COVID-19 Updates

Good afternoon, FVL family.

The Lord continues to bless the work being done at FVL. We appreciate the continued outpouring of prayers by so many on behalf of our ministry. Please continue to pray for health and safety of not only the FVL family, but our entire community, nation, and world as we continue to work through so many unknowns!

Below is your weekly statistical report:
FVL COVID-19 Stats as of 10/19/2020

• Students currently in quarantine: 22 isolation: 4

• Faculty/staff currently in quarantine: 0 isolation: 1

• Quarantine 7-day average: 24.7

• Isolation 7-day average: 4.0

• Historic positive cases on campus: 12

 

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• What is Quarantine? A preventative measure asking an individual who has had close contact to keep from others
• What is Isolation? A complete separation from others due to a contagious or infection virus that has been positively identified

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As many of you know, a notice was put to the general public last week by the Appleton Health Department. We have met with them and decided our numbers at FVL indicate we should continue to school as normal at this time. Here are a few things you can do and remind your children to do to help our cause at FVL, and also the general publics cause:

1. Wear a face mask in public spaces when social distancing cannot be practiced.
2. Maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others.
3. Wash hands regularly. Use hand sanitizer when hand-washing isn't available.
4. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces.
5. Do not go out in public if you are sick, and contact your health-care provider for testing.

On behalf of FVL, we say thank you for your continued prayers and support. We continue to do all we can to support our FVL family academically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally. May the Lord bless your week!

Mr. Jeffrey J. Loberger
President
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
OFFICE: 920-560-5129
CELL: 386-986-8303
EMAIL: JLoberger@fvlhs.org

WEB: www.fvlhs.org
Futuristic ~ Harmony ~ Individualization ~ Relator ~ Achiever
Matthew 11:28 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

Good morning,

This reminder is being sent out to families of students who received mask waivers through our original application process.

As communicated by email on October 8, families who wish to keep a mask waiver for their students will need to update that waiver application on Skyward Family Access and provide documentation to our school office by Monday, November 2.

You may submit documentation from a trusted health care provided who, based on their experience and professional expertise, feels qualified to make such a determination. FVL does not require that details of the medical complication be shared; only that the complication prevents the student from wearing a mask.

Families not planning to update the waiver are asked to direct their students to begin wearing masks on campus as soon as possible for the health and safety of the entire FVL family. They will be expected to do so no later than November 2.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me or to our school office.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation with this matter.

God’s blessings,
Mr. Alan Nolte, Principal
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Appleton, Wisconsin

Email: anolte@fvlhs.org
Office: 920-739-4441 x5108
Mobile: 920-427-9706

Good afternoon, FVL family.

My apologies this is coming out a little late today, but here is information on COVID-related news from your high school. Below is your weekly statistical report:

FVL COVID-19 Stats as of 10/12/2020

• Students currently in quarantine: 26 isolation: 1

• Faculty/staff currently in quarantine: 0 isolation: 1

• Quarantine 7-day average: 39.4

• Isolation 7-day average: 4.0

• Historic positive cases on campus: 12

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What is Quarantine? A preventative measure asking an individual who has had close contact to keep from others

What is Isolation? A complete separation from others due to a contagious or infection virus that has been positively identified

---

As many of you know, a notice was put to the general public last week by the Appleton Health Department. We have met with them and decided our numbers at FVL indicate we should continue to school as normal at this time. Here are a few things you can do and remind your children to do to help our cause at FVL, and also the general publics cause:

1. Wear a face mask in public spaces when social distancing cannot be practiced.
2. Maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others.
3. Wash hands regularly. Use hand sanitizer when hand-washing isn't available.
4. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces.
5. Do not go out in public if you are sick, and contact your health-care provider for testing.

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On behalf of FVL, we say thank you for your continued prayers and support. We continue to do all we can to support our FVL family academically, spiritually, socially, and emotionally. May the Lord bless your week!

Mr. Jeffrey J. Loberger - President
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
OFFICE: 920-560-5129
CELL: 386-986-8303
EMAIL: JLoberger@fvlhs.org
WEB: www.fvlhs.org

Futuristic ~ Harmony ~ Individualization ~ Relator ~ Achiever

Matthew 11:28 "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

Dear FVL Family,

In a continuing effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19 as much as possible on our campus, our administration has made the decision to revise our mask waiver policy.

FVL will continue to accommodate individuals who have a medical complication preventing them from wearing a mask. However, for the health and safety of our entire FVL family, we will now require documentation of this complicating medical condition from a healthcare provider who is qualified to make such a determination.

Because it may take some time to acquire this documentation from a healthcare provider, families who wish to keep a waiver for their students will have until Monday, November 2, to provide documentation to the school office.

We also ask that ALL families requesting a waiver complete our updated waiver request form online through Skyward Family Access. This includes families of students who had previously been granted waivers.

I would also like to make you aware of a modification we have made to our protocol for classroom seating, which has already been positioned to maximize distancing in an effort to reduce virus transmission and quarantine cases due to close contact.

In an attempt to more equitably distribute students in classrooms, teachers have been directed to use an alphabetical seating arrangement that will be adjusted on a weekly basis. Students with documented learning accommodations will still receive priority seating. Teachers also reserve the right to modify seating for management/discipline reasons.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation with these matters.

________________________________________________________________

Mr. Alan Nolte, Principal
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Appleton, Wisconsin
Email: anolte@fvlhs.org
Office: 920-739-4441 x5108
Mobile: 920-427-9706

Good Morning, FVL Family,

In an effort to keep you informed on COVID-related news from your high school, here is your weekly statistical report and new information below:

FVL COVID-19 Stats as of 10/5/2020

• Students currently in quarantine: 41 isolation: 6
• Faculty/staff currently in quarantine: 0 isolation: 0
• Quarantine 7-day average: 40.0
• Isolation 7-day average: 4.8
• Historic positive cases on campus: 11

---

What is Quarantine? A preventative measure asking an individual who has had close contact to keep from others

What is Isolation? A complete separation from others due to a contagious or infection virus that has been positively identified

---

As many of you know, a notice was put to the general public last week by the Appleton Health Department. We have met with them and decided our numbers at FVL indicate we should continue to school as normal at this time. Here are a few things you can do and remind your children to do to help our cause at FVL, and also the general publics cause:

1. Wear a face mask in public spaces when social distancing cannot be practiced.
2. Maintain 6 feet of physical distance from others.
3. Wash hands regularly. Use hand sanitizer when handwashing isn't available.
4. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces.
5. Do not go out in public if you are sick, and contact your healthcare provider for testing.

