Child Development Lab

COVID-19 POLICIES

NOTE:  *Due to the evolving nature of the COVID-19 , the CDL’s COVID-19 policies will be periodically updated based on new information from UW-Madison, Public Health of Madison and Dane Country (PHMDC), the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF), and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). When there is a discrepancy between the guidance of these entities, the CDL will adopt the recommendations of local authorities (i.e., PHMDC and DCF) over the CDC.  Campus constituents and parents will be informed of any major CDL COVID policy updates in writing.  The CDL is primarily referring to PHMDC’s Interim Operational Guidance for K-12 Schools & Childcare Programs:  Spring 2022

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (updated 2.26.23)

***For more detailed information on all topics related to COVID-19 and CDL’s Covid Policies, please scroll down.

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What are the symptoms of COVID-19? (updated 2.26.23)

Are children and adults required to wear masks at the CDL? (updated 2.26.23)

CDL’s Updated Mask Policy (effective 10.15.22)

  • Effective October 15th, masks will not be required for anyone two years and older. Children younger than two should never wear a face covering due to risk of suffocation.  
  • CDL reserves the right to reinstate the mask mandate if:
    1. PHMDC indicates that Dane County’s COVID-19 Community Level falls into the “high” category and/or
    2. the UW, PHMDC, CDC, DCF and/or local, state, or federal governments are requiring or recommending masking.
  • In accordance with recommendations for child care programs from PHMDC:
    1. We require that anyone (2 years of age and older) who is a close contact to someone with COVID-19 wear a mask for 10 days after their exposure.
    2. Anyone (2 years of age and older) returning from isolation wear a mask from day 6 through day 10 (unmasking on day 11).
    3. Child care programs should take additional precautions when a child under 2 (who cannot mask) returns to the program before day 11 after quarantine by practicing “universal masking” in that child’s classroom.  Universal masking is when everyone in the child’s classroom (2 years and older) wear masks regularly during day-to-day operations in the classroom or during indoor activities.
  • If your child develops symptoms of COVID while at school and we call you to pick your child up, your child will need to wear a mask while they wait for you. We will do our best to isolate them in a supervised, safe space away from other children.  The staff member who is with your child while they are waiting should be wearing a mask during this time too.

What do I do if my child tests positive for COVID-19? (updated 2.26.23)

  • Your child should immediately start isolation (see isolation section for more details).
  • The CDL follows PHMDC guidelines regarding COVID -19  exposures and close contacts.  Therefore, any individual affiliated with the CDL must immediately report a positive COVID test result or a known close contact to the CDL by:
    1. Texting or calling the CDL Scheduler’s cell phone at (608) 516-0402 to report the positive case and then
    2. Completing this online survey to report their child’s positive case of COVID:
      https://uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cBxwQNTpVtJD85o
  • Failure to immediately report your child’s positive COVID-19 case puts the CDL community at risk and can lead to further consequences including termination of  child care.
  • Note: The following information that is collected in the online survey is required for the CDL to report the case to PHMDC to determine next steps for your child’s isolation and for possible quarantine of others who are close contacts:
    1. If symptomatic:
        • When did the symptoms begin?
        • What symptoms is the person experiencing?
        • Was the person tested for COVID-19?  When and what kind of test was used?  What was the result?
      2. If asymptomatic:
        • When was the positive test taken?
        • What kind of test was used?  When was the person tested?
      3. Has anyone else in your household tested positive for COVID?  If so:
        • When were they tested?  
        • Did they have symptoms? If so, what were their symptoms?  What is the date of onset of symptoms for them? 
        • Is the person with the positive case of COVID in your household isolating (i.e., are they staying in a closed room in the house away from all other people in the home)?

How long will my child have to remain is isolation after testing positive for COVID-19? (updated 2.26.23)

  • Please see PHMDC’s webpage “What to do if you are sick or possibly exposed” 
  • The CDL will follow PHMDC’s Spring 2023 child care recommendations for details on isolation requirements:
    • Children and staff with symptoms of COVID-19 should stay home and be tested for COVID-19.
    • Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19, regardless of whether they have symptoms (including people who are waiting on test results), must:
      • Isolate at home for at least 5 days (symptom onset being day 0 OR specimen collection date being day 0 for those that do not have symptoms).
      • They may return to school or childcare on day 6 or later if they have been fever free without the use of fever-reducing medications for 24 hours AND have had improvement of other symptoms.
      • Wear a high quality, well-fitting mask through day 10* when around others.
      • If unable to safely wear a mask when around others (e.g., children under 2 or people with certain disabilities), the individual should continue to isolate at home for 10 days*.
      • Avoid high-risk activities where they cannot wear a mask (e.g., band, swimming) until after day 10.
      • If a person develops symptoms after testing positive, the 5-day isolation period should start over (symptom onset being day 0).
      • If the child or staff member has access to antigen tests, they may be able to remove their mask sooner than day 11 (or return to the facility sooner than day 11 if unable to safely and consistently wear a mask). See our Using Testing to End Masking After Isolation webpage and the CDC’s Isolation and Precautions for People with COVID-19 page for more information.
  • Note: Individuals 2 and over who can wear their masks most of the time they are at the CDL may return to school as early as day 6 if they meet the criteria to return. 
  • Note:  Children under 2 years of age (who cannot wear masks) will need to isolate for the full 10 days, and may not test to return early.

How long will my child have to quarantine after becoming a close contact for someone with COVID-19? (updated 2.26.23)

Who is considered a close contact? (updated 2.26.23)

Please see PHMDC’s webpage “What to do if you are sick or possibly exposed“
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services  says “close contact” is if any of the following situations happened while you spent time with a person with COVID-19 during their isolation period and/or during the two days prior*, even if they didn’t have symptoms:
  • You were within 6 feet of a person who had COVID-19 for a total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period.
  • You had direct exposure to respiratory secretions (for example, being coughed or sneezed on, sharing a drinking glass, utensils, towels or other personal items).
  • You had direct physical contact with the person (for example, a hug, kiss, or handshake).
  • You cared or care for a person who has COVID-19.
  • You lived or live with a person who has COVID-19.
  • You stayed overnight with a person who has COVID-19 (for at least one night in the same household).

*A person with COVID-19 is infectious two days before they have symptoms (or two days before their positive test was collected if they did not have symptoms) through the end of their isolation period.

