Urgent News
Update Center
COVID-19 Response Information
NOTICE: this page is updated frequently as necessary. Please bookmark this page for the most current information as Spectrum addresses this situation.
Current Bell Schedule - 11-17-2020
SPECTRUM DISTRICT & COVID-19 UPDATES
Attached here is information provided by the State of Minnesota regarding the new Vaccination Connector system.
Spectrum is excited to welcome back 70% of our students in person 2nd semester. In preparation, we are providing reminders about and updates to the Ready for School and face covering requirements. Please review the attached communication before students return to school in person next week.
Spectrum Parents/Guardians,
Please see the attached information on the learning model decision for 2nd semester, starting January 20.
Spectrum Community,
As you know, Spectrum's Leadership Team has been gathering data in order to make an informed decision regarding the learning model for 2nd semester. The last piece of the process is to work with our Regional Support Team (comprised of representatives from the Minnesota Department of Health and the Minnesota Department of Education) to review the data and formalize the plan. Unfortunately, that was not possible this week, but we are hopeful to meet with them early next week. We apologize for the delay. Once the decision is made, we will communicate with you as soon as possible.
Thank you for your understanding.
Dan DeBruyn
Executive Director
Spectrum Middle School and Spectrum High School
Please see the following attachment for two important updates: (1) A second chance for students to attend on campus; and (2) A way to raise funds for Spectrum students.
Two Important Updates - 11-30-2020
THREE IMPORTANT UPDATES
Executive Order, Extracurricular Activities, and On-campus Students
As you may be aware, Governor Walz implemented an executive order on Nov. 18, putting a halt to or significantly limiting a number of social and business activities. In addition, the executive order puts a halt to all extracurricular youth activities (including winter sports, open gyms, weight rooms, out-of-season [captains’] practices, etc.) beginning at 11:59 p.m. on Friday, November 20th and extending through December 18th.
Spectrum is hopeful that we will be able to adjust and move seasons to start up again after December 18. We are awaiting guidance for the Minnesota State High School League regarding modifying or shifting seasons. We encourage families to wait until further guidance has been received before requesting a refund. However, those who paid registered fees for winter sports have the option to request a refund (minus the $10 administrative fee) by contacting Deana Bondy.
The Executive Order allows public schools (including Spectrum) to continue following the Safe Learning Plan – a localized, data-driven approach that helps prioritize in-person learning for students when it is safe to do so. As a result, and based on school-level data, Spectrum will continue offering our on-campus learning option for those who have chosen to attend on campus.
Schedule for Next Week
In accordance with the Board-approved school calendar, next Monday (A Day) and Tuesday (B Day) are scheduled as regular school days. Meaning ALL students should attend their classes both days. Wednesday is a non-student day for staff professional development.
Note: As previously indicated, Thursday/Friday students who are scheduled to be on campus should plan to be at school on Monday and Tuesday.
No-Cost At-Home Testing for All Minnesotans
Spectrum has been asked by the Minnesota Departments of Health and Education to share the following information.
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is offering FREE at-home COVID-19 saliva testing for any person who wants to be tested, with or without symptoms. They indicate that this saliva test is as accurate as the nasal swab test and is available at no cost for every Minnesotan, whether or not they have insurance. More information about this partnership with Vault Medical Services is available at the MDH website, including information on how to order the test.
If a Spectrum parent and/or student chooses to be tested, COVID-positive results should be reported to Spectrum’s COVID-19 Coordinator a.s.a.p.- even if the student is working entirely from home. This is important for at least three reasons: (1) The school can determine if any quarantining is necessary (for those attending on campus or involved in extracurricular activities); (2) A positive test allows for a 90 day individual exemption period; and (3) It improves Spectrum’s ability to make decisions regarding the education model offered to our students.