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As each day passes, we praise God for all his tremendous blessings. It is a privilege to serve your family and especially your children as we train with God's Word. May the Lord continue to be with us all as we continue to navigate many unknowns.

Mr. Jeffrey J. Loberger
President
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
OFFICE: 920-560-5129
CELL: 386-986-8303
EMAIL: JLoberger@fvlhs.org

Futuristic ~ Harmony ~ Individualization ~ Relator ~ Achiever

Dear FVL Freshmen Families,

Because of increasing concerns about the very high activity level of COVID-19 in Wisconsin and our community, we have decided to cancel Freshmen Parent Teacher Conferences which had been scheduled for next Wednesday, October 7, from 5:30-7:30 PM.

Your student’s teachers will reach out by email with information on how to connect if you have any questions or concerns.

My apologies for the inconvenience and thanks for your understanding.  We felt it was important to take this precautionary step for the health and safety of our FVL family and our community.

God’s blessings,
Mr. Alan Nolte, Principal
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Appleton, Wisconsin

Email: anolte@fvlhs.org
Office: 920-739-4441 x5108
Mobile: 920-427-9706

 

Dear FVL Families,

Next week, as part of our Homecoming festivities, we set aside Wednesday and Thursday, October 7-8, for special activities beginning at 1:00 PM.

On Wednesday, we will have our first ever during-the-day Frolic.  Classes will be placed in large spaces for proper distancing (gyms, Commons, Auditorium) to watch the event which will also be streamed online.  Dismissal that day will still be at our normal time of 3:15 PM.

Thursday, we had planned a variety of “pep rally” activities.  However, because of increasing concerns about the spread of COVID-19, we have decided to cancel those activities.  Instead, students will be released from school at 1:00 PM.  Busing companies will accommodate, and after school activities will be adjusted accordingly.  Students should reach out to their coaches/advisors for further information.

Here is the modified schedule for both days:

A/B Block with 1:00 PM Dismissal
Period 1/5	7:55 AM	8:49 AM
Period 2/6	8:57 AM	9:50 AM
Intercom Chapel	9:50 AM	9:57 AM
Period 4/8	10:05 AM	10:58 AM
Early Lunch Schedule
Early Lunch	11:06 AM	11:28 AM
Period 3/7	11:33 AM	12:26 PM
Study Time	12:26 PM	1:00 PM
Middle Lunch Schedule
Study Time	11:06 AM	11:37 AM
Middle Lunch	11:42 AM	12:02 PM
Period 3/7	12:07 PM	1:00 PM
Late Lunch Schedule
Period 3/7	11:06 AM	11:59 AM
Study Time	11:59 AM	12:13 PM
Late Lunch	12:18 PM	12:40 PM
Study Time	12:45 PM	1:00 PM

 

God’s blessings,
Mr. Alan Nolte, Principal
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Appleton, Wisconsin

Email: anolte@fvlhs.org
Office: 920-739-4441 x5108
Mobile: 920-427-9706

 

Dear FVL Families,

I pray that God continues to keep your family safe and healthy during these challenging times.  We give thanks that our Heavenly Father continues to allow FVL the opportunity to serve your students both in-person and from a distance as we take comfort and refuge in the promises of our Savior Jesus.

Based on federal, state, and local data, we know that positive cases of COVID-19 continue to rise in Wisconsin and the Fox Valley.  In an effort to continue to slow the spread of the virus, the FVL administration has made the decision to continue to require that masks be worn indoors after Governor Evers’ directive expires at the end of the month.  The Northeast Conference (NEC) has already chosen to do the same for athletic programs through at least the end of the fall season.

This past week FVL dealt with its first positive COVID-19 case on campus.  In coordination with the Appleton Health Department, those individuals who were identified to be in “close contact” with the infected individual have been notified that they must quarantine for 14 days from the point of exposure following CDC, state and local health department guidelines.

For your reference, I have attached a sample of the letter from the Appleton Health Department distributed to those who must quarantine and a bulletin from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services explaining what “close contact” means.

As a reminder, FVL has already taken many steps as precautions to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus including the following:

• Educate students, staff, and families on COVID-19 and strategies for slowing the spread 
• All families pre-screen their students daily.
• Temperatures are taken on arrival to school.
• Cloth masks are required indoors (exceptions for medical reasons must be cleared with school leaders).
• Social distancing is maintained wherever practical and reasonable.Block schedules designed with staggered dismissal times to reduce hallway traffic.
• Large groups and gatherings restricted or eliminated based on guidance from state and local health officials.
• Additional hand sanitizing stations have been added.
• Desks and other shared services are disinfected between classes.
• Deep cleaning of shared spaces is carried out on a regular basis.
• Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning were upgraded to a new iMOD system to improve air quality.

We will continue to closely monitor data in the community and on our campus including positive and quarantine cases to make appropriate adjustments to our mitigation strategies where and when necessary.  Please continue to be vigilant with mask wearing and distancing.  

Please continue to emphasize the importance of wearing masks, distancing, daily review of symptoms, and avoidance of large gatherings outside the school day in support of keeping our FVL family and the entire community safe and healthy during this pandemic.

God bless your weekend!
________________________________________________________________
Mr. Alan Nolte, Principal
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Appleton, Wisconsin
Email: anolte@fvlhs.org
Office: 920-739-4441 x5108
Mobile: 920-427-9706

FVL Parents,

Thank you so much for the co-curricular questions that were asked over the weekend. I really appreciate all the thought that went into them. Please feel free to continue to ask questions as we keep working our way through the seasons.

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FAQ: From Parents of Athletes Email

Q: Just thought I would inquire on the number of spectators per athlete.  Could 4 spectators per athlete be allowed in our conference?  

