UPDATED COVID-19 Requirements for Attending In-person AASB Events
AASB works hard to actively listen to its members and adjust accordingly, especially in these uncharted and challenging times. After considerable research, reflection, and discussion with school board members, superintendents, legal counsel, and health professionals, it became apparent there were unintended consequences in permitting only vaccinated persons to attend our events. An example of those consequences was creating or exacerbating divisions amongst board members concerning personal beliefs about vaccination. In addition, we heard from members that our vaccination-only requirement may have created a sense of inequity that did not allow entire boards to participate together, something we highly encourage.
In an effort to balance safety and the desire to gather and learn from each other in person, the November 2021 AASB Annual Conference registration requirements will require one of the three items listed below:
- Proof of a COVID-19 vaccination (presentation of your actual vaccination card or a legible photo) or:
- Proof of a negative COVID-19 test (PCR) within three (3) days of the start of the AASB event or:
- A health care provider’s documentation that you have had COVID-19 within the last 90-days and are free from symptoms, including no fever within 24 hours of fever-reducing medications, has been at least 10 days since symptoms first appeared, and are not contagious for the virus but may test positive.
If you cannot produce the proof listed above, you will not be admitted until the documentation is provided to AASB staff.
In addition, by registering with AASB to attend the 2021 Annual Conference, each person agrees to abide by the AASB COVID-19 mitigation plan that will be implemented to assure everyone’s safety. This will include staying fully-masked, except when eating or drinking. Registration, seating, and catering will be designed to provide the least risk possible. A COVID-19 mitigation plan will be available for each event when you register online and also on the AASB website.
Throughout this year, AASB is committed to providing in-person learning and training in as safe an environment as reasonably possible. We will be updating our protocols and registration requirements throughout this year as facts and circumstances dictate. We welcome any questions or respectful criticisms of these protocols.
Most sincerely,
Lon Garrison
Executive Director
Association of Alaska School Boards
AASB is committed to making our in-person events safe, as your health, well-being, and safety are our top priority. To that end, a COVID-19 mitigation plan has been developed for all upcoming academies and conferences.