OVERVIEW OF CDL’S COVID-19 POLICY (updated 2.26.23)

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How does the COVID-19 Policy work with the CDL's Existing Illness Policy? (updated 9.22.22)

COVID Policies supersede CDL’s Existing Illness Policy

What guidance is the CDL following when writing COVID-19 Policies? (updated 2.26.23)

  • To ensure the safety of children, families, and staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, the CDL will monitor the situation and take into account the guidance and recommendations from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Public Health Madison and Dane County (PHMDC), and the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF).  Programs will also monitor information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and federal, state, and county governments.
  • When there is a discrepancy in the guidance from these entities, the CDL will most likely adopt the guidance from local entities (PHMDC and DCF) over that of the CDC.
  • If there is a lag between COVID updates from the CDC and local updates from PHMDC, the CDL will consult with University Health Services to determine which guidelines the CDL will follow in the interim.
  • Staff should follow the child care guidelines of PHMDC first and UW-Madison second, to ensure that we are following the guidelines aligned with WI Child Care Licensing.
  • The CDL is primarily referring to PHMDC’s Interim Operational Guidance for K-12 Schools & Childcare Programs:  Spring 2022

Why does the CDL need to follow local COVID guidance over that of the CDC? (updated 2.26.23)

  • The CDL is licensed by the state of Wisconsin’s Department of Children and Families (DCF).  Our licensor at DCF has told us that child care programs in Dane County should be following the recommendations of Public Health of Madison and Dane County (PHMDC).
  • We do reference the CDC’s recommendations frequently, but whenever there is a discrepancy between the recommendations of the CDC and PHMDC, we have been advised to follow the guidance of PHMDC.
  • Staff should follow the child care guidelines of PHMDC first and UW-Madison second, to ensure that we are following the guidelines aligned with WI Child Care Licensing.
  • At this time, the CDL is using PHMDC’s Interim Operational Guidance for K-12 Schools & Childcare Programs:  Spring 2023 as the primary guide for our COVID-related decisions and operations

Where can I find the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 and child care? (updated 2.26.23)

Links to sources to stay informed of the evolving COVID recommendations

    1. UW-Madison COVID-19 Response
    2. Public Health of Madison & Dane County’s COVID page (including Dane County’s COVID-19 Community Level)
    3. Wisconsin Department of Health Services’ COVID page 
    4. Wisconsin Department of Children and Families COVID-19 Child Care Resources
    5. Center for Disease Control & Prevention’s COVID page

MASK POLICY (updated 2.26.23)

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Are children and adults required to wear masks at the CDL? (updated 2.26.23)

CDL’s Updated Mask Policy (effective 10.15.22)

  • Effective October 15th, masks will not be required for anyone two years and older. Children younger than two should never wear a face covering due to risk of suffocation.  
  • CDL reserves the right to reinstate the mask mandate if:
    1. PHMDC indicates that Dane County’s COVID-19 Community Level falls into the “high” category and/or
    2. the UW, PHMDC, CDC, DCF and/or local, state, or federal governments are requiring or recommending masking.
  • In accordance with recommendations for child care programs from PHMDC:
    1. We require that anyone (2 years of age and older) who is a close contact to someone with COVID-19 wear a mask for 10 days after their exposure.
    2. Anyone (2 years of age and older) returning from isolation wear a mask from day 6 through day 10 (unmasking on day 11).
    3. Child care programs should take additional precautions when a child under 2 (who cannot mask) returns to the program before day 11 after quarantine by practicing “universal masking” in that child’s classroom.  Universal masking is when everyone in the child’s classroom (2 years and older) wear masks regularly during day-to-day operations in the classroom or during indoor activities.
  • If your child develops symptoms of COVID while at school and we call you to pick your child up, your child will need to wear a mask while they wait for you. We will do our best to isolate them in a supervised, safe space away from other children.  The staff member who is with your child while they are waiting should be wearing a mask during this time too.

Can an individual over 2 years of age who is a close contact test to end masking early after isolation? (updated 8.26.22)

Yes.  Please see PHMDC’s Using Testing to End Masking After Isolation for more information.  (FYI, the earliest an individual returning from isolation would be eligible to unmask is day 8, assuming test one was done on the morning of day 6 and test 2 was done on the morning of day 8 AND test 2 results were available before coming to school on day 8).

Will the CDL be following the new guidance of PHMDC that all individuals in the infant room practice "universal masking" if a child under 2 in that room is a close contact and is at school before day 11? (updated 2.26.23)

Yes.  The new child care guidance from PHMDC has a section titled, “Special Considerations for Those who Cannot Safely Wear a Mask” that states the following:  “CDC does not recommend that children younger than 2 years old wear a mask, and it may be difficult for very young children or for some children with disabilities to wear a mask safely.  Since CDC no longer recommends quarantine for people exposed to someone with COVID-19, we recommend your facility take additional precautions.  This includes but isn’t limited to:  increased ventilation, universal masking among their group or classroom, and screening testing among their group or classroom.  Parents and guardians who chose to quarantine their child at home after an exposure should be supported in their decision to do so.”  (p. 4)

“child care program may choose to implement universal masking regularly during day-to-day operations in the classroom or during indoor activities to protect those at risk for severe illness and ensure equitable access to in-person learning environments for all children.” (p. 4)

The CDL is choosing to engage in universal masking in our infant rooms, meaning everyone over 2 years of age in those classrooms will need to mask until day 11 if a child under 2 who is a close contact returns to school before day 11 after their exposure.

 

Will the CDL provide masks for our children and for the staff? (updated 2.26.23)

  • Please bring masks for your child(ren).  The CDL will have extra child-sized masks, but it is nice if your child is able to wear a mask he/she is already used to wearing.  Please leave extra masks in your child’s cubby so we can change your child’s mask if it should get wet or soiled.
  • We ask that families have their children (over 2 years of age) practice wearing face masks before attending  the CDL or upon a child turning 2 years of age.
  • Please continue to leave masks in your child’s cubby, even after the CDL mask mandate is lifted, as your child will need to wear a mask if they start showing symptoms of COVID while in the CDL and you are called to pick them up.  There are other situations that may require your child to wear a mask.  See PHMDC’s child care guide for more details.
  • The CDL will provide KN95 face masks for teachers and families (if they forget theirs from home).
  • For more information on masks, please visit the CDC’s Guide to Masks.

Are children required to wear masks during nap time?

No.  Physical distancing efforts will be made during nap time.  Whenever possible, cots and cribs will be placed 6 feet apart or partitions will be placed between them.  Whenever possible, children will be positioned head-to-toe to increase space during naptime.

