Harford County Public Schools Modify COVID-19 Protocols

HARFORD COUNTY, NJ — Following a surge in COVID-19 cases across the county and state, Harford County Public schools has updated its safety protocol to protect students and staff from the spread of the coronavirus.

It's designed to align with the updated U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance released on Dec.27, 2021.

New operational changes for Harford County schools include the following: no after-school activities that are not part of the testing/vaccination program, no field trips, assemblies, or social events, no use of facilities, and no spectators at athletic events or in-person audiences at performances.

According to the school district, students or staff who test positive for COVID-19 are expected to isolate at home for a minimum of five days and remain isolated if symptoms develop and persist.

At this time, HCPS said it currently has no plans for a system-wide closure. However, if directed by the Harford County Health Department, or if staffing shortages do not allow for safe school operations, individual grade levels or schools may need to move to virtual instruction for a specific amount of time.

"HCPS will continue proactive efforts to support vaccine clinics in schools, monitor guidance from local and state health officials, and communicate any changes with our community," the school district said on its official website.

In the meantime, the school district continues to remind parents to avoid sending their children to school is they are feeling sick. Students who arrive to school with COVID-19 symptoms will not receive testing at school.

Instead, parents and guardians will be contacted to pick their child up from school and will need to consult their physician or the Harford County Health Department for testing information, according to HCPS. Sick students will not be permitted into their classroom and will be isolated to the best of the school’s ability while they wait for their parent/guardian to arrive at school.

To view Harford County Public Schools' updated COVID-19 quarantine and isolation protocols in its entirety, click here.