Are face coverings required?

NSMA will make every effort to promote healthy practices and protocols. Social distancing will be implemented in all areas. ​Mask requirements may change due to the COVID-19 health climate, local, state, and/or federal requirements​.

• Masks and face coverings will be required in all areas of the school when social distancing cannot be maintained and/or when developmentally appropriate.
• Mask and face coverings are not always best for the health of our students with medical concerns. Their parents/guardians must contact our school office personnel to receive an exemption and provide medical documentation. Face shields may tbe considered in place of face masks.
• Face coverings and masks must not include messages or images that distract from the learning environment as outlined for other articles of clothing in school dress code policies.
• Students will be provided with multiple opportunities throughout the school day to get outside and participate in “mask breaks.”

What cleaning & disinfection protocols is NSMA following?

NSMA will increase sanitization of high-contact surfaces throughout the school day. All shared materials will be cleaned between student use, as well as at the end of each class period, before lunch, and at the end of the school day. We are developing new protocols for our custodians to ensure deep cleaning is completed each day. Frequent hand-washing and other healthy protocols will be practiced and highly encouraged for all students and staff. Hygiene lessons and expectations will be taught explicitly at the elementary level. A hand washing schedule will be established throughout the day for our students. Hand sanitizer will also be easily accessible throughout all schools. Upon notification of a positive COVID-19 case, classroom(s) and school buildings will be deep-cleaned.

Can students share school supplies?

Sharing of supplies such as crayons, markers, scissors, and pencils will not be allowed. Students will keep their individual supplies separated from those of others in individually labeled containers or cubbies. NSMA will purchase individual supplies for each student. NSMA is asking for a $25.00 donation from each student to purchase the necessary supplies.

How will other supplies and equipment be used & shared?

All technological devices, classroom manipulatives, and montessori materials needed for instructional purposes will not be shared with another student without first being sanitized. All shared items and spaces will be cleaned/sanitized at mid-day, at the end of the day, and between each use. Middle and High School students will be assigned a Chromebook to use during the school day. All devices will be cleaned during the day and thoroughly at the end of the school day. Teachers will have access to the school library to check out books for student use in the classroom (no books will be going home). Books will not be shelved for 72 hours after being returned. At this time, all Book Fairs will be virtual.

Are "special" classes (PE, Music, Tech, Art) still taking place?

Students will attend specials in their own classroom. Equipment and materials will be sanitized between classes. Specials may be held outside of the classroom (PE & Technology) where students will be instructed to follow social distancing guidelines and equipment will be sanitized .

Are visitors and volunteers able to come NSMA?

Visitors must have a temperature check upon arrival at the school, wear a mask or face covering, and answer essential questions. Visitors will only be allowed for essential purposes.

Are before & after-school care still available?

Before and After Care programs will not be offered at the school facility at this time. Before and/or After Care will be provided by local childcare facilities and bussing will be arranged for pick up and drop off.

Are assemblies & open-house events taking place?

Grade-level/individual classroom assemblies, which include fewer participants, may occur with principal permission and healthy procedures followed. There will not be large gatherings in a traditional format such as whole school assemblies, music programs, and fundraising events. Open House activities will shift to an assigned time slot experience. This will allow a quick “meet and greet” for our students and staff, as well as an opportunity for families to obtain necessary paperwork. More detailed information will be provided soon.

Can classes still have special snacks and celebrations for birthdays?

Prior arrangements should be made for all special snacks and birthday treats. No birthday parties in the classrooms/cafeteria. All snacks and birthday treats must be store bought, no exceptions

Are student clubs still meeting?

After school clubs will be suspended for the Fall Semester.

What mental health resources are available for students and their families?

The social, emotional, and mental wellness of our students and staff are essential to a successful learning environment. Our social worker and school counselor are prepared and available to help our students and families both virtually and in-person.

What are NSMA's plans for in-person vs distance learning?

In-Person Montessori Classroom Education

• Remain a NSMA Student
• In-person learning and engagement with small class sizes
• Masks and face coverings will be required in all areas of the school when social distancing cannot be maintained and/or when developmentally appropriate. Students will be provided with multiple opportunities throughout the school day to get outside and participate in “mask breaks.”
• Montessori materials available and accessible in a safe and sanitary environment
• Materials will be cleaned and sanitized between each use, mid-day, and end of the day.
• Social interaction with peers and staff
• Students will still receive instructional time in art, music, technology, and physical education. Students will participate in recess throughout the day
• Bussing Services will continue. Masks are required for all students while riding the bus. Bus routes and times will be distributed after data is collected.