St. Mark Catholic School, in conjunction with the Diocese of Dallas Catholic Schools Office and state and local governments, is closely monitoring reports about the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). During this time, we ask that all families continue to check their school communications and this page regularly for updates. Please note that this information is subject  to change based on updated information from state and local agencies.

Let us pray together for the safety of our community, our nation, and our world,
and for all those suffering the effects of COVID-19.

Frequently Asked Questions
 

Is St. Mark Catholic School open for the 2021-22 school year?
St. Mark Catholic School will begin the 2021-22 school year on August 16, 2021
and will offer in-person learning. 

Are face masks required?
On campus, face masks are optional for students and vaccinated visitors.
Unvaccinated visitors are required to wear a face mask on campus.

**All students should have a face mask in their backpack in case they need to put it on in the nurse's office.**

What safety measures are in place?
St. Mark has implemented heightened cleaning practices during this time and continues to encourage everyone to practice good hygiene and frequent handwashing to prevent the spread of illness. Protocols include:

*Students have mandated handwashing times throughout the school day including the beginning of the day, before lunch, after recess, and after P.E.
*Hand sanitizer is available throughout the campus, and is utilized frequently.  
*Frequent disinfecting of all high-touch surfaces is conducted with hospital-grade, environmentally-friendly cleaner, Envirox, including desks, light switches, door knobs, and handrails. All computer keyboards are cleaned immediately after use.
*Nightly cleaning procedures are heightened with hospital-grade, environmentally-friendly cleaner, Envirox.
*Ionic air purifiers have been installed in all classrooms.
*Acrylic shields have been installed in classrooms where appropriate to help prevent the spread of respiratory droplets and facilitate small group work with teachers.
*Acrylic dividers have been added to classroom desks where appropriate to help prevent the spread of respiratory droplets.
*Students do not share supplies. Each student has their own school supply container.
*Students bring their own water bottles to school each day. Water fountains are sealed,
but water bottle dispensers are available throughout campus.

How are St. Mark's health and safety policy decisions made? 
All health and safety decisions are made in consultation with the Diocese of Dallas Catholic Schools Office which works directly with the Centers for Disease Control, Dallas County Health and Human Services, Collin County Health Care Services, the Texas Catholic Conference of Bishops Education Department, and the Texas Education Association. Policies and procedures are subject to change based on updated guidance from these agencies.
 

Recent Communications

Family Resources

What You Can Do to Prevent the Spread of Illness

*Stay home if you are sick.
*Avoid close contact with people who are sick. 
*Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (sing "Happy Birthday" twice). If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Remember that handwashing is the strongest way to prevent the spread of disease. 
*Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands; germs spread this way. 
*Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze (use your sleeve if tissue is unavailable). 
*Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
*Comply with local health authorities regarding social distancing and safety practices.