A: Unfortunately, there is nothing we can do at this point about the number of spectators per athlete.  This was a policy set by the 10 members of the North Eastern Conference.  We discussed it for a long time.  Some schools wanted four spectators per athlete, others didn’t want any.  Two seemed to be the best compromise.  Like most everything else going on, this could be re-evaluated in a couple of weeks.  But, for right now, this will be the policy.

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Q: Your email says that we should fill out a travel form when our student-athlete is driving themselves. Should we fill out the same form when parents are driving them or is parental transportation assumed? If it’s assumed, is there a different form that parents will need to fill out In order to allow them to ride the bus or van?

A: Yes, we would still like you to fill it out, transportation is NOT assumed.  The Travel Release lets us know ahead of time how many athletes we'll need to transport. 

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Q: I was wondering, can students volunteer for running the Foxes Locker?

A: Absolutely!

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Q: Is there a conference "rule" for media attendance at these games? I haven't heard anything so far.

A: As of right now, there will be no media allowed at the games.  Photographers, other than our yearbook staff, will not be allowed near the field of play in football, volleyball and soccer.

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Q: Due to lockdown last spring I was not able to complete 3 of my spots for last year. Of the few opportunities offered this season, my family could not volunteer due to work schedules, illness, or they would be full by the time I opened the links. Therefore I still have 2 commitments left. How do you plan to address this situation as I can't be the only one with this problem?

A: From the President of the Booster Club:  Due to school stopping and spring sports shutting down.  If you completed 3 spots your commitment is satisfied.  If not you would owe a reduced rate of $60 if you only completed 0-2.  Remember you have a calendar year to complete commitment. 

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Q: My question is regarding siblings. I was a little confused by the NEC protocol. If my wife and I sign up to watch Andrew, can we bring our other children along? 

A: Unfortunately, the answer is no.  This is one we struggled with a lot, but we just felt more comfortable sticking to the two spectators per athlete, regardless of age.

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Q: I just have a question about the Foxes Locker and volunteering.  My husband is helping coach football, and I may be helping coach volleyball this year.  Do coaches who have kids as athletes still have to sign up for slots at the Foxes Locker?

A: No.  Coaches who have kids who are athletes are exempt from volunteering for these spots.

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Q: The note says concessions will not be available at most venues. With such limited attendance allowed, does it make sense to even offer concessions at games this fall?

A: We talked a lot about that as a booster club. The reality is, we’ve lost close to $30,000 since this pandemic hit. If we’re going to continue to pay for uniforms we have to try and make a little money where we can. Plus, we understand that a lot of people will come to games straight from work and we’d like to provide them a chance to eat.

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Q: My question is if there is a certain age young children do not count as one of the 2 spectators?

A: Unfortunately, the answer is no.  Two spectators, regardless of age, per athlete.

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Q: If there is no canteen, tickets or programs for games, what would the parents be signing up for volunteer hours? Maybe that will be explained more when the sign up comes next week from Rachel. If so, just ignore this question. 

A: There will be a canteen for home varsity games and we will need volunteers checking in spectators coming in to the games.

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Q: Why was the decision made for just 2 spectators at the game? Again so grateful to be able to watch my son play ball, but his grandparents, sibling will not be able to watch him as a Senior and his last season. Was this a WIAA decision or FVL decision? If this is a FVL decision, is there any way they could increase that number of spectators to 4 especially for the Senior families?

A: As mentioned above, it was a tough decision, but the bottom line is still just trying to limit the number of people attending a game so as to be able to limit potential spread of the virus.  All of these were conference decisions in consultation with other conferences as well as the WIAA.  Unfortunately, we will not be able to change this decision unless the conference were to look at it again in a couple of weeks.  Do remember though, that all volleyball and football games will be livestreamed.  We are working to get soccer set up for the same.

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Q: No student fans at games- is that a WIAA or FVL decision? This one is really tough since part of the HS experience is to go to Football games on Friday nights and I know some of the Senior boys were really looking forward to cheering on the Volleyball team this year. I just want this to make sense in my mind- the football games are outside and if the kids have masks on- I do not understand. It would be nice to let the Senior students at least attend the HOME games this year since this is their last opportunity. 

 A: All conference decisions.  We would not be able to change it just for our home games.  While the decisions are tough, there is a lot of discussion that went into them.  The bottle line is, we just wanted to limit the number of people attending games in order to limit potential spread.  One way to look at it is if we are not careful and vigilant now, we could potentially miss a lot more down the road including school itself.  Our number one priority this summer and into the early start of the school year is to do whatever it takes to stay face to face with our classes.  These decisions were all made with that, and the health of our communities, in mind.

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Q: Will they be having Homecoming week and Court? I kind of figured there would not be a dance, which is sad.    

A: I have not heard a final decision on this.

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Q: Will they have Senior nights at the different fall sports to recognize those Seniors and when would the Senior nights be?

A: We are definitely planning to have these.

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Q: Do we have to sign up for JV1 and also varsity for football?

A: Yes. Spectators will have to sign up for all levels of volleyball, soccer and football.

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Q: Do I have to fill out the transportation sheet if I want my student to take FVL transportation?

A: No, the only reason you fill out the Travel Release is if your child is NOT taking FVL transportation. 

May God bless the rest of your week!
Shawn M. Hill
Activities Director
History Teacher
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
shill@fvlhs.org
Work - 920-560-5154
Cell - 920-202-0817

Parents of Athletes at FVL,

I first of all wanted to thank all of you for your patience over the last few months as we've tried to figure out what this fall sports season is going to look like. Yesterday morning, our conference athletic director's met for the final time to put the finishing touches on all our protocols, procedures, and schedules for the upcoming season. I want to share with you where we are at now. This email will take the place of the parent meeting we usually hold. First of all, I don't feel comfortable meeting in person if we don't have to and secondly, I want to make sure I get a few things to you that you can reference later on as they will be important going forward throughout this fall season.

I've tried my best to keep this short. If you have any questions, please email back to me by Monday. Next week Tuesday, I will send out another email to everyone, an FAQ, answering all the questions that I receive.

