Students in the Plymouth-Canton Community Schools will begin school this year from home.
In an extended meeting recently, members of the board of education approved a plan to begin the school year virtually, for all students. Board members and administrators noted that the decision was based, in part, from information received in a survey of district families and input from the union which represents district teachers. The district had been planning on a blended system of in-person and virtual classes, but that decision was changed during the discussion of the safety protocols and dangers of COVID-19.
Superintendent of Schools Monica Merritt told the board members that it was imperative the decision be made so that teachers can begin preparations for virtual lessons. The plan was required to be submitted to the Wayne Regional Educations Service Agencies by mid-August.
“These are crazy, stressful times for all involved and we will be dealing with the unknown for some time to come,” Merritt acknowledged. “We realize that some families may choose to leave Plymouth Canton Community Schools as a result of the (virtual start), and that that is their choice. But we are confident they will return to P-CCS once (normalcy returns).”
Merritt added that when the rate of infection and safety protocols allow for in-person classes, the district teachers, buildings and administrators would be prepared.
