WATCH: Southern Boone School District superintendent talks return plans
Southern Boone School District's superintendent joined ABC 17 News This Morning on Monday to talk about the district's return plans.
Dr. Chris Felmlee said the district plans to have students back in the classroom when the 2020-21 school year starts on Sept. 8 with some changes to help limit the spread of COVID-19.
"Employees are expected to wear masks and our students will need masks as well," Felmlee said. "We have provided masks for our employees and we are asking our parents that they include them with their supply lists."
Felmlee said the district's priority is working with families to give them the best options possible. He said there are online tools available for families who are not comfortable heading back to the classroom just yet.
The district also has back up plans in place if in-person learning doesn't work out.
"We've got several methods of learning in case we need to fall back on with the hybrid model and then the complete stay-at-home," Felmlee said.
He added that the district has been working to make sure they are better suited in case of another shutdown.
"We've been working with our teachers on how to use online tools more effectively. We know that we can't have a repeat of what we had in the spring. We're in a better place and I'm confident that our curriculum is in a better place and that we can appropriately meet the needs of our students," Felmlee said.
