Health Policy

Staff and Student Health Policy

Keeping our community healthy—what to do when you’re not feeling well.
(rev. 10/9/25)

General Policy and Guidance

This guidance applies to all respiratory infections, including COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

This policy is based on the latest recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Pennsylvania Department of Health (PA DOH), and the Delaware County Health Department (DCHD). The expiration of the Federal Public Health Emergency (PHE) declaration does not mean the virus is gone. The most effective defense against COVID-19 remains vaccination and the continuation of basic health and hygiene practices.

Stay-at-Home and Return-to-School Policy

Students and staff who are sick with symptoms of a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection, such as cough, fever, sore throat, vomiting, or diarrhea, should stay home.

Individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 are no longer required to isolate for a full five days. Instead, they should stay home until their symptoms are improving, and they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication.

  • Staff may work from home and/or use available sick time, depending on their condition and the nature of their work.
  • All staff are expected to notify the appropriate individuals regarding their absence (see Staff Guidance below).

Prevention and Mitigation Strategies

Delco Literacy will continue to promote everyday prevention strategies to minimize the spread of infectious diseases. These strategies include:

  • Vaccinations: Encouraging all staff and families to stay up-to-date on vaccinations.
  • Hand Hygiene: Promoting frequent handwashing and the use of hand sanitizer.
  • Respiratory Etiquette: Encouraging individuals to cover coughs and sneezes.
  • Ventilation: Improving ventilation by opening doors and windows when possible to allow for fresh air circulation.
  • Cleaning and Disinfection: Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces regularly to remove viruses from high-touch areas.
  • Testing: Encouraging individuals to get tested for COVID-19 if they have symptoms or have been exposed.
  • Flexible Leave: Maintaining flexible, non-punitive, and supportive paid sick leave policies for staff.
  • Communication: Delco Literacy will continue to update the school community as new guidance is released.
  • Continuity of Services: Delco Literacy will adapt to ensure continuity of services—including academic, case management, and career advising—in the event of an outbreak or significant increase in cases that may require a change in instructional delivery. This may include using online learning platforms.

Staff Guidance

If you are sick, please stay home to rest and recover. You may choose to work remotely if you feel well enough and your job responsibilities allow, but you are encouraged to use your available sick leave benefits to prioritize your health and well-being.

Each staff member is responsible for promptly notifying all relevant individuals who may be impacted by their illness or absence. This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Your direct supervisor
  • Colleagues affected by your absence
  • Students or class participants
  • External partners or community contacts, if applicable

Timely communication helps ensure program continuity and minimizes disruptions to our operations and services.