NEWS
For Immediate Release
July 29, 2020
Defining Levels of Community Spread for Idaho Schools in response
to COVID-19
Public health officials have released a set of metrics that will help determine levels of community spread as defined in the Idaho Back to School Framework. The three categories (Category 1: No Community Transmission, Category 2: Mild to Moderate Community Transmission, and Category 3: Substantial Community Transmission) indicate what level of in-person learning and response is recommended. These metrics include local public health data, and hospital and primary care operational indicators to establish what category schools should plan to start in for fall 2020.
The metrics will be evaluated weekly during the school year to help determine when transitions between categories are recommended. Given the level of transmission and continued increases in our four counties, schools and families should not expect to see Category 1 school operations during the 2020-2021 school year. This document was vetted and approved for public use by the Central District Board of Health on July 28, 2020.
The full document outlining these metrics can be found on CDH’s COVID Resources web page under “Schools | Youth Activities & Summer Camps” and Recently Added Resources. Additionally, CDH will be publishing the recommended categories weekly on its main COVID-19 Resources page beginning August 3, 2020.
At its regular meeting on July 28, 2020, the Board of Health added language to the Ada County public health order in place to further clarify language regarding the wearing of face coverings in school settings. To view the updated Order, visit https://www.cdh.idaho.gov/dac-coronavirus-order.php
Community COVID-19 Resources
Central District Health continues to offer a COVID-19 call center Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Call 208-321-2222. Find statewide data at https://coronavirus.idaho.gov/.
Christie Jorgensen, PhD | Principal
Falcon Ridge Public Charter School District #456
“Developing students who are competent, productive and responsible by promoting the academic skills and character to succeed in life.”
Email: cjorgensen@falconridgecharter.org