The Arkansas Public School Resource Center (APSRC) is continually monitoring COVID-19 guidance issued by the Governor’s Office, the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) and Arkansas Department of Education (ADE). In an effort to keep our members informed, we will continue to provide updates as new information becomes available. To view past Governor’s Office and ADH press conferences, visit the Governor’s YouTube Channel.
On March 11, Governor Asa Hutchinson issued Executive Order 20-03 to declare an emergency and issue directives to prevent the spread of COVID-19. As a result, the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) issued Commissioner’s Memo LS-20-089 Guidance for Schools Regarding COVID-19. This memo is updated frequently as new information becomes available.
Governor Asa Hutchinson reported there are 261 new cases of COVID-19 since Wednesday, the largest increase in community cases in a 24-hour period. The cumulative number of positive cases in the state is at 6,538, of those 1,830 are active cases. COVID-19 deaths in Arkansas are at 125, and 4,583 individuals have recovered. One hundred four (104) persons are hospitalized with COVID-19. The counties with more than 10 new cases are:
- Benton County – 85 cases
- Washington County – 25 cases
- Pulaski County – 22 cases
- Crittenden County – 17 cases
- Craighead County – 12 cases
- Sevier County – 11 cases
The Arkansas Department of Health map of all cases can be viewed by clicking on the link below:
https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/c2ef4a4fcbe5458fbf2e48a21e4fece9
The Governor said of the 261 new cases, 42% had Spanish surnames indicating the need to ensure the Hispanic community is aware of how to prevent the spread of the virus, and increase outreach efforts with the Hispanic and minority communities.
Governor Hutchinson also shared that as each case is identified, on average, 2.8 contacts have to be quarantined and isolated as well. So for the 261 cases from the past 24 hours, more than 730 people may have to be isolated or quarantined for 10 to 14 days.
“That’s a consequence to someone’s individual life in terms of their work and taking care of their family. This is just another way to emphasize how important it is to control this virus and reduce the spread,” Governor Hutchinson said.
Arkansas Department of Health Secretary Dr. Nate Smith said with this second wave of cases, the state is seeing more cases in younger individuals. For example, the average age for the new cases in Benton County was 40 years old, and in Washington County, the average age was 38.
Dr. Smith said they are also seeing more cases of individuals who are asymptomatic.
“Overall, of our total of 6,538 cases, half of them reported no symptoms at the time they were tested,” Dr. Smith said.
ADH continues to offer additional testing at 79 of their local health units, and will be hosting a number of testing events around the state. Dr. Smith also encouraged companies to reach out if they would like to offer testing onsite for their workers.
Steuart Walton, Chairman of Arkansas Economic Recovery Task Force, announced the Arkansas Economic Recovery Task Force interim report was presented to the Governor today, and will be published to www.arkansasready.com tomorrow. The interim report includes recommendations regarding testing and tracing, COVID-19-related liability concerns, childcare recommendations, workforce training, and enhancing broadband accessibility.
“I’m concerned with some of the numbers and the increases, but I’m also optimistic. It’s really important here to note the increase in cases is not statistically correlated to the steps we have put forward to get the economy open,” Walton said. “We have this story unfolding in the data, I come away optimistic about where we are and the path we are on.”
To view the Governor’s press briefing, click on the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/c/GovernorAsaHutchinson/live
APSRC Updates
School Spotlight
Thank you to everyone who has shared their stories of the great things schools they are doing to support their students, families and communities. We have posted the stories we have received on the APSRC Facebook page, as well as our website at https://www.apsrc.net/departments/communications/covid-19-updates/covid-19-school-spotlight/.
We love seeing the positive things you are doing. If you have a story you would like to share, please send it to cfowler@apsrc.net and we just may select your school for recognition at our annual fall conference.
Governor Asa Hutchinson reported there are 97 new cases of COVID-19 since Tuesday, of those cases, two are from correctional facilities. The cumulative number of positive cases in the state is at 6,277, of those 1,733 are active cases. COVID-19 deaths in Arkansas are at 120, and 4,424 individuals have recovered. One hundred eight (108) persons are hospitalized with COVID-19.
The Arkansas Department of Health map of all cases can be viewed by clicking on the link below:
https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/c2ef4a4fcbe5458fbf2e48a21e4fece9
The Governor hosted today’s briefing from Jonesboro, where he met with community leaders about COVID-19 and the economy.
Governor Hutchinson noted the state’s seven-day rolling average is back to the same level as the peak in April, but it appears to be beginning to flatten out. In addition, hospitalizations are at the same level as the previous peak.
The Governor’s goal of 60,000 tests in May has been exceeded with a total of 66,299 tests completed as of May 27. In the past 24 hours, 4,033 test reports have been received with a positivity rate of 1.9%. Since testing began in March, 117,076 tests have been completed.
Arkansas Department of Health Secretary Dr. Nate Smith noted there have been some clusters resulting from certain occupational areas, with the largest being 301 cases associated with poultry businesses. However, the department has not found a correlation between cases and businesses that have opened up as a result of the easing of restrictions. Those that have tested positive and noted they had been to a restaurant within the 14-day incubation period was only 0.8%, and those that had attended in-person church services were only 0.7%.
The Governor was asked if the state was developing a comprehensive plan for education next year. He noted Education Secretary Johnny Key and his team are working with superintendents to develop specific plans, which will include portions involving onsite classroom instruction blended with some online instruction.
Governor Hutchinson said he also plans to ask legislators for funding to help improve access to high-speed broadband internet in rural Arkansas so schools in these areas are able to also provide some online instruction if needed.
The Governor shared he expects school to start at the same time as it has in the past, and said specifics will be provided over the coming weeks and months.
