Frankfort-Schuyler to release school reopening plan

FRANKFORT – Frankfort-Schuyler school district officials have prepared a plan to open schools in the fall — with hopes that federal aid can help with the cost amid the coronavirus pandemic.

“It will cost hundreds of thousands of dollars,” said School Superintendent Robert Reina. And that’s just for the Frankfort-Schuyler district, citing personal protective equipment — including masks and cleanser — as just some of the necessary items.

With state aid reduced due to the pandemic and the possibility of further reductions during the year, Reina said dealing with additional expenses will be challenging.

Some of the key components of the district’s reopening plan were posted on the district’s website prior to a school board meeting earlier this week, during which school officials spent time answering questions submitted electronically and in person, Reina said.

The initial web post, Reina said, was intended to address some key concerns parents might have about fall reopening and the steps district officials are taking to keep students safe. The full plan is expected to be on the website Friday, which is when the plan – or a link to it – is due to be submitted to the state.

“It’s a scary time for some,” said Reina. “We want to do what’s right and we think it’s best for children to be in school, but we want to do what’s safe for kids as well.”

The district’s plan focuses on getting children back in school, which district officials say is better for them educationally and socially than distance learning, and helps parents as well. But officials are also aware that another shutdown is possible.

Teachers have been working this summer to improve their skills in teaching virtually and to reprioritize the curriculum to ensure students receive instruction they may have missed, he said. “How this will play out, no one knows.”

The district’s plan calls for students in grades K-5 to attend school in person, while those in grades 6-12 will follow an alternate day schedule. Half of the students will receive instruction on campus each day while the other half will receive virtual instruction.

Bagged meals will be delivered to classrooms for children in grades K-5. Those in grades 6-12 will have their “to-go” meals in the cafeteria the vestibule between the cafeteria and gym with tables spaced six feet apart.

Parents are encouraged to drop off their children or walk them to school.

For those who ride the bus, one student per seat will be the rule, although students from the same family may sit together. Masks will be required and parents waiting for or with students at the bus stop are also encouraged to wear masks.

Parents or guardians will also be required to ensure their children are not experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, including having a temperature above 100 degrees, before they board the bus and are asked to keep sick children home.

A self-screening process, including a temperature check and filling out a questionnaire, will be required of staff members before they enter the school.

The plan also includes cleaning and sanitizing procedures and the steps the district will take if someone tests positive for the virus.