Athletic Trainer: Here is a link about our Athletic Trainer, Kim Kandler, and her contact information. Please contact her whenever needed. https://www.fvlhs.org/activities/licensed-athletic-trainer

Fans of Foxes (FOF): The Fans of Foxes is the FVL booster club. They purchase all of the uniforms and much of the equipment that our teams use. Funding for the Fans of Foxes comes mostly from sales in the Foxes Locker (school store) and the canteen at sporting events. We need volunteers to help run these during events. We ask parents of athletes to help. For this school year we ask that you volunteer to work two spots per athlete. If you choose not to work two spots, then you can opt-out by paying a $50 canteen fee to fulfill the obligation. The rationale for this and the policy itself are linked below. Please pay close attention to all parts of it. Fans of Foxes Volunteering Rationale & Policy

We just completed all the fall schedules yesterday. My assistant Rachel Fowler is working very hard right now updating the calendar and plugging in all the dates needed for Fans of Foxes Volunteering (Canteen and the Foxes Locker). She believes it will be ready to go next Wednesday. So look for an email link some time Wednesday to begin signing up for volunteering.

If you chose to opt-out and pay the $50 per athlete Canteen Fee, please pay through your eFunds account (same place you pay for hot lunch).

NEC Spectator Protocols: The North Eastern Conference has made the decision that we will only compete against schools in our own conference, with the exception of one football game verses our "sister" conference, the Bay Conference (Xavier). Because of that, we have come up with a uniform list of protocols for spectators at each athletic event. Please read carefully – spectators are limited.

The spectator signup mentioned in the protocols will be emailed to Fall Football, Soccer, and Volleyball athletic parents early next week.

Transportation: For this fall season, we are encouraging parents to find ways for their athletes to get to games. We prefer not to have 20-30 athletes on a bus at any time. However, we will provide busing or a van if not enough parents are able to take/get their children safely to the away game. Students will be allowed to drive themselves, but we ask that parents fill out a Travel Release form to allow that to happen (Link also below). We ask that you fill this out as far in advance of the event as you are able so we can begin our planning of what transportation the school will need to provide. https://fs30.formsite.com/FVLForms/form42/index.html

Training Rules: It is important to read the entire training rules so you understand what is expected of your athlete.

Athletics Calendar: We are working on adding the fall schedule to the FVL Competition & Practice Calendar. Please be patient since the schedule was just finished today it will take us a few days to get everything plugged in. You can also view our game schedules on the North Eastern Conference (NEC) Calendar. The view schedules option allows you to select which team schedules you want to see.

It truly is a joy to work with you, the FVL parent, to help create the best opportunities for your athlete to compete safely and create lasting memories. Please remember to email any questions you have by Monday so I can add it to the FAQ. If you have any other questions or issues that come up during the school year, please get in touch as well.

 

God Bless your day!
Shawn M. Hill
Activities Director
History Teacher
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
shill@fvlhs.org
Work - 920-560-5154
Cell - 920-202-0817

And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. - Hebrews 12:1,2

 

Dear FVL Families,

I pray you had a safe and relaxing Labor Day weekend! We are glad to be back on campus this week for continued instruction in-person. We are also very thankful that, for the most part, online learning has gone smoothly to begin the year. Our teachers are working to improve their skills each and every day to provide the best possible educational experience for your students despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Please permit me to update you on a few items as we make our way into September...

Presentation to Students Regarding COVID-19 Efforts This morning our mentor teachers shared a pre-recorded video that I put together reviewing information about COVID-19 and measures our on-campus school family is taking to reduce the spread of the virus. I have provided a link to the video shared below for your reference. The presentation is just over eight minutes long.

COVID-19 Reminders Video Link

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October 14: Testing Day for Juniors/Virtual Day for the Frosh, Soph, and Seniors
We are still a month away, but Wednesday, October 14, will be a testing day on campus for ALL juniors. They will have the option to take either the PSAT or ASVAB test that day. Watch for more information from the Guidance office about testing and registration.

Normally, we would run a regular schedule for the freshmen, sophomores, and seniors that day. However, due to COVID-19 and efforts to keep students spaced properly for the longer testing window, all other students will participate in online work from home. Students will NOT connect live to classes that day. Teachers will post directions for ALL 8 periods and will also be available via email for questions during normal school hours from 7:55 AM to 3:15 PM.

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FVLHS News App Available
Parent news and announcements are shared on the FVLHS NEWS app. You can download it for free from the Apple App store or Google Play. If you enable push notifications, highlighted news will be sent to your mobile device on Sunday afternoons.

God bless your week!
Mr. Alan Nolte, Principal
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Appleton, Wisconsin
Email: anolte@fvlhs.org
Office: 920-739-4441 x5108
Mobile: 920-427-9706

 

Dear FVL Families,

Next week Wednesday, September 9, is our annual “New Parent Orientation and Meet the Teachers night”.  Normally, we invite all of our parents/caregivers on campus that evening to meet first semester teachers after our new parent orientation.  This year because of concerns over COVID-19, we had to make the decision to limit participation to only parents/caregivers of new students to FVL – both freshmen and transfer students.  This will ensure that we can properly space attendees out on our campus.

My sincerest apologies to those returning parents/caregivers who enjoy the opportunity to meet up with their student’s teachers as we begin the school year.  It is our prayer that a year from now, we can return back to our regular practice of inviting all to participate.  All of our families are always encouraged to reach out to their teachers if they have questions or concerns.  Email is typically the most efficient way to communicate, but you may also call or schedule and appointment.

Families of new students – both freshmen and transfer students – please watch for a separate email with further information about the “New Parent Orientation and Meet the Teachers” event including a link that we ask you use to RSVP for the event.

Thank you for your understanding.

In Christ,
Mr. Alan Nolte, Principal
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Appleton, Wisconsin
Email: anolte@fvlhs.org
Office: 920-739-4441 x5108
Mobile: 920-427-9706

Good afternoon, families of those registered for the ONLINE-ONLY learning option at FVL this fall,

I want to begin by saying thank you for entrusting FVL with serving your students from a distance this fall through online learning!  Our administration and faculty are committed to providing a well-structured, well-rounded, and research-based learning experience that allow your students to be able to continue their efforts towards graduation from FVL, while also honoring your wishes to keep them safely under your care as we continue to wrestle with the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Whether at school or from home, FVL will continue to strive to carry out its mission to prepare our students for lives of service and for eternity.  We have the honor and privilege of not only guiding your students in academic, social and emotional learning, but also in spiritual growth by God's grace.  Our passion to serve our students and families as best we can does not stop at the doors of our classroom or campus.  We are committed to serving ALL of our students as best we can.  Pray for us as we pray for you!

