The following message from MCPS Superintendent Taylora Schlosser was emailed to MCPS families:
MCPS families,
After considerable deliberation, I have decided that Marion County Public Schools will move to Distance-Learning for all students beginning Monday, October 26 and extending through Friday, November 6. At that point, we will re-evaluate the situation to determine whether we can return to In-Person learning.
This was not an easy decision, and one I certainly hoped we could avoid as I know it presents difficulties for some of our families. Obviously, this is not an ideal situation, but MCPS has shown before that we can transition to Distance-Learning for all and continue to provide the education and services our young people deserve.
Why are we making this decision?
While we very closely follow the incidence rate for Marion County as well as the number of positive cases among our students and staff, the major issue affecting school operations is the number of staff members who have been required to quarantine because of exposure to positive cases.
Our hope is that we are able to offer In-Person learning following these two weeks on Distance-Learning.
How will Distance-Learning operate?
Just as we began the school year, Distance-Learning is intended to closely mirror In-Person learning. That means students will be online and interacting with teachers throughout the school day. Classes will meet at their regular times.
How will MCPS provide meals?
We will distribute meals for all MCPS students (preschool - 12th grade) on Thursday, October 29 and Thursday, November 5 at each of our schools and the Brookhaven community from 3:00 - 5:00 pm. We do ask that parents complete our Meal Package Order form to give our School Nutrition department an accurate estimate of the number of meals needed. If you plan on taking advantage of this opportunity, please complete this form for each of your children by 8:00 pm on Monday, October 26. Each student will receive seven breakfasts and seven lunches.
What about athletics and other student events?
We will continue to have athletic events as scheduled. Also, we may have the opportunity to have small groups of students on campus, but these will be approved on a case-by-case basis.
Again, we understand that this change will be difficult for some families, but I feel this is the appropriate decision.
Thank you and please stay healthy,
Taylora Schlosser
MCPS Superintendent