NCSS Extends Remote Learning

NCSS to Extend Remote Learning by Five Days
Posted on 01/05/2021
Important AnnouncementDear Parents and Families,

Welcome to 2021, where we hope that the spread of the COVID-19 virus will cease, sooner rather than later. We recognize that our students and families are excited about getting back to business as usual in the New Year; we are, too. District officials have reviewed the COVID-19 data for Newton County and also consulted this week with local medical professionals representing both the Gwinnett/Newton/Rockdale Health Department and Piedmont Newton Hospital. Due to the increase in community transmission of the virus, Newton County School System will continue our remote learning environment for students for an additional five days. All students will now utilize online learning or pre-developed work assignments through Friday, January 15, 2021. Students currently served in-person will now report to school on Tuesday, January 19, 2021.

This is a short-term solution to aid in the reduction of the transmission of the virus in our schools and community. Throughout the month of January, district leaders will review the COVID-19 data in five-day increments to determine the best course of action for our school system. We will announce the next week’s mode of instruction each Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. via School Messenger call. For example, parents will receive a School Messenger call on Wednesday, January 13 regarding school status for the week of Monday, January 18 (don’t forget January 18 is the MLK birthday holiday for students and staff). The district will continue this procedure until the COVID-19 numbers significantly reduce to the point that a return to in-person instruction is safe.

While remote learning is in process, parents of regular in-person students may obtain free breakfast and lunch meals daily from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the nearest school. Weekly meal boxes are also available for pickup at the following distribution sites: Live Oak Elementary, Heard-Mixon Elementary, West Newton Elementary, Middle Ridge Elementary, and Oak Hill Elementary. Virtual learning students may continue to obtain free meals at their regular bus stop drop off site.

We realize that in-person instruction is often the most beneficial method of instruction for our students; however, the health and safety of the children and staff must be our number one priority. Our goal is to return to in-person instruction as quickly as possible. Our ability to return to in-person instruction is directly connected to what is happening in our community with regard to COVID-19. Each of us plays a role in stopping the transmission of the virus in our community. Please wear a mask, watch your distance, wash your hands, and stay home if you are sick.

In addition to the district calls, school principals will also utilize School Messenger to provide parents with school-specific information as necessary. Parents with questions or concerns should contact their school administrator for additional details.