Return to Learn back-to-school coverage kicking off with state education commissioner
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
As the school year approaches, there are a lot of factors that go into the 'Return to Learn'.
ABC 17 News will sit down with education leaders from all across Mid-Missouri in the upcoming weeks.
In the special 'Return to Learn' segments, ABC 17 News will speak with school officials about how they are making their return to the classroom in Mid-Missouri.
This includes possible mask mandates for districts, vaccines and how the prior school year is affecting the upcoming one.
As of Monday, 33.2% of children ages 12-17 have started the vaccination process according to the state vaccination dashboard. So far, 23.7% of kids in that age range are considered to be fully vaccinated.
Currently, the Pfizer vaccine is the only vaccine with emergency use authorization for ages 12 and older.
Schools Being Covered the Week of Aug. 9
On Tuesday morning, ABC 17 News This Morning will interview with State Education Commissioner Margie Vandeven.
On Wednesday, the morning show with speak with the superintendent from Mexico Public Schools. Thursday will feature the superintendent from Blair Oaks R-II.
Return to Learn coverage will begin at 6 a.m. on these days.
Other Mid-Missouri Districts
On Friday, Jefferson City School released their return plan but without making a final decision on masks. That decision will be made by next Monday.
The JC back-to-school plan includes several changes from last year's, including modifications on some of the COVID-19 precautions introduced last year. Kids will be allowed to eat in the cafeteria again and be able to leave their main classroom for additional classes including P.E. and music.
Recently, a spokesperson for Columbia Public Schools said plans will be finalized soon and classes will be completely in-person.
ABC 17 News will continue to cover other districts in the Mid-Missouri area as they finalize plans in the upcoming weeks.