To view the Governor’s press briefing, click on the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/c/GovernorAsaHutchinson/live
DESE Updates
- Fingerprinting Services
The Arkansas Department of Education will resume onsite fingerprinting services at a later date. After consultation with the Arkansas Department of Health, applicants should know the following guidelines will be in place for those scheduling an appointment.
The Arkansas Department of Education will: - Provide hand sanitizer upon entering and exiting the building
- Provide access to public restrooms
- Utilize Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) throughout the process
- Clean and sanitize fingerprinting machines and electronic equipment after each use
- Stagger appointment times and locations to ensure social distancing guidelines are accommodated (30 minutes apart/ 2 locations) and mitigate the opportunity for congregating.
Fingerprint Applicants Must:
- Bring the Consent form: Consent Form
- Provide proof of Payment and consent form: FORM
- Bring your payment receipt transaction ID to #4 Capitol mall for Live Scan fingerprinting.
- Wear a face covering that covers both the nose and mouth.
- Adhere to Arkansas Department of Health Guidance
- Accompanied by no more than one individual who must also adhere to screening guidelines and wear a face covering.
The current schedules allow for 60 total customers daily when onsite fingerprinting resumes.
APSRC Updates
School Spotlight
Thank you to everyone who has shared their stories of the great things schools they are doing to support their students, families and communities. We have posted the stories we have received on the APSRC Facebook page, as well as our website at https://www.apsrc.net/departments/communications/covid-19-updates/covid-19-school-spotlight/.
BIC Elementary School in Buffalo Island Central School District hosted a virtual Grandparent’s Day the week of May 4 by having students share photos with their grandparents and using the hashtag #bicgrandparents2020. The photos were then shared as collages throughout the week on the school’s Facebook page.
Governor Asa Hutchinson reported there are 151 new cases of COVID-19 since Monday, of those, one is from a correctional facility. The cumulative number of positive cases in the state is at 6,180 of those 1,729 are active cases. COVID-19 deaths in Arkansas are at 119, and 4,322 individuals have recovered. One hundred seven (107) persons are hospitalized with COVID-19. Counties with more than 10 new cases include:
- Washington County – 29
- Sevier County – 17
- Benton County – 16
- St. Francis County – 13
The Arkansas Department of Health map of all cases can be viewed by clicking on the link below:
https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/c2ef4a4fcbe5458fbf2e48a21e4fece9
Within the past 24 hours, 2,984 test results were received with a positivity rate of 3.3%. The Governor announced the goal he set to complete 60,000 tests in the month of May, with 61,922 completed as of May 26.
Governor Hutchinson noted that when looking at the seven-day rolling average, we reached a peak of cases in early April and are approaching another peak as cases have risen over the past week. The number of hospitalizations has also increased but is still currently below the previous peak.
The Governor showed UAMS’ prediction curve which was updated on May 21. The prediction now estimates the state will be at approximately 8,500 cases on June 23.
“This raises the question as to where we’re going in the state,” Governor Hutchinson said. He added that over the holiday weekend, the vast majority of Arkansans followed social distancing guidelines and avoided large gatherings, however, there were a few that “put their own comfort and convenience above the health of others.”
“Whether we are at our second peak or if the number of cases will go up depends on the discipline and the commitment of the people of Arkansas to avoid circumstances that contribute to the spread. We are trying to open up our economy and lift restrictions, but we can’t go to Phase Two when we see an increase in cases,” Governor Hutchinson said.
The Governor also announced $16.8 million in Pandemic Unemployment Assistance was sent to more than 15,000 claimants over the weekend. Ten thousand other claimants are in the system but did not file their weekly claims.
Governor Hutchinson also announced Dr. Nate Smith has accepted a position with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevent in Atlanta. Dr. Smith will continue to work through August 28 to allow plenty of time to transition the team. Dr. Jose Romero, a pediatric infectious disease specialist and chair for the national advisory committee on immunization practices, has been asked to serve as interim Secretary of Health until the position is filled.
To view the Governor’s press briefing, click on the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/c/GovernorAsaHutchinson/live
DESE Updates
ACT June Testing
During the week of May 26, ACT will notify students and announce all test center closures and cancellations for the June 13 test date. ACT will be contacting sites this week to let them know if they are cleared to test. However, as ACT and other agencies navigate ongoing developments, testing at any test center is subject to change at any time between now and June 13.
Pandemic SNAP
The State of Arkansas received federal approval to provide food assistance to families of students who are eligible for the free or reduced lunch program when schools are in session. For the families already on SNAP, the $319 will be added to the family’s electronic benefits card (EBT) during the last week of May or first week of June.For families who are not on SNAP, the Arkansas Department of Education (ADE) has provided Department of Human Services with their addresses. DHS will mail an EBT card, information about Pandemic SNAP, and information about how to access benefits on the EBT card to the address ADE has on file. The families do not need to apply or take any action to get these benefits as their participation in the free or reduced lunch program make them eligible for Pandemic SNAP.
To view the full press release issued by DHS, click on the link below:
https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/newsroom/details/food-assistance-approved-for-families-of-students-in-free-lunch-program?fbclid=IwAR3-vAeRqSgHuAeG9iLhLIqlYW8_XCt8uMkRAbQi4jtwLQXIFg_gkiy4iaE.
Reentry Guidelines
DESE plans to start distributing information regarding reentry next week.
PPE
DESE is still waiting on information and plans to get the numbers for the amount of PPE needed to providers by Thursday.
APSRC Updates
Virtual Tech & Learning Conference
Tech & Learning, in partnership with K20Connect, is offering a one-day virtual conference on Friday, May 29 to help districts take the lessons learned from current remote learning programs to create a long-term plan that supports effective teaching and learning both online and in person.
