Blair Oaks seeks feedback on return to school

COLE COUNTY, Mo.

Leaders in the Blair Oaks R-II School District are turning their attention to the fall semester as summer school comes to an end.

Thursday marked the last day of summer classes.

The district sent surveys about the upcoming school year to parents, staff and students on Wednesday.

The survey for parents included questions about how summer school went, the effectiveness of tools used during the spring closure, and what measures they would like to see in the fall. Parents were asked to rank the importance of things like additional cleaning, hand sanitizer, temperature checks and masks.

The staff survey sought similar input on measures in the fall. It also asked teachers about the struggles they dealt with during the school closure and what suggestions they have moving forward.

Middle and high school students were asked about the resources and tools they used during the extended closure. The survey asked what methods of learning were most beneficial to students. Another question sought suggestions from students about what would be helpful if classes had to go online again.

Superintendent Jim Jones said as of Thursday, the district has received about 400 replies from families.

Jones said building principals are working to gain as much information as possible to assist in the creation of a safe and effective learning environment for both students and staff.