Although we're grateful for the universal mask mandate in Jeffco schools, the data is here and it's indisputable: masks alone and the current measures in place are not enough. We need more serious measures implemented if we're to keep our schools open. The data is now showing that even with universal mask mandates and testing, kids have a 22% chance of contracting Delta. (Without masking and testing, that figure shoots up to >75%.) This is too much of a risk, and we need a better multi-layered approach to bring this number down. As repeated by countless medical experts, to properly tackle the Delta variant, we need the following measures to be taken more fully:

1. Pfizer or Moderna vaccination mandates for all staff - The current Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are our #1 weapon against Delta. Every staff member in this district should be vaccinated as a way to protect our children.
2. Proper ventilation upgrades - We're aware that ventilation has been upgraded, but if it's to only MERV 10, that's not enough. All schools on MERV 10s need to be upgraded to MERV 11 ASAP.
3. Lunchtime overhaul - Doctors have confirmed that JPS' current mitigation plan for lunches is weak and still creates a high risk environment for our kids. a) Outdoor lunches should be implemented right now. Yes, it takes more time and organization. That does not mean it's impossible or that we shouldn't try. We can cut some time out of other academics if needs be, in order to ensure safer lunchtime scenarios. b) Once the weather forces indoor lunches, children should be seated only side by side, and not across from one another with six foot - not three foot - distancing.
4. Air filtration - We understand why JPS sees portable HEPA units as problematic, but there is no reason we cannot at least populate each classroom with a CO2 monitor and open all windows possible at all times. We'd also like the district to look into revamping the schools that don't have opening windows. Every classroom and shared room should have windows that open.
5. Testing - Testing, contact tracing, quarantining, and reporting are all crucial to preventing the spread of Delta. We should be testing our kids regularly. We parents are hearing horror stories of children of Covid-positive parents being encouraged to attend school and risk infecting their classrooms, instead of quarantining at home in accordance with CDC requirements.
6. Transparency - Please bring the Covid dashboard back to the JPS website! We need to know where outbreaks are happening and how at risk our own children are. We must have complete transparency and open communication if we're to stand a fighting chance against our schools being shut down.
7. Masks - Jeffco Public Health's (JCPH) public health order (PHO) is not specific enough on mask requirements. JPS should require in addition to the current PHO that masks include a built-in layer of filter material. Also, we're hearing way too many stories of schools not disciplining students for destroying their masks (tearing the netting out to make them inoperable, wearing fishnet as a mask, etc) Our teachers need to all be diligent and send these kids home at the first offense.

Please understand that although we're very grateful for your universal mask mandate, we were dismayed to see that it had to come from JCPH when it should have come from you in the first place. This leaves us questioning how committed JPS is to truly taking all measures needed to prevent Delta from closing our schools. Please look into the changes above immediately for the health and safety of our children.

Thank you!