You can register for this conference for FREE by click on the link below. (Note this link will zero out your cart total when you go to check out):
Virtual Tech & Learning Conference Registration
To learn about the conference or to see the list of sessions, visit https://www.techlearningevents.com/2020_future-proofing_conference/
School Spotlight
Thank you to everyone who has shared their stories of the great things schools they are doing to support their students, families, and communities. We have posted the stories we have received on the APSRC Facebook page, as well as our website at https://www.apsrc.net/departments/communications/covid-19-updates/covid-19-school-spotlight/.
We love seeing the positive things you are doing. If you have a story you would like to share, please send it to cfowler@apsrc.net and we just may select your school for recognition at our annual fall conference.
Governor Asa Hutchinson reported there are 154 new cases of COVID-19 since Thursday, of those cases 19 are from correctional facilities. The cumulative number of positive cases in the state is at 5,612, of those 1,470 are active cases. COVID-19 deaths in Arkansas are at 113, and 4,029 individuals have recovered. Eighty-one (81) persons are hospitalized with COVID-19. Of the new cases, those counties with more than five cases were:
- Washington County – 32 (more than half of the cases were from 3 households)
- Benton County – 22
- Pulaski County – 19
- Sevier County – 11
- Crittenden County – 10
- Greene County – 8 (these cases were all from the same street)
The Arkansas Department of Health map of all cases can be viewed by clicking on the link below:
https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/c2ef4a4fcbe5458fbf2e48a21e4fece9
The Governor provided an economic update noting that in April the national unemployment rate was at 14.7%, whereas Arkansas’ was at 10.2%.
“I’m not saying I’m happy with that number, but it does put it in perspective in relation to the nation, how so many have become unemployed across the country, and how we have work to do in Arkansas,” Governor Hutchinson said. “In May, we lifted restrictions, and people started to go back to work, and I hope May’s numbers are better.”
As of noon today, 8,198 Ready for Business grants have been approved for small business owners across Arkansas as they restart and reengage. The funds will be sent out today and over the weekend.
The Governor also announced the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance system is secure and processing claims. As of noon today, 7,105 claims have been paid, and tonight another 3,000 more will have funds sent out. He encouraged individuals who have a claim pending to go online and complete their weekly claims so they can be processed. Sixty to 70 individuals will be working over the holiday weekend to handle call center calls and the processing of these claims.
Arkansas Department of Health Secretary Nate Smith reported 2,909 tests were completed yesterday with an overall positivity rate of 4.4%. Since testing began, 102,041 Arkansans have been tested, and as of today 51,275 tests have been done in May.
Governor Hutchinson expressed his thanks to the ADH contact tracing team for the steps they have taken to enhance their capability for contact tracing and knowing where cases are coming from.
Of the 224 community cases yesterday, the team successfully contacted 137 individuals. Of those, 24% are known to be contacts with a previous case. Thirty-seven of the 137 individuals are connected with clusters at four different sites of employment.
“This reminds us to continue to be careful and practice our social distancing. We can handle all of this if we limit the spread and protect our families,” Governor Hutchinson said.
Dr. Smith said only two cases have reported they have been in a restaurant, and two had been to a gym or fitness center within the 14-day period. So ADH is not seeing any clusters from activities that have been restarted.
Dr. Smith also announced the directed for elective surgery has been updated to remove the restrictions from ASA rate and length of hospital stay and will go into effect on Monday. The guidelines still require COVID-19 testing within 72 hours, and antigen testing when it can be used except for exempted procedures.
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism Secretary Stacy Hurst provided an update on trails and parks that have been opened (state and federal) in time for the Memorial Day weekend:
- Cedar Falls Overlook Trail
- Delta Heritage Trail
- Cane Creek State Park
- Whitaker Point Trail
- Glory Hole Trail
- Buffalo National River Lost Valley Trail
- Wolf Pen Gap
Secretary Hurst reminded Arkansans that uniformed state park staff will be monitoring and enforcing safe physical distancing, and encouraged them to use state parks, but do so responsibly. In addition, with the rain that we have had and supposed to have this weekend, be mindful of water levels and the potential for flooding.
Arkansas Department of Veteran Affairs Secretary Nate Todd reported his agency has tested 90 residents of North Little Rock Veterans Home, all tests came back negative. They will soon begin testing at the Veterans Home in Fayetteville.
Due to COVID-19 will the Department will host its memorials via Facebook Live. Arkansans can still visit the gravesite of a loved one but are asked to abide by social distancing guidelines.
To view the Governor’s press briefing, click on the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/c/GovernorAsaHutchinson/live
APSRC Updates
School Spotlight
During this difficult time, we could all use some positive news. We want to hear about the great things schools are doing to support their communities, whether it’s helping to provide PPE for healthcare workers, ensuring kids have access to nutritious meals, or innovative ways your educators are reaching students. These stories may be shared on the APSRC Facebook page.
Jacksonville Lighthouse Charter found a unique way to celebrate the Class of 2020. On May 21, they hosted a virtual graduation on their YouTube channel and Facebook pages, which will be followed by a drive-through diploma pick-up ceremony on Friday, May 22. The event allows scholars of the Senior Class to officially receive their diplomas while adhering to recommended CDC social distancing guidelines. Scholars will also receive honor cords, individual keepsake photos, and graduation packets.
In addition, the lights of the Two Rivers Bridge in Little Rock were changed to blue and gold Thursday, May 21 to honor the Jacksonville Lighthouse Charter Class of 2020. Jacksonville Lighthouse Charter School’s graduating class of 2020 has been awarded over 2.3 million dollars in grants and scholarship money. 90% of the class has been accepted into a college or university, and the school boasts a graduation rate of 97%.
Governor Asa Hutchinson reported there are 455 new cases of COVID-19 since Wednesday, of those cases, 229 are cases from the Forrest City Correctional Institute that have just been added to the system. The cumulative number of positive cases in the state is at 5,458, of those 1,433 are active cases. COVID-19 deaths in Arkansas are at 110, and 3,915 individuals have recovered. Eighty-six (86) persons are hospitalized with COVID-19.
