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SFUSD confronts testing delays, PPE shortages and staff strain as Omicron surges
Summary
Student leaders, parents and teachers urged the San Francisco Unified School District to expand testing, provide higher-quality masks, clarify excused‑absence and independent‑study rules, and consider short-term hybrid options after a wave of COVID cases taxed schools and lengthened lab turnaround times.
Student leaders, parents and educators pressed the San Francisco Unified School District on Jan. 11 for faster testing, better personal protective equipment and clearer remote‑learning options as the Omicron surge strained classrooms.
The board heard a Student Advisory Council survey the delegates said had amassed "over 3,250 responses," describing studentsand families who feel unsafe and asking for an opt‑in hybrid option, standardized excused absences, weekly testing and stronger enforcement of mask rules. Superintendent Dr. Vincent Matthews and health staff updated the board on testing, vaccination guidance and ventilation.
Why it matters: Families and staff said delays in test results and uneven distribution of masks and rapid antigen kits are forcing difficult choices about attendance and are hobbling instruction. Teachers reported frequent absences and site leaders said substitute coverage was inadequate — conditions that could force some campuses to…
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