 

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Next Wednesday, August 19, from 6:30-7:30 PM, I would like to invite all of our online-only families to connect virtually to a brief informational meeting where we will cover a number of issues related to starting up the school in an online environment.  Please look for an email early next week with a link to connect via the Zoom video conferencing tool.

Information will be sent out soon to all of our students and their families regarding details on the first few days of school.  Because of the unique nature of your student's participation, I wanted to share some additional things with you in advance of our virtual meeting next week.

• Student Orientation on Monday or Tuesday, August 24-25  As you may know, students normally attend orientation the beginning of our first week of school to pick up materials, get school pictures taken, walk through some introductory information, and receive their laptops.  It is our strong preference that your student be able to attend their regularly scheduled orientation time to pick up not only laptops, but also to pick up textbooks and other course materials that can be assembled in advance.  We will make every effort to appropriately space out students for orientation and those without a medical exception will be expected to wear masks.  If you feel uncomfortable having your student attend orientation in-person, please contact me ASAP about making other arrangements to come pick up materials for your student.
   
• First Day of School  As will be shared in information sent out this afternoon, the first day of school will be a special opening service/8-period schedule to allow for students to touch base with all of their teachers ahead of the first block days that will run on Thursday and Friday.  Because of the unique nature of that first-day schedule, online-only students will NOT be expected to connect live to classes that first day.  Students will be encouraged to participate in the opening worship service that will be streamed.  Teachers will be directed to share information with those participating online via email and Google Classroom, and then will have opportunity to connect live for the first classes on Thursday and Friday.
   
• Adjustments to Schedules  Our Department Coordinators are working with me and our Guidance Office to identify courses that will be too difficult to provide equitable instruction for students participating online.  Those include classes such as woods, metals, Biomedical classes, and College Biology and College Chemistry.  Counselors will be reaching out shortly to any students/families where changes may need to be made to schedules.  Please feel free to contact your student's Guidance Counselor at any time with additional questions about coursework.
   
• Student Individual Service Plans/Guided Studies  For those students with IEPs, ISPs, or who are enrolled in Guided Studies, Mrs. Sara Zuberbier will be reaching out shortly to further clarify how FVL will be able to serve your students with the limitations of an online environment.  If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to her.

May God continue to bless your family as you prepare for the school year.  I look forward to talking with as many of you as possible at our virtual meeting next week, but will also record the meeting for the sake of those unable to attend.

In Christ,
Mr. Alan Nolte, Principal
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Appleton, Wisconsin
Email: anolte@fvlhs.org
Office: 920-739-4441 x5108
Mobile: 920-427-9706

Due to the COVID circumstances, building passes will be allowed for periods 1, 4, 5, and 8 for the block schedules in lieu of being in Commons or having a study hall. This is allowed for any student as an option—not required. Those students who do not apply for a building pass go to a study hall or use the Commons here on campus as it is built into their schedule.

If additional building passes for other periods are needed for special circumstances (i.e. Youth Apprenticeship, FVTC Automotive Program, etc), please contact your guidance counselor as these are rare.

It is understood that a student with a permanent building pass will leave the school building in a reasonable amount of time.  You are not allowed to hang around the halls, lockers, commons, or sit in the locker room.  You may NOT go to the gym or fitness center unless you have a coach or teacher who will directly supervise.  Students are allowed to have a building pass during a sports season and come back to campus.

If you are driving yourself, you must purchase an FVL Parking Permit.  If a family member is picking you up, that is fine.

If you have a period 1 or 5 pass,  report for your temperature checks at 9:15 AM in the main office. Chapel follows at 9:25 AM.  You must be on time for both of these.  Failure to do so may result in the loss of your building pass.

If a noticeable negative change occurs in your classroom work (grades/assignments, you may have your pass revoked for a period of time.  This will be at the discretion of your teachers, guidance counselor, and Mr. Uhlenbrauck.  If you accumulate too many detentions, you may also lose your pass.  Becoming academically ineligible will result in you losing your building pass until you become eligible again.

Please use the online form (scroll down to access the form or open a new window to access online form) to request the building pass.   A parent approval will be required for submission, and it will then go to Mr. Uhlenbrauck and your guidance counselor for approvals.

This can be sent in at any time starting today, the sooner the better.   This will greatly assist our advanced planning of Commons and study halls, balancing classes and COVID 19 spacing restrictions.

If you have any questions about the building pass, please speak with your Guidance Counselor:

• Freshman 
  Mrs. Laura Gucinski  |  920-560-5186
• Sophomore 
  Mr. Tom Guenterberg |  920-560-5113
• Junior/Senior  (last name beginning with A-L)
  Mr. Craig Charron  |  920-560-5112
• Junior/Senior (last name beginning with M-Z)
  Mrs. Amy Gilmet  |  920-560-5111

 

Dear FVL Families,

Thank you to everyone who participated in-person or online in our “Back to School” forums this week.  We had very good participation for both sessions.

As mentioned during those presentations, things can certainly change at a moment’s notice.  As you may have already heard, Gov. Evers had issued a directive mandating masks indoors (other than private homes) through the end of September.  This will apply to everyone on campus at FVL.  The directive does allow, as we had already planned, for people who have complicating medical conditions that would make wearing a mask difficult.

For those who were unable to attend the forums, and as reference from the discussions, we have emailed you a video link to the opening presentation and a collection of questions/answers highlighting discussion from the two evenings.

To view the presentation and the Q&A document, please check your email.

Please continue to monitor your email and the FVL website for the most up-to-date information on our back-to-school plans.

In Christ,
Mr. Alan Nolte, Principal
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Appleton, Wisconsin
Email: anolte@fvlhs.org
Office: 920-739-4441 x5108
Mobile: 920-427-9706

Dear FVL Families,

As part of our “Back to School” plan for the 2020-21 school year, families have the option to register their student for ONLINE-ONLY instruction instead of being face-to-face on campus.

Students* must be registered for this option no later than Friday, August 7, to allow us time to process those changes and balance our face-to-face sections before the school year begins.