Parents/Guardians,
As indicated in the communication sent about second quarter, Spectrum will be updating our community when the school is made aware of positive cases of COVID-19 within the community (whether employees or students). Since people do not attend school when they are symptomatic, students are not typically considered close contacts and there will be no action required. If they are, parents/guardians will be notified and given further direction. Please see the attached COVID-19 case update for this week.
Please see the attached communication for information on the following:
1. A change in the school calendar for next week;
2. Information on Virtual Conferences;
3. Results of the 2nd Quarter Learning Model Survey; and
4. The process for determining a change in learning model moving forward.
Spectrum Parents/Guardians,
Thank you for your ongoing support and patience as we continue to navigate the various learning models together this fall.
Attached here, we are providing some clarification of attendance expectations we hope will answer most of the questions we've received since the beginning of the school year.
Our amazing teachers and staff are working hard to meet the needs of our students and families. Please continue to provide us your feedback.
Dan DeBruyn
Executive Director
Attached to this communication you will find updated Ready for School Requirements based on newly released guidance from the Minnesota Department of Health. Please replace the requirements sent last weekend with this version (dated 09-02-2020). Thank you for your diligence each morning verifying that your student meets the requirements prior to getting on the bus or attending on campus.
Spectrum Parents/Guardians,
As promised, the student face covering requirements are attached to this communication. Please review and double check your student's face covering to ensure it meets the requirements.
Soon after you receive this communication, two additional items will follow - School Bus Requirements and the "Ready for School" Checklist.
Thank you, as always, for working with us to ensure Spectrum is able to continue with our hybrid learning plan.
Dan DeBruyn
Executive Director
Please see the attached document that lays out all of the requirements for riding on Northstar buses during Spectrum's hybrid program.
Spectrum Families,
Due to the unique nature of the 2020/2021 school year and the uncertainty surrounding the ability to connect with community organizations during this challenging time, Spectrum feels it is in the students’ best interest to omit our service learning courses from the schedule for the first quarter of the year.
Moving forward, we will continue to monitor the situation and follow CDC and MDH guidelines as well as those set by executive orders. We will evaluate our circumstances on a quarterly basis to determine whether or not it is possible to modify or resume our regular service learning program.
Community Outreach remains a pillar of our system at Spectrum. As we begin a unique new school year, be assured that service and community connection will be incorporated into our teaching and learning plan in such a way that ensures the health and well being of both our students and community members.
SENIORS: During these uncertain times, it is our goal to continue to provide students with opportunities for growth and enrichment while also keeping in mind the challenges faced during a pandemic. Due to this, the seniors of 2021 will now have two options for completing their Senior Legacy.
The first option will be to continue with the traditional Senior Legacy plan that they were given last year. If students have already finished their Senior Legacy or have a plan to finish, then this is the best route for them. The second option will be to complete a Community Awareness Campaign. This project will be completed during the first quarter of Senior Capstone and will fulfill the requirements of the Senior Legacy for this year.
Further details will be given on the first day of Senior Capstone. As always, you are welcome to contact Mrs. Chrest to go over the best options for your situation. It is our hope that all seniors will find growth and achievement through this rewarding experience. If you have questions or concerns related to the Senior Capstone Legacy or the Community Awareness Campaign, please do not hesitate to reach out to Rachel Chrest, Senior Capstone Instructor.
Sincerely,
Spectrum Administration
Spectrum Parents/Guardians,
Thank you for your questions regarding the model options for first quarter. You will find a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document linked here, which we will continue to update as more questions come in and we receive additional guidance from MDE or MDH. Hopefully, this information will be helpful as you make your decision for your student's first quarter this fall.
Once you've had a chance to review the FAQ, please go here to complete your questionnaire that will let us know your decision so that we are able to finalize student schedules and bus routes in a timely manner.
Thank you again for your patience and understanding. We greatly appreciate our families and their students.
Sincerely,
Dan DeBruyn
Executive Director
July 31, 2020
Fall Scenarios for Education at Spectrum - July 31, 2020
The folllowing is an email sent out by Spectrum's Excutive Director, Dan DeBruyn.
