Hundreds of parents, students and teachers protest Gwinnett schools’ decision for digital learning

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Hundreds of parents, teachers and students in the state’s largest school district gathered Friday to push back against the district’s decision to start the school year virtually.

As the parents and students rallied in front of the administrative offices outside the county’s board of education, Channel 2′s Tony Thomas could see several school officials either come out to watch or peak out office windows.

The families were very vocal, wanting some sort of in person teaching this fall. They chanted, “Kids over COVID, kids over COVID.”

It was by far the largest protest so far in Gwinnett County over the school district’s decision to start the year online only.

Parents had originally been told they had an option: Either in person in school teaching or digital. Sixty six percent chose either in person or a hybrid. The district though, changed course and will open schools online only Aug. 12.

“I feel like I can learn better, especially in math, in school,” said student Colby Smith.

“If that’s what you asked for and we spoke. I think the decision should have been honored. At least in full, or at least in some part of honoring that,” said parent Amy Smith.

Thomas asked the school district for a response to this gathering and if administrators are considering any changes. We will let you know when we get a reply back.

On Thursday, another group of parents protested the decision, saying digital learning is hurting their students and they want school leaders to do something about it.

Thomas was with the small but vocal group Thursday as they marched to Gwinnett County headquarters insisting their kids are being left behind with digital-only classes.

“We need to get our kids back in school,” father of two Chris Singleton said. “We are hoping the momentum continues until we are treated fairly in terms of choice and opportunity.”

The parents say the classes don't help their children with learning disabilities.

Parent Michele Jackson says one of her two children has learning disabilities and digital learning has been a disaster for her family. When school leaders backed out of giving parents a choice when classes start next month, she said it was a big blow.

“I want them to have an equal opportunity to have the education that is in their best interest,” Jackson said.

Gwinnett leaders surveyed parents and had announced opening schools with a hybrid plan: Students could either attend in person classes or online. But last week, the district changed course, opting for online only to start the year.

Superintendent Alvin Wilbanks said he made the swtich out of an abundance of concern for students, families and employees.

The protesting parents insist, COVID-19 or no COVID-19, their children, under the law, are entitled to free and appropriate education.

Holly Terie organized the gathering.

“We feel our children’s rights are being violated in this very moment,” Terie said.

A district spokesperson emailed Thomas a statement Thursday that read in part:

“…We’ve made it clear that, within the limitations imposed by a digital platform, students with disabilities are to be provided instruction as outlined in their respective Individualized Education Programs.”

“I want there to be a choice,” Jackson said,

Gwinnett has delayed its start of school by a week. As of now, classes will begin online Aug. 12.

Administrators are warning parents and students that online learning will look different in the fall, with live online teaching and greater expectations compared to last spring.

Gwinnett County Schools change plans, will begin school year virtually The school district originally planned on a hybrid model.

Cox Media Group