We ask that families commit to at least the first semester for the online-only format.  We understand there may be issues that arise in which case an appeal can be made.  However, students will NOT be allowed to move back and forth between face-to-face and online instruction as they see fit.  

Please give careful thought before registering your student.  The registration form will gather basic information about your student and also ask for confirmation on a number of important items to keep in mind with an online format.  You certainly may review the form and return back at a later time to complete it if you do decide to register.

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Please use the registration link below to initiate your application for the ONLINE-ONLY format. 

The deadline has passed - families who are still interested in the online only option must contact Principal Alan Nolte.

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If you have further questions regarding scheduling and course availability online, please reach out to the appropriate counselor below by email (preferred) or phone.  You may also certainly reach out to me with any general questions.

FVL Guidance Counselors

Grade 9 Counselor - Mrs. Laura Gucinski 
Grade 10 Counselor - Mr. Tom Guenterberg 
Grades 11/12 (A-L) Counselor - Mr. Craig Charron, Guidance Director
Grades 11/12 (M-Z) Counselor - Mrs. Amy Gilmet 

*International students will register for online-only instruction directly through the International Student Coordinator, Mrs. Monica Uhlenbrauck.

In Christ,
Mr. Alan Nolte, Principal
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Appleton, Wisconsin
Email: anolte@fvlhs.org
Office: 920-739-4441 x5108
Mobile: 920-427-9706

 

July 24, 2020

Yesterday, the WIAA Board of Control made the unprecedented decision to delay the start of fall sports.  They determined that the sports of Cross Country, Golf and Tennis could start no earlier than August 17th with the sports of Football, Volleyball and Soccer pushed back until the week of September 7th.  While we are very excited for the kids that the WIAA has opened up the opportunity for sports to be played during the season they were intended, there is reason to be cautious.  The WIAA ruling only states that we are “able” to return to play.  The WIAA did give the option to conferences, and individual schools, to move the fall sports to the spring.  This idea is similar to a plan that was put together by some of our high schools in southwestern Wisconsin.  Each of the schools in our conference will need to take the plan to their respective school boards.  These boards will then decide what the school district will do.

Some very tough decisions will need to be made if half the schools in our conference decide to move to spring.  It is believed that most other conferences in the area will decide to play conference-only matches.  If half our conference moves fall sports to the spring, and no one else is playing non-conference, who would we play if we decided to stay in fall?  There are other considerations as we work with our local health officials regarding our “risk level” here in Appleton.  As those of you with athletes in summer workouts or summer FVL sports are aware, we have been abiding by the WIAA guidelines for risk activity this entire summer.  If we are still in the “high risk” category come fall, do we continue with these guidelines?  This would make it very difficult for us to compete against other teams in most sports.

I believe at this point, as student-athletes, parents and coaches, we need to proceed with cautious optimism.  The door is open for us to begin fall sports close to when they were meant to be.  However, as we know from the past months, things can change quickly and significantly.  I just want to make you all aware.  Please continue to pray for those making tough decisions during these difficult times.  I’ll continue to pray for all of you, but especially for your children who are struggling so much during this time.  If you have any questions please feel free to get in touch with me.  I’m happy to answer or discuss what I can. 

Have a great weekend!
Shawn M. Hill
Activities Director

Dear FVL Families,

I am pleased to be able to share with you our “Back to School” plan which will allow students to return to the FVL campus this August for full-day face-to-face instruction, five days a week.

This work is a culmination of feedback from families, staff, administrators, and input from local health department officials, health professionals, educational leaders, and Federation stakeholders. 

The plan seeks to safeguard the health and safety of students, staff, and families while offering face-to-face instruction with the flexibility to switch to distance learning when necessary.  Families who prefer will have the option to choose online-only instruction for their student.

View the FVL Back to School Plan for 2020-21

It is important to remember that this plan has been designed to be flexible and may need to be changed as pandemic circumstances develop.  Updates and further details will be highlighted in future email updates from President Jeff Loberger.

Next week we will offer two family forum opportunities: Monday, July 27, or Wednesday, July 29, from 6:30-8:00 PM.  President Loberger and I will review the “Back to School” plan and answer your questions to the best of our ability with the information we currently have. You may register below to join us in person or virtually.  The presentation will also be recorded and posted online for those unable to make either date.

Register for either FVL Family Forum (in-person or online)

We certainly trust God's gracious care for us through our Lord Jesus during these challenging times.  We also recognize that such trust does not take away from the responsibility God gives each of us to be wise stewards of our health for the sake of our entire FVL family as well as for our community.  Please continue to pray for our administration, students, and staff as this plan unfolds.

Watch for further details in the near future regarding fall co-curricular activities, registration for the online-only instruction option, and other specifics of our “Back to School” plan.

In Christ,
Mr. Alan Nolte, Principal
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Appleton, Wisconsin

Email: anolte@fvlhs.org
Office: 920-739-4441 x5108
Mobile: 920-427-9706

July 22, 2020

Dear FVL Families,
 
I am pleased to report we are in the process of finalizing our “Back to School” plan and will make it available to our families this Friday afternoon, July 24.  This is the culmination of weeks of research and planning, as well as coordination with local health department officials.  We thank you for your prayers and patience as we work to develop a plan that safeguards the health and safety of our students and staff.
 
As shared in President Jeff Loberger’s video message the beginning of July, we do plan to provide five-day, face-to-face instruction while also taking reasonable precautions to keep our students and staff safe and healthy.  Families will also be given a distance-only learning option if they prefer.  Our plan will provide flexibility should it be necessary to switch to distance learning.
 

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Please mark your calendars now for one of two family forum opportunities next week:

• Monday, July 27, from 6:30-8:00 PM or
• Wednesday, July 29, from 6:30-8:00 PM.  

Limited seating will be available in our auditorium, but you may also join virtually as President Loberger and I walk through the plan and answer your questions.
 

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It is important to remember that this plan has been designed to be flexible and may need to be changed as pandemic circumstances develop.  Please continue to pray for our administration, students, and staff as this plan unfolds.
 
Watch for further information by email this Friday regarding our “Back to School” plan and how you can register for one of our family forums next week.
 