Spectrum Parents/Guardians,
Spectrum's potential school opening scenarios (along with many details we thought parents would appreciate) are linked here. While the school has created plans based on anticipated scenarios, in order to make the decision about which scenario will proceed, it is critical that we receive feedback from our families. Please complete this survey as soon as possible and no later than Tuesday, August 4.
It is likely that the scenario chosen will end up somewhere between those provided in the document found here. Spectrum intends to share that plan by Friday, August 7.
We greatly value your feedback and appreciate your partnership.
Dan DeBruyn
Executive Director
Frequently Asked Questions
Important: This page is being compiled in an effort to be proactive and responsive to questions regarding the implementation of both a hybrid and distance learning model for the fall of 2020. Answers may be modified and more questions added as information becomes available and additional guidance is provided by MDE and MDH. Note: The date for any changes will be indicated on each question.
Yes - as a public school, Spectrum must consider the COVID case data per county as a critical factor in its decision-making process to determine the base level model.
Spectrum will consider changing the model by quarter hoping that we can have students on campus in-person more often. If the case numbers increase (either per county or at Spectrum), the timeline may have to be shortened and shifted to more distance learning based on recommendations of MDH and MDE.
Students will follow their daily schedule moving from class to class. All classes will be limited to 50% capacity in the classroom to ensure social distancing of 6 feet is achievable. The first part of each class will include a connection with the teacher, taking attendance, a period of teaching/learning (which will vary in time and content depending upon the type of class and the day), and further instruction on requirements for the remainder of the class. This portion of the class will be recorded and posted by 3:10 p.m. each day. It will likely vary from 10-45 minutes. Synchronous students will be online during this portion of the class as well. Once the recorded portion of the class is completed, students on campus will continue to work with their peers and the teacher on their work and synchronous students will work independently at home.
A student accessing classes synchronously will follow their daily bell schedule according to the class schedule. They will be expected to be online (via Zoom) and ready to begin at least 1 minute before the scheduled start time. The teacher will connect with the students (both in-person and synchronous) as a group, take attendance, provide a period of teaching/learning, and give instructions on expectations for the day. This portion of the class will be recorded and posted by 3:10 p.m. each school day. It will likely vary from 10-45 minutes depending upon the class. Some teachers may encourage students to rejoin for small or large group activities later in the period. However, those will not be required for attendance. Synchronous students will have the remainder of each period to complete the expectations described by the teacher in the recorded portion of the class. They could also choose to complete it later in the day.
It is a general expectation that students will participate in their classes at the time they are happening (whether in person or via distance learning). Exceptions may be available for students who have unique circumstances that would not allow them to participate synchronously. However, this will need to be approved through administration in advance. The recording of the first portion of each class will be posted daily by 3:10 2 p.m. Students who receive permission to proceed asynchronously, will view the recordings provided for each class later on the same day and complete the work expectations.
We anticipate Monday will be a day for advisory where all students connect with their advisor via distance learning either individually or at the same time (depending upon the purpose for the week). If it is the whole class together, this will last approximately 60 minutes and will take place in the morning. The specific time will be determined prior to school starting. The remainder of the day will be work time for students.
A student accessing classes synchronously as well as those who are on campus will follow their daily bell schedule according to the class schedule. Students who are synchronous will be expected to be online (via Zoom) and ready to begin at least 1 minute before the scheduled start time. Within the music room, students will be socially distanced, as required. If playing a non-wind instrument, students will be required to wear a face mask or shield at all times. More information will be shared by the instrumental music instructor by the first day of class.
A student accessing classes synchronously as well as those who are on campus will follow their daily bell schedule according to the class schedule. Students who are synchronous will be expected to be online (via Zoom) and ready to begin at least 1 minute before the scheduled start time. Within the music room, students will be socially distanced as required. More information will be shared by the choir instructor by the first day of class.
