Coronavirus Awareness and Information

CDC Coronavirus FAQ

How it Spreads

Person-to-person spread

The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person.

Between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet).
Through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Can someone spread the virus without being sick?

People are thought to be most contagious when they are most symptomatic (the sickest).
Some spread might be possible before people show symptoms; there have been reports of this occurring with this new coronavirus, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

Spread from contact with contaminated surfaces or objects

It may be possible that a person can get COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes, but this is not thought to be the main way the virus spreads.

How easily the virus spreads

How easily a virus spreads from person-to-person can vary. Some viruses are highly contagious (spread easily), like measles, while other viruses do not spread as easily. Another factor is whether the spread is sustained, spreading continually without stopping.

The virus that causes COVID-19 seems to be spreading easily and sustainably in the community (“community spread”) in some affected geographic areas.

Symptoms

Prevention & Treatment

There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. However, as a reminder, CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home when you are sick.
Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
- CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
- Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings (at home or in a health care facility).
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.

For information about handwashing, see CDC’s Handwashing website.

For information specific to healthcare, see CDC’s Hand Hygiene in Healthcare Settings.

These are everyday habits that can help prevent the spread of several viruses. CDC does have specific guidance for travelers.

What to Do if You are Sick

Stay home except to get medical care

Stay home: People who are mildly ill with COVID-19 are able to isolate at home during their illness. You should restrict activities outside your home, except for getting medical care.
Avoid public areas:Do not go to work, school, or public areas.
Avoid public transportation: Avoid using public transportation, ride-sharing, or taxis.

Separate yourself from other people and animals in your home

Stay away from others: As much as possible, you should stay in a specific room and away from other people in your home. Also, you should use a separate bathroom, if available.
Limit contact with pets & animals: You should restrict contact with pets and other animals while you are sick with COVID-19, just like you would around other people. Although there have not been reports of pets or other animals becoming sick with COVID-19, it is still recommended that people sick with COVID-19 limit contact with animals until more information is known about the virus.
When possible, have another member of your household care for your animals while you are sick. If you are sick with COVID-19, avoid contact with your pet, including petting, snuggling, being kissed or licked, and sharing food. If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wash your hands before and after you interact with pets and wear a facemask. See COVID-19 and Animals for more information.

Call ahead before visiting your doctor

Call ahead: If you have a medical appointment, call the healthcare provider and tell them that you have or may have COVID-19. This will help the healthcare provider’s office take steps to keep other people from getting infected or exposed.

Wear a facemask if you are sick

If you are sick: You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) or pets and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office.
If you are caring for others: If the person who is sick is not able to wear a facemask (for example, because it causes trouble breathing), then people who live with the person who is sick should not stay in the same room with them, or they should wear a facemask if they enter a room with the person who is sick.

Cover your coughs and sneezes

Cover: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
Dispose: Throw used tissues in a lined trash can.
Wash hands: Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or, if soap and water are not available, clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Clean your hands often

Wash hands: Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing; going to the bathroom; and before eating or preparing food.
Hand sanitizer: If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, covering all surfaces of your hands and rubbing them together until they feel dry.
Soap and water: Soap and water are the best option if hands are visibly dirty.
Avoid touching: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Avoid sharing personal household items

Do not share: You should not share dishes, drinking glasses, cups, eating utensils, towels, or bedding with other people or pets in your home.
Wash thoroughly after use: After using these items, they should be washed thoroughly with soap and water.

Clean all “high-touch” surfaces everyday

Clean and disinfect: Practice routine cleaning of high touch surfaces.

High touch surfaces include counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards, tablets, and bedside tables.

Disinfect areas with bodily fluids: Also, clean any surfaces that may have blood, stool, or body fluids on them.
Household cleaners: Use a household cleaning spray or wipe, according to the label instructions. Labels contain instructions for safe and effective use of the cleaning product including precautions you should take when applying the product, such as wearing gloves and making sure you have good ventilation during use of the product.

