The Clarke County School District is still on track to restart in-person classes Aug. 3, but families will have the option of keeping students home for distance learning as well.
Pre-K, elementary school and middle school parents can choose between sending their children to school Monday through Thursday or keeping them home for live and pre-recorded lessons. Fridays will be distance-learning days for everyone.
High school students will have three options: Distance learning, a hybrid model or enrollment in the Georgia Virtual School. In the hybrid model, students will be divided into two groups, with one attending classes in person on Mondays and Wednesdays and the other on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
CCSD is working with Athens Tech on policies for the Career Academy. Students in the dual enrollment program are expected to follow the requirements of the college or university where they’re enrolled.
After-school programming is still under consideration, but if it’s provided, distance learners will not be eligible to participate.
For athletics, the current guidance from the Georgia High School Association is to allow intramural practices only, with groups limited to 50 or fewer, and football players may not wear helmets or pads.
For more details, read interim superintendent Xernona Thomas’ letter to parents and guardians.
According to a survey, less than 30% of parents were comfortable sending their children to school Aug. 3 if no changes were made, but over 60% were comfortable with reduced class sizes. Over 70% said they had reliable child care in the event of future school closures, 80% said they could provide transportation other than buses, and over 80% have electronic devices at home for student use.
Schools will reopen with enhanced safety protocols, including face coverings, social distancing and an emphasis on hygiene practices. Meals will be served in classrooms, and buildings and buses will be sanitized daily. Visitation inside schools will be limited.
CCSD is asking parents to complete another survey on their reopening preferences.
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