A Look At DESE's Cited Sources: Footnotes #40, #41, #48, #77, #81, and #84 - Considerations for Schools

DESE Claim 1 (footnote #40): "Classroom and facility configuration: To the extent possible, desks should be spaced six feet apart (but no fewer than three feet apart) and facing the same direction."

DESE Claim 2 (footnote #41): "Checking for symptoms each morning by families and caregivers is critical and will serve as the primary screening mechanism for COVID-19 symptoms."

DESE Claim 3 (footnote #48): "A student who shows COVID-19 symptoms during the school day should be moved to the specific room pre-designated for medical-related isolation until they can be picked up by a family member."

DESE Claim 4 (footnote #77): "Prepare for frequent cleaning and sanitization of facilities and surfaces, especially high-touch surfaces (e.g., doorknobs, hand rails)."

DESE Claim 5 (footnote #81): "Prepare an “medical isolation room” for students/staff who exhibit COVID-19 symptoms during the school day."

DESE Claim 6 (footnote #84): "Prepare to hold breakfast and/or lunch in classrooms, instead of the cafeteria or common areas.

Cited Source: CDC, Considerations for Schools. (2020, May 19). Available at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/schools.html

Peer Reviewed?: No - public health agency guidance

Study Methodology: N/A - government website

Notes: This document is intended as guidance for schools in the USA. The document encourages distancing, face masks, avoiding sharing of supplies, hand washing, and cleaning. It also encourages symptom monitoring and staying home when sick. "Space seating/desks at least 6 feet apart when feasible. Turn desks to face in the same direction (rather than facing each other), or have students sit on only one side of tables, spaced apart." There is also guidance for preparing for when someone becomes sick in school, including isolating those with COVID-19 symptoms from others.

Supports DESE Claim 1?: Yes

Supports DESE Claim 2?: Yes, though the document does not specifically support families and caregivers being the ones doing the health checks. 

Supports DESE Claim 3?: Yes. 

Supports DESE Claim 4?: Yes.

Supports DESE Claim 5?: Yes

Supports DESE Claim 6?: Yes