Henry County Schools officials announced on Wednesday, January 20 that the district will extend its current remote learning operations for students by two weeks meaning all students will use the virtual classroom setting through February 5.

Superintendent Mary Elizabeth Davis and other leaders in the community, including healthcare, hospital, and emergency management agency officials, have continued regular communications to keep each other informed of the current strain of the COVID-19 community spread throughout Henry County and what can be done to help mitigate the spread of the virus and ease the safety burdens being experienced by so many.

The latest decision was agreed to as one such mitigation effort.

“Even in a remote setting, our teachers and students continue to show great resiliency in keeping instruction and learning going at the highest levels,” said Superintendent Mary Elizabeth Davis.  “Upon the successful conclusion of the next two weeks of remote learning, we look forward to the opportunity to once again welcome back students to our buildings starting the second week of February while also maintaining the remote learning option for families who prefer to remain at home.”

Starting February 8, on-campus learning opportunities will return for students with the reintroduction of Phase 2 of the district’s Gradual and Staggered Return-to-Campus Plan.  This phase allows for students with last names starting with A through M to return to campus on Mondays and Tuesdays, while students with last names starting with N through Z can return on Wednesdays and Thursdays.  Under Phase 2, Fridays will be used for remote learning and independent work for all students.  Students served in self-contained programs will be able to attend school every day regardless of grade or last name. 

The board of education previously approved Friday, February 12 as a teacher workday.  There will be no instruction taking place on that day as it was adjusted prior to Phase 2 operations starting back on this specific week.

The district plans to remain in Phase 2 of the return plan for two weeks – February 8-11 and February 22-26.  Winter break will still proceed as planned.  All students will still be able to take advantage of the free school meals through the curbside pick-up operations.

Upon the completion of Phase 2, the district will move to Phase 3 on Monday, March 1, and Phase 4 on Monday, March 8.  For further details on the different phases, those interested can find the plan on the district’s website under the 20-21 School Year Modifications link.

For more information on Henry County Schools, visit www.henry.k12.ga.us.