Academics FAQ

What is the schedule for remote learning?

How will remote learning be different for students and faculty?

Remote learning is not all that different from learning that happens on campus. Students will still experience the same sort of engaging lesson from dynamic teachers that they would receive in person. Students still have the opportunity to work with their peers collaboratively in small groups in breakout rooms as well as receiving direct instruction from the teacher. Of course, there are some things that we cannot do on Zoom that we do in person, and we miss the personal connection that can only come from face to face interaction, but we have created all sorts of fun activities for students, from virtual lunch tables to talent night to a Pet Fashion Show. The nurturing, inclusive community that is one of the hallmarks of a Windward education is still very much a part of our virtual school.

How does COVID-19 affect AP Exams?

In late March, the College Board announced significant changes to the administration of this year’s AP exams. Here is a summary of the changes:

Students will take AP exams at home, online, rather than at school. Exams will be open book and open note, but students may not consult other people during the test.
The primary dates for exams have changed. They will begin one week later, running from May 11-22. We recognize there is a conflict with graduation on May 22; we are looking at all options and will update the community as soon as possible. The full schedule can be found here.
There are makeup dates on June 1-5. We strongly urge students to sit for the exam on the primary date, and to rely on these makeup dates only in case of technical issues that may arise on the primary date.
Each exam will be 45 minutes in length, and students may have two, or even three, exams on one day. The exams for AP Computer Science Principles and AP Art and Design are not timed; the work students submit for these exams is now due on May 26.
The format of the exams will be free response only, and the material covered by each exam is limited to a subset of units from the full course syllabus.
Any College Board-approved accommodations for extended time will be automatically applied when a student logs in to take the exam.
Additional details are forthcoming from the College Board in the next few weeks. In the meantime, there is a summary for students provided on their website.

Because the exams will be administered online, and students will take them at home, the primary communications regarding the logistics of exams will be directly between the College Board and the students. For that reason, it is imperative that students read carefully and thoroughly all emails they receive from the College Board. In addition, students should communicate with their AP teachers regarding the content and preparation for the exams.

At this time, all students who had registered for an AP exam remain registered. No further action is required. We encourage all registered students to take the exams for which they have registered. There is little downside to doing so, especially given the shortened exam time and the limited scope of material covered. Many colleges have indicated they plan to accept scores on this year’s AP exams just as they would in any other year.

Will Windward change its grading system for the end of the 2019-20 academic year?

How are Windward’s Division Teams supporting students during remote learning?

The Division Teams are “all hands on deck” during this time, offering assistance and reaching out to families and faculty. We are observing classes to understand better how virtual classes are going. As always, we are leading Seminar, Monday Morning, Meeting, grade level meetings for Parents and Guardians, and connecting with individual students by Zoom or phone.

Will students be prepared for the next grade level given the disruption to the way they are normally provided instruction?

Yes! Remember that about 75% of the school year was completed when we moved to Zoom.

One of the great advantages of an independent school is our independence in curriculum. Of course, we meet requirements and standards of the University of California, and our accrediting agencies; how we do that is up to us. As for this year and next, thanks to the resilience of faculty and students, learning continues. In courses where students need more skill practice or content review, faculty will be aware through departmental collaboration and can adjust fall plans accordingly. As always, our knowledge of individual students and close relationships with families will help in providing individual support.

Student Life FAQ

Parenting in Place Masterclass

Are you:

Stressed about summer and wondering how your family will manage?
Completely burned out from the demands placed on you as a parent in recent months?
Needing support around how to talk with children about race and the protests?
Craving practical strategies for helping your child (and your family) thrive and prepare for what’s next?

The Parenting in Place masterclass is a special live series designed to help you during this challenging time

What is the status of next year’s Global programs?

