Special Episode: Reopening Schools After a Pandemic

Many educators contributed to this show by sharing their stories or giving input. Thank you to all the folks who generously gave their time to help us make this.

State and Federal School Reopening Guidance:

California Department of Education Coronavirus Response and School Reopening Guidance


Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Operational Strategy for K-12 Schools through Phased Prevention


U.S. Department of Education Releases "COVID-19 Handbook, Volume 2: Roadmap to Reopening Safely and Meeting All Students' Needs"

In this episode, we interviewed educators to hear their stories about reopening schools after the pandemic. We hope you enjoy their stories and insights. Here are some suggestions discussed in the episode:

Plan communication: Make your school community feel heard by getting their input as you plan your communication

Prepare to be flexible: Plan your work, then learn by working your plan. As you implement safety precautions and communication with the community, social support, and academic support, be open to observing and improving your plans based on how it’s going.

Value and use your own experiences as a student to build empathy: Reflect on your experiences as a student and take note of what you needed to be successful. Give that to your students as they return to school.

Take care of yourself and take care of each other: As educators we cannot give to others what we don’t have. Educators must model self-care, so others can do the same.

Social-Emotional Learning and Mental Health Resources:

Greater Good Science Center

CASEL SEL 3-Signature Practices Playbook

San Diego County Office of Education Suicide Prevention Resources

The Equity, Disproportionality & Design team is one of five SELPA Resource Lead agencies. Visit our websites to learn more about how we can help you improve your special education systems:

Imperial County SELPA: Improving Outcomes for English Learners with Disabilities


Marin County SELPA and the California Autism Professional Training and Information Network (CAPTAIN)


Placer County SELPA: Open Access – Learning and Participation for All  


SELPA System Improvement Leads (SIL)

Thank you to the California Department of Education and the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence for their ongoing support.