2 Feb 2022

To the parents/caregivers of Otaika Valley School

The Board of Trustees are required to implement mandatory face mask wearing at school (details below) to keep all children as safe as possible from Covid19.  Further to the last school newsletter regarding send exemptions to the principal, any child or parent that is exempt from wearing a face mask is asked to contact the principal to discuss this prior to coming on site.    Unfortunately we have been warned that mask exemptions have used by people who do not meet the criteria so to ensure the safety of all children and staff the board is asking those who seek an exemption to contact the principal to discuss this.  The board is not enquiring into the nature of any persons disability or condition however some discussion needs to be held to ensure we are meeting the legal requirements as a school. 

Any student returning to school Y4 and up (Y4’s in R5 composite class parent optional) as outlined in the previous email who does not have a mask will be required to work at the desk group on the covered deck of their classroom.  As outlined previously, all students will be rotated for time working on a desk group on the covered deck for Room 5, 6 & 7.  

 

From the Board of Trustees

Otaika Valley School

 

NOTICE ON THE GATE…

PROCEDURES TO FOLLOW (starting 3rd Feb)…

• Ensure tamariki, students or staff members with COVID-19 symptoms get a COVID-19 test and remain at home until a negative result is received and they are symptom free for 24 hours.

All visitors MUST wear a face mask

• any valid exemptions to be sent to principal@otaika.school.nz before entering school with a discussion to be held to ensure we are meeting the legal requirements as a school.

 

Drop offs and pick-ups from outside the school grounds to minimise congestion

 

To settle in a new entrant into class – Some parents will still need to come onsite

•   (parents) MUST wear face coverings in these instances and should be encouraged to remain physically distant from others, especially when indoors.

 

No non-essential visitors on site. 

 

QR SCAN at the gate 

 

Parents are not able to enter the office or classrooms

• For the office, come to the side window by room 1&2 toilets to eliminate inside contact.  Knock on the window.  This is what the teachers will be doing as well to limit staff contact. 2m distancing outside for parents.
• To make an appointment with teachers or principal – email the teacher directly or phone the office to make an appointment time that suits (09) 432 2731