DeKalb County Schools to phase back into classroom starting next month

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — DeKalb County Schools revealed its plans for students to return to the classroom during its Board of Education meeting Tuesday afternoon.

Families will have the option to choose between face-to-face and virtual learning and the re-opening process will be staggered.

In Phase 1, staff returned to buildings and teach virtually from classrooms.

In Phase 2, students pre-k through second grade, sixth grade and 9th grade who select in-person can return on Tuesday March 9.

In Phase 3, students in 3rd through 5th grades, 7th and 8th grades and 10-12 grades can return on Monday March 15.

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While the school board met, a group gathered across from district headquarters to protest the decision.

Many teachers and staff said they didn’t feel safe in classrooms before and that there isn’t enough PPE and classrooms aren’t clean. They believe things could get worse in two weeks when students return.

Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Watson Harris said it was a tough, but necessary, decision to reopen schools and said officials will make it safe for everyone.

“It goes without question, virtual learning has presented some serious challenges to our students, our families and our staff. The superintendent is to be commended for facing those challenges head on and coming up with viable solutions that will ultimately benefit our students,” DeKalb Board of Education Chair Vickie Turner said. “As we move forward with the hybrid plan and re-opening of schools, we will follow every evidence-based recommendation to keep our teachers and students safe.”

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DeKalb County Schools to phase back into classroom starting next month