As was done in the spring, Service Learning/Community Service will be temporarily placed on hold allowing students to focus on their other courses. A decision will be made by quarter as to when Service Learning will start for the year. Senior Capstone will continue in a modified version. More information on Senior Capstone will be available before the start of school.
Students will be encouraged to change prior to PE class and the number of students allowed in the locker rooms will be limited to 50% capacity. Given the 50% capacity limitation during the hybrid model implementation, the ability to change clothing prior to PE class should be doable. Spectrum will continue to monitor this carefully and will make adjustments as needed.
Sharing equipment is allowable based on MSHSL guidelines and Spectrum phased in plans for athletic activities. Equipment will be wiped down at least between classes and may be done during classes as well.
Holding class outside will be preferable and encouraged whenever possible. Using the gym is an option, requiring masks as noted above.
Students in grades 6 - 12 will rotate between classrooms. Since student groups are mixed and schedules are based on student electives and levels, no one group of students remains the same throughout the school day. At the end of every class period, time will be allotted for cleaning of surfaces, etc., to ready the room for the next group of students. Students will be using lockers and will be encouraged to maintain social distancing of three lockers between students. If other students are using a locker near them, they will be instructed to wait until they are done.
Parents/students are being asked to choose either the hybrid model or full distance learning for the quarter. They would be able to make a different choice for the second quarter (if still allowable under the Executive Order).
Teachers are encouraged to update their resources for each class on a daily basis. The resources needed for the day will be updated no later than when the class recording is posted by 3:10 p.m.
There are a number of ways that teachers will be able to mix groups and have them connect. Zoom and Google Meet are two good options.
As required by MDE, Spectrum will ensure social distancing at all times and 50% capacity will be maintained in the hybrid model. This includes the lunchroom where students will be eating. Spectrum met with its school lunch provider, Premier Kitchen, and will be offering either a boxed salad or bag lunch each school day. Parents will need to order meals in advance.
Spectrum is currently working through the details of how meals would be made available to these students. This will depend upon the number of students needing meals. The school is currently considering providing meals to be picked up for the week, a daily delivery option, or a combination of the two depending upon need and number of meals ordered.
FACE COVERING REQUIREMENTS @ SPECTRUM
In accordance with Executive Order 20-81 Requiring Minnesotans to Wear a Face Covering in Certain Settings to Prevent the Spread of COVID 19, students attending Spectrum Middle School and Spectrum High School will be required to wear a face covering while inside the campus buildings and while riding on school transportation. A face covering is defined in the Executive Order as a covering that covers the nose and mouth completely, and can include a paper or disposable face mask, a cloth face mask, a scarf, a bandanna, a neck gaiter, or a religious face covering. Students that are unable to tolerate a face covering as defined above may choose to wear a face shield (a clear plastic barrier that covers the face). Students who cannot comply with the 4 Executive Order due to medical, mental health, or developmental conditions, should contact administration to arrange distance learning accommodations.
Masks may temporarily be removed (at the teacher's discretion) while on campus for participation in the following:
● Physical education activities in the gym;
● classes held outside;
● while eating or drinking;
● upon request for physical identification; and/or
● during indoor performances or practices involving singing, acting, public speaking, or playing musical instruments.
In these instances, physical distancing should be observed to the extent possible and face covering should be replaced as soon as the activity is completed
While parents are encouraged to send students with a face covering (mask or shield) on the bus and at school, masks will be available both on buses and in buildings for those who forget.
Yes. Spectrum utilizes Hapara, a screen monitoring program, to monitor student computers during the school day (7:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.). This software does not allow access to cameras - only what is on the computer screen. Parents also have the ability to get a report on what students are accessing, either realtime or after the fact, using Securly software provided by the school.
Chromebooks will be distributed during Open House after the student has had their school picture taken.
If a student has limited access to technology in the home, they should contact our Technology Department. Limited hot spots are available from the school. If a student is experiencing technology access issues when they are supposed to access their classes, they should attempt to resolve them as soon as possible. If they are not able to get into the class, they will have the option of doing the work asynchronously (later in the day) after they have been able to address their technology concerns. If concerns go beyond that day, they should contact the teacher and work out a solution.