Arkansas Department of Health Secretary Dr. Nate Smith attributed the spike in new cases to the increase in testing and the fact that the positive cases are not all coming from one place.
“Since the beginning of this week, we’ve been offering testing at 79 of our health units, providing people with access to testing that didn’t have access before,” Dr. Smith said.
The Arkansas Department of Health map of all cases can be viewed by clicking on the link below:
https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/c2ef4a4fcbe5458fbf2e48a21e4fece9
Governor Hutchinson acknowledged that the increase in new cases was a trend his office and ADH are watching closely. Currently, Arkansas’s positivity rate for testing is 4.4%, well below the CDC recommendation of 10%. The Governor also encouraged Arkansans to visit the ADH map of cases to get the latest number of cases in their county.
The Governor announced Crater of Diamond State Park will open Friday morning, May 22. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets online, and visitors will be limited to no more than 500 per day.
Governor Hutchinson also announced the guidelines for youth team sports, noting they do not pertain to intercollegiate sports. The following guidelines are effective June 1:
- Ticket sales online if possible
- Team practice, competition prohibited for close contact sports like basketball, wrestling, football, volleyball, soccer, martial arts
- Individual practice with own equipment permitted
- Conditioning/training ok with limited group size, distancings
- Cheerleading and dance may practice under gym directive restrictions
- Practice, competition allowed for limited-contact team sports like baseball, softball, track, gymnastics, swimming
- Physical distancing whenever possible
- Use own equipment/disinfect any that is shared
- Participation discouraged if 65+ or have health conditions
- Physical distancing except during active sports activity
- Athletes, coaches, staff asked about fever, symptoms, exposure
- Temperature checks for coaches and staff
- Face coverings for everyone 10 or older
- Athletes can remove during active sports activity
- Coaches, staff must wear at all times
- Showers prohibited, locker rooms only used for storage
- Frequent sanitizing of equipment facilities
- Avoid huddles, high fives, and other non-sport related contact
- Directive for gyms applies to training facilities
- Directives for venues, dining apply to athletic event facilities
The Governor said the guidelines for the sports prohibited will be revisited on June 30.
“I know how this is important for our families and our communities and we have got to make sure we take the proper safeguards,” Governor Hutchinson said.
Dr. Smith announced the guidelines for overnight summer camps will be posted to the ADH website later today, and these guidelines will be effective May 31. He noted that the guidelines for youth sports and summer camps are pretty extensive.
“They are complicated because COVID-19 is being spread in many of our communities and we want to make these activities as safe for our children as possible. We want children to be involved, but we do not want to put them at undue risk.”
Dr. Smith also noted that although children are less likely to have complications from COVID-19, there are some severe complications that can occur in children.
Dr. Jose Romero, Chief of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Arkansas Children’s Hospital and UAMS, shared that the CDC notified physicians of Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome in children. It follows an infection of COVID-19, and presents with a fever of more than a day, inflammation in their body, and multiple organs in the body can be involved. The majority of the children who have been diagnosed have evidence of the virus or antibodies. Currently no cases have been reported in Arkansas, and parents are encouraged to contact their physician so guidance can be provided if your child begins to show these symptoms.
A question was raised regarding the newly released CDC Guidelines for schools. Dr. Smith said he welcomed the additional CDC guidance, which is pretty lengthy and includes a lot of things to consider. Dr. Smith plans to speak with Secretary Johnny Key on the principles and how they may be incorporated into the guidance the state issues for return to onsite instruction.
To view the Governor’s press briefing, click on the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/c/GovernorAsaHutchinson/live
DESE Updates
Guidelines for Academic-Related Summer Programs/Activities
DESE, working with the Arkansas Economic Recovery Task Force and the Arkansas Department of Health, has identified a limited list of academic-related summer programs/activities that can resume on school campuses beginning June 1.
Current health directives are being applied to school district operations in the phase-in approach for allowing onsite summer activities to begin, and the directives in the linked document must be followed if a district chooses to allow these activities onsite.
As health guidance changes, the application to school operations will be updated. The approved programs/activities are:
- Summer School: Individual and Small Group Tutoring
- Advanced Placement Make-up Testing
- June ACT Testing Center
- Career and Technical Education Industry Certification Testing
- Special Education Evaluations
- Individual Evaluations or Screener for Educational Purposes
- Counseling Sessions
- Occupational and Physical Therapy
- Speech Therapy
- Credit Recovery
- Summer Feeding
- Summer Workers
- Senior Pictures
- Onsite Professional Development
- Early Childhood Programs or DHS-licensed Child Care Programs
- Summer Day Camps
While the activities are permitted, DESE encourages as little on-campus activity as possible this summer to allow the best chance possible of starting the school year with the lowest levels/risk of community COVID-19. Remaining cautious now increases the likelihood that Arkansas will be in Phase 2 or Phase 3 of recovery by August.
Transportation of students is not allowed under current health guidance. Therefore, schools must continue to seek alternatives to support students. These alternatives can include virtual summer school, continuation of teletherapy, delivery of instructional materials and meal service, etc. When schools resume onsite instruction in the fall, busing will be allowed with as many precautions as reasonable. More guidance will be developed and shared regarding all school operations as health directives change based on data.
These guidelines do not apply to traditional graduation ceremonies, which are restricted until July 1 at the earliest.
