COVID-19 Updates

Our top priority is the health and safety and wellness of our students, our families, and our staff. Please read more to learn about our approach and our plan for a safe reopening after our time being closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

EEC is supporting programs in their implementation and administration of program-defined policies and will continue to support programs in balancing health with operational and child development priorities.


The Russell Co-operative Preschool has implemented mask wearing policies that are in line with EEC guidelines. At this time, Russell requires that any adult or visitor 6 and over entering the school must wear a face covering/mask, regardless of vaccination status. Russell staff and educators will also wear a mask/face covering indoors, unless eating. As of Monday, April 4th, mask wearing for children 5 and under (students) is optional and based on family choice. The Russell director is actively monitoring COVID-19 metrics in MA, Middlesex County, Watertown, and other schools. The director will adjust the mask policy as needed to maintain the safety of our students and staff.


Programs have discretion to implement additional strategies that they determine appropriate, along with any tools or implementation supports decided by the program. Below are some strategies Russell Cooperative Preschool will use to minimize any possible exposure.


  • Monitor for symptoms and require that children stay home when sick or if exposed to a COVID-19 positive individual

  • Implement specific mask wearing policies based on EEC guidance

  • Have a clear, consistent visitor policy, limiting outside visitors that are not Family Helpers

  • Increase ventilation and circulation of fresh air and hold activities outside as much as possible, where safe to do so

  • Promote physical distancing and smaller groups when indoors

  • Promote frequent hand hygiene

  • Isolate sick or symptomatic individuals

  • Continue routine and targeted cleaning practices

  • Modify health and safety practices for special populations

  • Track community risk

  • Use DPH’s testing and return to care protocols

Please visit https://www.mass.gov/service-details/eecs-health-and-safety-guidance-during-covid-19-recovery-for-child-care-providers for more details. Russell Cooperative Preschool will continue to stay on top of the most recent guidelines and will update our policies and protocols around these recommendations. Please feel free to contact us directly with any questions about current Health and Safety protocols.