In Christ,
Mr. Alan Nolte, Principal
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
Appleton, Wisconsin
Email: anolte@fvlhs.org
Office: 920-739-4441 x5108
Mobile: 920-427-9706
 

June 30, 2020 (Mr. Shawn Hill)

Dear Parents,

As we all look forward to the 2020-21 school year, we pray things will return to some of the normal we remember.  We pray for peace, understanding, and patience for all of us as we work to get through this together.   For those of you who don’t know who I am, I serve as the Activities Director at Fox Valley Lutheran. The primary aspect of my job is to oversee our athletic and non-athletic cocurriculars.  This is why I am reaching out today.   

Over the course of the last few weeks, things have continued to change significantly regarding our approach to July athletics.  When the WIAA announced in April that spring sports would be canceled, but would allow us to hold competitions in the month of July, our reaction was joy for the graduating seniors to have one last chance to put on the FVL uniform and we’d have the opportunity to honor them the way they deserve to be honored.  However, many of us were also thinking this pandemic would be over by now, or at least paused during the summer months.  Fast forward to today and we are all realizing this isn’t the case.  In early to middle June, we came to the realization that July wasn’t going to look the way we hoped.  Most schools in the area made the decision not to have a competitive spring season and many said they were going to be done with spring sports all together.  The focus for them and us began to change.  In July, some of our spring teams will still hold practices, but, the focus in July will be on getting our athletes prepared for the seasons to come in the fall.

With that in mind, we went to work on a “Back-to-Play Plan” with guidelines and direction for coaches on how to safely proceed through the month of July, but also allowing them to do things that will help them get ready for the upcoming seasons.  The fact that we are still squarely in the middle of a global pandemic causes us to put a number of restrictions in place.  Going back to “normal” is going to take some time.  Last Friday, administration met with the Appleton Health Department to get their recommendations on how we should proceed.  In consultation with the Appleton Health Department, the Wisconsin Independent Athletic Association (WIAA), the National Federation of High Schools (NFHS), the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the Department of Public Instruction (DPI), local high schools, and a number of coaches from FVL, we put together our plan.

As of right now, the city of Appleton sits in the “High Risk” category for Covid-19 spread.  Understanding this, we have based our guidelines on the recommendations on how to proceed.  In the “High Risk” category, the guidelines are pretty strict.  There is to be no physical contact and social distancing is required and no sharing of any equipment.  These new guidelines will be very difficult for our coaches and kids to adhere to, but they will be expected.  I have no doubt everyone will do their best to keep each other safe and healthy.  We want to make sure that we don’t do anything in July that is going to jeopardize our ability to play in August.  We want to be in the classrooms, on the court, and on the field face-to-face, and ready to learn and play in August.  These are the new goals.  What we do in July will have a profound impact for August!

One of the questions I’ve been asked over the last few days is how restrictive our plan is compared to other schools in the area or other schools in the conference.  I can assure you that most schools in our conference are following these same guidelines.  All of the Appleton city schools are doing the same.  Our primary objective is to keep our kids and their families safe from this disease, but also good to know our athletes won’t be behind all the other schools in the area who are going through similar restrictions.  

The plan we have is in the tab below this one.  Please take a look, read it over and become familiar.  Please take note that when your child steps on our campus for a practice, they are required to have four things with them: a towel, a full water bottle, a mask, and some hand sanitizer.  Please make sure they have these things or we will be forced to turn them away.  If you have any questions on the document, please feel free to reach out to me at shill@fvlhs.org.  I’m happy to answer any questions or concerns you have about how we are moving forward.  I continue to pray for you and your children as we all navigate the next steps through athletics and academics.  Have a great day!
 

Shawn Hill
Activities Director
Fox Valley Lutheran High School
 

PS: In addition to our plan, you can see a PDF with some more “sport specific” guidelines from the WIAA 

Fox Valley Lutheran High School Back to Play Plan - High Risk
Beginning July 1, 2020

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Introduction:

As educators and coaches at Fox Valley Lutheran High School, our first priority is, and always will be, to prepare our students/athletes for lives of service now and for eternity. Our second highest priority is to create a learning environment that is safe for them. This global pandemic that we are all working through has made that difficult. However, over the last few months many of our athletes have struggled mentally with either losing a full spring season or the concerns over the prospects of losing the fall season. While we would never compromise the physical safety of our athletes, we do feel it is important for their mental state to get back together with their teammates and coaches to support each other and strengthen each other through physical activity and team work. With that in mind, FVL will once again open its campus to spring sport athletes, as well as to the fall and winter athletes for their contact days beginning July 1.

While we are very thankful to the WIAA for allowing our seniors and other spring athletes to get together in July for some modified season, our main goal at this point is to create a safe environment for our returning fall athletes to come back and play on time beginning in early August. With that in mind, we are not going to open up the campus completely. Moving too fast at this point could potentially have consequences going into the fall seasons. We are going to take small steps in July to make sure everything is safe for August. This document serves as a notice of specific guidelines that coaches and athletes will need to adhere to throughout the month of July. FVL and its administration reserve the right to change these guidelines at any time, whether it be to loosen the restrictions or to tighten them. We pray for the safety of all of our athletes and coaches.

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General Guidelines for Coaches:

