Groveport Madison Schools officials shared the following information:
You may be aware that COVID-19 conditions in Franklin County have improved over the last four weeks, which has resulted in the county going from a “Red Alert” status to an “Orange Alert” status (one step lower). With this new data, Franklin County Public Health has informed the 16 area school districts that we can begin in-person classes whenever we wish.This week, kindergarten assessments and Chromebook distribution are taking place, and 100% online classes are to begin on Tues., Sept. 8. We are planning for this schedule to remain as is.
Given the potential that the county could again see a spike in COVID-19 cases causing schools to discontinue in-person instruction, we are considering remaining in a 100% remote learning mode through Friday, September 18. This allows us to begin online instruction in a smooth and well-planned manner so that should health conditions in the county or within our own schools deteriorate, we can quickly and smoothly return to a 100% online format. In addition, it allows us extra time to complete building preparations to ensure our students’ and staff’s safety for in-person instruction. We absolutely will not open too quickly and risk the health of our students and staff.
We will present our recommendations for reopening to the Board of Education at their September 10, Regular Monthly Meeting.
A return to in-person instruction would begin on Monday, September 21, using the Blended Learning Model shared with you in late July. Following this model, the “A Group” students will attend in-person on Mondays and Tuesdays, and the “B Group” students will attend in-person on Thursdays and Fridays. Families already have received their A and B group assignments.
I strongly encourage you to review our Family Responsible Restart 2020 Guide. This 27-page detailed plan outlines how we expect to operate while dealing with COVID-19.
This is, without question, a stressful time for us all. While we join in celebrating the improving health conditions in the county and the State of Ohio, we also know that the situation can change in the other direction just as quickly if people relax or discontinue the precautionary health practices that are shown to be keeping us safe. There is no more critical time than now to keep all mitigation protocols in place and to keep your mask on when in public.
Please know we will continue to closely monitor the situation and keep you informed of any changes or decisions as quickly as possible.
Should you have questions, be sure to check out our GoCruisers website, or email us at gm.communications@gocruisers.org.
