Full remote learning has been extended at Salem Community High School with school not scheduled to the hybrid in person learning schedule until Monday, January 11th.
Superintendent Dr. Brad Detering says the decision was made based on the high number of COVID-19 cases in the area. He also wants to avoid any students being quarantined over the Christmas Holidays due to any school contact.
Detering reports the extension through the week after the Holiday break will allow them not to be in attendance during any surge in cases after Christmas Holiday travel or gatherings.
Detering notes the district’s full remote learning platform has worked well during its use the past two weeks. He says their experience has been that students and families that remain engaged and connected to the school can achieve similar grades as they have in the past. Detering reports teachers have not seen a dramatic change in students grades and participation since full remote learning began.
On the positive side, he reports the staff is beginning to see some students trying to catch up to improve to passing grade to avoid having to attend zoom sessions on December 21st and 22nd to bring up their grades. Detering says teachers have been working with those students and many are even giving full credit for late work if it is turned in.
Salem Community High School will be open for students if they need a quiet place to complete their classes or need access to the SCHS WiFi. The school will continue to serve breakfast and lunch free to any student who signs up through December 22nd. Lunch deliveries will continue at the same drop off locations.
