Students in Okarche Public Schools will have the option of virtual learning to begin the spring semester Monday, Superintendent Josh Sumrall reports.
Just as the fall semester started, Okarche Schools will offer in-person learning for the spring semester, only this time, students will have the option of virtual, distance learning this time. Okarche Schools made it through most of the fall semester in-person but then went to virtual learning before Christmas break.
Classes in-person and virtual will start Monday, Jan. 4. Those who opt for virtual learning do not need to go to schools and they can contact their school on Monday to notify administrators of their choice, Sumrall said.
“Navigating through the first semester allowed school officials to evaluate some procedures that need to be adjusted for the second semester,” Sumrall reported in a letter to district patrons.
Sumrall explained the options for the second semester in the letter, that was also posted on social media.
“Teachers and students struggled with students going back and forth between learning platforms. Therefore, Jan. 4, parents and students will be given the option between virtual learning and in-person learning.,” Sumrall reports.
Sumrall said the options will be in place until March 11. The option will be available for the last part of the spring semester.
“Obviously, if a student is mandated to quarantine for COVID-19 exposure or a positive COVID-19 test, virtual learning will be the learning platform during quarantine time. As soon as the quarantine time has expired, the student will continue with the previously selected learning option.”
Sumrall said the administration and school board members decided to recommend masks but not to require masks with a mandate. He said the board and administrators respect both sides of the issue.
“We ask everyone to have a mask/face covering on them to use when unavoidable social distancing is not possible. Social distancing whenever possible and daily disinfecting will continue.”
