By Yousra Fakhro and Melissa Olivares,
Social Media Editor and Podcast Editor
COVID-19 updates; entering yellow tier
L.A. County entered yellow tier on May 4, the least restrictive one in the state’s COVID-19 tier system, allowing for expanded capacity for many businesses.
The FDA approved the Pfizer vaccine for children aged 12 and older. Herald Christian Medical Center is TCUSD’s partner in offering first doses of Pfizer vaccinations to TC students and their family members. They did so on Saturday, June 5 at Willard Payne School and Saturday, June 12 at Rosemead High School.
“At this time it does not look likely that the State of California will mandate the COVID -19 vaccine for K-12 students for the fall of 2021,” Superintendent Kimberly Fricker said. “We are anticipating to offer both in-person educational options as well as a virtual educational option for families who wish to remain on a distance learning platform.”
Starting on June 15, Californians who are fully vaccinated will not have to wear masks in most settings, not including schools and public transportation.
School vaccine requirements
There are currently no plans for a vaccine requirement for the 2021-22 school year. Masks and social distancing will be required, along with a daily health screener that must be completed before entering campus. School staff will take students’ temperatures at the entry gate and ask them five questions regarding COVID-19 symptoms and exposure.
Most UCs and CSUs will require COVID-19 vaccinations for students this fall, with UC Berkeley, UC Davis and Cal Poly Pomona already requiring them for their incoming students and faculty. Pasadena City College does not require their students to be vaccinated as of now.
Many other colleges remain undecided as they wait to decide the legality of said mandate. Some colleges may require all students to get vaccinated regardless of their residential status.
Shade structures installed on campus
USA Shade and Fabric Structures started installing seven shade structures on campus in May. The project had an original price range of $233,000 to $257,000.
The Board of Education met in June 2020 to approve the purchase of the structures for TCHS and other TCUSD campuses. Then, once the Division of the State Architect approved the project, installation began.
The structures were intended for socially distanced outdoor learning when it seemed possible that TCHS would adopt hybrid learning in 2020. Now, the structures will provide sun protection for students during passing period and lunchtime activities. TCHS Pep already began using them for practice.
“I think the structures will be useful for certain things, like providing extra shade during lunch or club rush. They could lead to more events being held in the quad, so I see that as a plus,” Campus Commissioner Thomas Woo said.