June 7, 2021

Today, the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) issued guidance for school districts on developing a Safe Return to In-Person Instruction and Continuity of Services Plan, also known as the Health and Safety Plan, for the 2021-2022 school year.

As part of the American Recovery Act (ARP), every local education agency (LEA) that receives ESSER funds is required to develop a Health and Safety Plan and publish it on the LEA’s website for public accessibility. Based on ARP timelines, LEAs eligible to apply for and receive this portion of the ARP ESSER funding must submit a Health and Safety Plan that meets ARP Act requirements to the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) by Friday, July 30, 2021, regardless of when the LEA submits its ARP ESSER application.

Additionally, PDE has created a template to assist LEAs with preparation of the Health and Safety Plan. The Plan must include how LEAs will maintain the health and safety of students, educators, and staff; ensure the continuity of services; and implement prevention and mitigation policies. There is also a list of FAQs.

Should you have any questions about this guidance, or any other issue impacting schools, please do not hesitate to contact William J. Zee or any of the attorneys in the Appel, Yost & Zee Education group.