News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
61 percent of Overton County parents want to see their children return to school on time.
Almost 4,000 people responded to a survey published on the Overton County Schools website. Director of Schools Mark Winningham said the parents play an important roll in the decision to return.
“Of course, we are going to consider the desire of the parents,” Winningham said. “61 percent, even though it is not overwhelming, it is a large percentage of parents who desire their kids go back to school.”
Winningham said Overton County is currently working with other school districts across the region in developing return to school plans. Winningham will announce the plan for next school year on July 14th.
“Right now, the one that is most likely is a full return of all students,” Winningham said. “If parents do have concerns for their children returning, then we will make arrangements to make educational services at home.”
School board members voiced support Thursday night for returning to school.
The school system has considered three different plans for return. The first, a normal, full start. The second, a hybrid schedule where students rotate between in-school and at-home instruction. The third option would be no school. Winningham said at this point, the third plan is not an option.
“We will be ready,” Winningham said. “We are still in the planning phase just like every other district is. But if we have a start on time, we will be prepared when we start school.”
Winningham said the school system will have over 100 thermometers ready to check all temperatures before entering a building. One problem presented to the board of education was how to check temperatures when a child enters a bus. Winningham said a possible extra tenant might be required to stay on the bus to check temperatures.
