What are the parameters about learning on campus or remotely in ’20-’21?

In ’20-’21, students and families have the choice for on-campus or off-campus learning. All courses will be designed as hybrid courses, to meet students’ learning needs in our unusual year. Students who are learning off campus are making the decision on a mod-by-mod basis (with the single exception of an international student who can get a flight mid-mod, all other students are either learning on campus for the entire mod or learning remotely for the entire mod). If one is learning off campus and in a time zone that allows, she is required to participate in the synchronous part of the day (advising, class instruction, class and community meetings, etc.). If she is in a time zone that does not allow, her teachers will arrange with her a different time during the day for her 10-20 minutes of teacher-forward instruction. Whether learning on campus or remotely, all students are expected to meet graduation requirements, including participation in D block, and all grading is standard.

By when does a student need to decide between in-person or virtual, mod by mod?

We have been handling these situations individually and are attempting to be as flexible as possible. We will work med by mod but are currently responding to families as they make their decision process known to us

If my daughter decides she is uncomfortable on campus and wants to switch to online, would she be able to easily do that? Vice versa?

We are hoping students/families will stick with a decision for the mod. Obviously, please connect in real time if she is uncomfortable on campus. We will work together. If she is at home, we will welcome her back at the start of the next mod.

How will virtual students experience the classroom?

Remote learners will be "in" the classroom in real-time, unless time zone does not allow.

Can my daughter have a tutor come to campus to work with her?

When the goal is to minimize density on campus, no tutors are allowed on campus. A student may arrange to work with a tutor virtually, though of course she may not work with a tutor during study hall or any other school obligation. Any student working with a tutor should be sharing that information with her teacher and the learning specialist.

Can my daughter have private music lessons on campus?

The Madeira arts department works closely with a small group of music teachers who give private lessons virtually or in person. Please contact Mrs. Newman in the arts department (snewman@madeira.org) for information about how to access these teachers.

How will we participate in orchestra if we are doing distance learning?

You can participate virtually. The class is being designed that way. You will need to connect with others in your ensemble as well as with your teacher.

How will the Mod schedule work when the classes are shorter and the material still has to be covered in a very short period of time?

Hybrid learning does not differentiate between classroom time and homework time. All learning is concerned learning time. We are designing courses using our standard guidelines for time devoted to course. We are and have been committed to deep learning, so we are interested in skill building and immersion. Our focus is not on "coverage."

If the classes are shorter and there is no distinction between classwork and homework, does that mean most students will see an increase in the time they need to spend on homework?

No. Teachers are specifically designing learning tasks so that there is little to no distinction between classwork and homework. There should not be an increase in homework load, and teachers will coach students on best practices for getting work done.

How will grading work for classes? Will all the tests be open book or will it just be for those that have chosen to do distance learning?

Teachers will explicitly address grading at the beginning of each mod. Assessments may be re-designed to focus on performance tasks and higher-order thinking questions.

Considering the different time zone (e.g. about 12 hours in China), is it obligated for students to attend the class live?

Students in far-away time zones do NOT have to attend all classes; they will have the opportunity to attend a brief session with their teachers daily, based on a mutually agreed upon times.

Where will day students go in the time between classes if the weather does not permit the students to be outside?

Girls will have the biggest chunk of free time during the lunch period. When they are not eating they can be in the Library, Main Living Room, their C block classroom, the Hurd, the C/A Foyer or Main Living Room. Passing time between classes is only 15 minutes this year so there won't be as much need for these spaces in between classes.

Given time zone differences, what happens if my daughter can’t attend live sessions every block?

Technology allows us all to connect! Your daughters will be full members of their classes, able to access all materials, able to interact in groups with peers, and in conversation with their teachers. We are starting the day with advising time, for we want them to experience this small group or the full class meeting, as both support the transition process. This summer, all the teachers have been developing courses composed of rich and rigorous learning activities. We knew that this year, in particular, the focus needed to be on developing quality learning activities, that require each student to engage with course materials, with the teacher, and with the other students. We knew that it was unlikely that all of our students would be in the same classroom at the same time all year long, so we have focused on the learning and the relationships (again with teacher, with peers, and with course material) rather than on a shared classroom. We think this benefits all students and all learning.

Are studio art classes still being offered?

Yes, absolutely! All studio courses will be offered. Teachers have designed learning activities knowing that some students would be in the classroom and some would not, and that for part of the year all learning would be remote. Yes, even Darkroom Photography is being offered! We look forward to seeing the work Madeira visual and performing art students will produce. Please watch arts@Madeira on Instagram throughout the mod for a gallery walk of student art.

Will families have the opportunity to choose to remain in remote learning versus returning to in-person learning?

Each mod, families will be able to make the decision on whether to complete the mod via distance learning or in-person. All classes have been re-designed over the summer to be presented both in person and remotely, so students can choose either option.

I had my textbooks shipped directly to Madeira. Is it possible to change the shipping address if the textbooks have not shipped yet?

You are able to change the shipping address as long as the books have not been shipped from the facility. To check shipment status and to change shipping address, contact Follett Customer Service at 800-381-5151. You should do this as soon as possible since you can change the shipping address ONLY if the books have not been shipped.

If the textbooks have been delivered or are en route to Madeira and I am a DAY student, can I pick them up?

If you are a DAY student and the textbooks have been delivered, you may pick up your textbooks at your earliest convenience. You will pick up your textbooks in the mailroom on the bottom floor of the Student Center.

If the textbooks have been delivered or are en route to Madeira and I am a BOARDING student, can the textbooks be shipped to me?

If you are a BOARDING student and the textbooks have been delivered, you may pick up your textbooks at your earliest convenience. If you are a local boarder or have someone local who can come to campus, you will pick up your textbooks in the mailroom on the bottom floor of the Student Center. The deliveries are separated by DORM. If you are not able to come to campus to pick up your textbooks, please contact the business office (businessoffice@madeira.org) to arrange for shipment.

How will the School ensure all students have the skills to work remotely?

Our ninth graders have been practicing some of the tech skills during their summer work for Student Life. Teachers will embed instruction related to the class tools in their lessons. Our ed tech specialists also love student questions! We want to build student confidence with the tools needed for remote learning.

What does the hybrid daily schedule (in-person and remote) look like?

What does the all-remote daily schedule look like?

What does a 14-day self quarantine look like?

The best way to prevent COVID-19 illness in our community is for Madeira students, faculty, and staff to avoid exposure to the virus. Fourteen days provides enough time for you to know whether you will become ill and/or be contagious to other people if you’ve been exposed to the virus.
Self-quarantine for Madeira COVID-19 purposes means:

• Staying at home except for essential outings
• Not having visitors
• Avoiding public transportation
• Wearing a cloth face covering when you must leave home
• Maintaining 6-foot social distance from other people when you must leave home, as well as from those in your household who are routinely leaving home
• Not sharing things like towels and utensils
• Practicing standard hygiene measures (i.e., cover mouth/nose when sneezing, using inside elbow to cover sneeze, placing used tissues in the trash can)
• Frequent handwashing (20 second minimum) or use of hand-sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• Being alert for symptoms of COVID-19 by tracking symptoms twice daily and temperature once daily (don’t worry, we’ll send you a link to the app we choose)
• Staying away from people who are sick, even inside your own home

Area public schools have announced they will be online for the start of the school year. What is different about Madeira that allows the School to be open?

Madeira follows CDC, state, and local health guidance in evaluating whether risks can be adequately mitigated to open campus. At this time, Madeira has procedures in place to meet or exceed the public health guidelines, such as mandatory face coverings, physical distancing procedures, and cleaning/disinfecting protocols, that allow the campus to be open. If that were to change, we would immediately let families know. Madeira’s mod schedule, large campus, and lack of reliance on bus transportation also make us more nimble than large public school systems and give us the flexibility to adjust schedules as needed for public health guidelines.

What if my doctor won’t order a COVID-19 test for my student?

Our goal is to start the school year as COVID-19-free as possible. To this extent, every Madeira student and adult is expected to return to campus with a negative COVID-19 test result dated within the past 5-7 days. We are aware that COVID-19 test availability and test result turn-around times vary by location and by demand due to local and national outbreaks. When speaking with your daughter’s healthcare provider about COVID-19 testing, please make sure this person knows that this test is a school requirement and that Madeira is a congregate living community. Please also check your local test site requirements, as many locations allow testing for asymptomatic people upon request. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has given emergency use authorization to LabCorp for testing of those aged 18+ years who do not have COVID-19 symptoms or who have no reason to suspect COVID-19 infection. To order an at-home nasal swab test kit for a student aged 18+ years, use this link https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/covid-19, and indicate “congregate setting” when asked regarding exposure

I understand there will be daily health screenings. How will those work?

Both day and boarding students will be screened twice daily initially. All students will complete a health check each morning before they go to breakfast or to class. Day students will have their second check after C block, either in the Fiction Room of Huffington Library or at the Hurd Sports Center, depending on their D block activity. Boarders will have their second health check before study hall in their dorms.

Each morning, students will open their screening app and complete the symptom questionnaire; this should take no longer than 60 seconds. As they arrive on campus, day student vehicles will be directed behind the Hurd Sports Center, where each girl’s symptom questionnaire will be reviewed and her temperature will be taken. If everything is negative, the student will proceed to main campus and head to breakfast or class. A similar process will take place in each dorm. Screenings will begin at 7:45 am and run through 8:15 a.m.

Afternoon health checks for day students will begin immediately after C block. Students involved in athletic D block activities will proceed to the Hurd Sports Center for their check. All other day girls will go to the Fiction Room. Boarding students will have their second health check between 7:00-7:30 pm in their dormitory.

What constitutes a fever? If I have one how long do I need to stay home?

A day student who feels unwell in any way or has a temperature of 100.0 F or greater will stay home and participate in virtual classes and D block, if health condition allows and if the D block is accessible virtually.

A boarder who feels unwell in any way or has a temperature of 100.0 F or greater will report to the Health Concern Center for a more detailed assessment and care by the Madeira nurses. In this situation, boarding students may also participate in virtual classes and D block, if health condition allows and if the D block is accessible virtually.

For students with a temperature of 99.0 F to 99.9 F, with or without other symptoms, the options are to stay home (day students) OR report to the Health Concern Center (day and boarding students) for a more detailed assessment by the Madeira nurses. All students who stay home or spend time in the Health Concern Center for temperature of 99.0 F or greater may return to in person learning no sooner than a minimum of 24-hours after temperature is consistently 98.9 F or lower without use of fever-reducing medication (I.e., Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen). Madeira nurses may instruct a student remain home for a longer period of time post-elevated temperature, based on student’s other symptoms and overall health condition.

All students returning to campus post-fever or other illness-related absence must be cleared by a Madeira nurse in the Health Concern Center prior to resuming on-campus classes or activities.

My doctor says that given test result delays in my area, it may not be possible to schedule my daughter’s test on the date Madeira recommended and still have her results by the day of move-in/check-in. What should I do?

Please contact your local healthcare provider about anticipated time of return for your daughter's test results and schedule accordingly. We understand the dates provided in our June communication may no longer work for every student. Our goal is for each student to arrive on campus with COVID-19 test results which indicate she was COVID-free in recent days leading up to her return to campus. The date of this test should be as close to her time of arrival on campus as is possible in your area.

What happens if our COVID-19 results do not come in time for return to campus?

Please contact Peggy Sotos, Director of Nursing at psotos@madeira.org Students are unable to return to campus without a negative PCR test.

What happens if the COVID-19 testing comes back a day or two before the designated date?

No worries, a couple days early is better than not having results in time to return to campus.

What would be the course of action if a positive case is found on campus?

If a student is suspected of having COVID-19, she will immediately be isolated. Parents/local guardians will be contacted to enact her Student Departure Plan to have the student leave campus for COVID-19 testing and isolation. If the student is unable to leave campus, she will be taken for COVID-19 testing by a Madeira adult. While she awaits her test results, the student will live in our Health Concern Center while being cared for by Madeira nurses around the clock. She will participate in classes online, if she feels up to it. Contact tracing will begin immediately upon school notification of a positive test result, in collaboration with Fairfax County Public Health Department. Students identified as possibly exposed to the infected student will also have their Student Departure Plans enacted, to leave campus for a 14-day quarantine period, per CDC guidelines. If unable to leave campus, exposed students will be cared for in a separate area of the Health Concern Center, also under the care of Madeira nurses around the clock.

If a student tests positive with COVID are the students in her classes required to quarantine?

Not necessarily. Madeira nurses and other adults trained in contact-tracing will work closely with the Fairfax County Public Health Department to identify all “close contacts” as defined by the CDC. “Close contacts” and their parents/guardians will be notified of the student’s possible exposure to COVID-19. Madeira’s protocol for quarantine, which is consistent with CDC guidance, will be initiated.

Are Day students screened in the morning?

Yes. day students have health screenings in the morning and lin the afternoon after C Block.

Why are day students allowed to come and go each day?

Madeira is a day and boarding school. It is our desire to be in community with each other as much as possible. It’s clear that we cannot guarantee a 100% risk-free environment. We have established a layered approach for COVID-19 risk mitigation, which relies on cooperation from all members of our community, including both day AND boarding students, each day. Anyone experiencing symptoms of any contagious illness will not be allowed onto campus.

Is the school providing PPE for students?

Students are asked to bring their own cloth face coverings. Face coverings should be multi-layered cloth (three or more is best)

• Bandanas are no longer acceptable
• Neck gaiters are no longer acceptable

Are you looking to have a contact tracing app to help identify those possibly exposed?

Yes! We will are using COVIDWISE monitor contact tracing.

Can you discuss ventilation? Will there be outdoor classes? Tents?

Right now we are spaced such that we do not need to move any classes outdoors. We are ordering some outdoor tents for student spaces. We are filtering to MERV-13 filtration. Hospital and clean-room grade.

