Reopening of Schools FAQ Sheet
Please see the FAQ Sheet below for the TCS Reopening of Schools Plan.
As we receive questions between July 6- July 16, we will update this FAQ Sheet on our website at: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1XGa7Mcp70fhLuBPBydyJumTkRpdOHAch_l33qoykLgQ/edit?usp=sharing
If you have school specific questions, please contact your school principal.
Option A
How will specials and PE be handled at the elementary schools?
Specials and PE may be delivered through multiple formats such as: face to face, zoom, and prerecorded lessons.
Will students attend recess as usual (daily, on the playground, etc..)
Recess will occur through various options for elementary students. Options may include indoor and outdoor opportunities.
How many students will be in a class?
We will meet our accreditation guidelines for class size. However, depending on how many students choose Option B, class size could be reduced.
Will elementary students have switch classes?
This may occur through multiple formats. Teachers may rotate to students, students may rotate to teachers, zoom participation may occur, and prerecorded lessons may also be an option.
Will students share supplies (crayons, scissors, etc…)?
Students will not be allowed to directly share supplies. Students will use individual supplies from their labeled container, cubby, or designated area. If anything is shared, it must be wiped down first.
Will students share Chromebooks?
No, students will be assigned a Chromebook for their personal use.
Will my student have access to Library services in Option A?
Library services will be available in various formats. Students also have access to numerous virtual library options on and off campus.
Will students be able to use a locker at HTMS/HTHS?
Each school will provide specific information to address logistical procedures such as locker assignment and protocols for access. This information will be available prior to the start of school.
How will lunch be handled?
A rotation of cafeteria, classrooms, and outside areas will be used for lunch to increase social distancing. The child nutrition department will develop protocols to keep students safe when obtaining their lunch.
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Option B
How will subjects be introduced to students?
The online content is similar to a traditional lesson plan format. Overall objectives/learning targets are presented, lesson content is presented, and follow up application of learning/assessments are given for each unit.
If I choose Option B, does my student have to complete their work during school hours or could they complete it at night when I am home from work?
Students can work at any time in Option B. However, contact and support from the virtual teacher will only occur during school day. This option does provide flexibility to complete work on a weekly schedule, but it is recommended to complete work daily.
In grades 6-12, do I have to enroll in seven courses?
In grades 6-8, all seven courses are required.
In grades 9-12, the Alabama Department of Education sets the requirements for graduation. Courses are determined on how many credits are needed to graduate. All freshmen through juniors will need 7 courses, but it is possible that seniors may have fewer than seven courses, depending on the number of credits entering their senior year.
Can my student take Dual Enrollment courses in Option B.
No. Dual Enrollment courses are not available in Option B. Students would need to choose Option C for Dual Enrollment courses.
Are advanced courses available through Option B.
At this time we know that AP courses are available. We are waiting on the final course list to determine if advanced courses are available.
Will my student be able to access AR and Dreambox?
Yes, these will be available as optional learning tools.
Will pacing guides be used to keep Option A and Option B,C students aligned?
Yes. Teachers will identify standards and alignment within the SchoolsPLP framework prior to the start of school.
In Option B, if my high school student chose a hands on elective such as electrical, culinary, EMS, etc…, will they be available in an online format in SchoolsPLP?
Some career tech options are available within SchoolsPLP. If your student wants to participate in an elective that is offered only at HTHS, they will need to choose Option C.
What is the difference between Schoology and SchoolsPLP?
Schoology is a Learning Management System. SchoolsPLP is an online curriculum. Schoology is the platform that students will access to see and engage in the SchoolsPLP content.
In Option B, who will the virtual teacher be for my child? Will it be their classroom teacher if they had chosen Option A?
Virtual teachers will be certified teachers. Since the content is already created, certified teachers will be facilitating the online learning experience. They will assist with technology issues, additional learning resources, time management support, and other virtual process support.
How can I get a Chromebook if my child needs one for Option B?
You can check out a Chromebook through our technology department. More information will be sent if you are an Option B student.
What are the elective choices for Option B?
Most of the electives we currently offer are available through SchoolsPLP. If your student chose an elective that is not offered through SchoolsPLP, a counselor will contact you regarding elective options.
