New DeKalb superintendent says district is listening to parents’ concerns over new school year

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — The start of school is on the minds of families across the area.

Channel 2′s Carol Sbarge spoke with DeKalb County’s new superintendent on Tuesday about the challenges ahead for students, teachers and parents in that district.

Cheryl Watson-Harris was just sworn in on July 1, and is already tackling big issues including the budget and parents’ concerns about their children learning virtually.

“What is virtual learning going to look like? What are the hours? How will kids with special needs be addressed?” asked parent Kim Schnelter.

She, like many parents, have a lot of questions about what will happen in the new school year.

Watson-Harris said the district is paying close attention to parents' concerns.

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“In addition to creating tools for parents to support their children at home, we’re also working on a dial-a-teacher program where teachers can call in for support or recommendations,” Watson-Harris said.

The new superintendent, most recently the deputy-chancellor for New York City Schools, said she saw firsthand the impact of the coronavirus there.

Watson-Harris said she and her staff will continually evaluate the coronavirus data, and will make an assessment each month on whether to return to classrooms.

Sbarge asked her about a plan to furlough teachers for nine days in these tightly-budgeted times. The board decided not to vote on that this week. Watson-Harris said she plans to present a revised plan to them Friday.

“It’s our stance and our belief that we want to avoid as many furlough days as possible,” she said.

The superintendent said she will also be dealing with a county that’s having a lot of growth and overcrowding. 

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