The Salem Grade School District is preparing to have all students attending school four days a week beginning the start of the second quarter on Monday, October 26th.
Superintendent Dr. Leslie Foppe says the start and ending time of classes will be the same, with Wednesday a remote learning day for all students to match the Salem High School schedule. To prepare for the shift in schedule, Thursday and Friday, October 22nd and 23rd will be planning days with no student attendance or remote learning.
Foppe feels they can safely return to class even though desks will have to be moved closer together. She says that is possible because students have been great about wearing masks.
Foppe reports the biggest challenge remaining is serving lunch where plans are currently being developed. She reports all students will be served lunch. There is no cost for either lunch or breakfast through the end of the year due to a federal program.
Foppe says since so many parents are bringing and picking up their students she doesn’t see a major issue for the busses. Students will continue to wear masks, stay in assigned seats, with windows open.
Foppe says students who chose full remote learning during the first quarter will all be contacted to see if they want to remain on remote learning or want their children switched to regular classroom education.
Foppe did a call out to parents on Tuesday night to update them on the upcoming changes. She noted this will especially good news for students who are struggling with remote learning. Foppe notes the remote learning is especially tough at the lower grade levels.
The finalized plans will be presented to the Salem Grade School Board at its October 15th meeting.