How do I get my child to wear a mask?

It’s always helpful to explain to kids why you’re asking them to do something. In this case, you can explain that wearing a face covering will help keep them from getting other people sick. It can be helpful to relate the explanation to people who are close to them, like grandparents or parents. Even though their grandparent might live in another state, you can explain that the people they pass in the grocery store or doctor’s office might be another person’s grandparent, and we want to keep those grandparents safe. We like these additional tips from KidsHealth and Children’s Minnesota.

CHILDREN:  COVID-19 VACCINATIONS FOR CHILDREN OVER 6 MONTHS OF AGE (updated 8.15.22)

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Is my child required to be vaccinated for COVID-19 to attend the CDL? (updated 2.26.23)

  • No.  At this time, the WI Department of Children and Families is not requiring children to be vaccinated and/or boosted for COVID-19 to attend licensed child care programs.  The CDL will let families know if this policy changes.
  • It is the family’s responsibility to ensure that their child meets the CDC’s definition of up-to-date on their COVID vaccines. [Please note that the requirements of meeting up-to-date status differs by vaccine brand (and number of shots in the series), age of person being vaccinated, and immunocompromised status.]  Families who are choosing to vaccinate their children should periodically check the CDC’s website to ensure that their children are meeting the most current requirements of “up-to-date.”  

 

How do I let the CDL know that my child has been vaccinated/boosted for COVID-19? (updated 8.15.22)

  • As stated in our Family Handbook, parents must make sure the CDL has an up-to-date record of all of their child(ren)’s immunizations.  This now includes COVID-19 vaccines and boosters, if applicable.  Please give the CDL Administrative Team a hard copy of one of the following:
    1. Your child’s WI immunization record showing the COVID-19 vaccinations (and boosters, if applicable); AND
    2. A copy of the child’s COVID-19 vaccination card received at time of vaccination; OR
    3. A print out of your child’s post visit summary that includes information about updated vaccines at that appointment. 
  • In order for the CDL Administrative Team to respond to COVID exposures in the program in real-time, we are asking all parents to complete this online CDL COVID Vaccine Report questionnaire after EACH COVID vaccine their child receives.  If your child has already had more than one vaccine/booster, please enter the LAST vaccine/booster they received.  Having this information in real-time will help us be able to advise each individual family on quarantine and masking recommendations.  Please make it a habit to complete this as soon as possible after each COVID vaccination/booster your child receives.  

What's the difference between "fully vaccinated" for COVID-19 and "up-to-date" on COVID-19 vaccines? (updated 8.15.22)

  • A person is “fully vaccinated” for COVID-19 two weeks after the last shot in their initial COVID-19 series, as long as the person is not yet eligible for a booster.
  • A person is “up-to-date” with their COVID-19 vaccines when they have received all doses in the primary series and all boosters recommended for them, when eligible.  The person is up-to-date immediately after receiving the last booster for which they are eligible.
  • Please see the CDC’s webpage on COVID-19 schedules for children.  It is up to the family to make sure their child is fully vaccinated or up-to-date and to report COVID vaccines to the CDL, or children may need to stay home to quarantine if they become a close contact and do not meet other criteria to attend school.

 

CHILDREN:  COVID-19 TESTING (updated 8.26.22)

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What type of COVID-19 test should my child get? (updated 2.26.23)

Here is the CDC’s page “COVID-19 Testing:  What you Need to Know” to help you determine what type of test to use in each situation.

The CDL will be following PHMDC’s child care-specific recommendations.

 

Does the CDL do COVID surveillance or screening testing? (2.26.23)

No, UW Madison will not allow the CDL to engage in surveillance or screening testing.  However, we do recommend that families test their children for COVID before coming to the CDL after travel or a long break.

Is my child required to get a COVID-19 test to return to the CDL after being a close contact? (updated 2.26.23)

  • Technically, no.  Since PHMDC no longer requires anyone to quarantine, children and staff who are a close contact can return to the CDL immediately as long as they are asymptomatic.  (All close contacts 2 years of age and older are required to mask through the 10th day after exposure; date of last contact being day 0).
  • However, the most recent child care recommendations from PHMDC say that children and staff who have a suspect or confirmed exposure to someone with COVID-19 within or outside of the facility should get tested on day 5 after exposure or later OR as soon as symptoms develop.
  • PHMDC also recommends that all positive at-home tests be followed up with a test at a clinic or community testing site.
  • Please see the CDC’s page “COVID-19 Testing:  What You Need to Know” for more information on what type of test your child will need for each specific situation.

Is my child required to get a COVID-19 test to return to the CDL after isolating with a positive case of COVID? (updated 2.26.23)

  • No.  People with a positive test do not need a negative test to return. Please see PHMDC’s child care specific recommendations for more details.
  • People 2 years of age and older who can wear a mask most of the time while they are at the CDL can return after a positive test when:
    • they have been fever-free for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medication) AND
    • their other symptoms have improved, and it has been at least 5 days since their symptoms started (day 0) OR
    • it has been at least 5 days since they tested positive, if they are asymptomatic (day 0) AND
    • These individuals should also wear a mask from days 6-10 .
  • People under 2 years of age (who cannot wear a mask) who have tested positive for COVID may return to the CDL after 10 days (return on day 11), if:
    • they have been fever-free for 24 hours (without the use of fever-reducing medication) AND
    • their other symptoms have improved, and it has been at least 5 days since their symptoms started (day 0) OR
    • it has been at least 5 days since they tested positive, if they are asymptomatic (day 0).
  • Please see PHMDC’s child care Testing guidelines for children and staff for more detailed information about specific testing requirements or recommendations for each unique circumstance.

Can my child under 2 years of age test to return early from isolation? (updated 8.26.22)

No.  PHMDC strongly advises against this method for the following reasons:

  • Many home tests are not approved for use in children under 2 years (because it is difficult to get an accurate sample)
  • The person trying to test out of isolation may end up having to isolate even longer  beyond day 10 (up to day 14) until they receive two negative tests in a row.

Can my child attend the CDL while we are waiting for test results? (updated 2.26.23)

  • Not if your child child has symptoms of COVID-19.  Any individual that is awaiting test results because they have symptoms should not enter the CDL facility and should follow the isolation recommendations for a person with a positive case or COVID-19 until they get their results.
  • Your child may attend the CDL if you they are asymptomatic and are awaiting test results and meet the other criteria to be at school.
  • Please see PHMDC’s updated COVID-19 Health Screening Checklist to help you make decisions about COVID-related symptoms and attendance at the CDL.