1. The primary focus of July is drill and skill work, physical training, strength and conditioning. There will be no competitions or scrimmages on our campus throughout the month of July.
2. Each athlete must sign the waiver form before participating.
3. Daily temperature checks and questionnaires must be completed prior to any athlete participating.
4. If the answer to any of the questions on the questionnaire is “yes”, the student must immediately be sent home.
5. Ensure that individual(s) do not return to practice until: - They are free of fever (100.4F)and respiratory symptoms (for example, cough, shortness of breath) for at least three days (72 hours) without the use of fever-reducing medicine; and - Ten days have passed since symptoms first appeared.
6. Any person with symptoms of respiratory illness reported over the previous 24 hours should not be allowed to take part in workouts until they are free of fever and respiratory symptoms for at least three days without the use of fever-reducing medicine and ten days have passed since symptoms first appeared. They should contact their primary care provider or other appropriate health-care professional for guidance. Written medical clearance is required to return to activity.
7. Names of all athletes and the date they attended must be recorded.
8. If a student is sent home, the coach is required to call the parent/guardian that same day to alert them to the situation.
9. Any student sent home, for any health reason, can not return until we have confirmation from the parent/guardian that a healthcare provider was contacted.
10. You must instruct students that if they do not feel well they should stop participating at any time.
11. No more than 30 athletes in the main gym (with bleachers pushed in and curtain lowered) and 15 athletes in the small gym at any time.
12. No more than 15 athletes in the fitness center at any time. No more than 10 in the wrestling room.
13. Social distancing is expected at all times.
14. No sharing of equipment among the athletes.
15. Develop a plan to disinfect all equipment during and after use.
16. Breaks must be taken no more than 30 minutes apart to allow for hydration and sanitizing/washing hands.
17. Coaches will not use whistles.
18. Coaches must wear masks when within six feet of any athlete.
19. Locker rooms will not be available through the month of July.
20. You must reserve practice times through the FVL Activities Office.
21. Whenever possible, no more than one team will be allowed on campus at any given time.
22. All workouts and practices are voluntary only. You can not require an athlete’s presence, nor can you use it against the athlete when the fall season starts.

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General Guidelines for Athletes:

1. Contact days are voluntary. Students should discuss their participation with their families regarding their own specific family health, needs and concerns.
2. Athletes should refrain from participation if they exhibit any symptoms associated with Covid-19.
3. Each day athletes should take their temperature at home (we will check it again when you arrive). If it is above 100.4, stay home.
4. Each athlete must bring the following items with them every day: - Full water bottle - Towel - Face Mask - Athletes will not be expected to wear them at all times, but should have them available for close proximity instruction or when social distancing is difficult. (We strongly encourage a “neck gaiter” style mask) - Personal hand sanitizer
5. If possible, students should arrive to practice in a vehicle of only immediate family members.
6. No locker rooms will be available. Athletes should arrive ready to practice.
7. Social distancing should be adhered to at all times. - students may not gather even in small groups without social distancing.
8. No spectators or parents in any of the practice areas.
9. Regular hand washing/sanitizing will be mandatory.
10. All personal clothing and equipment must be taken home each day for sanitizing.
11. Families who may need specific accommodations should contact their coach to begin discussing their individual needs.

 

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Sport Specific Guidelines:

While the risk of infection transmission from athletic participation is difficult to determine, we have categorized sports based on low, moderate and high in alignment with the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC) and the National Federation of High School Associations (NFHS) stratification. Moderate and high risk sports may modify training to reduce risk.

• Higher Risk :
  Sports that have a high probability of respiratory droplet transmission and sports that involve close contact making it challenging to maintain appropriate social distancing.
  Examples: Wrestling, football, lacrosse, competitive cheer, dance
   
• Moderate Risk :
  Sports that have protective equipment in place to decrease respiratory droplet transmission or intermittent close contact or sports that use equipment between athletes that can’t be cleaned. If equipment cannot be cleaned, it should not be used or shared.
  Examples: Basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball, soccer, water polo, gymnastics, hockey, tennis, swimming relays.
   
• Lower Risk :
  Sports that follow social distancing guidelines without the need to share or clean equipment.
  Examples: Individual running events, throwing events (shot put, discus), individual swimming, golf, skiing, cross country, sideline cheer.

 

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Summer Workouts:

• Participants must wear appropriate clothing and shoes - shirts should have at least a short sleeve, no tanks or cut-offs.
• Restrooms will be available to participants - unisex restrooms in metal shop hallway and male and female restrooms near football/track complex.
• Each individual will be responsible for sanitizing equipment after use. A more thorough cleaning will take place between the rotation of groups.
• Each participant will be assigned a group that numbers no more than 15. They will stay with that group throughout the workout.
• Each group will have two coaches.
• The workouts will use the large gym, track and football practice field.
• Each group will stay together and rotate through the strength, speed and agility stations at approximately 30 minute intervals.
• At the end of each rotation, each athlete must either use hand sanitizer or spend twenty seconds washing their hands with soap and water.

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Football (High Risk):

• Equipment will be taken home by the players each night for sanitizing.
• At this time, all drills will be non-contact and in small groups of no more than ten.
• Workouts should be done in position specific groups with the same athletes working out together.
• There will be no sharing of equipment, this includes footballs.
• All athletes are strongly encouraged to wear gloves to all practices.
• The focus is on individual skill development such as stance, footwork, first steps, ball handling with own ball, football conditioning, non-contact with other players, no football exchanges or use of shared equipment, and follow social distancing with continuous sanitation.

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Dance (High Risk):

• No performance techniques that require contact between teammates at this time.

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Basketball (Moderate Risk):

• No more than two participants at each hoop.
• No contact drills or scrimmaging at the present time.
• No sharing of equipment including basketballs.
• Each player should use one ball throughout the workout.

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Volleyball (Moderate Risk):

• No sharing of equipment including volleyballs.
• No player should touch a ball that has been touched by any other player (no passing, bumping etc.).

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Baseball/Softball (Moderate Risk):

• No congregating in dugouts.
• Athletes should wear batting gloves.
• No sharing of any bats or helmets.
• No sunflower seeds or spitting.
• Workouts should be conducted in small groups of no more than ten with each individual staying with the same group throughout.
• Individual drills without sharing balls or equipment.
• All equipment should be taken home each night by the athletes and sanitized.

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Soccer (Moderate Risk):

• Workouts should be done in small groups of no more than ten with each individual staying with the same group throughout.
• No contact drills or scrimmages at this time.
• Each player should use their own ball throughout the workout.
• Personal equipment should not be shared and each athlete should take all clothes and equipment home each night to be sanitized.
• No player should have hand contact with the ball unless it is the goalkeeper wearing gloves.

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Tennis (Moderate Risk):

- Individual drills and serves allowable.

- No sharing of rackets.

- Balls should be rotated and sanitized frequently.

- Hand sanitizing/washing should occur every 15 minutes.

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Cross Country and Track (Low Risk):

• No group larger than 10 should be running together at one time.
• For running events every other lane should be used.
• No relay handoff practices.

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Golf (Low Risk):

• No sharing of clubs or equipment.

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Sideline Cheer (Low Risk):

• No performance techniques that require contact between teammates at this time.