Beginning in the spring, all school buildings were thoroughly deep cleaned, including student lockers. All commonly touched surfaces will continue to be cleaned daily. Classroom tables/desktops will be cleaned between classes. A deep cleaning will take place each Monday using newly purchased equipment allowing for disinfecting of all surfaces in a timely manner
Spectrum had all systems reviewed by professionals for recommendations on any necessary adjustments or changes. As a result, all filters are being upgraded and replaced monthly (rather than quarterly). In addition, slight adjustments to air flow are being made based on room use.
Staff will ensure that all desks and tabletops are cleaned and sanitized after each class. Custodial staff will deep clean all school buildings every Monday, as well as every evening.
DECISION TREE FOR SYMPTOMATIC STUDENTS OR STAFF @ SPECTRUM (Updated:
08/11/2020)
If a student presents with symptoms consistent with COVID 19 while on campus - student and siblings
are excluded from in-person classes and activities until one of the following happen:
A. Student gets tested and is -
NEGATIVE
1. Siblings return to school and activities
2. Student stays home until no fever for 24hrs without medication and symptoms are
improving
POSITIVE
1. Student stays home a minimum of 10 days from onset of symptoms and no fever
for 24 hrs without medication and symptoms are improving
2. Siblings are excluded from in-person classes and activities for 14 days from onset
of sick sibling’s symptoms
B. Students who are not tested will fall under the positive test guidelines for attendance on
campus. Their siblings will also be excluded from on-campus classes and activities for
the 14 day period.
If a staff member (essential worker) presents with symptoms consistent with COVID 19, the following
will happen:
A. The staff member goes home
B. If a staff member has students at Spectrum, the students will be excluded from in-person
classes and activities for 14 days
C. The staff member should be tested for COVID-19
NEGATIVE
1. Staff member’s student(s) return to school
2. Staff member returns to school when no fever for 24 hrs without medication and
symptoms subside
POSITIVE
1. Staff member stays home for minimum 10 days from onset of symptoms and may
return to work after no fever for 24 hrs without medication and symptoms subside
2. Staff member’s student(s) return to school after 14 asymptomatic days from onset
of parent’s symptoms
If a staff member has a child that presents with symptoms consistent with COVID 19, the staff member
will be expected at work while asymptomatic unless needed at home to care for sick child (CDC
guidelines for essential workers).
DETAILS OF SPECTRUM'S FALL SCENARIO PLANS
August 11, 2020
Decision and Questionnaire for fall of 2020 - August 11, 2020
The folllowing is an email sent out by Spectrum's Excutive Director, Dan DeBruyn.
Spectrum Parents/Guardians,
Thank you for your questions regarding the model options for first quarter. You will find a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document linked here, which we will continue to update as more questions come in and we receive additional guidance from MDE or MDH. Hopefully, this information will be helpful as you make your decision for your student's first quarter this fall.
Once you've had a chance to review the FAQ, please go here to complete your questionnaire that will let us know your decision so that we are able to finalize student schedules and bus routes in a timely manner.
Thank you again for your patience and understanding. We greatly appreciate our families and their students.
Sincerely,
Dan DeBruyn
Executive Director
UPDATED: Click here for a PDF of Spectrum's Fall Scenario Plans 8-4-2020
KEY CONSIDERATIONS:
1. Safety
1a. Follow all safety requirements of MDE and MDH placed on school districts (including requiring facemasks and social distancing)
1b. Daily implementation of Ready for School/Ready for Work Protocol
1c. Daily interactions with each other. Human connection is an important aspect of maintaining positive mental health.
