The San Mateo County Office of Education has launched a new section of its website to support administrators, educators, and families in transitioning to at-home/distance learning. Visit its new COVID-19 Response and Resources page for an overview or visit the sections below to find resources, tips, and guidance.

Status of San Mateo County Schools

Orders Impacting School Operations

Stay at Home Order Except for Essential Business

On March 19, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a stay at home order for all California residents except to engage in certain essential activities and work for essential business and government services. Educational institutions are exempt for purposes of facilitating at-home/distance learning or performing essential functions.

The order allows for administrative functions at school sites to continue. Facilities may be used by faculty and staff to manage at-home learning efforts, including technology support for students and staff, and for those school districts that provide free and reduced meals to students to continue to do so. At-home/distance learning might involve online content, paper packets, extended readings and research, at-home projects, or any number of options.

Parents and legal guardians are ordered to take reasonable measures to ensure that students who are not in school as a result of this Order are following recommended guidelines for preventing the transmission of the virus, including social distancing. Students of all ages should be prevented from congregating and engaging in group activities during the pendency of this Order to assist in efforts to prevent transmission of COVID-19.

Guidance for Schools, School Districts, Preschools, and Childcare Settings

Resources for Schools and Districts to Continue Learning and Operations

On March 17, the State released guidance designed to help schools, districts, and County Offices of Education adjust to the at-home learning model. This guidance addresses equity and distance learning, special education, continued meal programs, and other topics.

Below is a list of distance learning guidance resources created by the San Mateo County Office of Education:

Childcare Guidance

If childcare, daycare, or preschool facilities remain open, even at a reduced level, they must adhere to a set of guidelines.

Pandemic Plan for Schools

In collaboration with San Mateo County Health, the San Mateo County Office of Education has developed a Pandemic Response for Schools, which provides steps schools can take to both prevent the spread of Coronavirus and plan for possible school closures with continued instruction and operations.

Additional Announcements and Guidance