Columbia Public Schools buys glass shields for some buildings

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Columbia Public Schools plans on buying protective barriers for workers in high-contact areas of schools.

Chief financial officer Heather McArthur said the district had purchased the glass shields to help protect workers and visitors from COVID-19. The barriers would be installed at high contact areas, like front reception areas or media centers.

McArthur did not say how many of the barriers the district purchased and at what cost.

CPS spokeswoman Michelle Baumstark said the facilities staff was putting together a list of which buildings might need them. She likened the barriers to those used at gas stations separating the clerk and customer. Baumstark said the district did not have a timetable for installing the shields.

McArthur also laid out the district's financial plans for the next several year. McArthur expected a net loss of more than $3 million in state funding next year. She expected the district would have to spend some its savings in order to pay new staff and move along the salary schedule for teachers and staff.