Are neck gaiters and bandanas acceptable face coverings?

Face coverings should be multi-layered cloth (three or more is best)

• Bandanas are not acceptable
• Neck gaiters are not acceptable

Will there be outside renters in the campus spaces once the students return to campus?

No outside renters will be in indoor spaces once the girls return to campus.

Will a COVID-19 test be required before the in-person classes start in Mod 4?

Yes, it will. The test should be done as close to your student’s arrival on campus as possible. That timetable will vary depending on where you live. We suggest you ask your healthcare provider about how long it is taking to get results in your area and then use that timing to identify the date that makes sense with your daughter's arrival date.

Is a physician’s note required to clear my student for return to on-campus learning post-COVID-19 infection?

Yes. Our previous guidelines indicated that a physician’s note may be requested prior to a student’s return to on-campus learning. Based upon the advice of physicians with whom we consult, we are now requiring this note prior to every student’s return to campus following COVID-19 infection.

What COVID-related safety precautions will the School be taking for D Block Athletics?

In addition to the routine cleaning and daily heath screening checks, Athletics will ensure the following measures:
- Small groupings and physical distancing will be utilized during practices
- Additional hand sanitizer/ handwashing stations throughout Athletics facilities

How will we participate in orchestra if we are doing distance learning?

You can participate virtually. The class is being designed that way. You will need to connect with others in your ensemble as well as with your teacher.

Can my daughter participate in outside athletic travel team practices/competitions?

Due to the potential risk of exposure to COVID-19 for the campus community, we cannot allow boarding or day students to participate in off-campus club sports until further notice. This is rooted in our approach to minimize student exposure and is also consistent with other boarding schools. We will continue to review this policy throughout the year as CDC, ISL, and VISAA COVID-19 guidelines evolve. Low to moderate risk activities may occasionally be granted an exception. That determination will be made by the Athletic Director and/or appropriate parties.

Have all activities open to the public accessing the Hurd been discontinued?

They have not. We have separated their work from our community, and they have strict protocols and we will follow them with cleaning

If a student opts to attend a mod virtually, what does that mean for her ability to participate in sports?

When a student attends a mod virtually, all of her blocks (classes and activities) will be virtual. On the reopening website, the sports/activities that can be attended remotely are listed.

How will athletic D-blocks like fitness, pilates, yoga, zumba be adjusted?

Those classes will also follow physical distancing guidelines and will enter a disinfected space and have the space disinfected afterward.

Our daughter is able to participate in a competitive team training sport during the fall. Can she receive D-Block credit for this?

Madeira will look at these proposals on a case by case basis, as well as inform your daughter about the requirements and expectations for receiving credit. In short, we want to work with families on securing this credit, but also to ensure that students are going to be part of our programs when we are ready to return to competition.

How do I order my athletic apparel?

You may order until Oct 4 at this link. Required apparel by sport is listed here.

Where can I locate "Important Dates" for the '20-'21 year?

www.madeira.org/importantdates

I understand face coverings are mandatory on campus. Does this extend to all D block activities as well (arts, athletic, riding, indoors and outdoors?)?

In general face coverings should be worn during all on-campus activities. Some activities, such as singing, performing theater arts, playing wind instruments, and exercising strenuously, may project small droplets of viral material in higher concentrations and over larger distances. Face coverings may help decrease this viral spread by containing these droplets; however, students may find it difficult to fully participate in such activities while wearing a face covering. In these situations, D block activity modifications may be made by the instructor/coach to allow student participation without face coverings for a period of time, while following school COVID-19 guidelines. Such modifications may include singing or exercising outdoors, expanding distance between participants to 10 or more feet, and implementing sport-specific strategies (i.e., while on horseback, a rider may not need to wear a face covering, but will be required to do so when on the ground; athletes may be allowed to participate in active-play without a face covering, but will be required to wear a face covering when on the sidelines/bench or participating in light exercise/stretching activities).

During lunch when I am not in the dining hall where can I be?

Students will have myriad outdoor spaces to enjoy during the school day, including Maynard Quad, Main Terrace and Main Bluff, and the Science Building Lawn. Girls may also be in Huffington Library during lunch, as well as the Hurd Sports Center or their C block classroom.

What will study hall be like this year?

Study Hall will remain 7:30-9:30 pm Sunday -Thursday. 9th, 10th and 11th graders will be in their dorm rooms for study hall. As always, seniors do not have study hall though seniors will have access to Huffington Library during study hall hours. All students will be able to participate in group work via technology during study hall. Students should have headphones for this purpose.

Will day students be allowed to eat breakfast and dinner on campus?

Day student are welcome to eat breakfast in the dining hall after they complete their daily health screening, including temperature check. Day students who are participating in an evening class may eat dinner in the dining hall. To start the year, to keep campus as de-densified as possible, day students who are not participating in an evening class are expected to leave campus following completion of their D block activity.

Are day students allowed in the dorms?

Our dorms are wonderful, and they are cozy! To ensure social distancing protocols and out of an abundance of caution, dorms will be open only to their residents at the start of the school year. As local COVID-19 trends allow, these spaces will gradually open to all students again.

Where will day students go in the time between classes if the weather does not permit the students to be outside?

Girls will have the biggest chunk of free time during the lunch period. When they are not eating they can be in the Library, Main Living Room, their C block classroom, the Hurd, the C/A Foyer or Main Living Room. Passing time between classes is only 15 minutes this year so there won't be as much need for these spaces in between classes.

Is there anything special that boarding students should bring this year?

Yes, we have added a few new items and suggestions to our What to Bring list. Be sure to remember at least 5-7 washable, reusable, cloth face coverings (ie. masks, bandanas, etc). We will be spending a lot of time outdoors when the weather is nice so you may want to bring a collapsible outdoor chair and/or an outdoor blanket. Keep in mind that we’ll be doing distance learning from Thanksgiving to Winter break so you should bring less belongings than usual (you shouldn’t need that winter coat yet).

Can I ship items to Madeira before I arrive?

Families are welcome to ship belongings to campus from home or to have items you have purchased delivered to Madeira. These items will be waiting in the Student Center when you arrive, and you may pick them up during your unloading timeslot on the day you move in. Students will also be able to collect additional packages that may be shipped after they arrive to campus.

Please address packages to:
[Your daughter’s name]
The Madeira School
8328 Georgetown Pike
McLean, VA 22102

I left belongings in my room when I left campus last spring, where will they be?

If you were unable to return to campus last spring to collect your belongings, a Dorm Parent packed your room for you and we have stored your belongings for the summer. If you are returning to Madeira for MOD 1, we will deliver your belongings to your new dorm room before you arrive to campus. If you are not going to be on campus for MOD 1, we will keep your belongings in storage and work with you to collect your belongings when you return to campus.

Can I open a bank account for my daughter when she arrives at Madeira for move-in?

In the past we have been able to host bank representatives on campus as families arrive but unfortunately that is not possible this year. Students who have a Social Security number or a Tax ID number may set up a bank account online. Students who do not have a Social Security number or a Tax ID number should make an appointment to go in person to a local bank to set up an account (we recommend calling ahead to schedule the appointment and for it to take place prior to arriving to campus for move-in). There are many local banks that are close to Madeira with branches in both McLean and Tysons including Wells Fargo, Bank of America, PNC Bank, M&T Bank, BB&T Bank, Capital One, and United Bank.

What is being done to make bus transportation safe?

All Madeira vehicles have been marked with blue painters’ tape, so there is a visible reminder where to sit/not sit for social distancing purposes (a minimum of 3 feet apart, all wearing face coverings) per VDH guidelines. Windows will be open to increase air circulation when weather allows. Madeira vehicles will be cleaned and disinfected before, between and after each use. Drivers will complete a daily health screening prior to driving and will be wearing both a face covering and a face shield while operating a Madeira vehicle.

What date should students arrive back to campus for Mod 2?

Please visit our updated Arrival Schedules page for up-to-date information.

Can you give me an idea of some of the student events you have planned to build community during the virtual mod?

Families received an email with information about “Student Connection Events” which will be held throughout the mod and include grade level get-togethers, dorm gatherings, favorite traditions, like Red and White (RAW) sorting with a twist, and other fun events. Please encourage your daughter to join in these important community-building events. View the attached calendar for some of the student events. Students receive detailed information about these events via email.

Is the REACH app for boarders only or boarders and day?

The REACH app is for both boarders and day students and is our tool for the Daily Health Screenings for all students. The instructions for accessing REACH were attached to the Arrival Schedule email sent to parents August 27. We will email you the week of August 31 with the step by step instructions how to complete the Daily Health Screening in REACH. As a reminder, students should begin to complete these twice a day 14 days prior to their arrival on campus.

My daughter is a boarder; when will we find out her arrival time?

A student’s designated individual arrival time will be communicated no later than September 16th. If you have not already done so please complete the Arrival Survey no later than September 10. The information you share in this survey will allow us to assign you an arrival time that best fits with your travel plans. (Please complete this form even if you believe your daughter may participate in distance learning beyond Mod 1). Many thanks to those of you who have already done the survey.

I will be coming to campus by private car but have elected to arrive on September 25 or September 26.  Will I still be in a single until Mod 2 begins? Will I be quarantined?

All students who arrive on September 25 or 26 will follow the same protocols whether they traveled to Madeira using public transportation or not.

• In general students will be in single rooms

I wasn’t able to tune in live for Opening Convocation and RAW Sorting, where can I view them?

You can watch both on our YouTube channel -

• Opening Convocation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UC33iqLHqbs&t=1s
• RAW Sorting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFe61rN12mA&t=1s

The connection calendar mentioned the possibility of some on campus events during Mod 1; will those be happening?

Yes! We are so excited to be holding two separate outdoor movie night events for students who are able to get to campus. On Friday, September 11th, we will host the class of 2021 for our first showing. Next, on Friday, September 18, all new students have been invited to join us on the Science Lawn for an outdoor movie. We will be providing outdoor seating and yummy snacks! Students should feel free to bring a blanket or pillow for comfort during the movie. All seniors and new students received an email invitation and survey link yesterday afternoon from Ms. Pubal. To be eligible, students will need to have completed all of their daily health screenings in REACH beginning on Tuesday, September 8th (detailed instructions forthcoming!). Interested parties should fill out the survey as soon as possible. We cannot wait to welcome our lovely Snails back to campus in this way!

Are there any additional forms I need to fill out prior to my daughter returning to campus?

Yes. There are 3 forms on the parent portal that require a parent/guardian signature prior to a girl returning to campus for any activity, class, or move-in.

How do I submit my daily health screening on REACH?

View REACH instructions here.

What will the arrival and move-in process look like?

Consistent with our initial arrival plan, to ensure physical distancing is possible during move-in, every boarding student has been assigned a specific arrival time. Assignments were made based on the information you provided in your arrival survey. There are a maximum of two students per dorm, per arrival time slot. Before moving into your dorm, you will “drive through” three discreet registration stations. Watch this video for a demonstration.

How has Co-Curriculum been impacted by COVID-19?

Summer is a time for the Co-Curriculum Program to line up new partners, re-affirm our relationships with existing partners, evaluate the program’s logistics, review the program’s academic integration, and begin securing internships for those students assigned to an early mod of Co-Curriculum. Added to our work for this summer is ensuring that students’ participation in the program supports the health guidelines outlined by state and local health officials as well as Madeira’s efforts to minimize the risk to our school’s community.

The uncertainty brought by COVID-19 has interfered with the necessary long-range planning of the Co-Curriculum Program. While current and future partners have expressed interest in working with Madeira students, at this point they are not able to commit to what that partnership will look like. We are therefore preparing for multiple scenarios so as to ensure girls have access to a rich internship experience whether in-person or virtual.

Will there be in-person internships this year?

It is our sincere hope that all students will be able to participate in in-person internships this year, but this hope is highly dependent upon the situation with COVID-19. Therefore, we are developing grade-level specific alternatives to in-person internships that offer students the same opportunities for intrapersonal growth, the development of workplace skills, opportunities for teamwork and professional networking, and continued integration with our academic programs that they would experience with in-person internships. For juniors and seniors, “virtual internships” will be a robust experience that we can deploy if conditions require. For sophomores, the service learning, teamwork, and skills building will take place on campus, combining in-person activities with online learning when needed. For sophomores, the service learning, teamwork, and skills building will take place on campus, combining in-person activities with online learning when needed.

What are the Co-Curriculum mods for '20-'21?

So as to give us the most advantageous lead up to placing students during COVID-19, the Co-Curriculum mods will start in January. Juniors and Seniors are assigned to a Co-Curriculum mod in either Mods 4, 5, 6, or 7. Sophomores are assigned to a Co-Curriculum mod in either Mods 5 or 6.

What are the guidelines that will govern the School's decision about an in-person placement vs. virtual placement?

When making decisions about in-person internships, The Madeira School will adhere to Virginia’s reopening guidelines for schools and employers. While Virginia is in Phases I (view Phase I details), II (view Phase II details), or III (view Phase III details), or is under stay-at-home orders, Madeira students will not have in-person internships. Two mods in advance of a student’s Co-Curriculum mod, Madeira will make a determination about in-person internships for that mod based upon regional conditions and the current reopening phase.

Can internships be set-up ahead of time so that they can do virtual Capitol Hill internships should the school and DC region shut down again?

All juniors enrolled in Junior Year Co-Curriculum will have an internship, either in person or virtual. The Co-Curriculum Office will be working well ahead of your Co-Curriculum mod to set up the internship.

Will the global health crisis have an impact on college admissions and higher education?

Yes! Your college counselors stay in tune with changes through participation in professional organizations, such as NACAC and ACCIS, staying on top of higher education news through various blogs and publications (such as Inside Higher Ed), and communicating with our college admission office colleagues.

