AWLS Parent & Staff Communication - 8/2/21

At this time, I want to share a quick update on COVID-19 information with you.

Update on the County COVID-19 Data

According to information from the Toledo Lucas County Health Department website, as of this past July 31st, the county was averaging 12.86 cases per day over the previous 14 days . This average is higher than it was at the beginning of July when it was 5.64 cases per day. There was no update on the website about the percentage of Lucas County residents that were vaccinated, but as you may recall, I shared with you that according to previous Health Department data, approximately 60% of the AW residents eligible were vaccinated. 

Update on Masks on Buses/Vans

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) has shared with school districts that the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Federal order requires that those individuals that ride or drive a school bus/van must wear a mask. Thus, all students and staff on school buses and vans are required to wear a mask until further notice. 

CDC Changes Its Initial Mask Recommendation

As you may have heard, the CDC revised its recommendation for masks within school buildings. At this time, the CDC is not requiring, but is recommending, that all individuals regardless of vaccination status wear a mask. The school district is not requiring, but is recommending, all individuals regardless of vaccination status wear a mask. 
 

Update on other Items Related to COVID-19 Safety Procedures

On Tuesday, August 3rd, the District will share additional safety procedures that will be in place as the students’ school year starts on August 18. Many of these safety procedures, such as the use of hand sanitizer, cleaning school facilities, use of social distancing in allowable areas, etc., were in place at the end of last school year and will continue to be per the recommendations of the CDC and ODH. 
 

Start of the School Year

A reporter asked me this morning to share what I’m excited about as we prepare to begin the school year. I replied that I always enjoy the month of August when we start to see students and staff beginning their new school year activities. As a parent and superintendent, I am really looking forward to the start of this school year and everyone beginning a new experience together. 

Thank you,

Dr. Jim Fritz
Superintendent