Rome school district changes reopening plan

Rome school district changes reopening plan

Remote learning only.

The superintendent sent a letter to parents and staff today informing them of his decision.

News channel 2's caitlin irla reports on the reasons for the change of plans.

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None standup -- "this is as close as students are going to be to their teachers for the first six weeks of school.

Superintendent peter blake says it's because there are too many obstacles to go along with in person instruction.

"while we want to be able to have kids back in our facilities, when we start looking at the requirements that that takes, the amount of additional staff that might be necessary, the precautionary measures that have to be in place, all the trainings that would have to be provided, the reality is, people wont be focused on education."

Blake says obstacles range from the lack of ability to detect asymptomatic cases, cost of testing, the need for more staff to implement social distancing, transportation, and the burdens that would be on families if someone is suspected of an illness or actually becomes ill.

"in the interest of being precautionary and just making sure people are safe and healthy, we felt it was best to start the year remote, and work our way to brining people back in slowly."

He says another concern... the vague guidelines from the state.

"some of the guidance and guidelines are so vague and unclear about what to expect that the level of uncertainty surrounding everything that comes along with bringing kids back to a building does not make it safe and responsible to do so at this time."

Blake has scheduled three zoom meetings next week where parents can ask questions.

For a list of dates and times... head to our website, wktv.com.

Caitlin irla, news channel 2.

> coronavirus cases by the number now.... including how many school aged children in