Amid news that some schools have already opened in-person and then, within days, switched to virtual learning, students have gotten in (and then out of) trouble for posting pictures of jammed hallways and new COVID cases are starting to add up, Georgia School Superintendent Woods released a statement on Thursday to address some of the uncertainty and concern for students and parents.
Woods went through a number of issues in his statement, from the challenges of the learning environment students are currently facing, to the safety issues and to the difficulty of managing the delicate situation and what this means for transparency and communication.
The challenge now is different from what schools faced back in the Spring. Students, particularly the younger ones, had already developed relationships with their teachers and there was a level of trust and understanding there as lessons moved to a virtual environment. Now with a new year, building these relationships and getting to people will be much more difficult. Imagine yourself as a second or third grade child who is now watching some stranger talk to them through a computer screen. And this same dynamic may be a little different but middle and high schoolers face a similar challenge.
Some districts across the state are starting in all-virtual mode, with a plan for phased-in in-person instruction later. Other have delayed start dates to finalize plans and many are giving families a choice of in-person or online learning. According to Woods, the majority of these families are opting for in-person instruction.
Woods did not shy away from some of the negative coverage that came in light of some of the recent news. “As educational leaders, it is also non-negotiable that we operate, in this moment, with transparency. At the school district and state level, we must all engage parents and educators in restart planning, provide options that have buy-in and support from stakeholders, continue to assess and enhance our efforts, and admit when those efforts fall short,” said Woods.
“The vast majority of Georgia school districts are doing just that. I am aware, however, that some teachers and students in this state have felt compelled – explicitly or implicitly – to remain silent when they have concerns about their school district’s safety plans. I want to state unequivocally that this is not acceptable. In every school and district in this state, teachers, staff, and students should be able to voice their concerns without fear of reprisal.”
Woods was also rather blunt about what is involved for those offering in-person instruction in regards to safety.
“We all need to be intentional and disciplined in our decision-making. I believe it will be imperative to adhere to the following:
1) Screen and monitor. If you or your child are sick or symptomatic, stay at home. See a physician and get tested.
2) Sanitize. Practice good hygiene and wash your hands.
3) Social distance. Whenever possible, stay at least six feet from others.
4) Wear a mask. I know this has become a political issue.
Some see this as a personal choice and liberty issue, and I respect those points of view. Like many people, I find masks to be personally uncomfortable, but I wear one when I cannot maintain six feet of distance from others. We must keep the goal in mind: if this school year is to be successful, we will have to use all the available tools in our toolbox.”
