It’s back-to-school time of year, or at least that’s what we’re thinking right now.
Our three Newton County school districts and the districts in neighboring counties have all released their plans for school next year.
I am so happy that everyone is taking the precautions seriously in our area. While masks are not mandatory at all times, they are doing their best to make sure that students are properly social distanced in classrooms. And when they can’t maintain that six-foot recommended distance, masks are being used for both staff and students. Masks will be required on school buses.
Students will be required to sanitize their hands upon entry to school buses and school buildings, and there will be frequent hand-washing and sanitizing throughout the day.
All visitors are required to wear masks, and only a limiting outsiders to a small group.
Even parents who want to drop off their pre-k or kindergarten student at school on the first day will have to wear a mask while they’re in the building.
Newton County is going a step further by requiring masks for everyone, especially in the classroom.
Schools are offering an option for going virtual all year long, but in general, the virtual option is ideally going to be used strictly for those who have to quarantine after they contract the COVID-19 illness.
I have to admit, there are a tremendous number of things to consider when starting any school year. One thing in particular, the school districts don’t know exactly how much money to budget for this year since the appropriations bill didn’t get decided in the regular session that ended June 30.
It is unfortunately compounded by the complications of COVID-19. And for as much as the plans are set for
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reopening, it’s likely going to change once you get into the school year. Some things might have been overkill while there are others that no one even thought about.
I don’t envy the position of the school boards or the school administrators who have to make these rules trying to account for every possible thing that could go wrong. They’re going to get a lot of things right, and there’s a few things they get wrong.
What I would ask everyone to do is to please make sure try to be as patient as possible. Think twice before posting that comment lambasting them for something they’re doing wrong. They are doing the best they can. I think schools are trying to give everyone a little leeway, and I hope that students and parents will be able to give a little leeway as well.
You can contact Brent Maze at bmaze@newtoncountyappeal.com.
