Updated Mar. 26, 2024

Salem Public Schools has developed this COVID-19 health and safety information in consultation with guidance provided by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control (please note new link for CDC).  These protocols may be revised as needed in collaboration with the Salem Board of Health and SPS health advisors and were updated on March 26, 2024.

Prevention Strategies:

  • Staff or students who are sick with a fever above 100℉ or symptoms of a respiratory illness such as COVID-19, the flu, or RSV should stay home and avoid social gatherings until they are well. Please consult your primary care provider if you believe that you or your child needs medical care 
  • Staff and students are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated with the latest version of the COVID-19 vaccine and the annual influenza vaccine.
  • COVID-19 and flu vaccines are readily available at all local pharmacies and at primary care offices.
  • Staff and students are reminded that handwashing or hand sanitizing remains the most effective way to prevent the spread of illness at home or at school.
  • Classroom and office spaces have been provided with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters.  
  • School nurses have a supply of surgical masks for staff and students who wish to wear masks in schools.

Exposure Guidance:

  • Quarantine for exposure to Covid-19 is no longer required nor recommended for children or staff in school settings, regardless of vaccination status or where the exposure occurred. 
  • Staff or students who have been exposed to a person with a known COVID infection and develop symptoms of illness, should consider testing with an over-the-counter test kit and should remain home while they are feeling sick.
  • COVID test kits are available upon request in all schools and can be purchased at all local pharmacies. Test kits are free of charge for patients with MassHealth insurance.

When a Student or Staff Member Tests Positive: 

  • Isolation at home for five days is no longer required.
  • Stay home while you are sick or have a fever. Return to work or school only when feeling better and have gone at least 24 hours without needed fever-reducing medication.
  • To minimize the spread of illness, avoid crowded places, limit contact with people who are at high risk for becoming seriously ill, and frequently was hands and high-touch surfaces in the home.
  • Should individuals develop moderate or severe symptoms, they should consult with their medical provider for advice.