In collaboration with our partners, we will closely monitor international travel protocols and consider offering trips for Summer 2021 only if conditions, CDC and State Department advice recommend it. Until we are able to return to offering travel programming, Global Programs will offer our Global Scholars alternatives, including online language and cultural engagement programs, as an alternative to the current program requirements. Many of these programs will offer a chance to consider the current circumstance of COVID-19 in global perspective, and thus may be of interest (and be offered to) the wider Windward student body.

What if students haven’t finished their community service hours for this academic year?

Can students receive diploma requirement credit for community service performed this Summer?

What about extracurricular activities in athletics, arts, and other areas?

Class of 2020 Senior Celebrations

Graduation 2020

Campus Locker Pickup Information

Starting this Saturday, May 16, the School will allow students to return to campus in order to clean out their academic and athletic lockers. Locker cleanup will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. These pickup times are by appointment only—please click here to sign up for a time slot.

Important Notes:

Seniors may schedule a time during the week; to coordinate, please contact Lindsay Flacks;
Scholar-Athletes should sign up for TWO (2) back-to-back slots to clear out their academic locker and athletic locker;
Siblings should similarly sign up for back-to-back slots to ensure adequate time to escort to and from each locker;
ALL students MUST wear face coverings that cover nose and mouth;
A parent/guardian may help a student get belongings, but we ask that no other individuals be onsite or leave the vehicle;
Please bring a box or bag to retrieve locker items, as these will NOT be provided;
Students should remain in their vehicle until a Security member is ready to escort them to the locker; and
PLEASE be on time, and stay in the vehicle if you arrive early and wait until your designated slot. If a student arrives late, then there is no guarantee that they can be accommodated, and they may have to reschedule.

The deadline for locker cleanup is Friday, May 27. If you have any additional questions, please contact Lindsay Flacks, Director of Infrastructure and Risk Management.

Windward Network Internships FAQ

What is the plan for Summer 2020 Internships?

What is the plan for Summer 2020 Internships?

Health and Wellness FAQ

Handwashing Guidelines

What steps are you taking to keep coronavirus (COVID-19) from campus?

The campus is currently closed to students. It is only open to staff and faculty as necessary to facilitate distance learning. With that, Windward School is:

Following CDC guidelines and local Public Health Department recommendations for proper social distancing measures on campus (signage is readily visible on campus). We’re monitoring the situation day-to-day and making any adjustments as necessary;
Disinfecting classrooms, offices, and all facilities with CDC approved, medical-grade disinfectants. There are currently three Facilities members on site daily, as well as an end-of-day cleaning service vendor, Uniserve, with a three-person crew;
Encouraging faculty/staff to work from home as able and avoid coming to campus if sick or potentially exposed to symptomatic persons. Again, campus is open ONLY for the purposes of facilitating distance learning; and
Providing all on campus employees (including Facilities and Security) with proper personal protective equipment, like face coverings and gloves.

How can I increase the chances of staying healthy?

Per the CDC: “With both influenza and coronavirus causing concern, we encourage continued focus on prevention. Simple steps, including frequent hand washing, avoiding touching one’s face (nose, mouth, and eyes), covering coughs and sneezes, avoiding contact with those who have cold or flu-like symptoms can make the difference in staying healthy. It’s also important to exercise self-care; eat well, get plenty of sleep, go for a run/walk outside, use online exercise resources, try to create a schedule, and find ways to connect with others (text, telephone, video calls, online chat groups and blogs) while practicing social distancing.”

Is Windward doing anything to support the medical community in need of supplies?

Are there any physical fitness or wellness resources available?

What is the status with health forms for next school year?

Magnus Health, our online portal that provides easy, secure access to medical forms and emergency contact information is now open to begin the 2020-21 update process. The deadline for completion of your student’s information through Magnus Health is June 15. You should have received information detailing this process, including updates for your student's Annual Physical Exam deadline requirement due to COVID-19.

How are Windward’s counselors supporting students during remote learning?