Education Service Cooperatives will be working with school districts, and APSRC will be working with open-enrollment charter schools, to assist with ordering Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) through TIPS/TAPS to provide PPE procurement and pricing options to schools around the state. Due to summer activities, it is important to get these items as quickly as possible. A list of PPE and recommendations for determining the amount/type of PPE needed can be accessed at:
The Department of Human Services (DHS) and ADH have issued guidance for safely continuing to operate childcare programs and have issued new guidance for day camps. Licensed Child Care Programs operating on school campuses may begin immediately. Summer Day Camps, which are organized daytime group activities for children, are allowed to operate on school campuses per ADH directives beginning June 1. Districts must consider how the operation of child care programs and day camps impact any/all of the other approved summer programs and ensure that facility usage can accommodate multiple activities at the same time in compliance with directives.
For School Related Health Questions please contact the ADE/ADH hotline: 833-504-0155, Mon.-Fri., 8:00-4:30; The ADH Hotline is : 1-800-803-7874 for after-hours calls.
A communication flow chart has been created to assist districts in responding to COVID-19 related questions: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1dRAIj_FIX3VxB92c8wmGp1yHIY2vm1AI/view?usp=sharing
CARES Act ESSER Funds
Be sure to check out DESE’s CARES Act website’s Frequently Asked Questions document for the latest information. Responses to all of the questions asked following the webinar have been entered.
DESE has begun preliminary approvals of CARES Act funds for schools that have submitted their application and Section 427 of GEPA.
APSRC Updates
School Spotlight
During this difficult time, we could all use some positive news. We want to hear about the great things schools are doing to support their communities, whether it’s helping to provide PPE for healthcare workers, ensuring kids have access to nutritious meals, or innovative ways your educators are reaching students. These stories may be shared on the APSRC Facebook page.
Cave City School District wanted to make sure their students and families have the latest information, and at the same time, acknowledge the accomplishments of many of their students. Recently they posted a video highlighting the scholarships the Class of 2020 has been awarded. The Cave City School District Facebook page also highlights other virtual ceremonies, spotlights on seniors and other groups, read-alouds, and other ways to share their support and appreciation for students, parents and the community.
Governor Asa Hutchinson reported there are 110 new cases of COVID-19 since Monday. Of those cases, four are from correctional facilities. The cumulative number of positive cases in the state is at 4,923, of those 1,082 are active cases. COVID-19 deaths in Arkansas are at 102, and 3,739 individuals have recovered. Seventy-eight (78) persons are hospitalized with COVID-19. Of the new cases, there were three counties with more than 10 new cases:
- Pulaski County- 19
- Sevier County – 14
- St. Francis County – 13
The Health Department map of all cases can be viewed by clicking on the link below:
https://adem.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/f533ac8a8b6040e5896b05b47b17a647
The Governor reminded Arkansans of the continued effort to complete 60,000 tests in the month of May. Since May 1, more than 39,000 tests have been completed.
Governor Asa Hutchinson also expressed his thanks to nursing home workers and residents. “It’s been tough when you restrict visitors to nursing homes. I thank the workers and how they have handled this.”
At its peak, there were 120 active COVID-19 cases in Arkansas nursing homes. There are currently only 82 active cases in nursing homes, and 192 nursing homes with zero cases.
The Governor announced more than $21 million have been disbursed to more than 8,000 direct workers in nursing homes and long-term care facilities as part of the program to provide enhanced payments to those workers. Governor Hutchinson also announced beginning June 1, the state is going to test every resident and staff person in a nursing home.
During Arkansas Department of Health Secretary Dr. Nate Smith’s report, he shared that it does not appear the increase in cases is from the reopening business, but rather a function of increased testing. Of the 1,082 active cases, only one percent had reported being in a restaurant, a barbershop, or gym within the incubation period.
“As we increase our testing and interrupt the spread of COVID-19, we will see those numbers stabilize and go down,” Dr. Smith said.
To view the Governor’s press briefings, click on the following link:
https://www.youtube.com/c/GovernorAsaHutchinson/live
DESE Updates
PPE
Educational Cooperatives are consolidating orders for personal protective equipment for summer activities. Contact your local Educational Cooperative Director for more information.
CARES Act ESSER Funding
DESE recently review key points for CARES Act ESSER funding:
- DESE encourages schools to conduct a thorough needs assessment. When considering needs, schools should make sure they are assessing their ability to provide for remote, blended or online learning.
- All expenditures must be reasonable, necessary, and allowable. Schools are encouraged to document the reason for the purchase and have that information available with receipts, etc.
- The first day of expenditures is March 13, 2020, and funds must be obligated by September 30, 2022.
Guidelines for Summer Programs and Activities
DESE will release guidelines tomorrow on reentry to onsite summer programs and activities. The Governor is expected to release guidelines for summer youth activities on May 20.
APSRC Updates
School Spotlight
During this difficult time, we could all use some positive news. We want to hear about the great things schools are doing to support their communities, whether it’s helping to provide PPE for healthcare workers, ensuring kids have access to nutritious meals, or innovative ways your educators are reaching students. These stories may be shared on the APSRC Facebook page.
Lonoke Elementary teachers in Lonoke School District went out to “sign” all of their students to show them they are loved and missed. They personally visited each one of their students’ homes and placed a sign in each of their yards that say “My Teachers Love & Miss Me!’ as they waved from a distance.
To view older updates, please visit our COVID-19 Afternoon Update Archive.
Finance
CARES Act
This Act responds to the coronavirus outbreak by providing paid sick leave and free coronavirus testing, expanding food assistance and unemployment benefits, and requiring employers to provide additional protections for health care workers. To view the full CARES Act, click here.
Specific to Elementary and Secondary Education:
- $13.5 billion is available for formula grants to states base on the same proportion that each state receives under ESEA Title I-A.
- Nintey percent of fund to local educational agencies (LEAs) based on their proportional allocation of ESEA Title I-A funds.
- State education agencies can reserve up to 10% of funds for emergency needs as determined by the state.
- Funds to LEAs can be used for coronavirus-response activities, such as planning for and coordinating during long-term school closures; purchasing educational technology to support online learning for all students served by the local educational agency; and additional activities authorized by federal elementary and secondary education laws.