Will college counseling programming and support be offered remotely?

Yes, all programing will be accessible to students who are engaged in distance learning this fall. We will start the year focused on seniors as they enter the active phase of college applications. Sophomores and juniors should stay tuned for announcements about college counseling programming for their specific grade levels.

Will the PSAT be offered to sophomores and juniors this year?

Yes, all sophomores and juniors who can arrange to be on campus on October 14th, can take the PSAT. All sophomores and juniors will be receiving communication from Ms. Kerrigan regarding the PSAT process. If you choose to not take the PSAT, please email Ms. Kerrigan (pkerrigan@madeira.org) no later than September 25th.

What if I miss the PSAT?

While the PSAT has value, sophomores and juniors should not change their plans in order to complete this assessment. Sophomores will have a second opportunity next year, and most juniors took the test last year. The PSAT is also the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test for juniors; however, only students in the top 1% of the top 1% qualify for this opportunity. This is unlikely for 99.9% of students, and therefore not worth making plans around. There are other ways to qualify if a junior is testing in the top 1% by other measures. If you have any questions about National Merit, ask your college counselor.

I am applying for my F-1 visa - what do I need to know?

The State Department announced a phased re-opening of consulates and visa services beginning the week of July 13. Make sure you are receiving emails and texts from your local consulate.

New students applying for visas in Ireland, the Schengen Area, and UK should contact their consulate to ask about the "national interest exception" and if they need to apply for one of these to travel to the U.S.

Madeira will be updating Form I-20's for all F1 students to be in line with SEVP's most current guidance; a revised Form I-20 will be emailed to you to present at your visa appointment. Please communicate the progress of your F1 visa application with Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.

What if I can't get my visa in time to come for the start of the school year?

The challenge of closed visa offices and travel restrictions still exists for many families. Students who are unable to return to campus for the beginning of the academic year may start as distance learners and make plans to return to campus as soon as they are able.

Madeira will be updating Form I-20's for all F1 students to be in line with SEVP's most current guidance; a revised Form I-20 with adjusted program start dates will be emailed to you to present at your visa appointment. It’s important to communicate the progress of your F1 visa application with Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.

Families should not make any travel plans that cannot be changed or canceled. We strongly encourage families to consider purchasing travel insurance.

If I have a valid F-1 visa, do I need to do anything different?

Madeira will be updating Form I-20's for all F1 students to be in line with SEVP's most current guidance. The need for revisions depend on whether you are a new or returning student and when you will be traveling into the United States. A revised I-20’s will be sent to you via email. It is important that you communicate your travel plans with Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.

We will also email you a letter that states that you are a student at Madeira, that Madeira is offering in-person, on campus education, and that we look forward to seeing you on campus for the start of the school year. Please print this letter (and make sure you have your I-20 and all other supporting documents) to carry with you when you travel.

If I have to study fully online from home, will my visa status be affected?

No. Your F-1 student visa remains valid until its expiration date, regardless of where you study. Your I-20 will be temporarily deactivated until you are able to re-enter the United States again. We will reinstate your I-20 as soon as you confirm your travel plans to come to campus. We will work closely with the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to ensure your status as a non-immigrant student is not affected. It is important that you communicate your travel plans with Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.

What Are the Current Guidelines for Quarantine after International Travel?

Because the CDC and VA Department of Public Health recommend that all people quarantine after international travel, students taking any form of public transportation to school will need to arrive on August 22 for a period of monitoring and observation on campus. Students will be assigned a single room for this period; specific parameters for activities and meals during this period will be informed by current guidelines.

It is important to note that we also ask that all students isolate at home for 14 days before traveling to Madeira. In addition, all students will need to present a negative COVID-19 test when they arrive on campus. A negative COVID-19 test should be dated no earlier than August 15.

I have heard that F-1 students are now allowed to travel directly to the United States.

This is true for students from Canada, Ireland, Mexico, the Schengen Area, and the UK.

Travel for the purposes of attending school is deemed "essential travel" and allows students to enter the U.S. from Canada and Mexico. Nevertheless, please confirm current conditions at your border crossing or with the airline before travel.

Based on a July 16 U.S. Department of State update: "Students traveling from the Schengen Area, the UK, and Ireland with valid F-1 and M-1 visas, do not need to seek a national interest exception to travel." Please check the State Department website and with the airline before traveling.

I live in Brazil, China, or Iran and am not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Are there restrictions that apply to me?

The presidential proclamation barring non-U.S. citizens from traveling directly from Brazil, Iran, and China still remains in effect, and our understanding is that U.S. Customs and Border Patrol is enforcing this restriction. Non-U.S. citizens traveling from Brazil, China, or Iran have to spend 14 days outside of their country in another country that allows for direct flights to the United States. This means that students from Brazil, China, or Iran will need to begin their travels in early August. If you have successfully booked a direct flight from Brazil, China, or Iran to the U.S, please call the airline to confirm they are aware of your student's citizenship.

I plan to travel with my child to drop them off. What do I need to know?

We know that some families will want to bring their students directly to campus. We are asking that no more than two family members accompany a student on her arrival. Given the restrictions that will be in place related to movement around campus, families may want to leave children under the age of 12 at home this year. Family members and guardians accompanying their student to campus will be required to wear a mask and adhere to social distancing guidelines. As all parent orientation will be virtual, parents will not be remaining on campus after they move their daughter into her room.

Transportation from the Airport

If you are a new Madeira student travelling alone, please contact the Dean of Students office to see if we can help coordinate transportation to campus.

What happens if the school closes on short notice after we start the school year?

According to the most recent ICE guidance (as of July 15, 2020), foreign citizens studying in the United States and enrolled in a fully online program are eligible to remain in the country for the duration of the program. You will not have to leave the United States if we go fully online. If we have to temporarily close campus, we will work with you to find a place for you to stay in the United States, if you wish to do so— at the home of your local guardian, at the home of another family member or friend, or if necessary, on campus or a local hotel.

Considering the different time zone (e.g. about 12 hours in China), is it obligated for students to attend the class live?

Students in far-away time zones do NOT have to attend all classes; they will have the opportunity to attend a brief session with their teachers daily, based on a mutually agreed upon times.

I am unable to attend a parent webinar. Will it be recorded?

Yes, webinars will be recorded so you can view them at a convenient time. To view past webinars, you must register using the original registration link. The reply will come back as a link to the recorded meeting. To maintain privacy and security, we do not post recordings, but you may access them for 30 days after the meeting through the registration link.

I am unable to attend a parent webinar. Will it be recorded?

Yes, webinars will be recorded so you can view them at a convenient time. To view past webinars, you must register using the original registration link. The reply will come back as a link to the recorded meeting. To maintain privacy and security, we do not post recordings, but you may access them for 30 days after the meeting through the registration link.

My daughter is a boarder; when will we find out her arrival time?

A student’s designated individual arrival time will be communicated no later than September 16th. If you have not already done so please complete the Arrival Survey no later than September 10. The information you share in this survey will allow us to assign you an arrival time that best fits with your travel plans. (Please complete this form even if you believe your daughter may participate in distance learning beyond Mod 1). Many thanks to those of you who have already done the survey.

My daughter left something at home; may I drop it off at the AOD as I typically would?

To help us keep campus as de-densified as possible and to minimize exposure to our community, we ask that parents come to campus for essential reasons only. If you daughter has forgotten an item, we will help her navigate that. If she left behind a book, she can ask the teacher or Academic Office if there is an extra she can borrow. If she forgot shorts for her D block she can ask a boarder friend to borrow a pair. We understand this may not be your daughter’s preferred solution, and we know that it is an opportunity for her to build her capacity for resilience. If the item is critical, such as an Epi-pen or inhaler, you may drop it off at the Wellness House (which is the last house along the main road before you get to the Student Center.) Please call Mrs. Sotos at 703-556-8244 to alert her that you are coming and leave it on the table directly inside the front door as she may be with a student when you arrive. For anything else, you may leave it on the cart in the in front of the AOD under the portico and alert your daughter to pick it up there. As with all visitors coming to campus, the gatehouse officer will do a quick health screening/temperature check upon your arrival.

I’m a remote learner for Mod 2. Can I come to campus to visit my friends?

In general, no. Remote learners remain off campus for the Mod they have chosen distance learning. There may be a specific event to which a remote learner may receive an invitation, such as the October 2 SWING Sister event or the class movie night. In those cases, assuming you have been completing your REACH health screenings as directed, you may come to campus for a pre-arranged, invited event.

How has Co-Curriculum been impacted by COVID-19?

Summer is a time for the Co-Curriculum Program to line up new partners, re-affirm our relationships with existing partners, evaluate the program’s logistics, review the program’s academic integration, and begin securing internships for those students assigned to an early mod of Co-Curriculum. Added to our work for this summer is ensuring that students’ participation in the program supports the health guidelines outlined by state and local health officials as well as Madeira’s efforts to minimize the risk to our school’s community.

The uncertainty brought by COVID-19 has interfered with the necessary long-range planning of the Co-Curriculum Program. While current and future partners have expressed interest in working with Madeira students, at this point they are not able to commit to what that partnership will look like. We are therefore preparing for multiple scenarios so as to ensure girls have access to a rich internship experience whether in-person or virtual.

Will there be in-person internships this year?

It is our sincere hope that all students will be able to participate in in-person internships this year, but this hope is highly dependent upon the situation with COVID-19. Therefore, we are developing grade-level specific alternatives to in-person internships that offer students the same opportunities for intrapersonal growth, the development of workplace skills, opportunities for teamwork and professional networking, and continued integration with our academic programs that they would experience with in-person internships. For juniors and seniors, “virtual internships” will be a robust experience that we can deploy if conditions require. As the name suggests, virtual internships are internships that are conducted away from the physical place of the office or organization, using online and digital technologies to connect the intern with the supervisor and staff and to complete work. Virtual internships allow students to experience these primary elements of in-person internships, as well as preparing our students how to learn, work, and engage people using a variety of technologies. For sophomores, the service learning, teamwork, and skills building will take place on campus, combining in-person activities with online learning when needed.

What are the Co-Curriculum mods for '20-'21?

So as to give us the most advantageous lead up to placing students during COVID-19, the Co-Curriculum mods will start in January. Juniors and Seniors are assigned to a Co-Curriculum mod in either Mods 4, 5, 6, or 7. Sophomores are assigned to a Co-Curriculum mod in either Mods 5 or 6.

What are the guidelines that will govern the School's decision about an in-person placement vs. a virtual placement?

When making decisions about in-person internships, The Madeira School will adhere to Virginia’s reopening guidelines for schools and employers. While Virginia is in Phases I (view Phase I details), II (view Phase II details), or III (view Phase III details), or is under stay-at-home orders, Madeira students will not have in-person internships. Two mods in advance of a student’s Co-Curriculum mod, Madeira will make a determination about in-person internships for that mod based upon regional conditions and the current reopening phase.

If you have additional questions, contact:

cocurriculum@madeira.org

Can internships be set-up ahead of time so that they can do virtual Capitol Hill internships should the school and DC region shut down again?

All juniors enrolled in Junior Year Co-Curriculum will have an internship, either in person or virtual. The Co-Curriculum Office will be working well ahead of your Co-Curriculum mod to set up the internship.

If you have additional questions, contact:

• Athletics: athletics@madeira.org
• Equestrian: imccartney@madeira.org
• Arts: snewman@madeira.org

What COVID-related safety precautions will the School be taking for D Block Athletics?

In addition to the routine cleaning and daily heath screening checks, Athletics will ensure the following measures:
- Small groupings and physical distancing will be utilized during practices
- Additional hand sanitizer/ handwashing stations throughout Athletics facilities

How will we participate in orchestra if we are doing distance learning?

You can participate virtually. The class is being designed that way. You will need to connect with others in your ensemble as well as with your teacher.

Have all activities open to the public accessing the Hurd been discontinued?

They have not. We have separated their work from our community, and they have strict protocols and we will follow them with cleaning

If a student opts to attend a mod virtually, what does that mean for her ability to participate in sports?

When a student attends a mod virtually, all of her blocks (classes and activities) will be virtual. On the reopening website, the sports/activities that can be attended remotely are listed.

How will athletic D-blocks like fitness, pilates, yoga, zumba be adjusted?

Those classes will also follow physical distancing guidelines and will enter a disinfected space and have the space disinfected afterward.

With the move to virtual school, does that now allow girls to participate in club sports?

Yes, with the shift to virtual learning during Mod 1, students will be permitted to participate in club and travel teams during this time frame. If a student should decide to continue participation in club or travel teams beyond Mod 1, we will ask students to continue with virtual learning as part of the necessary mitigation steps to allow for in-person learning to occur, while keeping the community healthy and safe.

Can I participate in outside activities (club sport, job, specialty lessons, etc.) if I will be learning in-person?

The decision on whether to participate in a club sport, job, or specialty lesson during a pandemic is a potentially complex one but not without options. As a School, Madeira is following the Phased Guidance for Virginia Schools from the Virginia Department of Education. We have prepared this guide to help inform your decision on in-person vs. remote learning. Please contact us if you have further questions.

How do I order my athletic apparel?

You may order until Oct 4 at this link. Required apparel by sport is listed here.

What are the parameters about learning on campus or remotely in ’20-’21?

In ’20-’21, students and families have the choice for on-campus or off-campus learning. All courses will be designed as hybrid courses, to meet students’ learning needs in our unusual year. Students who are learning off campus are making the decision on a mod-by-mod basis (with the single exception of an international student who can get a flight mid-mod, all other students are either learning on campus for the entire mod or learning remotely for the entire mod). If one is learning off campus and in a time zone that allows, she is required to participate in the synchronous part of the day (advising, class instruction, class and community meetings, etc.). If she is in a time zone that does not allow, her teachers will arrange with her a different time during the day for her 10-20 minutes of teacher-forward instruction. Whether learning on campus or remotely, all students are expected to meet graduation requirements, including participation in D block, and all grading is standard.

