Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp. has released its reopening plans for the fall semester, set to begin Aug. 6.
“We know that our staff members, students, and parents are concerned about a return to school and that their worries are compounded with the anxiety and stress of uncertainty,” said Superintendent Jim Roberts in a public statement. “To do our best to alleviate that uncertainty, we have engaged many community stakeholders, relied upon the guidance of the Indiana State Department of Health and Bartholomew County Health Department, and adhered to our previously shared guiding principles to put together a reopening plan.”
BCSC is planning to reopen on a full five-day a week schedule, operating under three possible categories for virus spread: minimal/moderate spread, substantial spread and low/no spread.
BCSC plans to begin the school year in the minimal/moderate spread category, which allows buildings to open with modifications. Under this category, families can choose either traditional in-person learning or a remote learning option.
Screenings will occur for both staff and students when they enter a BCSC facility, and both groups are “strongly encouraged” to wear cloth masks. Hand sanitizer will be provided, as will “frequent hand-washing opportunities.” Only “essential visitors” will be allowed to enter BCSC buildings, the school corporation said.
Schools will be cleaned and disinfected according to Centers for Disease Control guidance, with frequently-touched areas receiving additional attention, the reopening plan states.
Sharing will be limited between individuals, and personal water bottles will be used instead of water fountains. Large indoor group spaces “will be occupied at no more than 50% capacity.” There will also be isolation rooms for students or staff who experience symptoms while at school.
For more on this story, see Tuesday’s Republic.