Below are sections of the Act that are applicable to schools and their students:
Supplemental SNAP Benefits
The Act allows for relaxed eligibility standards for SNAP benefits for families that have a child enrolled in a school that has been closed for at least 5 consecutive days. The level of benefits shall be determined by the Secretary in an amount not less than the value of meal at the free rate over the course of 5 school days for each eligible child in the household.
Maintaining Essential Access to Meals for Students
There is now a waiver exception for school closures due to COVID-19, so all schools can provide meals during the current school closure. The Secretary of Agriculture may also grant a waiver that increases Federal costs. The nutritional content of meals served may not need to meet Federal guidelines if the Secretary determines that such waiver is necessary to provide meals and meal supplements, and there is a supply chain disruption with respect to foods served under a qualified program and such disruption is due to COVID-19.
Emergency Paid Sick Leave and Emergency FMLA
There was a breakdown of this section in the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette (see image below). There is one important caveat for school districts. The tax credits in the right-hand column do not apply to the Government of the United States, the government of any State or political subdivision thereof, or any agency or instrumentality of any of the foregoing. So, they would not be available to school districts. The requirements do apply.
Flexibility Guidelines from Department of Education
The US Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos announced a streamlined process for providing states funding flexibilities to best meet the needs of students and educators during the COVID-19 national emergency. The new flexibilities, authorized under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, allow schools to repurpose existing K-12 education funds to move resources to areas of highest need during the emergency.
In a letter sent to Chief State School Officers, US DOE Assistant Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education Frank Brogran invited states to request waivers of the following provisions:
- Carryover limitation for Federal fiscal year (FY) 2019 Title I, Part A funds (i.e., the Title I, Part A funds that will become carryover funds on October 1, 2020): the requirement that limits an SEA’s ability to grant to its LEAs a waiver of the 15 percent Title I, Part A carryover more than once every three years.
- Period of availability of funds in the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA): to extend the period of availability of FY 2018 funds for programs in which the SEA participates under its approved consolidated State plan until Septemer 30, 2021. The programs are:
- Improving Basic Programs Operated by LEAs
- State Assessment Formula Grants
- Education of Migratory Children
- Prevention and Intervention Programs for Children and Youth Who Are Neglected, Delinquent, or At Risk
- Supporting Effective Instruction
- English Language Acquisition, Language Enhancement, and Academic Achievement
- Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants
- 21st Century Community Learning Centers
- Rural and Low-Income School Program
- McKinney-Vento Education for Homeles Children and youth Program
- The following requirements in Title IV, Part A of the ESEA. These requirements are only applicable to LEAs that received $30,000 or more in Title IV, Part A funds:
- Needs assessment requirements for the 2019-2020 school year
- Content area spending requirements: the requirements to use a minimum percentage of Title IV, Part A funds for activities for FY 2019 funds and any available FY 2018 carryover funds
- Spending limitation: the 15 percent limit on the use of funds to purchase technology infrastructure for FY 2019 funds and any available FY 2018 carryover funds
- The definition of professional development for the 2019-2020 school year.
Letter from Assistant Secretary Frank Brogan
DESE continues to seek additional waivers regarding accountability and federal funds. To view a summary of the requested waivers, visit DESE’s Accountability and Federal Funds Waivers Summary Document.
DOE COVID-19 Fiscal FAQs
DOE released the fact sheet Select Questions Related to Use of Department of Education Grant Funds During the Novel Coronavirus Disease of 2019. The fact sheet includes frequently asked questions with respect to compensation, travel and conference costs.
FEMA Funding
There is a possibility that schools will have an opportunity to be reimbursed for expenses to sanitize their schools.
Eligible emergency protective measures taken to respond to the COVID-19 emergency at the direction or guidance of public health officials may be reimbursed under Category B of FEMA’s Public Assistance Program. FEMA assistance may be provided at a 75% federal cost share. This assistance will require execution of a FEMA-State/Tribal/Territory Agreement, as appropriate, and execution of an applicable emergency plan. Local governments and other eligible PA applicants will apply from the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM). FEMA may provide assistance for emergency protective measures including the disinfection of eligible public facilities.
For more information, review the documents below:
APSRC Finance Team
The APSRC Finance Team will be available by phone for bookkeeping or finance questions throughout the mandated school closure. In addition, we are capable of offering efinancePLUS/bookkeeping training or support via Zoomchat. You can contact any member of the APSRC Finance Team by calling 501-492-4300 or contact team members directly:
- Ken Rich 870-371-0104
- Kathy Hanlon 479-621-3348
- Scott McRae 501-589-5670
- Bonnie Colville 479-325-0611
Alternative Methods of Instruction
Schools should follow their Alternative Methods of Instruction (AMI) Plan. If your school does not have an AMI plan, download the document below and apply as soon as possible.
DESE has released Arkansas Instructional Guidance for Extended Year AMI as an added support to schools during the extended closure due to COVID-19. This guidance document was developed by DESE staff with feedback from school superintendents, teachers, and parents, as well as reviews of other states’ guidance around the instructional considerations of continued AMI. This guidance is written as support for consideration and communication of plans, not as a mandate.
We have compiled a list of online resources educators and parents can use to support and enrich learning for their students. When possible, we have sorted these links by subject area and grade level.
Virtual Courses
We are working closely with our preapproved digital course providers. We realize the challenge will be offering online courses knowing not all students have access. Our digital course providers are seeking solutions to this issue as well. There is the option for teachers to print and send work to their students. The courses that are being provided give teachers access to all units within the course and the ability to choose the content they want to provide.
Below are a few options with more coming soon.
- Accelerate Education is offering special pricing of $34/course for grades K-3 and $24/course for grades 4-12 and are including some electives as options. This price also includes virtual training for teachers. Accelerate Education has workbooks for K-5 students that can be purchased for an additional cost.