2. Flexibility
2a. Spectrum can not anticipate all circumstances taking place in each home and recognizes that whichever scenario is being implemented may not fit every families' needs at that time. Each family considers many factors when deciding whether or not to send their student(s) to school and those circumstances may
change from day to day. While the expectations are in place for students to attend each class synchonously daily (either on campus or online), the decision about how this plays out for each student is ultimately up to the parent(s)/guardian(s) within the choices and guidelines provided.
2b. Flexibility must be available for the school to shift between distance learning, on campus learning, and a hybrid of the two depending upon mandates from the state, the impact of COVID-19, the current situation at Spectrum, etc.
3. Quality Education
Quality teaching and learning have similar components whether on campus or online, including direct instruction, large group, interaction/engagement, small group, and individual expectations. Teachers will work to incorporate these aspects into their daily lessons and expectations and continue to assess whether
students are mastering the content and skills necessary for success.
4. Accountabily
Based on lessons learned from spring distance learning, many parents, students, and teachers expressed a desire and/or need for more daily structure, expectations, and interaction.
5. Equal Opportunity
Considerations need to be given to student/family circumstances in order to allow for equal opportunity to complete educational expectations in light of circumstances outside of the student or families' control
COVID RETURN TO ATHLETICS – PHASE III
Spectrum High School
August 7, 2020
- All aspects of athletics including meetings, practices, competitions, transportation and facility usage must align with the requirements of the Minnesota Department of Education plan for return to learning, must follow the requirements from the Minnesota Department of Health’s Guidance on Youth Sports, and must include the required actions identified in the Governor’s Executive Orders.
- The first week of practice should focus on implementing effective protocols and routines for pre-participation screenings, effective social distancing, compliance with all health recommendations, establishment of pod limits of 25 or less, and additional actions that mitigate the spread of disease and enhance safety of students and coaches.
- Athletic programs must follow the identified protocols for students or coaches who have tested positive, are experiencing symptoms consistent with a COVID-19 diagnosis, or have had exposure to an individual who has been diagnosed with COVID-19.
- For schools that are required by localized metrics to be in a distance learning mode, practices are limited to virtual contact only.
- Interscholastic scrimmages will not be allowed.
- No captain’s practices should be held.
- Training pods for non-game settings should not exceed 25 people per pod for both indoor and outdoor settings.
- Intermixing training pods should be kept to a minimum.
- Sports designated by the MSHSL may conduct contests in accordance with approved sport seasons.
- Full team practices may be conducted for both outdoor and indoor sports as approved by the MSHSL.
- Effort must be made to minimize contact between players, during practices and games. The more physical contact that occurs between people, the greater risk there is in spreading illness.
- Coaches, athletes, parents, or visitors may not attend camps or practices if experiencing any symptoms of illness including fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, or loss of taste or smell.
- The school will enforce stay-at-home when sick expectations.
- Social distance must be maintained in restrooms and locker rooms. The maximum limit in each restroom or locker room is five people at one time.
- Athletes must bring their own water or drink bottled water not shared with others.
- Disinfecting of high touch items such as balls, racquets, and bats must be completed before practice, every 30 minutes during practice, and at the end of each practice.
- Handwashing or sanitizing will be required before practice and every 30 minutes during practices when high touch items are shared.
- Weight room equipment must be cleaned and disinfected after each individual use. There is a maximum limit of five people in the weight room at one time.
- The facilities will be cleaned and disinfected after each team use.
- Parents attending practices or contests must maintain social distance at all times.
Rick Peterson
Director of Athletics
Spectrum High School
Concern or question?
Student and staff safety is our top priority. If you have a question, concern or comment about any health or safety issue, please let us know.
COVID numbers weekly at Spectrum
March 1st-5th, 2021
Exclusions - Symptoms, awaiting test results
Quarantined - No Symptoms, Close Contact
Newly Reported Positive Cases this week
- E- 1
- Q- 2
- Positive Cases - 0
*Updated March 5, 2021
Additional resources
Provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions:
This site provides information using PDF, visit this link to download the Adobe Acrobat Reader DC software.