The Division Counselors—Tammy, Gail, and Sarah—are continuing to work with students and teachers to support health and wellbeing and learning. Counselors are available for one on one zoom meetings, phone conversations, and by email. In addition to checking in with individual students and families, the Counselors are providing resources, observing classes, and leading faculty conversations.

What resources do you recommend to address psychological well being?

In Seminar and in classes, students should continue to ask for help or express concerns however they feel most comfortable. Relationships with teachers, counselors, coaches, other administrators are ongoing and in some cases more important than ever. It’s always great to start with your division counselor for recommendations or referrals; please see the Resources for Families for more general information and support.

Campus Community FAQ

What is open and what is closed on campus?

The whole campus is currently closed to students. Additionally, the Pavilion/Grab ’n’ Go and PPC/Athletic facilities are closed to the entire community. Only the Center for Teaching and Learning, select classrooms, and select offices are open and assigned to faculty and staff on an as-needed basis to facilitate distance learning, with proper social distancing measures taken.

What about facilities maintenance needs?

Are Windward athletic facilities open for public use?

Will employees be paid while campus is closed?

Can I work in my office?

Social Distancing Requirements

School Operations FAQ

Who do I contact if I have questions about my enrollment for 2020-2021?

Is Windward planning to resume on campus operations for Fall 2020?

While we are working hard to end the 2019-20 year strong, we have been busy planning for the year ahead. Our highest priority is to adapt our campus and our protocols to meet the new social distancing standards that are being developed for schools. Our work includes creating larger classroom spaces to allow for appropriate distancing, and expanded cleaning and health protocols that will minimize the risk of infection. As plans are solidified, we will add details to this webpage.

We have been partnering with others to research best practices and to share creative problem solving approaches to the challenges we face. We are now reaching out to other schools to share our research and to expand the network of schools who are working together to prepare for a return to on-campus instruction in the Fall.

When do I need to make my tuition commitment for the 2020-21 academic year?

Will we be receiving refunds for the unused bus service?

College Counseling FAQ

What has Windward College Counseling done to adapt its support of Windward’s students as it moved to an online environment?

Class of 2020

College Counselors have celebrated students’ positive news and have conducted one-on-one Zoom meetings and helped students craft continued letters of interest to pursue waitlist options.
May 1 is the national deposit deadline. College Counselors worked with Seniors so that they can make enrollment decisions to one college by this deadline. Coordinating with Jeff Gilder, the Director of Alumni Development and Engagement, we have encouraged those struggling to make decisions to reach out to the numerous Windward alumni who have attended these institutions. To that end, over 150 Windward alum have graciously agreed to be included in a spreadsheet we sent to Seniors listing their names, colleges attended, and contact information.
Many families are asking about gap year options. To address these questions, we sent out a Gap Year Communication to Seniors and their parents. Ultimately, students who wish to pursue a gap year must request one (and receive approval) by the college to which they have committed.
College Counseling continues to team with the Collegiate Division to help Seniors celebrate their successes in multiple ways available to us virtually.

Class of 2021

College Counselors scheduled one-hour Zoom family meetings to discuss a variety of topics: senior-year schedules, standardized testing plans, letters of recommendation, summer plans, and initial college lists.
College Counselors participate in the weekly Junior Seminar. Covered topics include: SCOIR (our college counseling tool), College Kickstart, Activity List Building and a specialized update from two admission officers.
We have encouraged Juniors to take advantage of virtual campus tours and on-line information sessions as a way to “demonstrate interest” in lieu of in-person college visits. (see below)
We have worked to re-imagine our College Essay Writing Workshop, expanding it from a one-day on-campus workshop to a three-day virtual workshop. In lieu of bringing college representatives to campus to review students’ essays in June, we have rescheduled this part of the workshop for late August.