Is a positive home antigen test considered a positive case of COVID-19 by the CDL? (updated 8.26.22)

  • Yes.  The CDL will consider a positive home test (antigen) to be a positive case of COVID, until that person is able to get a PCR test within 48 hours of the home test. The CDL will require that individual to stay home and isolate while we await the PCR test results. While awaiting PCR test results, the CDL will follow isolation and quarantine guidelines of PHMDC if the individual was present in the CDL 48 hours prior to their positive at-home test.  If the in-clinic PCR test is negative, PHMDC has advised the CDL that we no longer need to consider that individual a positive case.  The CDL requests that individuals in this situation consider getting a second in-clinic PCR test to confirm the negative result.  
  • PHMDC also recommends that all positive at-home tests be followed up with a test at a clinic or community testing site.
  • Please see the CDC’s page “COVID-19 Testing:  What You Need to Know” for more information on what type of test your child will need for each specific situation.

What do I do if my child tests positive for COVID-19? (updated 2.26.23)

  • Your child should immediately start isolation (see isolation section for more details).
  • The CDL follows PHMDC guidelines regarding COVID -19  exposures and close contacts.  Therefore, any individual affiliated with the CDL must immediately report a positive COVID test result or a known close contact to the CDL by:
    1. Texting or calling the CDL Scheduler’s cell phone at (608) 516-0402 to report the positive case and then
    2. Completing this online survey to report their child’s positive case of COVID:
      https://uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cBxwQNTpVtJD85o
  • Failure to immediately report your child’s positive COVID-19 case puts the CDL community at risk and can lead to further consequences including termination of  child care.
  • Note: The following information that is collected in the online survey is required for the CDL to report the case to PHMDC to determine next steps for your child’s isolation and for possible quarantine of others who are close contacts:
    1. If symptomatic:
        • When did the symptoms begin?
        • What symptoms is the person experiencing?
        • Was the person tested for COVID-19?  When and what kind of test was used?  What was the result?
      2. If asymptomatic:
        • When was the positive test taken?
        • What kind of test was used?  When was the person tested?
      3. Has anyone else in your household tested positive for COVID?  If so:
        • When were they tested?  
        • Did they have symptoms? If so, what were their symptoms?  What is the date of onset of symptoms for them? 
        • Is the person with the positive case of COVID in your household isolating (i.e., are they staying in a closed room in the house away from all other people in the home)?

Do I need to report my child's positive COVID-19 test result to the CDL if they test positive while the CDL is closed? (updated 8.15.22)

  • Yes, always report your child’s positive COVID-19 test result to the CDL Admin team (please see isolation section for details).
    • Reporting positive test results is important, especially if your child was in attendance 48 hours before their positive test result.
    • Even if no other CDL children or staff were exposed to your child during the 48 hour period before their positive test result (or 1st symptom), it is helpful for the CDL Admin Team to know the date your child tested positive (or first showed symptoms), as this may change the quarantine guidance for your child in the future, should they become a close contact within 90 days of their positive test.
    • So, please do report all positive cases, even if they occur during extended CDL closures (i.e., winter break or spring break).

What kind of COVID-19 test should my child get? (updated 2.26.23)

  • Please see the CDC’s page “COVID-19 Testing:  What You Need to Know” for more information on what type of test your child will need for each specific situation.
  • The CDL will be following PHMDC’s child care-specific recommendations.
  • PHMDC considers a positive case of COVID-19 to be a person who tested positive with a lab- or provider-based viral test, not an antibody or home test.
  • However, if your child gets a positive result from a COVID antibody or home test, start isolation and do not bring your child to the CDL.
  • Treat your child’s positive antibody or home test as a positive test result as you are awaiting a lab- or provider-based viral test and its results.
  • If your child has tested positive for COVID-19 in the last 90 days, PHMDC does not recommend testing these children due to their recent infection.  If your child develops symptoms, PHMDC recommends isolating your child and calling their pediatrician.

CHILDREN:  REPORTING & ISOLATION GUIDELINES FOR CHILDREN WITH POSITIVE CASES OF COVID-19 (updated 2.26.23)

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What should I do if I suspect my child has COVID-19? (updated 2.26.23)

  • If your child is showing symptoms of COVID-19, you should contact your child’s health care provider and have your child tested. 
  • Please see PHMDC’s updated COVID-19 Health Screening Checklist to help you make decisions about COVID-related symptoms and attendance at the CDL.
  • Please see the CDC’s page “COVID-19 Testing:  What You Need to Know” for more information on what type of test your child will need for each specific situation.
  • Until you get the test results, you should act as if your child has a positive case of COVID, and you should have your child isolate and NOT enter the CDL.

What's the best way to notify the CDL to tell them that my child tested positive for COVID-19? (updated 8.15.22)

  • If your child has tested positive for COVID-19, you need to immediately inform the CDL Administrative Team.  
    1. Families need to text or call the CDL Scheduler’s cell phone at (608) 516-0402 immediately after finding out that their child has tested positive for COVID-19.  
    2. After texting or calling the admin team at the number listed above, complete the following online survey to relay details about your child’s positive case and their specific situation: https://uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cBxwQNTpVtJD85o
  • Note: The following information that is collected in the online survey is required for the CDL to report the case to PHMDC to determine next steps for your child’s isolation and for possible quarantine of others who are close contacts):
    1. If symptomatic:
      • When did the symptoms begin?
      • What symptoms is the person experiencing?
      • Was the person tested for COVID-19?  When and what kind of test was used?  What was the result?
    2. If asymptomatic:
      • When was the positive test taken?
      • What kind of test was used?  When was the person tested?
    3. Has anyone else in your household tested positive for COVID?  If so:
      • When were they tested?  
      • Did they have symptoms? If so, what were their symptoms?  What is the date of onset of symptoms for them? 
      • Is the person with the positive case of COVID in your household isolating (i.e., are they staying in a closed room in the house away from all other people in the home)?

After I report my child's positive COVID case to the CDL Admin Team, do I also need to notify PHMDC? (updated 8.26.22)

Not if you also live in Dane County.  The CDL Admin Team will notify PHMDC and anyone at the CDL who is considered a close contact to the person with a positive case.  It is up to you if you want to notify any possible close contacts outside of the CDL.

If you live outside of Dane County, you should call your local health department and report the case.