Where can I locate “Important Dates” for the ’20-’21 School Year?

www.madeira.org/importantdates

If you have additional questions, contact:

dos@madeira.org

I understand face coverings are mandatory on campus. Does this extend to all D block activities as well (arts, athletic, riding, indoors and outdoors?)?

In general face coverings should be worn during all on-campus activities. Some activities, such as singing, performing theater arts, playing wind instruments, and exercising strenuously, may project small droplets of viral material in higher concentrations and over larger distances. Face coverings may help decrease this viral spread by containing these droplets; however, students may find it difficult to fully participate in such activities while wearing a face covering. In these situations, D block activity modifications may be made by the instructor/coach to allow student participation without face coverings for a period of time, while following school COVID-19 guidelines. Such modifications may include singing or exercising outdoors, expanding distance between participants to 10 or more feet, and implementing sport-specific strategies (i.e., while on horseback, a rider may not need to wear a face covering, but will be required to do so when on the ground; athletes may be allowed to participate in active-play without a face covering, but will be required to wear a face covering when on the sidelines/bench or participating in light exercise/stretching activities).

During lunch when I am not in the dining hall where can I be?

Students will have myriad outdoor spaces to enjoy during the school day, including Maynard Quad, Main Terrace and Main Bluff, and the Science Building Lawn. Girls may also be in Huffington Library during lunch, as well as the Hurd Sports Center or their C block classroom.

What will study hall be like this year?

Study Hall will remain 7:30-9:30 pm Sunday -Thursday. 9th, 10th and 11th graders will be in their dorm rooms for study hall. As always, seniors do not have study hall though seniors will have access to Huffington Library during study hall hours. All students will be able to participate in group work via technology during study hall. Students should have headphones for this purpose.

Will day students be allowed to eat breakfast and dinner on campus?

Day student are welcome to eat breakfast in the dining hall after they complete their daily health screening, including temperature check. Day students who are participating in an evening class may eat dinner in the dining hall. To start the year, to keep campus as de-densified as possible, day students who are not participating in an evening class are expected to leave campus following completion of their D block activity.

Are day students allowed in the dorms?

Our dorms are wonderful, and they are cozy! To ensure social distancing protocols and out of an abundance of caution, dorms will be open only to their residents at the start of the school year. As local COVID-19 trends allow, these spaces will gradually open to all students again.

Where will day students go in the time between classes if the weather does not permit the students to be outside?

Girls will have the biggest chunk of free time during the lunch period. When they are not eating they can be in the Library, Main Living Room, their C block classroom, the Hurd, the C/A Foyer or Main Living Room. Passing time between classes is only 15 minutes this year so there won't be as much need for these spaces in between classes.

Is there anything special that boarding students should bring this year?

Yes, we have added a few new items and suggestions to our What to Bring list. Be sure to remember at least 5-7 washable, reusable, cloth face coverings (ie. masks, bandanas, etc). We will be spending a lot of time outdoors when the weather is nice so you may want to bring a collapsible outdoor chair and/or an outdoor blanket. Keep in mind that we’ll be doing distance learning from Thanksgiving to Winter break so you should bring less belongings than usual (you shouldn’t need that winter coat yet).

Can I ship items to Madeira before I arrive?

Families are welcome to ship belongings to campus from home or to have items you have purchased delivered to Madeira. These items will be waiting in the Student Center when you arrive, and you may pick them up during your unloading timeslot on the day you move in. Students will also be able to collect additional packages that may be shipped after they arrive to campus.

Please address packages to:
[Your daughter’s name]
The Madeira School
8328 Georgetown Pike
McLean, VA 22102

I left belongings in my room when I left campus last spring, where will they be?

If you were unable to return to campus last spring to collect your belongings, a Dorm Parent packed your room for you and we have stored your belongings for the summer. If you are returning to Madeira for MOD 1, we will deliver your belongings to your new dorm room before you arrive to campus. If you are not going to be on campus for MOD 1, we will keep your belongings in storage and work with you to collect your belongings when you return to campus.

Can I open a bank account for my daughter when she arrives at Madeira for move-in?

In the past we have been able to host bank representatives on campus as families arrive but unfortunately that is not possible this year. Students who have a Social Security number or a Tax ID number may set up a bank account online. Students who do not have a Social Security number or a Tax ID number should make an appointment to go in person to a local bank to set up an account (we recommend calling ahead to schedule the appointment and for it to take place prior to arriving to campus for move-in). There are many local banks that are close to Madeira with branches in both McLean and Tysons including Wells Fargo, Bank of America, PNC Bank, M&T Bank, BB&T Bank, Capital One, and United Bank.

What is being done to make bus transportation safe?

All Madeira vehicles have been marked with blue painters’ tape so there is a visible reminder where to sit/not sit for social distancing purposes (a minimum of 3 feet apart, all wearing face coverings) per VDH guidelines. Windows will be open to increase air circulation when weather allows. Madeira vehicles will be cleaned and disinfected before, between and after each use. Drivers will complete a daily health screening prior to driving and will be wearing both a face covering and a face shield while operating a Madeira vehicle.

What date should students arrive back to campus for Mod 2?

Please see our updated Arrival Schedules page.

Can you give me an idea of some of the student events you have planned to build community during the virtual mod?

Families received an email with information about “Student Connection Events” which will be held throughout the mod and include grade level get-togethers, dorm gatherings, favorite traditions, like Red and White (RAW) sorting with a twist, and other fun events. Please encourage your daughter to join in these important community-building events. View the attached calendar for some of the student events. Students receive detailed information about these events via email.

Is the REACH app for boarders only or boarders and day?

The REACH app is for both boarders and day students and is our tool for the Daily Health Screenings for all students. The instructions for accessing REACH were attached to the Arrival Schedule email sent to parents August 27. We will email you the week of August 31 with the step by step instructions how to complete the Daily Health Screening in REACH. As a reminder, students should begin to complete these twice a day 14 days prior to their arrival on campus.

My daughter is a boarder; when will we find out her arrival time?

A student’s designated individual arrival time will be communicated no later than September 16th. If you have not already done so please complete the Arrival Survey no later than September 10. The information you share in this survey will allow us to assign you an arrival time that best fits with your travel plans. (Please complete this form even if you believe your daughter may participate in distance learning beyond Mod 1). Many thanks to those of you who have already done the survey.

I will be coming to campus by private car but have elected to arrive on September 25 or September 26.  Will I still be in a single until Mod 2 begins? Will I be quarantined?

All students who arrive on September 25 or 26 will follow the same protocols whether they traveled to Madeira using public transportation or not.

• In general students will be in single rooms
• There will be outdoor activities on September 26 and 27
• Students will participate in class from their dorm rooms
• How students participate in D block during this time will be specific to their activity. We will send more information about this in our September 16th email with individual arrival schedules.
• Students will go through the dining hall to build their meal for breakfast and dinner and then eat outdoors or in their rooms
• Lunches will be delivered to student’s dorm room
• There will be pre-dinner outdoor activities by dorm
• Students will have in room study hall from 7:30-9:30pm Sunday through Thursday
• Students who took public transportation as part of their travel to Madeira will have COVID-19 testing on Friday, October 2
  

I wasn’t able to tune in live for Opening Convocation and RAW Sorting, where can I view them?

You can watch both on our YouTube channel -

• Opening Convocation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UC33iqLHqbs&t=1s
• RAW Sorting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFe61rN12mA&t=1s

The connection calendar mentioned the possibility of some on campus events during Mod 1; will those be happening?

Yes! We are so excited to be holding two separate outdoor movie night events for students who are able to get to campus. On Friday, September 11th, we will host the class of 2021 for our first showing. Next, on Friday, September 18, all new students have been invited to join us on the Science Lawn for an outdoor movie. We will be providing outdoor seating and yummy snacks! Students should feel free to bring a blanket or pillow for comfort during the movie. All seniors and new students received an email invitation and survey link yesterday afternoon from Ms. Pubal. To be eligible, students will need to have completed all of their daily health screenings in REACH beginning on Tuesday, September 8th (detailed instructions forthcoming!). Interested parties should fill out the survey as soon as possible. We cannot wait to welcome our lovely Snails back to campus in this way!

Are there any additional forms I need to fill out prior to my daughter returning to campus?

Yes. There are 3 forms on the parent portal that require a parent/guardian signature prior to a girl returning to campus for any activity, class, or move-in.

How do I submit my daily health screening in REACH?

View REACH instructions here.

What will the arrival and move-in process look like?

Consistent with our initial arrival plan, to ensure physical distancing is possible during move-in, every boarding student has been assigned a specific arrival time. Assignments were made based on the information you provided in your arrival survey. There are a maximum of two students per dorm, per arrival time slot. Before moving into your dorm, you will “drive through” three discreet registration stations. Watch this video for a demonstration.

How has Co-Curriculum been impacted by COVID-19?

Summer is a time for the Co-Curriculum Program to line up new partners, re-affirm our relationships with existing partners, evaluate the program’s logistics, review the program’s academic integration, and begin securing internships for those students assigned to an early mod of Co-Curriculum. Added to our work for this summer is ensuring that students’ participation in the program supports the health guidelines outlined by state and local health officials as well as Madeira’s efforts to minimize the risk to our school’s community.

The uncertainty brought by COVID-19 has interfered with the necessary long-range planning of the Co-Curriculum Program. While current and future partners have expressed interest in working with Madeira students, at this point they are not able to commit to what that partnership will look like. We are therefore preparing for multiple scenarios so as to ensure girls have access to a rich internship experience whether in-person or virtual.

Will there be in-person internships this year?

It is our sincere hope that all students will be able to participate in in-person internships this year, but this hope is highly dependent upon the situation with COVID-19. Therefore, we are developing grade-level specific alternatives to in-person internships that offer students the same opportunities for intrapersonal growth, the development of workplace skills, opportunities for teamwork and professional networking, and continued integration with our academic programs that they would experience with in-person internships. For juniors and seniors, “virtual internships” will be a robust experience that we can deploy if conditions require. As the name suggests, virtual internships are internships that are conducted away from the physical place of the office or organization, using online and digital technologies to connect the intern with the supervisor and staff and to complete work. Virtual internships allow students to experience these primary elements of in-person internships, as well as preparing our students how to learn, work, and engage people using a variety of technologies. For sophomores, the service learning, teamwork, and skills building will take place on campus, combining in-person activities with online learning when needed.

What are the Co-Curriculum mods for '20-'21?

So as to give us the most advantageous lead up to placing students during COVID-19, the Co-Curriculum mods will start in January. Juniors and Seniors are assigned to a Co-Curriculum mod in either Mods 4, 5, 6, or 7. Sophomores are assigned to a Co-Curriculum mod in either Mods 5 or 6.

What are the guidelines that will govern the School's decision about an in-person placement vs. a virtual placement?

When making decisions about in-person internships, The Madeira School will adhere to Virginia’s reopening guidelines for schools and employers. While Virginia is in Phases I (view Phase I details), II (view Phase II details), or III (view Phase III details), or is under stay-at-home orders, Madeira students will not have in-person internships. Two mods in advance of a student’s Co-Curriculum mod, Madeira will make a determination about in-person internships for that mod based upon regional conditions and the current reopening phase.

If you have additional questions, contact:

cocurriculum@madeira.org

Can internships be set-up ahead of time so that they can do virtual Capitol Hill internships should the school and DC region shut down again?

All juniors enrolled in Junior Year Co-Curriculum will have an internship, either in person or virtual. The Co-Curriculum Office will be working well ahead of your Co-Curriculum mod to set up the internship.

What are the parameters about learning on campus or remotely in ’20-’21?

In ’20-’21, students and families have the choice for on-campus or off-campus learning. All courses will be designed as hybrid courses, to meet students’ learning needs in our unusual year. Students who are learning off campus are making the decision on a mod-by-mod basis (with the single exception of an international student who can get a flight mid-mod, all other students are either learning on campus for the entire mod or learning remotely for the entire mod). If one is learning off campus and in a time zone that allows, she is required to participate in the synchronous part of the day (advising, class instruction, class and community meetings, etc.). If she is in a time zone that does not allow, her teachers will arrange with her a different time during the day for her 10-20 minutes of teacher-forward instruction. Whether learning on campus or remotely, all students are expected to meet graduation requirements, including participation in D block, and all grading is standard.

Where can I locate “Important Dates” for the ’20-’21 School Year?

www.madeira.org/importantdates

If you have additional questions, contact:

dos@madeira.org

I understand face coverings are mandatory on campus. Does this extend to all D block activities as well (arts, athletic, riding, indoors and outdoors?)?

In general face coverings should be worn during all on-campus activities. Some activities, such as singing, performing theater arts, playing wind instruments, and exercising strenuously, may project small droplets of viral material in higher concentrations and over larger distances. Face coverings may help decrease this viral spread by containing these droplets; however, students may find it difficult to fully participate in such activities while wearing a face covering. In these situations, D block activity modifications may be made by the instructor/coach to allow student participation without face coverings for a period of time, while following school COVID-19 guidelines. Such modifications may include singing or exercising outdoors, expanding distance between participants to 10 or more feet, and implementing sport-specific strategies (i.e., while on horseback, a rider may not need to wear a face covering, but will be required to do so when on the ground; athletes may be allowed to participate in active-play without a face covering, but will be required to wear a face covering when on the sidelines/bench or participating in light exercise/stretching activities).

During lunch when I am not in the dining hall where can I be?

