COVID Protocols

Winter 2023 Update:

Because of the very high vaccination rate in MA, and the natural immunity due to previous infections, I am suspending the vaccination requirement (will revisit this for summer camp). But as always I strongly encourage everyone to follow the CDC's recommendations for vaccination and boosters.
Unvaccinated students are welcome but should wear a mask during indoor activities.
Masks are required for those who have had a recent close-contact.
As always, anyone is welcome to wear a mask in accordance with your family's needs.

Fall 2022 Update:

COVID19 Vaccinations are still required for all of students and staff.
Masks are generally not required in drama but are always welcome according to your family's preference and needs.
Furthermore, boosters are strongly recommended if it has been six months since your child's second vaccination dose, as immunity wanes substantially with time.
Students with a documented medical exemption are welcome to enroll but must wear a mask indoors.
Vaccinations are not only the most effective way to prevent serious illness and death, but also reduce the risk of transmission. Thank you for doing your part to protect your community.

------->CDC Covid Vaccine Recommendations

Preventing the Spread

I am happy to say that since the start of the pandemic I have had ZERO cases of transmission in my in-person programs. We will continue to do pandemic-safe drama by:

Vaccinations

Beginning in April 2022 all students and staff must be upt-to-date on their Covid vaccinations as recommended by the CDC and FDA (2 or 3 doses depending on age), or provide documention of a medical exemption.
It is important to remember that the performing arts industry was hit devastatingly hard by the pandemic, and local theatre organizations have gone to great lengths to safely return to live in-person performances and instruction. This includes requiring proof of vaccination for audience and performers.
Stageworthy Drama strives to be a safe and inclusive place for all children. To be a safely welcome those who are at higher risk of serious illness due to disabilities or underlying conditions, it is necessary that everyone who is able be fully vaccinated.

Wearing masks!

*Until local transmission levels are significantly low, all students and staff must wear a well-fitting, high-quality mask such as an N95 or KF954. A cloth mask doubled with surgical one is also acceptable.
*Please make sure your child's mask fits comfortably and doesn't fall down.
*Students who need a brief mask break can step safely away from the group.

Physical Distancing and Ventilation

Distancing is SO 2020, right? Wrong! Our classes are held in spacious rooms where we can spread out and avoid what is considered "close contact." We do modified games, exercises and blocking with no physical contact
More fresh air means less transmission. When the temperature permits, we will let in fresh outdoor air.

Stay home if sick

Parents/caregivers should check their child for any new symptoms before leaving for class. If your child is experiencing any symptoms including

Headache

Fever

Body Aches

Runny Nose

Sore or Scratchy Throat

Or if they have been told they are a close contact and have been instructed to isolate,

Please keep them home!

Covid Credit: If your child needs to miss more than one class due to covid precautions or otherwise feeling unwell, you may request a "covid credit' to be put towards future programs when everyone is feeling better!

Example: Jaxx's mom paid for the entire semester. Jaxx had to stay home from class on February 1st and Feb 8th due to a close contact. Jaxx's mom can request a covid credit for $22 for the Feb 8th class to be put toward summer camp registration.

Hygiene

Students are reminded and encouraged to wash hands for 20 seconds after using the bathroom

to use hand sanitizer on arrival and leaving, and after blowing those nose

to keep hands away from the face

As always, if you have any questions or concerns about our protocols or practices, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Here's to a dramatic and healthy New Year! -Aoife