ST. CLOUD -- The Minnesota Department of Education has released their COVID-19 recommendations as the new school year approaches.

As the state continues to see an uptick in COVID-19 cases driven by the Delta variant, MDE is suggesting school districts follow the CDC's guidance in COVID preventions.

Specific points include:

  • all people 12 and older get vaccinated
  • students, teachers, staff and visitors in school buildings should wear a mask
  • maintain at least a three foot distance between students in the classroom
  • stay home when sick
  • get tested regularly if not fully vaccinated
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MDE says students, teachers and staff who have been fully vaccinated do not need to stay home even if they have had close contact wit ha confirm case as long as they do not test positive.

Minnesota Department of Education Commissioner Heather Mueller says while there are no longer mandates that schools follow, these recommendations are designed to help school leaders as they make decisions for the upcoming school year and get students back in the classroom safely.

The Sartell-St. Stephen school district discuss these recommendations further during their next school board meeting.

READ MORE: 50 resources to help you educate your kids at home

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