Students will have myriad outdoor spaces to enjoy during the school day, including Maynard Quad, Main Terrace and Main Bluff, and the Science Building Lawn. Girls may also be in Huffington Library during lunch, as well as the Hurd Sports Center or their C block classroom.

What will study hall be like this year?

Study Hall will remain 7:30-9:30 pm Sunday -Thursday. 9th, 10th and 11th graders will be in their dorm rooms for study hall. As always, seniors do not have study hall though seniors will have access to Huffington Library during study hall hours. All students will be able to participate in group work via technology during study hall. Students should have headphones for this purpose.

Will day students be allowed to eat breakfast and dinner on campus?

Day student are welcome to eat breakfast in the dining hall after they complete their daily health screening, including temperature check. Day students who are participating in an evening class may eat dinner in the dining hall. To start the year, to keep campus as de-densified as possible, day students who are not participating in an evening class are expected to leave campus following completion of their D block activity.

Are day students allowed in the dorms?

Our dorms are wonderful, and they are cozy! To ensure social distancing protocols and out of an abundance of caution, dorms will be open only to their residents at the start of the school year. As local COVID-19 trends allow, these spaces will gradually open to all students again.

Where will day students go in the time between classes if the weather does not permit the students to be outside?

Girls will have the biggest chunk of free time during the lunch period. When they are not eating they can be in the Library, Main Living Room, their C block classroom, the Hurd, the C/A Foyer or Main Living Room. Passing time between classes is only 15 minutes this year so there won't be as much need for these spaces in between classes.

Is there anything special that boarding students should bring this year?

Yes, we have added a few new items and suggestions to our What to Bring list. Be sure to remember at least 5-7 washable, reusable, cloth face coverings (ie. masks, bandanas, etc). We will be spending a lot of time outdoors when the weather is nice so you may want to bring a collapsible outdoor chair and/or an outdoor blanket. Keep in mind that we’ll be doing distance learning from Thanksgiving to Winter break so you should bring less belongings than usual (you shouldn’t need that winter coat yet).

Can I ship items to Madeira before I arrive?

Families are welcome to ship belongings to campus from home or to have items you have purchased delivered to Madeira. These items will be waiting in the Student Center when you arrive, and you may pick them up during your unloading timeslot on the day you move in. Students will also be able to collect additional packages that may be shipped after they arrive to campus.

Please address packages to:
[Your daughter’s name]
The Madeira School
8328 Georgetown Pike
McLean, VA 22102

I left belongings in my room when I left campus last spring, where will they be?

If you were unable to return to campus last spring to collect your belongings, a Dorm Parent packed your room for you and we have stored your belongings for the summer. If you are returning to Madeira for MOD 1, we will deliver your belongings to your new dorm room before you arrive to campus. If you are not going to be on campus for MOD 1, we will keep your belongings in storage and work with you to collect your belongings when you return to campus.

Can I open a bank account for my daughter when she arrives at Madeira for move-in?

In the past we have been able to host bank representatives on campus as families arrive but unfortunately that is not possible this year. Students who have a Social Security number or a Tax ID number may set up a bank account online. Students who do not have a Social Security number or a Tax ID number should make an appointment to go in person to a local bank to set up an account (we recommend calling ahead to schedule the appointment and for it to take place prior to arriving to campus for move-in). There are many local banks that are close to Madeira with branches in both McLean and Tysons including Wells Fargo, Bank of America, PNC Bank, M&T Bank, BB&T Bank, Capital One, and United Bank.

What is being done to make bus transportation safe?

All Madeira vehicles have been marked with blue painters’ tape so there is a visible reminder where to sit/not sit for social distancing purposes (a minimum of 3 feet apart, all wearing face coverings) per VDH guidelines. Windows will be open to increase air circulation when weather allows. Madeira vehicles will be cleaned and disinfected before, between and after each use. Drivers will complete a daily health screening prior to driving and will be wearing both a face covering and a face shield while operating a Madeira vehicle.

What date should students arrive back to campus for Mod 2?

Please see our updated Arrival Schedules page.

Can you give me an idea of some of the student events you have planned to build community during the virtual mod?

Families received an email with information about “Student Connection Events” which will be held throughout the mod and include grade level get-togethers, dorm gatherings, favorite traditions, like Red and White (RAW) sorting with a twist, and other fun events. Please encourage your daughter to join in these important community-building events. View the attached calendar for some of the student events. Students receive detailed information about these events via email.

Is the REACH app for boarders only or boarders and day?

The REACH app is for both boarders and day students and is our tool for the Daily Health Screenings for all students. The instructions for accessing REACH were attached to the Arrival Schedule email sent to parents August 27. We will email you the week of August 31 with the step by step instructions how to complete the Daily Health Screening in REACH. As a reminder, students should begin to complete these twice a day 14 days prior to their arrival on campus.

My daughter is a boarder; when will we find out her arrival time?

A student’s designated individual arrival time will be communicated no later than September 16th. If you have not already done so please complete the Arrival Survey no later than September 10. The information you share in this survey will allow us to assign you an arrival time that best fits with your travel plans. (Please complete this form even if you believe your daughter may participate in distance learning beyond Mod 1). Many thanks to those of you who have already done the survey.

I will be coming to campus by private car but have elected to arrive on September 25 or September 26.  Will I still be in a single until Mod 2 begins? Will I be quarantined?

All students who arrive on September 25 or 26 will follow the same protocols whether they traveled to Madeira using public transportation or not.

• In general students will be in single rooms
• There will be outdoor activities on September 26 and 27
• Students will participate in class from their dorm rooms
• How students participate in D block during this time will be specific to their activity. We will send more information about this in our September 16th email with individual arrival schedules.
• Students will go through the dining hall to build their meal for breakfast and dinner and then eat outdoors or in their rooms
• Lunches will be delivered to student’s dorm room
• There will be pre-dinner outdoor activities by dorm
• Students will have in room study hall from 7:30-9:30pm Sunday through Thursday
• Students who took public transportation as part of their travel to Madeira will have COVID-19 testing on Friday, October 2
  

I wasn’t able to tune in live for Opening Convocation and RAW Sorting, where can I view them?

You can watch both on our YouTube channel -

• Opening Convocation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UC33iqLHqbs&t=1s
• RAW Sorting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFe61rN12mA&t=1s

The connection calendar mentioned the possibility of some on campus events during Mod 1; will those be happening?

Yes! We are so excited to be holding two separate outdoor movie night events for students who are able to get to campus. On Friday, September 11th, we will host the class of 2021 for our first showing. Next, on Friday, September 18, all new students have been invited to join us on the Science Lawn for an outdoor movie. We will be providing outdoor seating and yummy snacks! Students should feel free to bring a blanket or pillow for comfort during the movie. All seniors and new students received an email invitation and survey link yesterday afternoon from Ms. Pubal. To be eligible, students will need to have completed all of their daily health screenings in REACH beginning on Tuesday, September 8th (detailed instructions forthcoming!). Interested parties should fill out the survey as soon as possible. We cannot wait to welcome our lovely Snails back to campus in this way!

Are there any additional forms I need to fill out prior to my daughter returning to campus?

Yes. There are 3 forms on the parent portal that require a parent/guardian signature prior to a girl returning to campus for any activity, class, or move-in.

How do I submit my daily health screening in REACH?

View REACH instructions here.

What will the arrival and move-in process look like?

Consistent with our initial arrival plan, to ensure physical distancing is possible during move-in, every boarding student has been assigned a specific arrival time. Assignments were made based on the information you provided in your arrival survey. There are a maximum of two students per dorm, per arrival time slot. Before moving into your dorm, you will “drive through” three discreet registration stations. Watch this video for a demonstration.

What are the parameters about learning on campus or remotely in ’20-’21?

In ’20-’21, students and families have the choice for on-campus or off-campus learning. All courses will be designed as hybrid courses, to meet students’ learning needs in our unusual year. Students who are learning off campus are making the decision on a mod-by-mod basis (with the single exception of an international student who can get a flight mid-mod, all other students are either learning on campus for the entire mod or learning remotely for the entire mod). If one is learning off campus and in a time zone that allows, she is required to participate in the synchronous part of the day (advising, class instruction, class and community meetings, etc.). If she is in a time zone that does not allow, her teachers will arrange with her a different time during the day for her 10-20 minutes of teacher-forward instruction. Whether learning on campus or remotely, all students are expected to meet graduation requirements, including participation in D block, and all grading is standard.

Where can I locate “Important Dates” for the ’20-’21 School Year?

www.madeira.org/importantdates

If you have additional questions, contact:

dos@madeira.org

I understand face coverings are mandatory on campus. Does this extend to all D block activities as well (arts, athletic, riding, indoors and outdoors?)?

In general face coverings should be worn during all on-campus activities. Some activities, such as singing, performing theater arts, playing wind instruments, and exercising strenuously, may project small droplets of viral material in higher concentrations and over larger distances. Face coverings may help decrease this viral spread by containing these droplets; however, students may find it difficult to fully participate in such activities while wearing a face covering. In these situations, D block activity modifications may be made by the instructor/coach to allow student participation without face coverings for a period of time, while following school COVID-19 guidelines. Such modifications may include singing or exercising outdoors, expanding distance between participants to 10 or more feet, and implementing sport-specific strategies (i.e., while on horseback, a rider may not need to wear a face covering, but will be required to do so when on the ground; athletes may be allowed to participate in active-play without a face covering, but will be required to wear a face covering when on the sidelines/bench or participating in light exercise/stretching activities).

During lunch when I am not in the dining hall where can I be?

Students will have myriad outdoor spaces to enjoy during the school day, including Maynard Quad, Main Terrace and Main Bluff, and the Science Building Lawn. Girls may also be in Huffington Library during lunch, as well as the Hurd Sports Center or their C block classroom.

What will study hall be like this year?

Study Hall will remain 7:30-9:30 pm Sunday -Thursday. 9th, 10th and 11th graders will be in their dorm rooms for study hall. As always, seniors do not have study hall though seniors will have access to Huffington Library during study hall hours. All students will be able to participate in group work via technology during study hall. Students should have headphones for this purpose.

Will day students be allowed to eat breakfast and dinner on campus?

Day student are welcome to eat breakfast in the dining hall after they complete their daily health screening, including temperature check. Day students who are participating in an evening class may eat dinner in the dining hall. To start the year, to keep campus as de-densified as possible, day students who are not participating in an evening class are expected to leave campus following completion of their D block activity.

Are day students allowed in the dorms?

Our dorms are wonderful, and they are cozy! To ensure social distancing protocols and out of an abundance of caution, dorms will be open only to their residents at the start of the school year. As local COVID-19 trends allow, these spaces will gradually open to all students again.

Where will day students go in the time between classes if the weather does not permit the students to be outside?

Girls will have the biggest chunk of free time during the lunch period. When they are not eating they can be in the Library, Main Living Room, their C block classroom, the Hurd, the C/A Foyer or Main Living Room. Passing time between classes is only 15 minutes this year so there won't be as much need for these spaces in between classes.

Is there anything special that boarding students should bring this year?

Yes, we have added a few new items and suggestions to our What to Bring list. Be sure to remember at least 5-7 washable, reusable, cloth face coverings (ie. masks, bandanas, etc). We will be spending a lot of time outdoors when the weather is nice so you may want to bring a collapsible outdoor chair and/or an outdoor blanket. Keep in mind that we’ll be doing distance learning from Thanksgiving to Winter break so you should bring less belongings than usual (you shouldn’t need that winter coat yet).

Can I ship items to Madeira before I arrive?

Families are welcome to ship belongings to campus from home or to have items you have purchased delivered to Madeira. These items will be waiting in the Student Center when you arrive, and you may pick them up during your unloading timeslot on the day you move in. Students will also be able to collect additional packages that may be shipped after they arrive to campus.

Please address packages to:
[Your daughter’s name]
The Madeira School
8328 Georgetown Pike
McLean, VA 22102

I left belongings in my room when I left campus last spring, where will they be?

If you were unable to return to campus last spring to collect your belongings, a Dorm Parent packed your room for you and we have stored your belongings for the summer. If you are returning to Madeira for MOD 1, we will deliver your belongings to your new dorm room before you arrive to campus. If you are not going to be on campus for MOD 1, we will keep your belongings in storage and work with you to collect your belongings when you return to campus.

Can I open a bank account for my daughter when she arrives at Madeira for move-in?

In the past we have been able to host bank representatives on campus as families arrive but unfortunately that is not possible this year. Students who have a Social Security number or a Tax ID number may set up a bank account online. Students who do not have a Social Security number or a Tax ID number should make an appointment to go in person to a local bank to set up an account (we recommend calling ahead to schedule the appointment and for it to take place prior to arriving to campus for move-in). There are many local banks that are close to Madeira with branches in both McLean and Tysons including Wells Fargo, Bank of America, PNC Bank, M&T Bank, BB&T Bank, Capital One, and United Bank.

What is being done to make bus transportation safe?

All Madeira vehicles have been marked with blue painters’ tape so there is a visible reminder where to sit/not sit for social distancing purposes (a minimum of 3 feet apart, all wearing face coverings) per VDH guidelines. Windows will be open to increase air circulation when weather allows. Madeira vehicles will be cleaned and disinfected before, between and after each use. Drivers will complete a daily health screening prior to driving and will be wearing both a face covering and a face shield while operating a Madeira vehicle.

What date should students arrive back to campus for Mod 2?

Please see our updated Arrival Schedules page.

Can you give me an idea of some of the student events you have planned to build community during the virtual mod?

Families received an email with information about “Student Connection Events” which will be held throughout the mod and include grade level get-togethers, dorm gatherings, favorite traditions, like Red and White (RAW) sorting with a twist, and other fun events. Please encourage your daughter to join in these important community-building events. View the attached calendar for some of the student events. Students receive detailed information about these events via email.

Is the REACH app for boarders only or boarders and day?

