Activities Update Regarding Facial Coverings

Starting Monday, July 27 all coaches, activity staff, and students will be required to wear a face covering or mask while in the district building for any extra-curricular or co-curricular activity.  This includes any activity in any gym, weight room, wrestling room, commons area, dance/cheer room, training rooms, or other gathering areas for teams or groups.  While we recognize this is going to present some adjustments to how these activities operate, we feel strongly that with the continued rise in Covid-19 infection rates in Polk County, we must do our part to protect our students and staff.

With regards to outside activities, students and staff will need to wear a mask when social distancing is not possible.  We are asking that students and staff always bring a mask or facial covering to all activities in the event they would need to enter a district building for any reason.  Social distancing of 6 feet or more should still be practiced at all activities.

As we get closer to the official start date for fall activities on August 10, we are anticipating additional guidance from the Department of Education, IHSAA, and IGHSAU for fall sports and activities.  As guidance becomes available, decisions will be made locally as a district and individual teams regarding safety procedures and protocols that will be unique to those activities.  Information will be shared via email, Twitter, and the district website at www.johnstoncsd.org.

Thank you for your assistance and efforts to sustain these activities.  Based on CDC, Iowa Department of Public Health, and Polk County Health guidelines, mask wearing can substantially reduce the transmission of COVID-19 and better protect our students and staff.  We feel the Johnston community is up to the challenge and that we can do our part in slowing this virus down.

Families who have been exposed to COVID-19 or who have members who have tested positive, must continue to communicate with their coach/director and the Johnston Activities Department immediately so that Polk County Health can provide accurate and timely recommendations.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact a member of the activities department using the contact information below.  Thank you.

Activities Director – Josh Tobey – josh.tobey@johnston.k12.ia.us, Office # – 515-278-2407

Assistant Activities Director – Melissa Crosse – Melissa.crosse@johnston.k12.ia.us , Office # – 515-278-0476