Good Afternoon Da Vinci Connect Tk-8 Families,

As previously shared (and copied below) by Da Vinci Schools, beginning tomorrow (3/14), masks indoors on campus will move from “required” to “strongly recommended”. We recognize that this change will bring a variety of feelings–from joy to apprehension, and every feeling in-between. It’s important that we continue conversations at home around what this might feel like, and how we might respond to our feelings regarding this change. Now that families are able to make the mask choice that feels safest for them, we will see some staff and students not wearing masks at all, while some will continue to wear masks throughout the day. We want to make sure that everyone feels safe to make the choice that works for them and their families, without fear or judgement. If you would like support in navigating these conversations with your child and family, we are here to help. Any questions can be directed to Kaitlin at ktoon@davincischools.org.

 

The update from Da Vinci Schools regarding masks on campus sent on 3/9 is pasted below for your review: 

Gov. Gavin Newsom and California state health officials issued an order on February 28 lifting the indoor mask requirement for K-12 schools, effective March 12, 2022, and moving to a strong recommendation to continue indoor masking. In addition, the L.A. County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) released a Health Officer Order on March 3 saying that it will align school masking measures with the State and shift to strongly recommending indoor masking as well.

Following discussion at a Special Board Meeting earlier this week and after receiving input from multiple stakeholders including staff, Da Vinci Schools has chosen to align with the County guidelines as we’ve done throughout the pandemic.

Effective Monday, March 14, all Da Vinci schools will no longer require masks indoors or outdoors regardless of vaccination status, but masks remain strongly recommended. Da Vinci will continue other protective strategies, including eating lunch outdoors on all campuses until further notice. Our existing visitor policy will remain in effect. Please note that masks will be required at all upcoming Exhibition Nights as these are large indoor events with students, families, staff and community stakeholders present.

We encourage all Da Vincians to assess their personal and family risks related to COVID strategies and masking in particular. In deciding whether to continue masking, individuals should consider:

  • Are there individuals in the household who have underlying health conditions that create elevated risk for severe illness from COVID? 
  • Are there unvaccinated family members in the household including young children not yet eligible for vaccines?
  • Does anyone in the household work in a setting with vulnerable individuals at elevated risk of severe illness from COVID?

It is also important to consider how much COVID transmission is in our local community to determine risk level and protective strategies. COVID transmission in L.A. County is now at the Low Community Risk Level. In the event there is a positive case in a Da Vinci classroom or on a WDV sports team, then the entire class/team regardless of vaccination status will be required to mask for 10 days since the last exposure, pursuant to the County COVID-19 Exposure Management Plan. Masks are available at all Da Vinci schools for anyone who wants or needs one.

As we move forward, we respectfully request that everyone mind their “mask manners” and make Da Vinci a safe space for all people to make their personal choices about masking. Thank you for your continued cooperation.

 

Enjoy Your Week,

The Team at Da Vinci Connect