California Releases Guidance For Youth Sports, School Reopening Waivers

Young students writing notes in classroom

California’s Department of Public Health has released details on youth sports guidance and a waiver process for TK-6 schools to apply to reopen for in-person instruction in the counties that are on the state’s COVID-19 watch list.

To submit an application for reopening, the state is requiring schools and administrators consult with parents or community organizations at each site before doing so.

The release said a local health officer will discuss each application with CDPH officials before approval.

For youth sports: "Outdoor and indoor sporting events, assemblies, and other activities that require close contact or that would promote congregating, such as tournaments and competitions, are not permitted at this time." The guidelines did clarify that sports and physical education activities are allowed only if participants are able to separate by the recommended six feet and if a "stable cohort of participants" is attainable.

Guidelines suggest outdoor activities as much as possible.