Will the CDL keep my child/family's information confidential if we report a positive case of COVID-19 to them? (updated 8.15.22)

Yes.  CDL families and staff will be notified of positive COVID-19 cases while their child was in attendance, but the CDL will maintain the confidentiality of the child, family, student, or staff involved as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). The CDL Admin Team will also maintain confidentiality when reporting these cases to UW-Madison campus leadership.

How long will my child have to remain is isolation after testing positive for COVID-19? (updated 2.26.23)

  • Please see PHMDC’s webpage “What to do if you are sick or possibly exposed” 
  • The CDL will follow PHMDC’s Spring 2023 child care recommendations for details on isolation requirements:
    • Children and staff with symptoms of COVID-19 should stay home and be tested for COVID-19.
    • Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19, regardless of whether they have symptoms (including people who are waiting on test results), must:
      • Isolate at home for at least 5 days (symptom onset being day 0 OR specimen collection date being day 0 for those that do not have symptoms).
      • They may return to school or childcare on day 6 or later if they have been fever free without the use of fever-reducing medications for 24 hours AND have had improvement of other symptoms.
      • Wear a high quality, well-fitting mask through day 10* when around others.
      • If unable to safely wear a mask when around others (e.g., children under 2 or people with certain disabilities), the individual should continue to isolate at home for 10 days*.
      • Avoid high-risk activities where they cannot wear a mask (e.g., band, swimming) until after day 10.
      • If a person develops symptoms after testing positive, the 5-day isolation period should start over (symptom onset being day 0).
      • If the child or staff member has access to antigen tests, they may be able to remove their mask sooner than day 11 (or return to the facility sooner than day 11 if unable to safely and consistently wear a mask). See our Using Testing to End Masking After Isolation webpage and the CDC’s Isolation and Precautions for People with COVID-19 page for more information.
  • Note: Individuals 2 and over who can wear their masks most of the time they are at the CDL may return to school as early as day 6 if they meet the criteria to return. 
  • Note:  Children under 2 years of age (who cannot wear masks) will need to isolate for the full 10 days, and may not test to return early.

When is my child who tests positive for COVID-19 considered to be infectious? (updated 8.26.22)

  • PHMDC:  A person with COVID-19 is infectious two days before they have symptoms (or two days before their positive test was collected if they did not have symptoms) through the end of their isolation period.

CHILDREN:  REPORTING & QUARANTINING GUIDELINES FOR CHILDREN WHO ARE CLOSE CONTACTS OF POSITIVE CASES  (updated 2.26.23)

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Who is considered a close contact? (updated 8.26.22)

Please see PHMDC’s webpage “What to do if you are sick or possibly exposed“
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services  says “close contact” is if any of the following situations happened while you spent time with a person with COVID-19 during their isolation period and/or during the two days prior*, even if they didn’t have symptoms:
  • You were within 6 feet of a person who had COVID-19 for a total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period.
  • You had direct exposure to respiratory secretions (for example, being coughed or sneezed on, sharing a drinking glass, utensils, towels or other personal items).
  • You had direct physical contact with the person (for example, a hug, kiss, or handshake).
  • You cared or care for a person who has COVID-19.
  • You lived or live with a person who has COVID-19.
  • You stayed overnight with a person who has COVID-19 (for at least one night in the same household).

What should I do if I discover that my child is a "close contact" to someone with a positive case of COVID-19? (updated 9.22.22)

  • Monitor your child for symptoms of COVID-19.  If your child who is a close contact is showing symptoms of COVID-19, contact your child’s health care provider and have your child tested.  Until you get the test results, you should act as if your child does have a positive case of COVID (start isolation) and should not bring your child to the CDL.
  • Please see PHMDC’s updated COVID-19 Health Screening Checklist to help you make decisions about COVID-related symptoms and attendance at the CDL.
  • PHMDC no longer requires anyone to quarantine before returning to child care.
  • Make sure your child (2+ years) wears a mask while in the presence of others until the end of day 10 after the last day of exposure.
  • Notify the CDL that your child is a close contact.
    • Families need to text or call the CDL Scheduler’s cell phone at (608) 516-0402 immediately after finding out that their child is a close contact of someone who tested positive for COVID-19, even if that exposure occurred outside of the CDL.
      • After texting/calling the admin team at the number listed above, complete the following online survey to relay details about your child’s specific situation: https://uwmadison.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_9BliL03CFbqTa50. (This information will help us know who needs to mask and how long they need to mask and will help us to take extra precautions the 10 days after your child’s exposure.)
        • What date was your child last exposed to the person with COVID-19?
          • What date did the person your child was exposed to test positive for COVID-19?
          • What type of test did that individual receive?  
        • Did the exposure happen within the child’s home?
          • If yes, is that individual able to isolate away from everyone else in the household?
          • If yes, is the individual with COVID wearing a mask when in the presence of the child who attends the CDL?
        • Is your child presenting with any symptoms of COVID-19?
          • If symptomatic:
            • When did the symptoms begin?
            • What symptoms is the child experiencing?
            • Was the child tested for COVID-19?  
              • When was the test taken?
              • What kind of test was used?  
              • What was the result?
          • If asymptomatic:
            • Did your child get tested for COVID-19 after the exposure?
            • When was the positive test taken?
              • What kind of test was used?  
              • What was the result?

How long will my child have to quarantine after becoming a close contact for someone with COVID-19? (updated 2.26.23)

What is considered day 0 (for quarantine or masking requirements) if my child is living with someone with a positive case of COVID-19? (updated 8.26.22)

  • Day 0 for close contacts is the LAST day of exposure to the person with the positive case of COVID-19.  If your child is living with a person with a positive case of COVID-19, their last day of exposure (day 0 for their quarantine) to the person with the positive case is the last day of isolation for the person in the household who tested positive.
  • Note:  Ideally, the person in the household with the positive case of COVID is isolating away from your child(ren), if possible.  If full isolation is not possible, the person with the positive case of COVID should try to socially distance away from others in the household and everyone 2 years of age and older in the house should wear masks when in the presence of the person with the positive case.  Your child is still considered a close contact, even if the individual in the household with COVID is isolating away from the child, and will need to wear a mask until day 11 after exposure (if your child is 2 years of age or older).

Does my child need a COVID test to return to the CDL after being a close contact and/or quarantining? (updated 2.26.23)

  • No, PHMDC says testing is not required to attend the CDL after being a close contact.
  • However, both PHMDC and the CDC are recommending that children get tested at least 5 full days after last exposure.
  • Please see the CDC’s page “COVID-19 Testing:  What You Need to Know” for more information on what type of test your child will need if you would like to have them tested after being exposed to someone with COVID-19.