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Option C
How often are “in- school opportunities” in Option C?
1st-5th enrichment: It is based on how many students enroll in this option. Therefore, the schedule cannot be determined until a later date.
6th-12th courses: This would mirror a traditional schedule where a student would attend based on when those courses are offered. This will be determined once we have all options in place and HTMS/HTHS has their master schedule planned.
In grades 6-12, if my child enrolls in multiple electives/courses, will they be scheduled consecutively?
Courses in grades 6-12 will be determined by the master schedule course offerings. There is not a guarantee for consecutive courses.
In grades 6-12, do I have to enroll in seven courses?
In grades 6-8, all seven courses are required.
In grades 9-12, the Alabama Department of Education sets the requirements for graduation. Courses are determined on how many credits are needed to graduate. All freshmen through
juniors will need 7 courses, but it is possible that seniors may have fewer than seven courses,
depending on the number of credits entering their senior year.
If my student attends middle or high school courses on campus, will they be in the same class with students who are in Option A?
Yes, the master schedule will determine where students are placed based on availability.
Will my student have access to Library services in Option C?
Library services will be available on a scheduled basis. Students can coordinate this through their virtual teacher. Additionally, there are numerous virtual library options that our students currently use and will continue to be available.
Can my student take Dual Enrollment courses and will they able to take them online?
Students in Option C, can take Dual Enrollment courses. Jefferson State Community College will determine if students can participate online. This information will be shared prior to the start of school.
Are there any extra safety precautions for Option C students?
All students will be encouraged to socially distance, wash hands and sanitize frequently, encouraged to wear masks, and abide by other school safety measures.
What are some of the enrichment opportunities available for elementary students choosing Option C?
Enrichment will likely consist of “STEAM” opportunities- science, technology, engineering, art and music.
In Option C, how will attendance be counted?
Students participating in Option C have a two part answer:
- Virtual Portion of Option C – All students in Option C will be considered as being in attendance if the students are successfully progressing in the virtual education coursework.
- Face to Face Portion of Option C – Students in 6th – 12th grades must be physically present for their enrolled courses at middle school and high school. Face to face attendance for elementary students is not graded and not counted.
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AP Courses
If my child wants to take AP courses through Option C, will she be required to attend each day?
Classes in Option C meet on a traditional schedule, are graded and are credit bearing. Therefore, in person attendance is required on our traditional modified block schedule.
Are AP courses available in Option B?
Yes, the virtual content through SchoolsPLP will offer AP courses for students who want to be totally virtual.
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HTMS/HTHS Clubs and Organizations
My student participates in Mush Mentors, SCA, Yearbook, Ambassador, etc….will they be able to participate in these in all Options?
Option A- students will participate in their respective organization/club based on the opportunities that each school creates.
Option B- students are not on campus during the school day in this option
Option C- students could participate in their respective organization/club based on the opportunities that each school creates as their schedule permits.
Will husky hour look the same as it has in the past?
Specific information regarding safety protocols during lunch and hallway transitions will be
communicated by each school. Husky hour will still be embedded in the school schedule and is planned to look very much the same at this time.
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Option Transitions
Can Option A and Option C students change at any time?
All students can change options at the grading period (K-5th = trimester; 6th-12th=semester). Emergency medical issues will be handled on a case by case basis.
Do I have to remain in my chosen option all year long?
All students can change options at the grading period (K-5th = trimester; 6th-12th=semester). Emergency medical issues will be handled on a case by case basis.
If I choose an option prior to July 17th, will I be able to change my selection if needed?
Requests for changing options after July 17 will be handled on a case by case basis at the school level.
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Health Department Orders/Procedures
Why are all students not required to wear masks? We are following the state department Roadmap, the health department guidelines and American Association of Pediatrics recommendations for children wearing masks, and masks are encouraged but not required for children.
Clear face shields for students may be a good idea for parents who want to
explore that option. The clear face shields are available in children’s sizes and
may be more breathable and comfortable than a mask for your child.
Will teachers/staff be required to wear masks? We have ordered clear face shields for all teachers who choose to wear shields so students can see their smiles and communicate naturally.
