Covid Procedures/Plans For VBS 2021
Before we get started we would like to share that we have spent many hours putting these plans into place by consulting with our Covid task force, looking at local school district procedures, and constantly using the updated version of the CDC guidelines. Please be aware that as guidelines change procedures may have to change. Our top priority is that everyone involved in VBS safe.
Let’s Get Started! Health Check!
·Prior to VBS even starting EVERY SINGLE PERSON who is involved in VBS, both KIDS AND ADULTS will fill out the same health questionnaire we fill out for church each week. This will be sent out a few days before VBS. *this will be a one time health check sent out, it will not be done daily at this time.
·If someone has NOT filed out the form before arriving they will be asked those same questions before entering the building and being allowed to participate in VBS. Please note that we have age appropriate questions for our little ones.
·After the families have filled out that questionnaire, each VBS participant will then have a sticker or separate tag to show that they have filled out the questionnaire and are safe to participate in VBS for the week.
Masks, Masks, Masks!
·Anyone ages 3 and over (even if you’re vaccinated) will be required to wear a mask at all times. The only exception is the music team while they are on stage.
·We will ask everyone to bring a spare mask with them everyday. *We do have a craft for the kiddos the first day that will help them carry all their things all week!
·We will have disposable masks available for all ages available to those who need them.
·We will have designated times for masks breaks.
·Participants will be sent home if they do not adhere to our mask policy. *No refunds
When Someone Is Symptomatic
·In the event that someone has symptoms of COVID we have the following protocols in place….
· We will have a sick room to isolate the symptomatic person.
· We will then remove the class from that immediate area and clean anything that is necessary. Please note that because we are OUTSIDE for almost all of our day AND that ALL items used will be in INDIVIDUAL bags, a deep cleaning will not take long and we will be able to continue our day with little interruption.
· It will NOT be necessary for other people in that class/classes to be sent home or a need for that class to quarantine, because everyone will be masked.
· We will require that the person that was symptomatic, not return to VBS. We will also ask that any family members of the symptomatic person go home as well. That family will not be allowed to return to VBS. *We came to this decision because there is not enough turnaround time for a negative test or quarantine time in just the 5 short days. No refunds will be given because all materials will need to be purchased ahead of time.
· Same procedure will occur for any volunteer that becomes symptomatic. The volunteer and any members of their household will be required to leave. The helper will remain with the class, and a member of the leadership team will step in until a permanent replacement can be found. We will not be combining groups.
Other Considerations
·We are cutting capacity by 50% from previous years.
·We will be doing as many activities outside as possible.
·Hand sanitizer will be at each station, as well as teachers will have some to carry for their group.
·Hand washing will be encouraged as well.
·Snack will be prepackaged.
·Kids will use hand sanitizer before and after snack, and will be spaced 6 feet apart while eating, per CDC guidelines.
·No materials will be shared, each child will have a Ziploc bag with needed craft supplies.
·Bathrooms will be monitored appropriately for social distancing.
·Hallways, passing periods, classrooms, worship space will all be clearly marked for social distancing.
·A drop off and pick up procedure will be implemented. Parents will not be entering the building to drop off kids or pick them up.
·Social distancing will be implemented AT ALL TIMES!
·Videos will replace some of our in person activities such as skits at opening and closing to limit the amount of people on stage.
·Snacks for volunteers will be individually wrapped and packaged with an outside spot to take a break.