Will my child (2+ years old) have to wear a mask while at the CDL after being a close contact, even if the CDL lifts its universal indoor masking policy? (updated 8.26.22)

Yes, your child (2+ years old) will need to wear a mask while indoors in the CDL through the end of day 10 after their LAST day of exposure.  They do not need to wear a mask outdoors, unless you let your child’s teacher know that you would prefer they are masked outside.  The CDL will do our best to keep all children socially distanced during naps and meals/snacks if someone in the room has been a close contact of someone with COVID in the last 10 days.  Your child may come to school on day 11 with no mask, as long as the CDL’s universal mask mandate has been lifted.

See PHMDC’s Interim Operational Guidance for K-12 Schools & Childcare Programs:  Fall 2022 for more information.

CENTER & CLASSROOM CLOSURES & CDL’S UPDATED TUITION & ENROLLMENT POLICIES (IN EFFECT 10.15.22)

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Will the whole CDL close again due to COVID-19? (updated 8.15.22)

  • It is unlikely at this point in the pandemic that the entire CDL would close again as a result of a UW-, Dane County-, or State-mandated COVID-19 closure.  However, the CDL will continue to follow the guidance of PHMDC, UW-Madison, and federal, state, and county governments regarding center-wide closures. 
  • There is a small chance that the entire CDL would need to close if there are not enough teachers or administrators able to report to work due to COVID-19 related absences or staff shortages.  
  • Note:  *Should the entire CDL close due to a COVID-related reason, the CDL Admin Team would notify families and staff as soon as possible via email and will make every effort to call families and staff if there is not much notice between the closure announcement and the next scheduled day of care at the CDL.

Will the CDL close whole classrooms due to COVID-19? (updated 8.26.22)

The CDL may need to close at the classroom-level if there are significant Staff shortages.  The CDL may need to close certain classrooms if there are not enough teachers able to report to work during the COVID-19 pandemic (e.g., due to illness and/or isolation).  We will make every effort to ensure that there are enough teachers to meet teacher:child ratios in each classroom, but this may not always be possible.

*Note:  Should your child’s classroom need to close for a COVID-related reason, the CDL admin team will contact you as soon as possible via email, and will follow up with phone calls if there is not much time between the classroom closure announcement and the next scheduled day of care at the CDL.

What is the CDL's revised COVID-19 and Emergency Closure Tuition Policy and how does it affect my tuition payments? (Updated 8.26.22)

Effective August 26, 2022, the original COVID-19 Tuition Payment Policy no longer applies due to the removal of the quarantine requirement for close contacts. A positive COVID-19 infection falls under the CDL’s standard illness policy, much like a child who is excluded from care while they are home with the flu.  As long as the CDL teachers are at work and available to provide care, families will be responsible for tuition.

The CDL’s revised COVID-19 and Emergency Closure Tuition Policy applies to ALL CHILDREN for the following reasons:

      1. The entire CDL closes due to a UW, local, or state mandate; inclement weather; or other unforeseen circumstance.
      2. The entire CDL closes due to COVID-related staff shortages.
      3. The child’s entire classroom closes due to COVID-related staff shortages.

Parents are responsible for tuition payments as follows: 

    1. Full tuition for the first 1-10 business days care is not available,
    2. 50% tuition for the next 11-20 business days care is not available,
    3. 25% for the next 21-30 business days care is not available.
    4. If care at the CDL is not available for more than 30 business days in a six month period, program administrators will assess the specifics of the situation to determine the need to charge partial tuition for families to maintain their enrolled status.
    5. The number of closure days will reset if there is a lapse of six months between center-wide closing events, or at the beginning of each Academic Year. 
    6. Factors impacting the assessment may include projected length of the closure, demand for virtual learning opportunities, and potential limits on group sizes upon enrollment. All contracted enrollment spaces will be maintained during a closure period as long as all financial commitments to the Center are fulfilled.
Number of Consecutive Business Days Center or Classroom is Closed  Amount of Tuition Due
1-10 100%
11-20 50%
21-30 25% 
31+ *Program will assess based on the circumstances of the closure(s)

What is the enrollment priority for my child to attend if the CDL has limited capacity for any reason? (updated 8.26.22)

In the event that the CDL has limited capacity for any reason, enrolled children will be prioritized by the family’s essential employee status and UW affiliation.  At time of signing the contract, families are responsible for obtaining a letter from their employer(s) indicating their precise priority status.  If the CDL does not have a letter on file for a family, the family will fall into Priority Group #4.

Considerations such as classroom assignment, teacher:child ratios, and group size limits will also be taken into account when making final decisions regarding who will receive child care.  Should there be a teacher shortage, families will be notified as soon as possible in the same manner as Inclement Weather days (See Family Handbook for details).

The list below is in order of priority for which children already enrolled in the Center would get care in the event of a limit on capacity or teacher shortage.

  • Priority Group #1: 
    • UW Madison – Children of UW Essential Employees: employees with responsibilities critical to maintaining essential functions and services on campus, including, but not limited to, completing the academic semester and supporting students who are engaged in ongoing classes, providing housing and dining services to students who remain in residence halls, life/safety, hazardous research and animal care, and Physical Plant. Essential employees often need to report to campus to fulfill essential function duties. Depending on the specific situation and who is needed for the preservation of life and property, essential employees may or may not be called in, but the designation of essential employees should be determined ahead of time.
    • DCF – Children of Tier 1 Individuals: employees, contractors, and other support staff working in health care
  • Priority Group #2:
    • DCF – Children of Tier 2 Individuals: employees, contractors, and other staff in vital areas including but not limited to military; long term care; residential care; pharmacies; child care; child welfare; government operations; public safety and critical infrastructure such as sanitation, transportation, utilities, telecommunications; grocery and food services; supply chain operations; and other sectors as determined by the Secretary of the Department of Children and Families.
  • Priority Group #3:
    • Children of UW Students, Staff, & Faculty that do not meet Essential Criteria:  Children will be selected by lottery considering age/group size/ratio requirements and staffing availability
  • Priority Group #4:
    • Children of Community Families: Children will be selected by lottery by age/group size/ratio requirements and staffing availability

How do I make sure the CDL knows that my (or my co-parent's) employment falls into a priority category?