- BYU Independent Study (BYU IS) is pleased to offer more than 100 free high school online courses to any U.S.-based school that shuts down due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The courses contain subject matter content, assignments, formative and summative assessments for all 7th to 12th – grade core subject areas, as well as some of their elective courses. They are also completely 100% online so no textbooks are required. The courses will be available through July 1, 2020.
- Edmentum is offering 2 core courses for free, grades K-12. The district selects two core subjects (must be the same for all grade levels). Additional core courses available for $80/month. They have a link to free supplemental materials that can be printed for grades K-12, available to anyone. Study Island Home is free as well.
- eDynamic Learning is offering CTE courses at a cost of $150 per teacher, up to 4 courses.
- Fuel Education will give students 30 days of free access to all courses for new accounts (grades K-12). Current accounts will not receive a discount. They provide free webinars for training teachers.
- Lincoln Learning is offering a package of 4 core courses at a total cost of $25 per student. This price includes virtual training for teachers. Additional courses, including electives, may be purchased at $10 each. Teachers can print lessons for students without internet.
- Red Comet is offering their CORE courses for $200 per student with no teacher support and no workbooks from grades 3-12. This will allow a student to take as many CORE classes for the remainder of the semester.
For more information about APSRC’s Digital Learning Resources, email jketcham@apsrc.net.
Broadband Availability in Arkansas
View detailed internet service and provider information for each Arkansas city at https://geoisp.com/us/ar/.
Special Education Services
There are currently no waivers issued regarding special education services. Federal guidance has been that states should extend flexibility, but they have not stated that they can waive timelines. DESE has created an executive summary to provide additional special education guidance. DESE’s special education website is also continually updated.
Districts are required to follow their approved AMI Plan which should address how the district serves students with an Individual Education Plan. Review the DESE Guidance Document by clicking on the link below:
The U.S. Department of Education has issued a questions and answers document outlining states’ responsibilities to infants, toddlers, and children with disabilities and their families, and to the staff serving these children.
The U.S. Department of Education of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services also issued a fact sheet addressing the risk of COVID-19 in Preschool, Elementary, and Secondary Schools while serving children with disabilities. This document includes valuable guidance regarding compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Districts are encouraged to maintain frequent and open lines of communication with parents and work with them to address any concerns. Annual review discussions should occur as scheduled and can be conducted by phone. If you are unable to meet a specified timeline, be sure to document why you were not able to meet the timeline.
Districts will also need to identify if there is any significant regression in their special education students, and if so, offer an amended IEP and/or compensatory services when onsite instruction resumes.
We have compiled a list of online resources educators can use to support and enrich learning. When possible, we have sorted these links by subject area and grade level.
Child Nutrition
The Arkansas Department of Health released COVID-19 Guidance for Emergency Meal Service and Distribution that includes guidelines for food service workers and volunteers to follow to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
As of March 26, the Child Nutrition Unit (CNU), DESE, has approval to participate in six USDA waivers. All superintendents and child nutrition directors are emailed when CNU receives approval for a waiver. Included in the email are step-by-step instructions on how to opt into the approved waivers. Districts closed due to COVID-19 must have an approved site through Seamless Summer Option (SSO) site.
Below is the list of approved waivers:
- Waiver to Allow Non-Congregate Feeding
- Nationwide Waiver to Allow Meal Time Flexibility
- Nationwide Waiver of the Activity Requirement in Afterschool Snack
- Nationwide Waiver to Allow Meal Pattern Flexibility
- Nationwide Waiver for Parent/Guardian Pickup for Meals
- Nationwide Waiver of Community Eligibility Provision Deadlines
On March 14, 2020, the United States Department of Agriculture approved a wavier for the Child Nutrition Unit, Division of Elementary and Secondary Education. The waiver is for non-congregate feeding in the Seamless Summer Option (SSO) due to unanticipated school closures due to the novel coronavirus. The approved waiver granted the following:
- Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) granted a waiver of the congregate feeding requirement for approved SSO sponsors in good standing through June 30, 2020, or upon expiration of the federally declared public health emergency, whichever is earlier.
- This flexibility allows, for approved Districts, to provide meals to be taken and consumed offsite, allowing for social distancing during the novel coronavirus.
- FNS also granted a waiver of the requirement that SSO meals be served at non-school sites during unanticipated school closures due to the novel coronavirus.
All Superintendents and Child Nutrition Directors were emailed on March 15, 2020, with step by step instructions. Districts closed due to COVID-19, must have an approved SSO site and complete the non-congregate feeding waiver, if needed. Contact the Child Nutrition Unit at 501-324-9502 if there are questions.
Meal Service Options
As time passes, districts may find it more difficult to keep the same level of service. Districts may want to consider the Baylor University Emergency Meals-to-You Program as an option. The USDA has partnered with Baylor University to offer this alternative method of delivering meals to your students. This program is focused toward rural families, for whom traditional meal service options are a challenge.
The program is provided at no cost to the district. Baylor’s Meals-to-You is responsible for all program operating expenses, including food and distribution costs, and will claim reimbursement for the meals directly from USDA. The district will not be financially responsible and will not receive reimbursement. There is no paperwork after the initial enrollment and eligibility verification. If you need more information, contact Baylor at www.mealstoyou.org.
Other Policies, Procedures and Regulations
Employee Hiring & Licensure Exceptions
Hiring staff for the 2020-2021 school year as a result of COVID-19.
Maximum flexibility will be given to ensure candidates are eligible for employment.
Traditional Educator Preparation Graduates
Institutions of higher education will recommend candidates from their educator preparation programs for licensure. In the event that a graduate is missing one or more required components for a standard license, DESE will exercise options to issue a Provisional License or an Emergency Teaching Permit as applicable.
