These are the protocols for in-person classes, as of winter 2023. Subject to change based on current health recommendations.
COVID Vaccinations Strongly Encouraged. Bellevue College does not require its students to be fully vaccinated. However, the Parent Education program suggests that parents/caregivers have the immunization series completed at least two weeks before attending class. This applies to all parents and adult caregivers who attend our classes. At this time, we are not requiring that children in our classes are vaccinated.
Masks. Indoors, masks are required for all adults and all children over the age of 5 for on campus classes. (At some of our remote sites, masks are optional but strongly encouraged.) Children ages 2 – 4 will be strongly encouraged to wear a mask. Outdoors, masking is recommended for unvaccinated people over age 2 who can’t reliably maintain distance from others. Masks should fit well, and cover the nose, mouth, and chin. We recommend N-95, KN-95 or equivalent masks.
Physical Distancing. Maintain 3 feet between adults and take steps to maximize distance between children, when possible. Increase ventilation and/or outside time.
Handwashing. Handwashing for 20 seconds upon arrival. Plus handwashing or sanitizing before and after: snacks, replacing a mask, using shared equipment, etc.
Health Checks. Please do not come to class if you have symptoms of illness.
Snacks. If snacks are included in class, they will be served by an adult onto individual plates.
More Details, including information on what to do in case of exposure or if experiencing symptoms, are available in this document. COVID-protocols for BCPE [PDF] That document also includes links to guidelines from King County Public Health, WA DOH Decision Tree [PDF], the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics which informed our protocols. If you have further questions, consult with the instructor of your class.
Mask recommendations for children: How to Choose the Best Mask; The Best Masks; Mask Primer for Kids.; Mask Recommendations,
Last Updated March 10, 2023