The REACH app is for both boarders and day students and is our tool for the Daily Health Screenings for all students. The instructions for accessing REACH were attached to the Arrival Schedule email sent to parents August 27. We will email you the week of August 31 with the step by step instructions how to complete the Daily Health Screening in REACH. As a reminder, students should begin to complete these twice a day 14 days prior to their arrival on campus.

My daughter is a boarder; when will we find out her arrival time?

A student’s designated individual arrival time will be communicated no later than September 16th. If you have not already done so please complete the Arrival Survey no later than September 10. The information you share in this survey will allow us to assign you an arrival time that best fits with your travel plans. (Please complete this form even if you believe your daughter may participate in distance learning beyond Mod 1). Many thanks to those of you who have already done the survey.

I will be coming to campus by private car but have elected to arrive on September 25 or September 26.  Will I still be in a single until Mod 2 begins? Will I be quarantined?

All students who arrive on September 25 or 26 will follow the same protocols whether they traveled to Madeira using public transportation or not.

• In general students will be in single rooms
• There will be outdoor activities on September 26 and 27
• Students will participate in class from their dorm rooms
• How students participate in D block during this time will be specific to their activity. We will send more information about this in our September 16th email with individual arrival schedules.
• Students will go through the dining hall to build their meal for breakfast and dinner and then eat outdoors or in their rooms
• Lunches will be delivered to student’s dorm room
• There will be pre-dinner outdoor activities by dorm
• Students will have in room study hall from 7:30-9:30pm Sunday through Thursday
• Students who took public transportation as part of their travel to Madeira will have COVID-19 testing on Friday, October 2
  

I wasn’t able to tune in live for Opening Convocation and RAW Sorting, where can I view them?

You can watch both on our YouTube channel -

• Opening Convocation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UC33iqLHqbs&t=1s
• RAW Sorting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFe61rN12mA&t=1s

The connection calendar mentioned the possibility of some on campus events during Mod 1; will those be happening?

Yes! We are so excited to be holding two separate outdoor movie night events for students who are able to get to campus. On Friday, September 11th, we will host the class of 2021 for our first showing. Next, on Friday, September 18, all new students have been invited to join us on the Science Lawn for an outdoor movie. We will be providing outdoor seating and yummy snacks! Students should feel free to bring a blanket or pillow for comfort during the movie. All seniors and new students received an email invitation and survey link yesterday afternoon from Ms. Pubal. To be eligible, students will need to have completed all of their daily health screenings in REACH beginning on Tuesday, September 8th (detailed instructions forthcoming!). Interested parties should fill out the survey as soon as possible. We cannot wait to welcome our lovely Snails back to campus in this way!

Are there any additional forms I need to fill out prior to my daughter returning to campus?

Yes. There are 3 forms on the parent portal that require a parent/guardian signature prior to a girl returning to campus for any activity, class, or move-in.

How do I submit my daily health screening in REACH?

View REACH instructions here.

What will the arrival and move-in process look like?

Consistent with our initial arrival plan, to ensure physical distancing is possible during move-in, every boarding student has been assigned a specific arrival time. Assignments were made based on the information you provided in your arrival survey. There are a maximum of two students per dorm, per arrival time slot. Before moving into your dorm, you will “drive through” three discreet registration stations. Watch this video for a demonstration.

If you have additional questions, contact:

• Athletics: athletics@madeira.org
• Equestrian: imccartney@madeira.org
• Arts: snewman@madeira.org

What COVID-related safety precautions will the School be taking for D Block Athletics?

In addition to the routine cleaning and daily heath screening checks, Athletics will ensure the following measures:
- Small groupings and physical distancing will be utilized during practices
- Additional hand sanitizer/ handwashing stations throughout Athletics facilities

How will we participate in orchestra if we are doing distance learning?

You can participate virtually. The class is being designed that way. You will need to connect with others in your ensemble as well as with your teacher.

Have all activities open to the public accessing the Hurd been discontinued?

They have not. We have separated their work from our community, and they have strict protocols and we will follow them with cleaning

If a student opts to attend a mod virtually, what does that mean for her ability to participate in sports?

When a student attends a mod virtually, all of her blocks (classes and activities) will be virtual. On the reopening website, the sports/activities that can be attended remotely are listed.

How will athletic D-blocks like fitness, pilates, yoga, zumba be adjusted?

Those classes will also follow physical distancing guidelines and will enter a disinfected space and have the space disinfected afterward.

With the move to virtual school, does that now allow girls to participate in club sports?

Yes, with the shift to virtual learning during Mod 1, students will be permitted to participate in club and travel teams during this time frame. If a student should decide to continue participation in club or travel teams beyond Mod 1, we will ask students to continue with virtual learning as part of the necessary mitigation steps to allow for in-person learning to occur, while keeping the community healthy and safe.

Can I participate in outside activities (club sport, job, specialty lessons, etc.) if I will be learning in-person?

The decision on whether to participate in a club sport, job, or specialty lesson during a pandemic is a potentially complex one but not without options. As a School, Madeira is following the Phased Guidance for Virginia Schools from the Virginia Department of Education. We have prepared this guide to help inform your decision on in-person vs. remote learning. Please contact us if you have further questions.

How do I order my athletic apparel?

You may order until Oct 4 at this link. Required apparel by sport is listed here.

What are the parameters about learning on campus or remotely in ’20-’21?

In ’20-’21, students and families have the choice for on-campus or off-campus learning. All courses will be designed as hybrid courses, to meet students’ learning needs in our unusual year. Students who are learning off campus are making the decision on a mod-by-mod basis (with the single exception of an international student who can get a flight mid-mod, all other students are either learning on campus for the entire mod or learning remotely for the entire mod). If one is learning off campus and in a time zone that allows, she is required to participate in the synchronous part of the day (advising, class instruction, class and community meetings, etc.). If she is in a time zone that does not allow, her teachers will arrange with her a different time during the day for her 10-20 minutes of teacher-forward instruction. Whether learning on campus or remotely, all students are expected to meet graduation requirements, including participation in D block, and all grading is standard.

By when does a student need to decide between in-person or virtual, mod by mod?

We have been handling these situations individually and are attempting to be as flexible as possible. We will work med by mod but are currently responding to families as they make their decision process known to us

If my daughter decides she is uncomfortable on campus and wants to switch to online, would she be able to easily do that? Vice versa?

We are hoping students/families will stick with a decision for the mod. Obviously, please connect in real time if she is uncomfortable on campus. We will work together. If she is at home, we will welcome her back at the start of the next mod.

How will virtual students experience the classroom?

Remote learners will be "in" the classroom in real-time, unless time zone does not allow.

Can my daughter have a tutor come to campus to work with her?

When the goal is to minimize density on campus, no tutors are allowed on campus. A student may arrange to work with a tutor virtually, though of course she may not work with a tutor during study hall or any other school obligation. Any student working with a tutor should be sharing that information with her teacher and the learning specialist.

Can my daughter have private music lessons on campus?

The Madeira arts department works closely with a small group of music teachers who give private lessons virtually or in person. Please contact Mrs. Newman in the arts department (snewman@madeira.org) for information about how to access these teachers.

How will we participate in orchestra if we are doing distance learning?

You can participate virtually. The class is being designed that way. You will need to connect with others in your ensemble as well as with your teacher.

How will the Mod schedule work when the classes are shorter and the material still has to be covered in a very short period of time?

Hybrid learning does not differentiate between classroom time and homework time. All learning is concerned learning time. We are designing courses using our standard guidelines for time devoted to course. We are and have been committed to deep learning, so we are interested in skill building and immersion. Our focus is not on "coverage."

If the classes are shorter and there is no distinction between classwork and homework, does that mean most students will see an increase in the time they need to spend on homework?

No. Teachers are specifically designing learning tasks so that there is little to no distinction between classwork and homework. There should not be an increase in homework load, and teachers will coach students on best practices for getting work done.

How will grading work for classes? Will all the tests be open book or will it just be for those that have chosen to do distance learning?

Teachers will explicitly address grading at the beginning of each mod. Assessments may be re-designed to focus on performance tasks and higher-order thinking questions.

Considering the different time zone (e.g. about 12 hours in China), is it obligated for students to attend the class live?

Students in far-away time zones do NOT have to attend all classes; they will have the opportunity to attend a brief session with their teachers daily, based on a mutually agreed upon times.

Where will day students go in the time between classes if the weather does not permit the students to be outside?

Girls will have the biggest chunk of free time during the lunch period. When they are not eating they can be in the Library, Main Living Room, their C block classroom, the Hurd, the C/A Foyer or Main Living Room. Passing time between classes is only 15 minutes this year so there won't be as much need for these spaces in between classes.

Given time zone differences, what happens if my daughter can’t attend live sessions every block?

Technology allows us all to connect! Your daughters will be full members of their classes, able to access all materials, able to interact in groups with peers, and in conversation with their teachers. We are starting the day with advising time, for we want them to experience this small group or the full class meeting, as both support the transition process. This summer, all the teachers have been developing courses composed of rich and rigorous learning activities. We knew that this year, in particular, the focus needed to be on developing quality learning activities, that require each student to engage with course materials, with the teacher, and with the other students. We knew that it was unlikely that all of our students would be in the same classroom at the same time all year long, so we have focused on the learning and the relationships (again with teacher, with peers, and with course material) rather than on a shared classroom. We think this benefits all students and all learning.

Are studio art classes still being offered?

Yes, absolutely! All studio courses will be offered. Teachers have designed learning activities knowing that some students would be in the classroom and some would not, and that for part of the year all learning would be remote. Yes, even Darkroom Photography is being offered! We look forward to seeing the work Madeira visual and performing art students will produce. Please watch arts@Madeira on Instagram throughout the mod for a gallery walk of student art.

Will families have the opportunity to choose to remain in remote learning versus returning to in-person learning?

Each mod, families will be able to make the decision on whether to complete the mod via distance learning or in-person. All classes have been re-designed over the summer to be presented both in person and remotely, so students can choose either option.

I had my textbooks shipped directly to Madeira. Is it possible to change the shipping address if the textbooks have not shipped yet?

You are able to change the shipping address as long as the books have not been shipped from the facility. To check shipment status and to change shipping address, contact Follett Customer Service at 800-381-5151. You should do this as soon as possible since you can change the shipping address ONLY if the books have not been shipped.

If the textbooks have been delivered or are en route to Madeira and I am a DAY student, can I pick them up?

If you are a DAY student and the textbooks have been delivered, you may pick up your textbooks at your earliest convenience. You will pick up your textbooks in the mailroom on the bottom floor of the Student Center.

If the textbooks have been delivered or are en route to Madeira and I am a BOARDING student, can the textbooks be shipped to me?

If you are a BOARDING student and the textbooks have been delivered, you may pick up your textbooks at your earliest convenience. If you are a local boarder or have someone local who can come to campus, you will pick up your textbooks in the mailroom on the bottom floor of the Student Center. The deliveries are separated by DORM. If you are not able to come to campus to pick up your textbooks, please contact the business office (businessoffice@madeira.org) to arrange for shipment.

How will the School ensure all students have the skills to work remotely?

Our ninth graders have been practicing some of the tech skills during their summer work for Student Life. Teachers will embed instruction related to the class tools in their lessons. Our ed tech specialists also love student questions! We want to build student confidence with the tools needed for remote learning.

What does the hybrid daily schedule (in-person and remote) look like?

What does the all-remote daily schedule look like?

What does a 14-day self quarantine look like?

The best way to prevent COVID-19 illness in our community is for Madeira students, faculty, and staff to avoid exposure to the virus. Fourteen days provides enough time for you to know whether you will become ill and/or be contagious to other people if you’ve been exposed to the virus.
Self-quarantine for Madeira COVID-19 purposes means:

• Staying at home except for essential outings
• Not having visitors
• Avoiding public transportation
• Wearing a cloth face covering when you must leave home
• Maintaining 6-foot social distance from other people when you must leave home, as well as from those in your household who are routinely leaving home
• Not sharing things like towels and utensils
• Practicing standard hygiene measures (i.e., cover mouth/nose when sneezing, using inside elbow to cover sneeze, placing used tissues in the trash can)
• Frequent handwashing (20 second minimum) or use of hand-sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol
• Being alert for symptoms of COVID-19 by tracking symptoms twice daily and temperature once daily (don’t worry, we’ll send you a link to the app we choose)
• Staying away from people who are sick, even inside your own home

Area public schools have announced they will be online for the start of the school year. What is different about Madeira that allows the School to be open?

Madeira follows CDC, state, and local health guidance in evaluating whether risks can be adequately mitigated to open campus. At this time, Madeira has procedures in place to meet or exceed the public health guidelines, such as mandatory face coverings, physical distancing procedures, and cleaning/disinfecting protocols, that allow the campus to be open. If that were to change, we would immediately let families know. Madeira’s mod schedule, large campus, and lack of reliance on bus transportation also make us more nimble than large public school systems and give us the flexibility to adjust schedules as needed for public health guidelines.

What if my doctor won’t order a COVID-19 test for my student?

Our goal is to start the school year as COVID-19-free as possible. To this extent, every Madeira student and adult is expected to return to campus with a negative COVID-19 test result dated within the past 5-7 days. We are aware that COVID-19 test availability and test result turn-around times vary by location and by demand due to local and national outbreaks. When speaking with your daughter’s healthcare provider about COVID-19 testing, please make sure this person knows that this test is a school requirement and that Madeira is a congregate living community. Please also check your local test site requirements, as many locations allow testing for asymptomatic people upon request. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has given emergency use authorization to LabCorp for testing of those aged 18+ years who do not have COVID-19 symptoms or who have no reason to suspect COVID-19 infection. To order an at-home nasal swab test kit for a student aged 18+ years, use this link https://www.pixel.labcorp.com/covid-19, and indicate “congregate setting” when asked regarding exposure

I understand there will be daily health screenings. How will those work?

