Rising COVID-19 positive cases impact back to school plans for Calloway County Schools

With the rising number of positive COVID-19 tests and subsequent deaths in Calloway County, the Calloway County School District has sought guidance for in-person and online education from a number of credible sources. Josh McKeel, director of pupil services said administrators have been collaborating with the Calloway County Health Department, various medical professionals, educators, principles and staff regarding best practices for the August 24 start date. 

After surveying parents several weeks ago, 68% plan for in-person teaching with 32% using online instruction. For those that plan to attend school, there are safety measures to be  implemented. 

Parents are to assess their own children at the start of each day on health matters. The staff will also self-monitor before reporting to work. For those students that ride the bus, there will be assigned seats. First through 12th grades will be required to wear a mask. Upon arriving at school, there will be temperature checks. Any student with 100.4 or higher will isolate at home.

While at school, if a student shows any signs of fever, potential rash, sweating, or overall just don’t feel well, the student will go to a quarantine room for further assessment. 

Where possible, students will social distance six feet apart, providing ample space is available. For those that have the space, this will be a time when a student may take a break from wearing their mask. If space doesn’t permit, the masks must remain in place. 

The plan is for students to eat lunch in the cafeteria. Disinfecting all common areas will happen daily. Teachers have access to cleaning supplies allowing each to disinfect their own classrooms and workspace. 

KHSAA guidelines will be followed by the district. Students who choose to learn at home, won’t be participating in high-touch sports, however, there will be some consideration for low-contact sports. 

For grades K - 5, teachers will record a number of lessons via video. Teachers miss their students and students miss their teachers. Video-imaging can help bridge this disconnect. Those that don’t have internet access may pick up a disc at the school to learn at home. 

There are roughly 2,800 students in attendance at Calloway County schools. Administrators believe that encouraging students to learn in the classroom is the best option for quality education. From a mental health perspective, it’s believed that some social interaction with peers is better for a student's emotional well-being. Ultimately, parents make the final decision, as they should. Parents know their children best. 

The complete plan is available by clicking this link to Calloway County schools back to school plan. 

 

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