Sun’s Out, Bump’s Out!

Spring is a late bloomer in Seattle, but last weekend we got blue skies and sun! I was finally able to wear a bright dress that showed off the bump! The warming weather also means it’s the last semester and this school year is nearing an end… and what a year it’s been in education.

We’ve been back in-person with the safety measures of masking, high vaccination rates, and COVID-19 on-site testing. Even as the mask mandate dropped, our K-12 schools have been able to stay open as school-based COVID-19 testing has helped contribute to keeping students safe. That’s why I’ve partnered with the Washington State Department of Health to share more about on-site testing in schools.

Levi’s denim jacket (similar here and here), M.M.LaFleur knit dress (similar here, here, and here),
Converse x Comme des Garçons sneakers, Clare V. clutch (similar), 3CE lip tint

Not only has COVID-19 testing in schools helped with keeping students in-person for learning, but sports, assemblies, clubs, and other extracurriculars are able to continue as well. That’s a fun part of being an educator! I co-advise our Asian American Student Union that meets weekly, and recently the Student Leadership Team put on a really successful Multicultural Night event. There have also been plays, talent shows, concerts, and more.

To continue keeping schools open and students safe, DOH has partnered with the non-profit Health Commons Project to provide districts with COVID-19 testing support through the Learn to Return program at no cost to schools. It enables schools to hire additional staff, or reimburse those who are supporting school-based testing programs. In addition, a program manager helps schools develop the best strategies for COVID-19 diagnostic and screening testing on-site, and the program is designed to fit local needs. It’s expanded to more than 390 Washington state schools, including public, private, independent, and tribal schools.

Parents can voluntarily opt their students into free and private on-site COVID-19 testing at their participating school. I know testing has given me more peace of mind and helped me stay healthy, especially as I’m now pregnant. Learn more about testing in schools here.

Hope you’re taking care and staying well!

Shop similar items from this post:

This post is sponsored by Washington State Department of Health for COVID education. Thank you for supporting companies that make Hey Pretty Thing possible! All photography, writing, and opinions are my own.