Alternative Preparation Programs
- Admitted into an approved program, met testing requirements: provisional license issued upon employment in an Arkansas school district.
- Conditional admission into an approved program, missing testing requirements: Emergency Teaching Permit may be issued. If teaching in a core area, must be an Arkansas Qualified Teacher (AQT). If not, Long-Term Substitute (LTS) upon employment in an Arkansas school district.
- Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) Special Education: Upon employment, Long-Term Substitute (LTS) until requirements are met.
Licensure Exceptions
Additional Licensure Plans (ALP), Administrator Licensure Completion Plans (ALCP), Emergency Teaching Permits (ETP), and Long-Term Substitute (LTS) will be approved or denied on a case-by-case basis using maximum flexibility due to COVID-19. Current documentation procedures still apply.
Email david.bacca@arkansas.gov for any questions regarding ALPs and ALCPs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will a candidate have to present to a hiring Arkansas school district?
DESE will give letters of employment eligibility for the Emergency Teaching Permits (ETP) upon recommendation from an Institution of Higher Education. Letters of eligibility can be submitted to an Arkansas school district upon graduation. Districts will need to follow current application procedures for ETPs upon employment of the educator.
What happens if a graduate has not taken the Foundation of Reading exam?
If a traditional graduate is lacking on the Foundation of Reading exam, a one-year provisional license is available upon recommendation from an Institution of Higher Education.
Will flexibility also apply to educators adding an endorsement?
Those enrolled in endorsement programs have a standard license and may work under an Additional Licensure Plan (ALP) or Administrator Licensure Completion Plan (ALCP) if needed.
Contract Signing
Some teachers and administrators have asked about contracts being issued and signed. There are many digital signature options available for free, and they can always mail them if needed. Adobe Sign: E-Signatures is a good option and contracts can be pulled from eFinance and dropped into the program for electronic signature.
End-of-Year Employee Evaluations
Because ADE Rules Governing Educator Support and Development, Sections 6.01 through 6.05.1, and 7.01 through 7.03 have been suspended, local districts must determine the process for completing end-of-year ratings for educators who were scheduled for a summative-year evaluation. Certified staff currently in a summative-year may be moved to the 2020-2021 reporting cycle.
DESE recognizes that hours of work have been conducted regarding evaluations. Schools choosing to complete summative ratings of educators in a summative year will complete the process as outlined in Commissioner’s Memo LIC-20-020. Flexibility may be given to certified staff who request to have their summative rating waived for the 2019-2020 school year.
Additional details can be found in Commissioner’s Memo LIC-20-034.
Background Checks
Commissioner’s Memo LIC-03-036 provides guidance regarding Arkansas’ background check process for certified and classified employees, as well as new hires.
US DOE FERPA Update
The U.S. Department of Education (US DOE) has issued up an updated Frequently Asked Document regarding the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) as it relates to the COVID-19 disease.
According to the US DOE Student Privacy Policy Office, FERPA permits educational agencies and institutions to disclose, without prior written consent, personally identifiable information from student education records to appropriate parties in connection with an emergency, if knowledge of that information is necessary to protect the health or safety of a student or other individuals. This “health or safety emergency” exception to FERPA’s general consent requirement is limited in time to the period of the emergency and generally does not allow for a blanket release of personally identifiable information from student education records. Law enforcement officials, public health officials, trained medical personnel, and parents (including parents of an eligible student) are typically the types of appropriate parties to whom personally identifiable information from education records may be disclosed under this FERPA exception.
To view the full document, click here.
State Assessments
Due to the extraordinary circumstances created by the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting school closures, states have been provided flexibility regarding the assessment and accountability requirements under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA), as amended by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). Given the widespread, extended school closures and the interruption in school operations and on-site classroom education, Arkansas will cancel the administration of state testing for the spring of 2020. This includes the ACT Aspire, the Dynamic Learning Maps (DLM), and the K-2 assessments. Arkansas will participate in the U.S. Department of Education’s expedited waiver process and will be seeking broad flexibility from both assessment and accountability provisions. Through these waivers, Arkansas would not need to administer its statewide assessments to all students, to make annual accountability determinations, to identify schools for support and improvement, or to provide data on its State and local report cards for assessment and accountability information.
Betsy DeVos issued a policy letter to states that will allow flexibility to DESE regarding the assessment and accountability requirements under ESSA.
Arkansas Department of Education Resources
Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) COVID-19 Information webpage
Districts can email education questions to ade.communications@arkansas.gov
Division of Elementary and Secondary Education’s Guidance on Addressing Mental Health Needs of Students in the Community
Arkansas Department of Health COVID-19 Resources
We encourage you to regularly visit the Arkansas Department of Health website www.healthy.arkansas.gov/programs-services/topics/novel-coronavirus to receive updates on COVID-19 in Arkansas. The site also includes updated guidance for educators, as well as links to Centers for Disease Control resources.
In an effort to effectively field concerns related to school closures and school/student-related concerns of potential positive COVID-19 cases, the Arkansas Department of Health has designated a hotline for school personnel.
School Designated COVID-19 Hotline: 1-833-504-0155
Arkansas Children’s Hospital has a designated a hotline number to field concerns related specifically to the known presumptive positive case at ACH mentioned in the March 12 press conference.
Arkansas Children’s Hospital Hotline: 1-800-743-3616
For all other concerns, individuals should use the MAIN COVID-19 Hotline.
MAIN COVID-19 Hotline: 1-800-803-7847
School Spotlights
During this difficult time, we could all use some positive news. Schools across Arkansas have shared stories of the great things they are doing to support their communities, whether it’s helping to provide PPE for healthcare workers, ensuring kids have access to nutritious meals or innovative ways their educators are reaching students.
To view the schools we have highlighted, click here.
If you have a story you would like to share with us, email cfowler@apsrc.net.