Will there be contact tracing for positive COVID-19 cases? Yes, and it will be conducted by the Health Department according to their guidelines.
- If a student or teacher in my child’s class tests positive for COVID-19, what are the plans for the other students? Will everyone be required to quarantine for 14 days?
- Will schools be required to close if a student or staff member tests positive for COVID-19?
Questions 1-2 above have the same answer. At the time of a positive test for COVID-19, we will comply with the Health Department orders for that particular case.
How will we be notified of positive COVID-19 cases within the classroom and the school? An email will be sent home to parents of students who may have had a “possible exposure” from a student who tests positive for COVID-19. No names will be mentioned in the email.
Will temperatures be taken before students enter the school building or classrooms? No, we are asking parents to be the first screeners for COVID-19 symptoms. If a student comes to school and appears to have symptoms, the teacher will send the student to the clinic for screening.
Will there be a quarantine room for students who show signs of COVID-19 while at school? Yes
Why does Trussville City Schools not have to adhere to the 50% capacity order? At this time, schools are not under a 50% capacity order. We have a plan if this changes.
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Medical (Non COVID-19)
If my child has seasonal allergies or a common cold without a fever, will we be required to keep them home since these are possible COVID symptoms? Yes, and the absence will be excused. For example, a runny nose is a COVID symptoms and an allergy symptom. In the case of a pandemic, we need to be certain of the cause for the runny nose.
Will my child be sent home from school if they have typical cold symptoms without a fever? That decision will be up to the school nurse.
If my child is an Option A student and is sent home for seasonal allergies or something non COVID-19 related, will they complete their work on SchoolsPLP?
No, if there is a short term break from school due to an illness, students will make up work as usual when they return to school.
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Sanitization
Will the district be supplying cleaning supplies and hand sanitizers for students and staff? Yes
Will there be plexiglass dividers at tables and desks? Yes, in some cases.
Will classroom desks/tables and lunchroom tables be sanitized between classes? Yes
How will bathrooms be cleaned and monitored? Bathrooms will be cleaned and monitored for cleanliness on a rotating custodial schedule.
Arrival and Dismissal
Will early morning drop off still be available at the elementary schools? Yes, contact your school principal.
Will the YMCA still provide After School Care at each elementary school?
Yes. More information can be gathered by emailing childcare@ymcabham.org
or visiting their website https://www.ymcabham.org/trussvillecityschools
Will students be gathered in a large group in the gym at morning drop off?
Students will be housed in various areas of the school building for distancing purposes. More school specific arrival information will be provided prior to the start of school.
Athletics
Will we still have athletics, games, etc…?
At this time the Alabama High School Athletic Association has given schools guidance on how to
proceed with practice. Definite plans for games and contests will be available on or before July
22 issued from AHSAA.
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Attendance
How will exam exemption for seniors be implemented this year.
Exam exemption occurs during the second semester. Prior to the start of the second semester, we will determine those plans.
In Option B, how will attendance be counted?
Students participating in Option B will be considered as being in attendance if the students are successfully progressing in the virtual education coursework.
Band
How can my student still participate in band?
Students will need to select Option A or Option C to participate in band.
Any student enrolled in Band at HTMS or HTHS will receive specific information regarding details from the band directors prior to the start of school.
Field Trips
Will field trips still occur?
Field trips will not occur in the first semester. Field trips during the second semester will be determined closer to that time.
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G.A.T.E./Special Education/504
How does G.A.T.E. fit into each of the available options?
Option A: services will be provided on campus
Option B: services will be provided virtually
Option C: services can be provided on campus if the student signs up for GATE in Option C.
How will G.A.T.E. testing occur in Option B?
Gate testing will need to occur in person.
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Meet the Teacher/Back to School
Will there be a meet the teacher or new student orientation?
Meet the teacher and other back to school activities will occur virtually. More information will be given closer to the start of school.
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Recess
Will students attend recess as usual (daily, on the playground, etc…)?
Recess will occur through various options for elementary students. Options may include indoor and outdoor opportunities.
Transportation
When will we know bus routes and details regarding transportation?
Once all registration for options are collected, we can begin making these determinations. This information will be shared prior to the start of school.
For what options are bus services available?
Transportation is provided for students in Option A.
