News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
The White County Board of Education voted to return to a traditional five day schedule at a rare Sunday afternoon meeting.
A mask mandate for all faculty, staff, and students will be implemented. School Director Kurt Dronebarger said the hybrid schedule has been a success, but it has become a challenge for parents and teachers.
“The struggles are very real for our families,” Dronebarger said. “We knew all along this was perhaps not the best way for students to learn, that’s why we go five-days-a-week traditionally. We’re hearing a lot of struggles from parents, especially working parents, parents that have students that are younger grades that really takes a one-on-one person sitting down with them.”
Half of students attended in-person class two days a week, and the other half the other two days. While students were not in school, they virtually meet with their teacher for class.
Board members additionally approved to open enrollment for virtual-only classes for families who don’t want the five day schedule. Board member Daniel McCulley said 36 percent of families weren’t comfortable sending their children to school. Enrollment will be available for two weeks.
Chairman Jayson McDonald said returning to a traditional schedule will make teaching easier for staff.
“That would take the burden off of the teacher having to continue to do videos and continue to put in the extra work that they’re doing now,” McDonald said.
Dronebarger said social distancing plans for meals and hallway traffic have been predetermined. He said a rotating lunch schedule and specific foot traffic directions will be implemented.
Protesters of the hybrid system and mask mandate held signs including: “Trust facts not fear,” “No mask mandate,” and “Does anyone remember the immune system?”
The traditional schedule will begin August 31.