Both day and boarding students will be screened twice daily initially. All students will complete a health check each morning before they go to breakfast or to class. Day students will have their second check after C block, either in the Fiction Room of Huffington Library or at the Hurd Sports Center, depending on their D block activity. Boarders will have their second health check before study hall in their dorms.

Each morning, students will open their screening app and complete the symptom questionnaire; this should take no longer than 60 seconds. As they arrive on campus, day student vehicles will be directed behind the Hurd Sports Center, where each girl’s symptom questionnaire will be reviewed and her temperature will be taken. If everything is negative, the student will proceed to main campus and head to breakfast or class. A similar process will take place in each dorm. Screenings will begin at 7:45 am and run through 8:15 a.m.

Afternoon health checks for day students will begin immediately after C block. Students involved in athletic D block activities will proceed to the Hurd Sports Center for their check. All other day girls will go to the Fiction Room. Boarding students will have their second health check between 7:00-7:30 pm in their dormitory.

What constitutes a fever? If I have one how long do I need to stay home?

A day student who feels unwell in any way or has a temperature of 100.0 F or greater will stay home and participate in virtual classes and D block, if health condition allows and if the D block is accessible virtually.

A boarder who feels unwell in any way or has a temperature of 100.0 F or greater will report to the Health Concern Center for a more detailed assessment and care by the Madeira nurses. In this situation, boarding students may also participate in virtual classes and D block, if health condition allows and if the D block is accessible virtually.

For students with a temperature of 99.0 F to 99.9 F, with or without other symptoms, the options are to stay home (day students) OR report to the Health Concern Center (day and boarding students) for a more detailed assessment by the Madeira nurses. All students who stay home or spend time in the Health Concern Center for temperature of 99.0 F or greater may return to in person learning no sooner than a minimum of 24-hours after temperature is consistently 98.9 F or lower without use of fever-reducing medication (I.e., Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen). Madeira nurses may instruct a student remain home for a longer period of time post-elevated temperature, based on student’s other symptoms and overall health condition.

All students returning to campus post-fever or other illness-related absence must be cleared by a Madeira nurse in the Health Concern Center prior to resuming on-campus classes or activities.

My doctor says that given test result delays in my area, it may not be possible to schedule my daughter’s test on the date Madeira recommended and still have her results by the day of move-in/check-in. What should I do?

Please contact your local healthcare provider about anticipated time of return for your daughter's test results and schedule accordingly. We understand the dates provided in our June communication may no longer work for every student. Our goal is for each student to arrive on campus with COVID-19 test results which indicate she was COVID-free in recent days leading up to her return to campus. The date of this test should be as close to her time of arrival on campus as is possible in your area.

What happens if our COVID-19 results do not come in time for return to campus?

Please contact Peggy Sotos, Director of Nursing at psotos@madeira.org Students are unable to return to campus without a negative PCR test.

What happens if the COVID-19 testing comes back a day or two before the designated date?

No worries, a couple days early is better than not having results in time to return to campus.

What would be the course of action if a positive case is found on campus?

If a student is suspected of having COVID-19, she will immediately be isolated. Parents/local guardians will be contacted to enact her Student Departure Plan to have the student leave campus for COVID-19 testing and isolation. If the student is unable to leave campus, she will be taken for COVID-19 testing by a Madeira adult. While she awaits her test results, the student will live in our Health Concern Center while being cared for by Madeira nurses around the clock. She will participate in classes online, if she feels up to it. Contact tracing will begin immediately upon school notification of a positive test result, in collaboration with Fairfax County Public Health Department. Students identified as possibly exposed to the infected student will also have their Student Departure Plans enacted, to leave campus for a 14-day quarantine period, per CDC guidelines. If unable to leave campus, exposed students will be cared for in a separate area of the Health Concern Center, also under the care of Madeira nurses around the clock.

If a student tests positive with COVID are the students in her classes required to quarantine?

Not necessarily. Madeira nurses and other adults trained in contact-tracing will work closely with the Fairfax County Public Health Department to identify all “close contacts” as defined by the CDC. “Close contacts” and their parents/guardians will be notified of the student’s possible exposure to COVID-19. Madeira’s protocol for quarantine, which is consistent with CDC guidance, will be initiated.

Are Day students screened in the morning?

Yes. day students have health screenings in the morning and lin the afternoon after C Block.

Why are day students allowed to come and go each day?

Madeira is a day and boarding school. It is our desire to be in community with each other as much as possible. It’s clear that we cannot guarantee a 100% risk-free environment. We have established a layered approach for COVID-19 risk mitigation, which relies on cooperation from all members of our community, including both day AND boarding students, each day. Anyone experiencing symptoms of any contagious illness will not be allowed onto campus.

Is the school providing PPE for students?

Students are asked to bring their own cloth face coverings. Face coverings should be multi-layered cloth (three or more is best)

• Bandanas are no longer acceptable
• Neck gaiters are no longer acceptable

Are you looking to have a contact tracing app to help identify those possibly exposed?

Yes! We will are using COVIDWISE monitor contact tracing.

Can you discuss ventilation? Will there be outdoor classes? Tents?

Right now we are spaced such that we do not need to move any classes outdoors. We are ordering some outdoor tents for student spaces. We are filtering to MERV-13 filtration. Hospital and clean-room grade.

Are neck gaiters and bandanas acceptable face coverings?

Face coverings should be multi-layered cloth (three or more is best)

• Bandanas are not acceptable
• Neck gaiters are not acceptable

Will there be outside renters in the campus spaces once the students return to campus?

No outside renters will be in indoor spaces once the girls return to campus.

Will a COVID-19 test be required before the in-person classes start in Mod 4?

Yes, it will. The test should be done as close to your student’s arrival on campus as possible. That timetable will vary depending on where you live. We suggest you ask your healthcare provider about how long it is taking to get results in your area and then use that timing to identify the date that makes sense with your daughter's arrival date.

Is a physician’s note required to clear my student for return to on-campus learning post-COVID-19 infection?

Yes. Our previous guidelines indicated that a physician’s note may be requested prior to a student’s return to on-campus learning. Based upon the advice of physicians with whom we consult, we are now requiring this note prior to every student’s return to campus following COVID-19 infection.

What COVID-related safety precautions will the School be taking for D Block Athletics?

In addition to the routine cleaning and daily heath screening checks, Athletics will ensure the following measures:
- Small groupings and physical distancing will be utilized during practices
- Additional hand sanitizer/ handwashing stations throughout Athletics facilities

How will we participate in orchestra if we are doing distance learning?

You can participate virtually. The class is being designed that way. You will need to connect with others in your ensemble as well as with your teacher.

Can my daughter participate in outside athletic travel team practices/competitions?

Due to the potential risk of exposure to COVID-19 for the campus community, we cannot allow boarding or day students to participate in off-campus club sports until further notice. This is rooted in our approach to minimize student exposure and is also consistent with other boarding schools. We will continue to review this policy throughout the year as CDC, ISL, and VISAA COVID-19 guidelines evolve. Low to moderate risk activities may occasionally be granted an exception. That determination will be made by the Athletic Director and/or appropriate parties.

Have all activities open to the public accessing the Hurd been discontinued?

They have not. We have separated their work from our community, and they have strict protocols and we will follow them with cleaning

If a student opts to attend a mod virtually, what does that mean for her ability to participate in sports?

When a student attends a mod virtually, all of her blocks (classes and activities) will be virtual. On the reopening website, the sports/activities that can be attended remotely are listed.

How will athletic D-blocks like fitness, pilates, yoga, zumba be adjusted?

Those classes will also follow physical distancing guidelines and will enter a disinfected space and have the space disinfected afterward.

Our daughter is able to participate in a competitive team training sport during the fall. Can she receive D-Block credit for this?

Madeira will look at these proposals on a case by case basis, as well as inform your daughter about the requirements and expectations for receiving credit. In short, we want to work with families on securing this credit, but also to ensure that students are going to be part of our programs when we are ready to return to competition.

How do I order my athletic apparel?

You may order until Oct 4 at this link. Required apparel by sport is listed here.

Where can I locate "Important Dates" for the '20-'21 year?

www.madeira.org/importantdates

I understand face coverings are mandatory on campus. Does this extend to all D block activities as well (arts, athletic, riding, indoors and outdoors?)?

In general face coverings should be worn during all on-campus activities. Some activities, such as singing, performing theater arts, playing wind instruments, and exercising strenuously, may project small droplets of viral material in higher concentrations and over larger distances. Face coverings may help decrease this viral spread by containing these droplets; however, students may find it difficult to fully participate in such activities while wearing a face covering. In these situations, D block activity modifications may be made by the instructor/coach to allow student participation without face coverings for a period of time, while following school COVID-19 guidelines. Such modifications may include singing or exercising outdoors, expanding distance between participants to 10 or more feet, and implementing sport-specific strategies (i.e., while on horseback, a rider may not need to wear a face covering, but will be required to do so when on the ground; athletes may be allowed to participate in active-play without a face covering, but will be required to wear a face covering when on the sidelines/bench or participating in light exercise/stretching activities).

During lunch when I am not in the dining hall where can I be?

Students will have myriad outdoor spaces to enjoy during the school day, including Maynard Quad, Main Terrace and Main Bluff, and the Science Building Lawn. Girls may also be in Huffington Library during lunch, as well as the Hurd Sports Center or their C block classroom.

What will study hall be like this year?

Study Hall will remain 7:30-9:30 pm Sunday -Thursday. 9th, 10th and 11th graders will be in their dorm rooms for study hall. As always, seniors do not have study hall though seniors will have access to Huffington Library during study hall hours. All students will be able to participate in group work via technology during study hall. Students should have headphones for this purpose.

Will day students be allowed to eat breakfast and dinner on campus?

Day student are welcome to eat breakfast in the dining hall after they complete their daily health screening, including temperature check. Day students who are participating in an evening class may eat dinner in the dining hall. To start the year, to keep campus as de-densified as possible, day students who are not participating in an evening class are expected to leave campus following completion of their D block activity.

Are day students allowed in the dorms?

Our dorms are wonderful, and they are cozy! To ensure social distancing protocols and out of an abundance of caution, dorms will be open only to their residents at the start of the school year. As local COVID-19 trends allow, these spaces will gradually open to all students again.

Where will day students go in the time between classes if the weather does not permit the students to be outside?

Girls will have the biggest chunk of free time during the lunch period. When they are not eating they can be in the Library, Main Living Room, their C block classroom, the Hurd, the C/A Foyer or Main Living Room. Passing time between classes is only 15 minutes this year so there won't be as much need for these spaces in between classes.

Is there anything special that boarding students should bring this year?

Yes, we have added a few new items and suggestions to our What to Bring list. Be sure to remember at least 5-7 washable, reusable, cloth face coverings (ie. masks, bandanas, etc). We will be spending a lot of time outdoors when the weather is nice so you may want to bring a collapsible outdoor chair and/or an outdoor blanket. Keep in mind that we’ll be doing distance learning from Thanksgiving to Winter break so you should bring less belongings than usual (you shouldn’t need that winter coat yet).

Can I ship items to Madeira before I arrive?

Families are welcome to ship belongings to campus from home or to have items you have purchased delivered to Madeira. These items will be waiting in the Student Center when you arrive, and you may pick them up during your unloading timeslot on the day you move in. Students will also be able to collect additional packages that may be shipped after they arrive to campus.

Please address packages to:
[Your daughter’s name]
The Madeira School
8328 Georgetown Pike
McLean, VA 22102

I left belongings in my room when I left campus last spring, where will they be?

If you were unable to return to campus last spring to collect your belongings, a Dorm Parent packed your room for you and we have stored your belongings for the summer. If you are returning to Madeira for MOD 1, we will deliver your belongings to your new dorm room before you arrive to campus. If you are not going to be on campus for MOD 1, we will keep your belongings in storage and work with you to collect your belongings when you return to campus.

Can I open a bank account for my daughter when she arrives at Madeira for move-in?

In the past we have been able to host bank representatives on campus as families arrive but unfortunately that is not possible this year. Students who have a Social Security number or a Tax ID number may set up a bank account online. Students who do not have a Social Security number or a Tax ID number should make an appointment to go in person to a local bank to set up an account (we recommend calling ahead to schedule the appointment and for it to take place prior to arriving to campus for move-in). There are many local banks that are close to Madeira with branches in both McLean and Tysons including Wells Fargo, Bank of America, PNC Bank, M&T Bank, BB&T Bank, Capital One, and United Bank.

What is being done to make bus transportation safe?

All Madeira vehicles have been marked with blue painters’ tape, so there is a visible reminder where to sit/not sit for social distancing purposes (a minimum of 3 feet apart, all wearing face coverings) per VDH guidelines. Windows will be open to increase air circulation when weather allows. Madeira vehicles will be cleaned and disinfected before, between and after each use. Drivers will complete a daily health screening prior to driving and will be wearing both a face covering and a face shield while operating a Madeira vehicle.

What date should students arrive back to campus for Mod 2?

Please visit our updated Arrival Schedules page for up-to-date information.

Can you give me an idea of some of the student events you have planned to build community during the virtual mod?

Families received an email with information about “Student Connection Events” which will be held throughout the mod and include grade level get-togethers, dorm gatherings, favorite traditions, like Red and White (RAW) sorting with a twist, and other fun events. Please encourage your daughter to join in these important community-building events. View the attached calendar for some of the student events. Students receive detailed information about these events via email.

Is the REACH app for boarders only or boarders and day?

