IN-PERSON INSTRUCTION GRANT was approved unanimously during a special meeting for Sierra County Office of Education and Sierra Plumas Joint Unified School District on Wednesday morning July 21st with Board members Patty Hall and Nicole Stannard absent. Allowable uses for the COVID relief grant could be used for in person instruction, technology, planning and coordination, learning loss, staff, and operations and facilities. The award amount of $167,502 will be used for HVAC/Filtration, building repair/improvements, and indirect costs. Superintendent James Berardi stated they held a public meeting the night before and had five people give some input. Some of that input included using the grant to look at social and emotional issues, supporting teachers, professional development, and Independent Study Program (ISP) that may need extra funds. Berardi explained there could be an influx of kids utilizing this program because right now California Department of Public Health (CDPH) is recommending kids and teachers wear masks when they return to school. He stated they are trying to get a waiver based on low numbers. Board President,
Mike Moore wanted to know how many teachers were vaccinated. Berardi didn’t have those numbers, but added if nothing changes all staff regardless of their vaccination status will have to wear masks. Moore stated his concern was for the kids, adding teachers who aren’t vaccinated could get the virus. Berardi said he was working closely with CDPH and had a meeting scheduled with Sierra County Health Department the following day. Board member Christina Potter thought masking was up to each district. Berardi said we have to follow the most restrictive rules and hoped if they go to the tier system they might have options. Potter who is also a Family Nurse Practitioner with Eastern Plumas Health Care stated she treated so many sick kids last year and felt many were from wearing the masks, adding there were 100 cases of strep. Berardi hoped to have more information soon and some options.
Mike Moore wanted to know how many teachers were vaccinated. Berardi didn’t have those numbers, but added if nothing changes all staff regardless of their vaccination status will have to wear masks. Moore stated his concern was for the kids, adding teachers who aren’t vaccinated could get the virus. Berardi said he was working closely with CDPH and had a meeting scheduled with Sierra County Health Department the following day. Board member Christina Potter thought masking was up to each district. Berardi said we have to follow the most restrictive rules and hoped if they go to the tier system they might have options. Potter who is also a Family Nurse Practitioner with Eastern Plumas Health Care stated she treated so many sick kids last year and felt many were from wearing the masks, adding there were 100 cases of strep. Berardi hoped to have more information soon and some options.