FAYETTE COUNTY, WV (WOAY) – While Fayette County Superintendent Gary Hough continues to look at ways to make the schools buildings the safest possible for the September 8 return, he says he understands there are still major concerns.
This is why on Monday, parents and students can begin enrolling in their virtual learning program. This is just an option for those who do not wish to return to the classroom this fall.
Hough says students who want this option must sign up for at least a semester and says he wanted to provide the option so that those who feel more comfortable at home can still have the school’s curriculum rather than try the homeschooling method.
“If they’re in need of a device, we’ll be glad to provide a device for the child,” Hough said. “We can’t provide the internet service, but we can provide a device for the child. We do have hot spots at the schools. If they choose to do something in the evening, they’re welcome to come and park in our parking lots.”
Teachers are scheduled to come back 9 days before that September 8 start date in the tentative calendar. Because access and support at home is a giant concern, Hough plans to send the school counselors out in those 9 days to the homes of the children who picked the virtual school option.
“If we have any students in virtual learning, those parents will get home visits to make sure they know how to use things, what are the requirements, so that if we have anybody that we have concerns about, we don’t start out by not putting them on the right track,” Hough said.
For the students who will come back to school in September, Hough says his team is still working to install equipment, to buy PPE for students and teachers, and to come up with protocol for the school day.
“We continue to look at material that will make that environment safer and safer and safer, just trying to keep everyday looking at every possibility to make it safe for our students,” Hough said.
If you wish to enroll in virtual learning, you can check out the Fayette County Schools website on Monday as they plan to roll out the official enrollment details.
Stay with us for further updates on this developing plan.