Print out this letter, have your employer complete it, and then give it to the CDL Admin Team for your child’s file:

CDL Priority Letter

COVID PREVENTION STRATEGIES AT THE CDL (updated 2.26.23)

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Is the CDL going to change its approach to COVID-19 precautions in the Fall 2023? (updated 2.26.23)

In general, yes.  As the COVID pandemic moves into the endemic stage, the CDL will follow the CDC’s recommendation for child care programs to remove COVID-19 prevention strategies gradually, and to be flexible and ready to reinstate them, if necessary.

The CDL will follow the guidance outlined in PHMDC’s Interim Operational Guidance for K-12 Schools & Childcare Programs:  Spring 2023.

We will notify families and staff of future adjustments to COVID precautions in writing when those decisions are made.  Note that we may need to reinstate COVID precautions for any of the following reasons:

    1. If PHMDC indicates that Dane County’s COVID-19 Community Level falls into the “high” category and/or
    2. there is an outbreak or suspected outbreak of COVID cases at the CDL (see “When will the CDL lift its indoor mask mandate?” for definitions), or
    3. The UW, PHMDC, CDC, DCF and/or local, state, or federal governments are requiring or recommending masking.  

Please read below to learn more about how the CDL will continue or adjust each COVID prevention strategy beginning of Fall semester 2022:

  • Promoting vaccinations
    • Although the CDL is unable to mandate COVID vaccines, we will continue to share information with families and staff regarding COVID vaccines and boosters.  Please see the vaccination section above for more information.
    • Families are required to share updated vaccination records with CDL staff.  Please see above FAQs for details on how to do this.
    • Staff are encouraged to upload their most recent COVID vaccine records to UHS.
    • Families and staff are responsible for ensuring that they are “up-to-date” on COVID-19 vaccines and/or boosters.
  • Masking 
    • Please see mask policy above for more details.
    • Teachers will now be encouraged to go back to having Family Style meals in the classrooms, where they are eating their meals/snacks with the children in their classrooms.  (Teachers who are close contacts will refrain from engaging in Family Style meals until day 11 after exposure).
  • Staying home when sick and getting tested
    • We will no longer be conducting daily COVID health checks at drop-off.  We trust that you will follow the CDL’s health policy in the Family Handbook and keep your children home when they are ill.  We also trust that you will report any positive cases of COVID or close contacts with COVID to the CDL Admin Team (see above for details on how to do this).
    • The CDL will continue to require all staff (including student assistants and interns) to complete a daily COVID-19 attestation so we are immediately notified if any COVID-related information that might affect operations.
    • We will continue to monitor all children’s health throughout the day and contact families whenever children are too ill to be at school.
    • Although the CDL does not require testing to return, we encourage families and staff to test whenever recommended by PHMDC or the CDC.  The CDL also shares information about free testing on campus with staff on a regular basis.  We try to share information about community testing for families, whenever we have that information.
  • Handwashing and respiratory etiquette
    • The CDL will continue to train our staff on proper handwashing techniques and the many times of the day we are required to wash our hands.  (What You Need to Know About Handwashing Video)
    • We will continue to require children and families to wash hands when entering the classroom, and at all other required times.
    • We will continue to place hand sanitizer at the entry points to the CDL for the foreseeable future.
    • We will continue to teach staff and children proper respiratory etiquette to reduce the spread of germs.
  • Cohorting and physical distancing 
    • The CDL is no longer restricting family access to their child’s classroom or playground space at drop-off and pick up.  You are welcome to come back into the classroom during these times.
      • Please be sure that you and anyone else coming into the CDL with you are following the CDL’s most recent mask policy, including wearing a mask until day 11 if you are a close contact or have recently had COVID-19.
      • Please follow local guidance for isolation and quarantine and do not allow any family members to enter the CDL if they are supposed to be isolating or quarantining, even if it is just for a “quick” drop-off or pick-up.  Please also refrain from entering the CDL if you have any symptoms synonymous with COVID-19.
    • The CDL is continuing to keep our playground space divided to reduce interactions between children from different classrooms.  This means that each classroom also has a designated play space outside (and that our playground is still divided by snow fences).  Please check with your child’s teacher to make sure you know which play space is assigned to your child’s classroom.
    • We will continue to try to reduce “cross over” of staff from one classroom to another, whenever possible.  However, due to limitations of staffing and teacher shortages, we may need to have our float teachers in more than one classroom on the same day.
    • We will continue to refrain from sharing communal spaces at the same time, such as the neighborhood play spaces.
    • Do to cohorting, the CDL will not hold center-wide social events yet.  We will be holding an in-person Open House for the Fall 2022 school year, but we ask that you stay in your child’s designated classroom and/or playground space and refrain from socializing with other families in the shared neighborhood or lobby spaces.  We hope to be able to have our spring event at the Goodman Community Center this Spring and hope that soon we can rebuild the sense of community in our program by encouraging families to get to know each other in our communal spaces.
    • The CDL will work hard to physically distance children returning from quarantine on days 6-10 while they are unmasked during meals/snacks and naps.  This may not always be possible due to limitations of space and the number of children in each classroom, but we will try our best.
    • Limiting nonessential visitors, volunteers, students, and researchers.  We will continue to do this until 10.15.22, when all of the children over 10 months of age have had sufficient time to become fully vaccinated.  After this time, the CDL will once again work to reach our teaching, research, and outreach missions by welcoming observers back in the observation booth, researchers to conduct studies, students to complete course placements and assignments, and other volunteers and visitors.  All outside people will need to complete an attestation regarding their COVID status and must follow the current mask policy.
  • Contact tracing, in combination with isolation
    • The CDL admin team will continue to require families and staff to report positive cases of COVID or incidences when one of our children or staff are a close contact of someone with a positive case.  We will continue to report positive cases to PHMDC and will continue to notify families/staff of possible exposures occurring at the CDL.  Please see FAQs above with the details of how to report COVID cases or exposures to the CDL admin team.
    • The CDL will also continue to require that all families and staff follow the most recent guidelines for isolation and the masking requirements if returning before day 11 after quarantining or isolating.
  • Ventilation
    • The CDL will continue to keep our air filters on in the classroom whenever children are present.  We will continue to change the filters, as recommended by the manufacturers.
  • Cleaning and disinfection
    • The CDL will continue to follow COVID cleaning and disinfection procedures, including toy cleaning procedures.
  • Screening testing to promptly identify cases, clusters, and outbreaks
    • Due to the rules of the UW, we are not able to engage in screening testing.  However, the CDL recommends that families and staff get tested whenever they are showing symptoms synonymous with COVID, whenever they have been exposed, or whenever they return from travel.  In the past, the CDL has purchased tests for families/staff to use before returning from a long break, should people prefer to test.  We may do this in the future if Dane County is in the “high” level when we reopen after a long break, such as winter break.
    • Although the CDL does not require testing, we encourage families and staff to test whenever recommended by PHMDC or the CDC.  The CDL also shares information about free testing on campus with staff on a regular basis.  We try to share information about community testing for families, whenever we have that information.