Class of 2022

College Counselors met one-on-one with Sophomores prior to virtual learning to discuss their Junior-year schedule.
College Counselor assignments will be sent to students and families on June 1, 2020.
The Prep Division invited College Counselors to join their virtual parents’ night Zoom. We had the opportunity to introduce ourselves and present some ideas for Summer programming.

Will the changes for the Class of 2020 impact the Class of 2021 in the college process?

No. We realize there’s a lot of speculation about this topic. As we look at the sources of media information, we see that a number of “experts” are not school-based college counselors or university officials. While the admission process will look different for the Class of 2021 due to the disruption in their learning, testing, and activities, we do not anticipate that students in the Class of 2020 will take seats away from students in the Class of 2021.

Will virtual learning have an impact on my college applications?

Colleges and universities know that academic progress was disrupted for students across the globe. Universally, all colleges and universities have made assurances that these disruptions will not impact a student’s opportunity to receive a fair and holistic review. Admission officers know students’ applications will look different next year. They’re aware of the College Board’s and ACT’s decision to cancel exam dates; they know the College Board decided to move to an online format for AP examinations; they know that students will not have an opportunity to showcase spring and summer accomplishments, and that students’ activity lists will look truncated. The overarching message we have received from colleges and universities is: Do Not Worry.

I am a Junior and have not taken the SAT/ACT or Subject Tests. What should I do? Which test should I prioritize?

There is not a one-size fits all approach to this question. Every student has different needs and is applying to a different subset of colleges. Here is what we know:

Many colleges have relaxed their testing policies for the Class of 2021 by making the SAT/ACT optional and completely removing Subject Tests requirements or “highly recommending” them.
Colleges recognize that tests were cancelled and students will only have a few opportunities to post results.
If your test was canceled, College Board or ACT say they’ll re-register students for the next test date.

If you are trying to strategize, always prioritize the SAT/ACT over Subject Tests. If a student reaches their goal score, they may shift the focus to Subject Tests, but in most cases, we are encouraging students to focus on other aspects of the application process.

How can I learn more about colleges? How can I “demonstrate interest?”

“Demonstrating interest” looks different for the Class of 2021 than it has for other graduating classes. In the absence of college visits and cancelled programming, colleges are offering other ways for students to engage in the college exploration process: live information sessions, campus reels, official YouTube channels, virtual visits, etc. Please take advantage of these opportunities.

New Families FAQ

With all on-campus events canceled for Spring, how will we have a chance to connect before the start of the 2020-21 school year?

While we may not be able to physically connect on campus at the moment, Windward has designed special online events in order to bring together the newest members of the Windward community. New families should have received the below information for these virtual events in an email from the School. In addition, each new family will be receiving a welcome package to their home, which includes a new family directory and other useful materials to help you connect. If you did not receive these welcome emails or new family packages, please contact communications@windwardschool.org.

For Class of 2026 Parents/Guardians

For Class of 2026 Students

In addition to the parent meeting and social, we want to bring together the students of the Class of 2026. We will hold a Virtual Student Welcome Event from 4 p.m. - 5:15 p.m. on May 27. After we welcome the entire class, students will have the opportunity to participate in online activities with their classmates. Please use this form to sign your children up for the activity in which they would like to participate.

For Class of 2023 and 2024 New Families

On May 4, we will host a virtual parent/guardian and student meeting at 4 p.m., which will include introductions and information on the coming year.

Before the end of the school year, Peer Mentors will connect with new students to answer questions and offer advice. We will host a student-only virtual event mid-June (date TBD).

On our Key Dates 2020-21, you will see additional orientations and gatherings for students and parents; depending on the circumstances, we will go forward with those in person or virtually.

Questions?

Please contact communications@windwardschool.org.

Coronavirus Awareness and Information

Windward is keeping a close eye on the developing situation in regards to coronavirus (COVID-19) and is taking the appropriate safety precautions by following the latest CDC and Department of Public Health guidelines.

Below, please find important news and resources; please check back regularly for additional updates.