From The Tribune staff reports
ASHVILLE — The St. Clair County School system will return to traditional, in-person instruction every day, beginning Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021.
The system has been following a 6-stage plan based on quarantines and positive COVID-19 tests within schools. The decision to return to Stage 1, after being on a staggered schedule, was made by Superintendent Mike Howard. The superintendent said everyone will have to take the proper precautions to keep all faculty, staff and students safe.
“In order to remain in Stage 1, we will need everyone’s help,” said Howard. “It is vital that everyone take this pandemic seriously and wear a mask and social distance. Continue to utilize the best sanitizing methods you can to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.”
The school system monitors quarantines, local coronavirus cases and statewide trends on a day-to-day basis. The Superintendent and school administrators make predictions on what adjustments need to be made and try to plan ahead as much as possible.
“Thank you for your patience and understanding during these past few weeks,” Howard continued. “Decisions to be virtual and staggered were very difficult to make; however, by doing so, we are now able to return to full traditional offerings.”
The six-stage plan is a foundational model that would be considered for each community, not system-wide.
You can view a detailed video explaining the six-stage plan below.