CDL STAFF-SPECIFIC COVID INFORMATION

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Which COVID-19 guidelines should I follow for my work at the UW CDL? (updated 8.26.22)

What is the CDL's COVID-19 attendance policy for staff? (updated 9.22.22)

  • Please see PHMDC’s updated COVID-19 Health Screening Checklist to help you make decisions about COVID-related symptoms and attendance at the CDL.
  • If you are feeling ill, you need to take the following steps immediately.  Please give us as much notice as possible (2 hours minimum):
    1. Text or call the CDL Scheduler/Associate Director’s cell phone at (608) 516-0402 immediately.  You need to make sure that the CDL Scheduler responds to your text so you know we are working on finding coverage.  If they don’t respond to your text within 10-15 minutes, follow up with a phone call.
    2. You will also need to contact both lead teachers in your classroom via phone call or text.
    3. Please follow up these calls/texts with an email to your supervising teacher(s) and the CDL Associate Director/Scheduler.
    4. Ideally, you would try to help find a substitute to fill your shift for you by calling the other students working in your classroom or in your partnering classroom to see if they can cover your shift.
    5. Keep the Scheduler/Associate Director and both lead teachers in your classroom informed of the status of finding replacement coverage.
  • Please see the “Student Employee Attendance Procedure” you signed at time of hire and/or page 136 of the CDL Policy Handbook for more specific information about the illness policy (the link for the Policy Handbook is on Canvas).

When do I need to wear a mask at the CDL? (updated 2.26.23)

  • The mask mandate was removed on 10.15.22 after most of our children have had the chance to become fully vaccinated.  This decision is contingent upon:
    • Dane County’s Level of COVID being low or medium and no/low levels of COVID in the CDL.  If/when the level of COVID in Dane County is in the “high” category or
    • we have a COVID outbreak  or suspected outbreak at the CDL (see “When will the CDL lift its indoor mask mandate?” for definitions), we will need to reinstate the mask mandate.
  • Please always have masks with you, just in case.  The CDL does have extra KN95 masks for staff if you forget yours.
  • Children over the age of 2 years old and staff will be required to wear a mask until the end of Day 10 if they are returning from isolation before day 11.  There is a test to remove your mask early option after isolation.  Please see PHMDC’s page on this for more information.
  • You will also need to wear a mask as part of universal masking if you work in a classroom with a child under 2 who is a close contact and returning to school before day 11.  Everyone over 2 in that classroom will stay masked until day 11 after the child under 2’s last day of exposure to the person with the positive case.

Do I have to be vaccinated/boosted for COVID to work at the CDL? (updated 8.26.22)

When do I need to get tested for COVID-19? (updated 8.26.22)

How do I let the CDL know that I have tested positive for COVID-19 or if I am a close contact of someone with COVID? (updated 2.26.23)

The CDL follows PHMDC guidelines regarding COVID -19  exposures and close contacts.  Therefore, any individual affiliated with the CDL must report a positive COVID test result or a known close contact to the CDL Director or Assistant Direct as soon as known by texting or calling the CDL Scheduler’s cell phone at (608) 516-0402 and then completing the appropriate online questionnaire. 

Employees should refer to the campus COVID-19 Workplace Safety policy for the most up to date campus policies regarding COVID-19. Staff who violate this policy and/or associated policies, protocols, or procedures will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment, in accordance with the relevant policies and procedures applicable to their employee category.

 

How long do I need to isolate if I have tested positive for COVID-19? (updated 2.26.23)

  • Please see PHMDC’s webpage “What to do if you are sick or possibly exposed” 
  • The CDL will follow PHMDC’s Spring 2023 child care recommendations for details on isolation requirements:
    • Children and staff with symptoms of COVID-19 should stay home and be tested for COVID-19.  (Please see PHMDC’s updated COVID-19 Health Screening Checklist to help you make decisions about COVID-related symptoms and attendance at the CDL.)
    • Anyone who tests positive for COVID-19, regardless of whether they have symptoms (including people who are waiting on test results), must:
      • Isolate at home for at least 5 days (symptom onset being day 0 OR specimen collection date being day 0 for those that do not have symptoms).
      • They may return to school or childcare on day 6 or later if they have been fever free without the use of fever-reducing medications for 24 hours AND have had improvement of other symptoms.
      • Wear a high quality, well-fitting mask through day 10* when around others.
      • If unable to safely wear a mask when around others (e.g., children under 2 or people with certain disabilities), the individual should continue to isolate at home for 10 days*.
      • Avoid high-risk activities where they cannot wear a mask (e.g., band, swimming) until after day 10.
      • If a person develops symptoms after testing positive, the 5-day isolation period should start over (symptom onset being day 0).
      • If the child or staff member has access to antigen tests, they may be able to remove their mask sooner than day 11 (or return to the facility sooner than day 11 if unable to safely and consistently wear a mask). See our Using Testing to End Masking After Isolation webpage and the CDC’s Isolation and Precautions for People with COVID-19 page for more information.
  • Note: Individuals 2 and over who can wear their masks most of the time they are at the CDL may return to school as early as day 6 if they meet the criteria to return. 
  • Note:  Children under 2 years of age  and staff who cannot wear masks will need to isolate for the full 10 days, and may not test to return early.
  • Note:  Even if your doctor tells you that you can return to the CDL before meeting PHMDC’s full isolation criteria (above), you may not return to the CDL until you have met the criteria of PHMDC.

Do I need to quarantine if I am a close contact of someone with a positive case of COVID-19? (updated 8.26.22)

  • No.  PHMDC no longer requires close contacts to quarantine.
  • Please report your close contact to the CDL scheduler.
  • You are required to wear your mask 10 days after exposure while in the CDL and should not unmask to eat while in the presence of children during that time.
  • Monitor yourself for symptoms and test if you start to feel sick.

What precautions is the CDL taking to protect everyone from COVID-19? (updated 8.26.22)

Please see the precautions in the Child section above.  As a CDL employee, you are responsible for knowing these precautions, staying up-to-date with any changes, and implementing these precautions while in the classroom.