contests during Winter Break (December 23-January 2) have been cancelled; optional practices are allowed.
● If a team has three or more active positive COVID-19 cases, all team activities must be paused for 14 days. The 14 days begins from the last exposure.
● All stakeholders should be prepared to implement additional measures to minimize the spread of COVID-19.
Reporting Positive Cases
Reporting will align with MCPS systemwide procedures. Additional team notifications will only be sent if a team is conducting optional practices over winter break.
1. Positive cases will be reported using the MCPS Reporting Form.
2. Student-athlete informs the head coach.
3. Head coach informs the athletics specialist. Team notifications will only be sent if a team is practicing over winter break.
4. The athletics specialist informs the director of systemwide athletics.
5. If necessary, team activities will be paused.
Say Yes to the Test – Consent to Both Random and Rapid COVID-19 Testing
One significant mitigation tactic in MCPS is random COVID-19 screening tests and rapid testing across grades. MCPS, in partnership with the Maryland Department of Health, is offering COVID tests to students at no cost. Testing requires parent permission to “Say Yes to the Test”.
Fill out the consent form
Return to R.A.I.S.E. Plan Operations
The Return to R.A.I.S.E. Plan will continue to drive program operations in regard to COVID-19 procedures and protocols. The plan is reviewed on an ongoing basis by the COVID-19 Task Force for MCPS Athletics. The latest version is always available on the COVID-19 Athletics Information webpage.
Communication and Resources
Our COVID-19 Task Force for MCPS Athletics will continue to evaluate and implement the latest safety measures. Updates and guidance from the Task Force will continue to be provided and are available on the COVID-19 Athletics Information webpage.
We appreciate your continued commitment and support. Specific questions should be directed to your school’s athletics specialist (AD), athletic coordinator (AC), or coach.
We hope you have a safe and relaxing winter break and joyous holiday season! Montgomery County Public Schools
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