The REACH app is for both boarders and day students and is our tool for the Daily Health Screenings for all students. The instructions for accessing REACH were attached to the Arrival Schedule email sent to parents August 27. We will email you the week of August 31 with the step by step instructions how to complete the Daily Health Screening in REACH. As a reminder, students should begin to complete these twice a day 14 days prior to their arrival on campus.

My daughter is a boarder; when will we find out her arrival time?

A student’s designated individual arrival time will be communicated no later than September 16th. If you have not already done so please complete the Arrival Survey no later than September 10. The information you share in this survey will allow us to assign you an arrival time that best fits with your travel plans. (Please complete this form even if you believe your daughter may participate in distance learning beyond Mod 1). Many thanks to those of you who have already done the survey.

I will be coming to campus by private car but have elected to arrive on September 25 or September 26.  Will I still be in a single until Mod 2 begins? Will I be quarantined?

All students who arrive on September 25 or 26 will follow the same protocols whether they traveled to Madeira using public transportation or not.

• In general students will be in single rooms

I wasn’t able to tune in live for Opening Convocation and RAW Sorting, where can I view them?

You can watch both on our YouTube channel -

• Opening Convocation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UC33iqLHqbs&t=1s
• RAW Sorting: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFe61rN12mA&t=1s

The connection calendar mentioned the possibility of some on campus events during Mod 1; will those be happening?

Yes! We are so excited to be holding two separate outdoor movie night events for students who are able to get to campus. On Friday, September 11th, we will host the class of 2021 for our first showing. Next, on Friday, September 18, all new students have been invited to join us on the Science Lawn for an outdoor movie. We will be providing outdoor seating and yummy snacks! Students should feel free to bring a blanket or pillow for comfort during the movie. All seniors and new students received an email invitation and survey link yesterday afternoon from Ms. Pubal. To be eligible, students will need to have completed all of their daily health screenings in REACH beginning on Tuesday, September 8th (detailed instructions forthcoming!). Interested parties should fill out the survey as soon as possible. We cannot wait to welcome our lovely Snails back to campus in this way!

Are there any additional forms I need to fill out prior to my daughter returning to campus?

Yes. There are 3 forms on the parent portal that require a parent/guardian signature prior to a girl returning to campus for any activity, class, or move-in.

How do I submit my daily health screening on REACH?

View REACH instructions here.

What will the arrival and move-in process look like?

Consistent with our initial arrival plan, to ensure physical distancing is possible during move-in, every boarding student has been assigned a specific arrival time. Assignments were made based on the information you provided in your arrival survey. There are a maximum of two students per dorm, per arrival time slot. Before moving into your dorm, you will “drive through” three discreet registration stations. Watch this video for a demonstration.

How has Co-Curriculum been impacted by COVID-19?

Summer is a time for the Co-Curriculum Program to line up new partners, re-affirm our relationships with existing partners, evaluate the program’s logistics, review the program’s academic integration, and begin securing internships for those students assigned to an early mod of Co-Curriculum. Added to our work for this summer is ensuring that students’ participation in the program supports the health guidelines outlined by state and local health officials as well as Madeira’s efforts to minimize the risk to our school’s community.

The uncertainty brought by COVID-19 has interfered with the necessary long-range planning of the Co-Curriculum Program. While current and future partners have expressed interest in working with Madeira students, at this point they are not able to commit to what that partnership will look like. We are therefore preparing for multiple scenarios so as to ensure girls have access to a rich internship experience whether in-person or virtual.

Will there be in-person internships this year?

It is our sincere hope that all students will be able to participate in in-person internships this year, but this hope is highly dependent upon the situation with COVID-19. Therefore, we are developing grade-level specific alternatives to in-person internships that offer students the same opportunities for intrapersonal growth, the development of workplace skills, opportunities for teamwork and professional networking, and continued integration with our academic programs that they would experience with in-person internships. For juniors and seniors, “virtual internships” will be a robust experience that we can deploy if conditions require. For sophomores, the service learning, teamwork, and skills building will take place on campus, combining in-person activities with online learning when needed. For sophomores, the service learning, teamwork, and skills building will take place on campus, combining in-person activities with online learning when needed.

What are the Co-Curriculum mods for '20-'21?

So as to give us the most advantageous lead up to placing students during COVID-19, the Co-Curriculum mods will start in January. Juniors and Seniors are assigned to a Co-Curriculum mod in either Mods 4, 5, 6, or 7. Sophomores are assigned to a Co-Curriculum mod in either Mods 5 or 6.

What are the guidelines that will govern the School's decision about an in-person placement vs. virtual placement?

When making decisions about in-person internships, The Madeira School will adhere to Virginia’s reopening guidelines for schools and employers. While Virginia is in Phases I (view Phase I details), II (view Phase II details), or III (view Phase III details), or is under stay-at-home orders, Madeira students will not have in-person internships. Two mods in advance of a student’s Co-Curriculum mod, Madeira will make a determination about in-person internships for that mod based upon regional conditions and the current reopening phase.

Can internships be set-up ahead of time so that they can do virtual Capitol Hill internships should the school and DC region shut down again?

All juniors enrolled in Junior Year Co-Curriculum will have an internship, either in person or virtual. The Co-Curriculum Office will be working well ahead of your Co-Curriculum mod to set up the internship.

Will the global health crisis have an impact on college admissions and higher education?

Yes! Your college counselors stay in tune with changes through participation in professional organizations, such as NACAC and ACCIS, staying on top of higher education news through various blogs and publications (such as Inside Higher Ed), and communicating with our college admission office colleagues.

Will college counseling programming and support be offered remotely?

Yes, all programing will be accessible to students who are engaged in distance learning this fall. We will start the year focused on seniors as they enter the active phase of college applications. Sophomores and juniors should stay tuned for announcements about college counseling programming for their specific grade levels.

Will the PSAT be offered to sophomores and juniors this year?

Yes, all sophomores and juniors who can arrange to be on campus on October 14th, can take the PSAT. All sophomores and juniors will be receiving communication from Ms. Kerrigan regarding the PSAT process. If you choose to not take the PSAT, please email Ms. Kerrigan (pkerrigan@madeira.org) no later than September 25th.

What if I miss the PSAT?

While the PSAT has value, sophomores and juniors should not change their plans in order to complete this assessment. Sophomores will have a second opportunity next year, and most juniors took the test last year. The PSAT is also the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test for juniors; however, only students in the top 1% of the top 1% qualify for this opportunity. This is unlikely for 99.9% of students, and therefore not worth making plans around. There are other ways to qualify if a junior is testing in the top 1% by other measures. If you have any questions about National Merit, ask your college counselor.

I am applying for my F-1 visa - what do I need to know?

The State Department announced a phased re-opening of consulates and visa services beginning the week of July 13. Make sure you are receiving emails and texts from your local consulate.

New students applying for visas in Ireland, the Schengen Area, and UK should contact their consulate to ask about the "national interest exception" and if they need to apply for one of these to travel to the U.S.

Madeira will be updating Form I-20's for all F1 students to be in line with SEVP's most current guidance; a revised Form I-20 will be emailed to you to present at your visa appointment. Please communicate the progress of your F1 visa application with Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.

What if I can't get my visa in time to come for the start of the school year?

The challenge of closed visa offices and travel restrictions still exists for many families. Students who are unable to return to campus for the beginning of the academic year may start as distance learners and make plans to return to campus as soon as they are able.

Madeira will be updating Form I-20's for all F1 students to be in line with SEVP's most current guidance; a revised Form I-20 with adjusted program start dates will be emailed to you to present at your visa appointment. It’s important to communicate the progress of your F1 visa application with Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.

Families should not make any travel plans that cannot be changed or canceled. We strongly encourage families to consider purchasing travel insurance.

If I have a valid F-1 visa, do I need to do anything different?

Madeira will be updating Form I-20's for all F1 students to be in line with SEVP's most current guidance. The need for revisions depend on whether you are a new or returning student and when you will be traveling into the United States. A revised I-20’s will be sent to you via email. It is important that you communicate your travel plans with Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.

We will also email you a letter that states that you are a student at Madeira, that Madeira is offering in-person, on campus education, and that we look forward to seeing you on campus for the start of the school year. Please print this letter (and make sure you have your I-20 and all other supporting documents) to carry with you when you travel.

If I have to study fully online from home, will my visa status be affected?

No. Your F-1 student visa remains valid until its expiration date, regardless of where you study. Your I-20 will be temporarily deactivated until you are able to re-enter the United States again. We will reinstate your I-20 as soon as you confirm your travel plans to come to campus. We will work closely with the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) to ensure your status as a non-immigrant student is not affected. It is important that you communicate your travel plans with Ms. Salaverria so she may revise your Form I-20 as needed.

What Are the Current Guidelines for Quarantine after International Travel?

Because the CDC and VA Department of Public Health recommend that all people quarantine after international travel, students taking any form of public transportation to school will need to arrive on August 22 for a period of monitoring and observation on campus. Students will be assigned a single room for this period; specific parameters for activities and meals during this period will be informed by current guidelines.

It is important to note that we also ask that all students isolate at home for 14 days before traveling to Madeira. In addition, all students will need to present a negative COVID-19 test when they arrive on campus. A negative COVID-19 test should be dated no earlier than August 15.

I have heard that F-1 students are now allowed to travel directly to the United States.

This is true for students from Canada, Ireland, Mexico, the Schengen Area, and the UK.

Travel for the purposes of attending school is deemed "essential travel" and allows students to enter the U.S. from Canada and Mexico. Nevertheless, please confirm current conditions at your border crossing or with the airline before travel.

Based on a July 16 U.S. Department of State update: "Students traveling from the Schengen Area, the UK, and Ireland with valid F-1 and M-1 visas, do not need to seek a national interest exception to travel." Please check the State Department website and with the airline before traveling.

I live in Brazil, China, or Iran and am not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Are there restrictions that apply to me?

The presidential proclamation barring non-U.S. citizens from traveling directly from Brazil, Iran, and China still remains in effect, and our understanding is that U.S. Customs and Border Patrol is enforcing this restriction. Non-U.S. citizens traveling from Brazil, China, or Iran have to spend 14 days outside of their country in another country that allows for direct flights to the United States. This means that students from Brazil, China, or Iran will need to begin their travels in early August. If you have successfully booked a direct flight from Brazil, China, or Iran to the U.S, please call the airline to confirm they are aware of your student's citizenship.

I plan to travel with my child to drop them off. What do I need to know?

We know that some families will want to bring their students directly to campus. We are asking that no more than two family members accompany a student on her arrival. Given the restrictions that will be in place related to movement around campus, families may want to leave children under the age of 12 at home this year. Family members and guardians accompanying their student to campus will be required to wear a mask and adhere to social distancing guidelines. As all parent orientation will be virtual, parents will not be remaining on campus after they move their daughter into her room.

Transportation from the Airport

If you are a new Madeira student travelling alone, please contact the Dean of Students office to see if we can help coordinate transportation to campus.

What happens if the school closes on short notice after we start the school year?

According to the most recent ICE guidance (as of July 15, 2020), foreign citizens studying in the United States and enrolled in a fully online program are eligible to remain in the country for the duration of the program. You will not have to leave the United States if we go fully online. If we have to temporarily close campus, we will work with you to find a place for you to stay in the United States, if you wish to do so— at the home of your local guardian, at the home of another family member or friend, or if necessary, on campus or a local hotel.

Considering the different time zone (e.g. about 12 hours in China), is it obligated for students to attend the class live?

Students in far-away time zones do NOT have to attend all classes; they will have the opportunity to attend a brief session with their teachers daily, based on a mutually agreed upon times.

I am unable to attend a parent webinar. Will it be recorded?

Yes, webinars will be recorded so you can view them at a convenient time. To view past webinars, you must register using the original registration link. The reply will come back as a link to the recorded meeting. To maintain privacy and security, we do not post recordings, but you may access them for 30 days after the meeting through the registration link.

I am unable to attend a parent webinar. Will it be recorded?

Yes, webinars will be recorded so you can view them at a convenient time. To view past webinars, you must register using the original registration link. The reply will come back as a link to the recorded meeting. To maintain privacy and security, we do not post recordings, but you may access them for 30 days after the meeting through the registration link.

My daughter is a boarder; when will we find out her arrival time?

A student’s designated individual arrival time will be communicated no later than September 16th. If you have not already done so please complete the Arrival Survey no later than September 10. The information you share in this survey will allow us to assign you an arrival time that best fits with your travel plans. (Please complete this form even if you believe your daughter may participate in distance learning beyond Mod 1). Many thanks to those of you who have already done the survey.

My daughter left something at home; may I drop it off at the AOD as I typically would?

To help us keep campus as de-densified as possible and to minimize exposure to our community, we ask that parents come to campus for essential reasons only. If you daughter has forgotten an item, we will help her navigate that. If she left behind a book, she can ask the teacher or Academic Office if there is an extra she can borrow. If she forgot shorts for her D block she can ask a boarder friend to borrow a pair. We understand this may not be your daughter’s preferred solution, and we know that it is an opportunity for her to build her capacity for resilience. If the item is critical, such as an Epi-pen or inhaler, you may drop it off at the Wellness House (which is the last house along the main road before you get to the Student Center.) Please call Mrs. Sotos at 703-556-8244 to alert her that you are coming and leave it on the table directly inside the front door as she may be with a student when you arrive. For anything else, you may leave it on the cart in the in front of the AOD under the portico and alert your daughter to pick it up there. As with all visitors coming to campus, the gatehouse officer will do a quick health screening/temperature check upon your arrival.

I’m a remote learner for Mod 2. Can I come to campus to visit my friends?

In general, no. Remote learners remain off campus for the Mod they have chosen distance learning. There may be a specific event to which a remote learner may receive an invitation, such as the October 2 SWING Sister event or the class movie night. In those cases, assuming you have been completing your REACH health screenings as directed, you may come to campus for a pre-arranged, invited event.