Polk County Public Schools and the Polk Education Association reached an agreement on Monday, covering a variety of COVID-related issues directly impacting working conditions for the 2021-22 school year. The PEA — a union representing teachers, paraeducators and clerical support personnel — and school district were able to finalize a memorandum of understanding (MOU). This agreement outlines best practices and safety procedures for the reopening of schools, including cleaning procedures and the district’s optional face covering policy. The MOU also covers how PCPS will provide two options for paid COVID leave through federal funding. Option 1 – Vaccinated employees who test positive for COVID and contact tracing reveals that they contracted the virus during the performance of their duties will receive 10 days of coverage. Five additional days can be allotted IF their doctor indicates the need. Option 2 – Unvaccinated staff who are not eligible for vaccination due to medical conditions will receive 10 days of coverage if contact tracing reveals that they contracted the virus during the performance of their duties. Five additional days can be allotted IF their doctor indicates the need.  For more information, read the MOU.